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13 Of The Best Bob Dylan Covers That Blow Your Mind, Not Just In The Wind

Eric Alper
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13 Of The Best Bob Dylan Covers That Blow Your Mind, Not Just In The Wind

Bob Dylan wrote the blueprint, and the rest of the world brought their own colour to it. Few songwriters have been covered as often—or as brilliantly—as Dylan. His songs are elastic, mysterious, and wide open to interpretation. That’s why some of the most unforgettable performances of his work come from the voices of others.

Adele – “Make You Feel My Love”
Adele took this late-’90s Dylan ballad and turned it into a modern standard. Her version is stripped down, sincere, and raw in a way that brings the emotional core to the front. It’s one of the most-streamed Dylan covers ever—and for good reason.

The Byrds – “Mr. Tambourine Man”
They didn’t just cover it—they electrified it. The Byrds gave Dylan a jangle-pop makeover that helped invent folk rock as we know it. The harmonies soar, the Rickenbacker shimmers, and the poetry still pulses underneath it all.

Guns N’ Roses – “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door”
Dylan’s gentle lament became a stadium anthem thanks to Axl Rose and company. This version brings power chords, wailing solos, and a whole new level of drama. It might not be subtle—but it’s unforgettable.

Jimi Hendrix – “All Along the Watchtower”
Hendrix didn’t just reinterpret the song—he reinvented it. Dylan himself was blown away by the power of this version and started playing it Hendrix-style in concert. It’s thunder, fire, and prophecy in under four minutes.

Johnny Cash – “It Ain’t Me Babe”
The Man in Black brought gravitas and twang to this kiss-off classic. His duet with June Carter Cash gives the song a bittersweet tension that’s both romantic and realistic. Dylan’s irony meets Cash’s stoicism, and magic happens.

Nina Simone – “Just Like a Woman”
Simone slows it down, strips it bare, and delivers the lyrics with breathtaking vulnerability. It’s a quiet storm of a cover—intimate, aching, and full of emotional depth. Dylan wrote the song; Simone gave it soul.

Rage Against the Machine – “Maggie’s Farm”
RATM turned Dylan’s anti-establishment lyrics into a full-blown rebellion. Their furious, politically charged cover feels as fresh and urgent as ever. It’s proof that a protest song can rage in any genre.

Sam Cooke – “Blowin’ in the Wind”
Cooke’s voice brings gospel strength and deep feeling to Dylan’s civil rights anthem. It’s a version rooted in pain, hope, and transcendence. This cover helped push Cooke to write “A Change Is Gonna Come”—in itself, a world-changing result.

The Staple Singers – “Masters of War”
When the Staples tackled Dylan, they turned prophecy into a sermon. Their gospel-infused delivery adds a layer of righteous fire to this already searing song. It doesn’t just warn—it demands justice.

Beck – “Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat”
Beck plays it loose and playful, leaning into the surreal humor of the original. His version swings with a bluesy, garage-rock swagger. The spirit of the song stays intact while Beck gives it his own eccentric twist.

George Harrison – “If Not for You”
Harrison and Dylan had a long creative friendship, and this cover feels especially personal. The slide guitar and Harrison’s gentle delivery make the song feel warm and open. It moves with kindness and melodic ease.

Joan Baez – “Farewell, Angelina”
Joan Baez gives this track a haunting beauty with her soaring voice and delicate phrasing. She approaches the lyrics with care and clarity, bringing out the melody’s elegance. The result is both timeless and poetic.

Norah Jones – “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight”
Norah Jones delivers a relaxed, jazz-inflected take on this laid-back country tune. Her smooth vocals float easily over soft drums and guitar. It’s mellow, breezy, and deeply enjoyable.

Dylan’s catalogue stretches across generations and genres, and these artists keep those songs moving forward. Each cover adds something rich, something new, and something true to the song’s heart.

5 Songs David Bowie Wrote for Other Artists

Eric Alper
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5 Songs David Bowie Wrote for Other Artists

David Bowie had more ideas than one man could possibly use. So he shared them. In between changing music history, he handed out songs like gifts at a cosmic birthday party. Some turned into hits, some stayed cult treasures, but every one of them has that unmistakable Bowie fingerprint—strange, stylish, and ahead of its time.

Here are 5 times Bowie wrote songs that other artists recorded—and they still shimmer like something beamed in from Mars.

1. “All the Young Dudes” – Mott the Hoople (1972)
The band was ready to break up. Bowie sent them this song instead. It became their anthem. It gave them a future. It gave glam rock one of its loudest singalongs. He gave them a gift, and they turned it into legend.

2. “Oh! You Pretty Things” – Peter Noone (1971)
Before Bowie recorded it himself, Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits gave the world its first proper taste. The lyrics are full of Nietzsche, mutations, and mystic evolution. Not typical pop stuff. But Bowie made it singable—and Noone turned it into a surprise hit.

3. “Golden Years” – Elvis Presley (almost)
Bowie wrote this for Elvis. The King didn’t take it. So Bowie recorded it himself, and it became one of the standouts of Station to Station. You can still hear the Presley swagger in it. What a version that would have been. Still, the DNA is there.

4. “I Am Divine” – Divine (1982)
Bowie always had a thing for performance art and camp culture. He reportedly wrote this for the drag legend Divine. It’s loud, it’s glam, and it’s gloriously chaotic. A perfect fit for an artist who lived in neon and strobe light.

5. “Girls” – Tina Turner (1986)
Tina Turner sang it. Bowie co-wrote it. It sounds like a spy thriller wrapped in synths. The production oozes 1980s drama, and Tina makes it feel dangerous. Bowie didn’t need to sing it himself—it already had enough firepower with her voice.

15 Albums You Didn’t Know Mutt Lange Produced (Plus 2 You Definitely Did)

Eric Alper
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15 Albums You Didn’t Know Mutt Lange Produced (Plus 2 You Definitely Did)

Robert John “Mutt” Lange may live off the grid in Switzerland, but his sound has been everywhere—on country radio, rock radio, Top 40, and in your subconscious since the late ’70s. You already know about Back in Black and Come On Over, but Mutt’s fingerprints are on way more albums than you think. Here are 15 albums you didn’t realize had the Mutt Lange touch—and two that made him a legend.

1. Clover – Love on the Wire (1977)
Before Huey Lewis went full Power of Love, he fronted Clover. Mutt Lange gave them clean lines, big harmonies, and just enough edge to turn heads in the UK pub rock scene.

2. City Boy – The Day the Earth Caught Fire (1979)
One of his early concept-album triumphs. Anthemic choruses and wild arrangements foreshadowed what he’d do with Def Leppard.

3. The Boomtown Rats – The Fine Art of Surfacing (1979)
He helped Bob Geldof’s Rats evolve from punk to pop brilliance. “I Don’t Like Mondays”? That was Mutt helping them shoot for stadiums.

4. Foreigner – 4 (1981)
Power ballads? Arena rock? Both exist in perfect harmony on this one. “Waiting for a Girl Like You” became the blueprint for ‘80s slow-dance epics.

5. The Cars – Heartbeat City (1984)
Yes, that’s Mutt behind “Drive” and “You Might Think.” He dialed up their synths, smoothed out their pop sensibilities, and scored some of their biggest hits.

6. Billy Ocean – Tear Down These Walls (1988)
“Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car” is 100% Mutt—catchy, polished, and impossible to forget.

7. The Corrs – In Blue (2000)
Ireland’s beloved sibling act found global pop polish with Lange in the studio. He helped blend their folk roots with radio-ready hooks.

8. Maroon 5 – Hands All Over (2010)
He paired Adam Levine’s falsetto with sleek, rock-pop production. “Misery” has Mutt’s signature earworm quality.

9. Muse – Drones (2015)
A surprise collaboration. Lange brought laser-focused structure to Muse’s dystopian chaos. The result? A Grammy-winning concept rock opera.

10. Michael Bolton – The One Thing (1993)
You didn’t expect this one, did you? Mutt softened his rock production touch for this soulful crooner—and made it soar.

11. Ashley Clark – Ashley Clark (2015)
Country meets arena rock in this overlooked project. Mutt shaped Ashley’s debut with massive choruses and clean production lines.

12. Romeo’s Daughter – Romeo’s Daughter (1988)
A cult classic. Mutt gave this British AOR band sharp hooks and glossy sheen. “Don’t Break My Heart” should’ve been huge.

13. Tycoon – Tycoon (1979)
This short-lived NYC band got a massive, clean production job from Mutt—proof he could make anyone sound arena-ready.

14. Michael Stanley Band – Cabin Fever (1978)
Mutt turned this heartland rock outfit into a polished, radio-friendly machine. Still a Midwest classic.

15. Supercharge – Body Rhythm (1979)
A horn-heavy funk-rock album with slick production values and serious groove. Mutt helped them walk the line between raw and refined.

And two albums everyone knows Mutt Lange produced:

16. AC/DC – Back in Black (1980)
The second-best-selling album of all time. Every riff, every echo, every “HEY!” is exactly where it’s supposed to be.

17. Shania Twain – Come On Over (1997)
The highest-selling country album ever. Country-pop perfection. Still untouchable.

Mutt Lange doesn’t chase the spotlight, but his production style helped define three decades of popular music. Rock, pop, country—whatever the genre, when Mutt’s behind the board, you’re going to get hooks, harmonies, and huge moments.

40 Iconic Collaborations That Made Nicky Hopkins Rock’s Secret Weapon

Eric Alper
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40 Iconic Collaborations That Made Nicky Hopkins Rock’s Secret Weapon

Nicky Hopkins never fronted a band. He didn’t tour the world with a solo act. But his piano playing is everywhere—from the Beatles to the Stones, from Woodstock to Wembley. One of the most influential session musicians ever, Hopkins helped shape the sound of rock, one track at a time. Here are 40 of his legendary collaborations that helped define generations.

1. The Rolling Stones
Played on more than a dozen of their albums—including “Sympathy for the Devil,” “Angie,” and most of Exile on Main St.

2. The Beatles
Added that iconic electric piano solo on the single version of “Revolution.”

3. The Who
From “The Ox” to “Getting in Tune,” his touch elevated both chaos and calm.

4. The Kinks
Appeared on Face to Face and Village Green Preservation Society, though he was never properly credited.

5. Jeff Beck Group
Co-wrote “Girl from Mill Valley” and helped make Beck-Ola a prog-blues staple.

6. Quicksilver Messenger Service
Composed the wild instrumental “Edward, the Mad Shirt Grinder” and played like he belonged on another planet.

7. John Lennon
Played beautifully on Imagine, especially “Jealous Guy” and “Oh My Love.”

8. George Harrison
Made key contributions to Living in the Material World and Extra Texture.

9. Paul McCartney
Played on “Bip Bop” and appeared again nearly 20 years later on Flowers in the Dirt.

10. Ringo Starr
Lit up “Photograph” and other tracks on Ringo and Goodnight Vienna.

11. Jerry Garcia
Joined the Jerry Garcia Band and appeared on Let It Rock and Reflections.

12. Joe Walsh
Played on “Guilty of the Crime” in 1994, one of his final studio appearances.

13. Joe Cocker
Helped create the tenderness in “You Are So Beautiful.”

14. Art Garfunkel
Brought elegance to Breakaway and Lefty.

15. Rod Stewart
Played on Blondes Have More Fun and Foot Loose & Fancy Free with infectious energy.

16. Harry Nilsson
Left a unique stamp on Son of Schmilsson.

17. Donovan
Laid down keys for Barabajagal and Essence to Essence.

18. Steve Miller Band
Co-wrote “Baby’s House” and played on Your Saving Grace.

19. Carly Simon
Appeared on No Secrets, the album that gave us “You’re So Vain.”

20. Jefferson Airplane
Played at Woodstock and on Volunteers, including the thunderous “Eskimo Blue Day.”

21. Peter Frampton
Played on Somethin’s Happening, giving it a rich, melodic layer.

22. Belinda Carlisle
Contributed to her solo debut, Belinda, in 1986.

23. The Hollies
Added flair to several late ’60s sessions during their pop-rock peak.

24. Cat Stevens
Tickled the ivories on the chart-crushing “Matthew and Son.”

25. New Riders of the Purple Sage
Joined their cosmic cowboy trip on Powerglide.

26. Badfinger
Contributed to Airwaves, helping the power pop survivors find new footing.

27. Graham Parker
Stepped in after Bob Andrews and worked on Another Grey Area.

28. Dusty Springfield
Played on White Heat, her new-wave tinged comeback in 1982.

29. The Easybeats
Lent his talents to “Heaven and Hell” and an unreleased LP.

30. The Move
Worked on “Hey Grandma” and “Wild Tiger Woman” during their early mod era.

31. Jackie Lomax
Played on Is This What You Want?, a George Harrison-produced solo debut.

32. Gene Clark
Joined sessions that bridged folk rock and cosmic country.

33. Night (band)
Played and toured with the L.A.-based band during their “Hot Summer Nights” hit run.

34. Jerry Garcia Band
Joined their dynamic mid-70s run before parting ways on New Year’s Eve 1975.

35. L. Ron Hubbard
Yes, he played on Battlefield Earth’s Space Jazz soundtrack. It’s real. It happened.

36. Marc Bolan
Appeared on “Jasper C. Debussy,” recorded during Bolan’s early acid folk period.

37. The Creation
Added his signature keys to the mod-rock classic We Are Paintermen.

38. The Jayhawks
Played piano on Hollywood Town Hall’s standout tracks “Two Angels” and “Martin’s Song.”

39. Paul Jones
Performed with the ex-Manfred Mann singer on “And the Sun Will Shine.”

40. Spinal Tap
Yes, that Spinal Tap—Hopkins played on “Rainy Day Sun” for Break Like the Wind.

10 Artists Who Named Their Instruments

Eric Alper
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10 Artists Who Named Their Instruments

Every superhero needs a sidekick. Every wizard needs a wand. And every musician? They need an instrument with personality. Sometimes, that bond gets so strong, a name just… happens. From guitars with nicknames to pianos with identities, here are 10 artists who gave their instruments names—and made them part of the legend.

1. B.B. King – “Lucille”
The most famous guitar name in blues history. B.B. King named every one of his black Gibson ES-355s “Lucille” after a nightclub brawl over a woman of the same name caused a fire. He nearly died retrieving his guitar and decided never to forget it—or her. “Don’t run into any burning buildings to save your guitar,” he once said. “But if you do, name it Lucille.”

2. Willie Nelson – “Trigger”
Willie’s beat-up Martin N-20 classical guitar is named after Roy Rogers’ horse, and it’s seen more action than most rock stars. The soundhole is worn through. The surface is signed by over 100 musicians. And yet, it’s irreplaceable. “When Trigger goes, I’ll quit,” Nelson once told reporters. Trigger’s still going strong.

3. Brian May – “Red Special”
Queen guitarist Brian May built his guitar with his father using wood from an old fireplace. The “Red Special” became his main instrument and carries a unique tone that fits Queen’s dramatic sound. Brian still plays the original guitar today, more than 50 years later.

4. Yngwie Malmsteen – “The Duck”
Yngwie Malmsteen’s cream-colored 1971 Fender Stratocaster has a Donald Duck sticker on it. He affectionately calls it “The Duck.” This guitar helped him create some of the fastest and most powerful solos in rock and metal.

5. Neil Young – “Old Black”
Neil Young’s favorite electric guitar is a heavily modified 1953 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop. He painted it black and nicknamed it “Old Black.” The guitar appears on nearly every one of his recordings since the late 1960s and has its own legacy in rock history.

6. Eddie Van Halen – “Frankenstrat”
Eddie Van Halen’s homemade guitar combined parts from several models to create something that suited his sound. He spray-painted it red, white, and black, and called it the “Frankenstrat.” It became one of the most recognizable guitars in rock.

7. Bo Diddley – “The Twang Machine”
Bo Diddley’s square guitar wasn’t just a visual statement—it was a custom-built sound machine. He called it “The Twang Machine,” and it matched his rhythm-heavy style perfectly. The boxy shape became a signature part of his live presence.

8. Eric Clapton – “Blackie”
Eric Clapton built “Blackie” from the best parts of three Fender Stratocasters. He played it throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. It became his most famous guitar and was later auctioned for nearly $1 million to support his Crossroads Centre.

9. Prince – “Love Symbol”
Prince didn’t just give his guitar a name. He gave it a shape. His custom-designed instrument looked like the symbol he used as his name. It became a part of his performances and added a visual layer to his already powerful sound.

10. Keith Richards – “Micawber”
Keith Richards named his 1950s Fender Telecaster “Micawber” after a character in Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield. The guitar has a brass bridge and humbucker pickup, giving it a gritty tone perfect for the Rolling Stones’ riffs.

16 Great 3-Album Runs That Redefined Music

Eric Alper
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16 Great 3-Album Runs That Redefined Music

Sometimes lightning strikes once. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, twice. But every now and then, an artist hits an unstoppable groove and delivers three legendary albums in a row—each one building on the last, changing the game, and defining a generation. These 16 epic three-album runs prove that greatness comes in trilogies.

The Beatles – ‘Rubber Soul’ (1965), ‘Revolver’ (1966), ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ (1967)

The Beatles stepped into new sonic territory with each release. They moved from clever pop to rich, experimental arrangements and deeper lyrics. This trio of albums reshaped popular music. Innovations in songwriting, production, and studio technique came together across all three records. Psychedelia, orchestration, and storytelling expanded the band’s identity.

Stevie Wonder – ‘Talking Book’ (1972), ‘Innervisions’ (1973), ‘Fulfillingness’ First Finale’ (1974)

Stevie Wonder fully embraced artistic freedom in the 1970s. These albums showcase rich arrangements, socially conscious lyrics, and groundbreaking synth work. His voice, both lyrically and vocally, became more personal and powerful. Tracks like “Superstition” and “Living for the City” connected deeply with listeners. The albums earned critical praise and Grammy wins.

Radiohead – ‘The Bends’ (1995), ‘OK Computer’ (1997), ‘Kid A’ (2000)

Radiohead explored guitar-driven alt-rock and evolved into sonic adventurers. ‘The Bends’ brought emotional intensity and melodic power. ‘OK Computer’ introduced atmospheric soundscapes and digital anxiety. ‘Kid A’ used abstraction and electronics to explore isolation and modern life. Each album marked a bold step forward in vision and execution.

Prince – ‘1999’ (1982), ‘Purple Rain’ (1984), ‘Around the World in a Day’ (1985)

Prince delivered funk, pop, and rock with unmatched charisma. ‘1999’ introduced his signature synth-heavy sound. ‘Purple Rain’ blended styles and brought him global fame. ‘Around the World in a Day’ added psychedelic textures and creative freedom. This stretch showed his versatility and star power.

Fleetwood Mac – ‘Fleetwood Mac’ (1975), ‘Rumours’ (1977), ‘Tusk’ (1979)

Fleetwood Mac balanced harmony and conflict across this creative period. The 1975 self-titled album introduced the Buckingham-Nicks lineup. ‘Rumours’ became a cultural phenomenon and one of the best-selling albums ever. ‘Tusk’ offered experimental ideas and a wide emotional range. Each record built on the band’s complex chemistry.

David Bowie – ‘Low’ (1977), ‘“Heroes”’ (1977), ‘Lodger’ (1979)

This Berlin-era trilogy captures Bowie’s fascination with art rock, minimalism, and European textures. ‘Low’ featured instrumental tracks and fragmented lyrics. ‘“Heroes”’ gave us one of his most iconic anthems. ‘Lodger’ explored travel, identity, and dislocation. Brian Eno’s involvement brought atmospheric layers and sonic exploration.

Joni Mitchell – ‘Court and Spark’ (1974), ‘The Hissing of Summer Lawns’ (1975), ‘Hejira’ (1976)

Joni Mitchell blended jazz, poetry, and personal reflection across these records. ‘Court and Spark’ brought her closest to pop accessibility. ‘The Hissing of Summer Lawns’ explored suburban life and societal roles. ‘Hejira’ featured open tunings and road-trip meditations. These albums deepened her reputation as a fearless songwriter.

Nirvana – ‘Bleach’ (1989), ‘Nevermind’ (1991), ‘In Utero’ (1993)

Nirvana captured the sound of discontent and transformation. ‘Bleach’ introduced their raw edge. ‘Nevermind’ brought grunge into the mainstream and reshaped rock radio. ‘In Utero’ pushed back with abrasive textures and unfiltered emotion. The band’s growth over these albums marked a turning point in alternative music.

Led Zeppelin – ‘Led Zeppelin II’ (1969), ‘Led Zeppelin III’ (1970), ‘Led Zeppelin IV’ (1971)

These albums display a group in full command of its identity. Blues-rock riffs, acoustic interludes, and hard-hitting rhythms define this era. ‘Led Zeppelin II’ is filled with swagger and weight. ‘III’ highlights their folk influences. ‘IV’ includes “Stairway to Heaven” and solidified their legend.

Bruce Springsteen – ‘Born to Run’ (1975), ‘Darkness on the Edge of Town’ (1978), ‘The River’ (1980)

Springsteen painted vivid portraits of working-class life and restless youth. ‘Born to Run’ introduced cinematic ambition. ‘Darkness’ reflected frustration and grit. ‘The River’ doubled the storytelling across a sprawling two-disc set. His songwriting during this time built a lasting emotional connection with fans.

Kate Bush – ‘The Kick Inside’ (1978), ‘Lionheart’ (1978), ‘Never for Ever’ (1980)

Kate Bush began her career with fearless imagination. ‘The Kick Inside’ introduced her unique voice and storytelling. ‘Lionheart’ followed with theatrical flair. ‘Never for Ever’ added deeper production and mood. Her ability to bring fantasy, emotion, and music together shines in this sequence.

Talking Heads – ‘Fear of Music’ (1979), ‘Remain in Light’ (1980), ‘Speaking in Tongues’ (1983)

Talking Heads embraced rhythm, art, and global influences. ‘Fear of Music’ bridged post-punk and paranoia. ‘Remain in Light’ used African polyrhythms and studio layering. ‘Speaking in Tongues’ brought danceable grooves and colorful visuals. This period highlights their creative curiosity and collaborative spirit.

R.E.M. – ‘Document’ (1987), ‘Green’ (1988), ‘Out of Time’ (1991)

R.E.M. went from college rock heroes to chart-topping songwriters. ‘Document’ sharpened their political edge. ‘Green’ mixed environmental themes with pop sensibilities. ‘Out of Time’ delivered radio hits like “Losing My Religion” while staying true to their identity. Their growth was both musical and cultural.

PJ Harvey – ‘To Bring You My Love’ (1995), ‘Is This Desire?’ (1998), ‘Stories from the City, Stories from the Sea’ (2000)

PJ Harvey pushed emotional intensity and sonic boundaries across these three albums. ‘To Bring You My Love’ brought bluesy drama and stark production. ‘Is This Desire?’ went inward with hushed textures. ‘Stories’ returned to clarity and earned the Mercury Prize. Her storytelling and presence grew more commanding.

Billie Eilish – ‘Don’t Smile at Me’ (2017), ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’ (2019), ‘Happier Than Ever’ (2021)

Billie Eilish entered with a whisper and redefined pop’s volume. The debut EP ‘Don’t Smile at Me’ introduced her eerie lullabies and electronic minimalism. ‘When We All Fall Asleep…’ brought chart-topping success with surreal beats and biting lyrics. ‘Happier Than Ever’ expanded her emotional and sonic range, capturing both melancholy and fury with precision. Billie’s early trilogy shaped the sound of a new generation.

Taylor Swift – ‘Folklore’ (2020), ‘Evermore’ (2020), ‘Midnights’ (2022)

Taylor Swift leaned into introspection and storytelling across this sequence. ‘Folklore’ brought soft piano, poetic lyrics, and quiet reinvention. ‘Evermore’ followed as its companion—an album of emotional clarity and subtle textures. ‘Midnights’ added synth-pop shimmer while keeping her lyrical focus sharp. Across these three albums, she explored character, memory, and the many versions of herself with grace and imagination.

77 Facts About Stevie Nicks for Her 77th Birthday

Eric Alper
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77 Facts About Stevie Nicks for Her 77th Birthday

Happy 77th Birthday to the mystical queen of rock and roll herself, Stevie Nicks! The shawl-spinning, moonlight-summoning, voice-of-your-soul singer-songwriter has cast her spell over generations of music lovers. In honor of her 77th trip around the sun, here are 77 facts about the woman who gave us “Rhiannon,” “Landslide,” and “Edge of Seventeen”—and a whole universe in between.

1. Stevie was born Stephanie Lynn Nicks on May 26, 1948.

  1. Her grandfather taught her to sing harmonies when she was just four years old.

  2. She got her nickname because she pronounced “Stephanie” as “Tee-dee.”

  3. Her first song was called “I’ve Loved and I’ve Lost, and I’m Sad but Not Blue.”

  4. She received a Goya guitar for her 16th birthday—and used it to start writing her future.

  5. Stevie met Lindsey Buckingham in high school. Their partnership changed music forever.

  6. Before Fleetwood Mac, they recorded an album together called ‘Buckingham Nicks.’

  7. She once opened for Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix while in the band Fritz.

  8. Nicks dropped out of college to pursue music with Lindsey. Her dad gave her his blessing.

  9. She waited tables and cleaned houses before fame found her.

  10. She wrote “Rhiannon” after reading a novel—not knowing the mythology behind the name.

  11. She later bought the film rights to the Rhiannon mythos.

  12. “Landslide” was written in Aspen during a moment of self-doubt.

  13. Mick Fleetwood heard a Buckingham Nicks song in a studio—and the rest is history.

  14. She joined Fleetwood Mac on New Year’s Eve, 1974.

  15. Her 1975 performance of “Rhiannon” was so intense, Mick Fleetwood called it “an exorcism.”

  16. Her flowing, bohemian look was co-designed with Margi Kent.

  17. “Dreams” is Fleetwood Mac’s only Billboard Hot 100 #1 hit.

  18. “Silver Springs” was left off ‘Rumours’—a decision that haunted Stevie for years.

  19. She wrote “Gold Dust Woman” about addiction and darkness—her own crystal ball.

  20. Nicks had a brief, secret affair with Mick Fleetwood in 1977.

  21. Her 1981 solo debut ‘Bella Donna’ went to #1 on the Billboard 200.

  22. On the same day ‘Bella Donna’ hit #1, her best friend died of leukemia.

  23. Stevie married her friend’s widower out of grief—and divorced him 3 months later.

  24. She once said she “never enjoyed Bella Donna because of the heartbreak.”

  25. “Edge of Seventeen” was inspired by the phrase “just like the white-winged dove.”

  26. She’s been joined on stage by Tom Petty, Don Henley, Bob Dylan, and Prince.

  27. Prince played synthesizers on “Stand Back.” She says it wouldn’t exist without him.

  28. She’s in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice—Fleetwood Mac (1998) and solo (2019).

  29. Stevie was dubbed the “Reigning Queen of Rock and Roll” by Rolling Stone.

  30. She once toured with Bob Dylan and Tom Petty in Australia.

  31. She kicked cocaine in the mid-’80s after a surgeon warned her she might die.

  32. She checked into the Betty Ford Center in 1986.

  33. Then she spent years addicted to Klonopin—a battle she’s been honest about.

  34. “I lost those 8 years of my life,” she said of her Klonopin period.

  35. “Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You” was inspired by Joe Walsh’s daughter.

  36. She had a physical altercation with Lindsey Buckingham after he left the band.

  37. She made a surprise appearance at Bill Clinton’s 1993 inauguration with Fleetwood Mac.

  38. Her box set ‘Enchanted’ is a treasure trove of rare songs and journal entries.

  39. She keeps a journal every single day.

  40. She said her niece and godchildren will one day read her life through those journals.

  41. She once said, “My mission maybe wasn’t to be a mom… but to write songs for moms.”

  42. She appears as a witch on two seasons of American Horror Story—and it was perfect.

  43. She wears platform boots because she’s only 5’1″.

  44. Her mic stand is always draped in ribbons, beads, and scarves.

  45. She was the inspiration behind Walter Egan’s “Magnet and Steel.”

  46. “Bootylicious” by Destiny’s Child samples “Edge of Seventeen.” Stevie loved it.

  47. She never released “Secret Love” in the ’70s—she waited until 2011.

  48. ‘In Your Dreams’ was called her best album since the ’80s.

  49. Taylor Swift and Harry Styles have both cited her as an icon.

  50. So has Beyoncé. So has Courtney Love. So has Lorde.

  51. Stevie and Sheryl Crow are close friends and musical collaborators.

  52. She sang on the Gorillaz track “Oil” in 2023.

  53. She sang with Dolly Parton in 2023, too—two queens, one track.

  54. Her charity “Band of Soldiers” gives iPods to wounded veterans.

  55. She decorates each one with handpicked playlists and personal touches.

  56. In 2020, she sold 80% of her songwriting catalog for $100 million.

  57. She has always insisted on creative control over her solo records.

  58. Her house in Santa Monica has views of the Pacific—and probably some magic.

  59. In 2017, she played “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” one last time with Tom Petty.

  60. She once said she’d never write a memoir unless she could “tell the truth.”

  61. In 2024, Taylor Swift name-dropped her in the song “Clara Bow.”

  62. Stevie responded by writing a poem for the album’s liner notes.

  63. She officiated Vanessa Carlton’s wedding in 2013.

  64. Stevie performed “Landslide” with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

  65. She says she still gets nervous before every performance.

  66. She was once accused of witchcraft—so she stopped wearing black for years.

  67. Her style is inspired by Grace Slick, Janis Joplin, and Victorian ghosts.

  68. She shops for chiffon and velvet like most people shop for coffee.

  69. She has hundreds of shawls. One is even under lock and key in a climate-controlled vault.

  70. She considers herself a “crazy aunt” to many kids—and she loves it that way.

  71. Her dog is named Lily, and Lily once had her own Instagram following.

  72. “Landslide” has been covered by The Smashing Pumpkins and The Chicks—and both versions are incredible.

  73. She’s written more than 400 songs.

  74. “Dreams” charted again in 2020 thanks to a viral TikTok of a man skateboarding and drinking Ocean Spray.

  75. Stevie responded by making her own TikTok—with cranberry juice in hand.

  76. And finally… She’s still touring, still enchanting, still writing, still rocking—because Stevie Nicks isn’t just a legend. She’s a universe.

10 Great Songs That Never Mention Their Title

Eric Alper
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10 Great Songs That Never Mention Their Title

Some songs shout their title in the chorus like a neon sign. Others? They take the scenic route. You hear the whole thing—verse, chorus, bridge, fade out—and that title never shows up. Not once. It’s a move that says, “You’ll remember me anyway.”

Sometimes it’s an artistic choice. Sometimes it’s accidental. And sometimes it’s just… fun. Here are 10 songs (plus one cheeky bonus) that never mention their title in the lyrics, but still became unforgettable.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
Six minutes of operatic rock genius. Zero mentions of “Bohemian” or “Rhapsody.” Freddie Mercury made a song so iconic that the title just had to stand back and let the music do the talking. Galileo agrees.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana
The grunge anthem of a generation—and not a single whiff of the title anywhere. It came from a joke spray-paint tag on a wall, and it stuck. Nirvana proved that a song could be huge without being literal.

“Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin
The title came from a stray black Labrador wandering the studio during recording. The song itself? Pure bluesy chaos with no dogs in sight. Not even a bark. Zeppelin doing Zeppelin things.

“Baba O’Riley” – The Who
Named after Meher Baba and Terry Riley, this arena-sized track is often mistaken for “Teenage Wasteland,” which is mentioned in the chorus. But the title? Never sung. It’s classic Who misdirection.

“Brain Damage” – Pink Floyd
You’ll hear about lunatics on the grass, on the path, and on the dark side of the moon, but never the phrase “brain damage.” Yet it captures the whole mood in two words. Roger Waters nailed the feeling.

“Space Oddity” – David Bowie
Ground Control to Major Tom: nowhere in your transmission do you say “Space Oddity.” But the sound, the story, the slow floating away—it’s cosmic poetry with or without the name tag.

“A Day in the Life” – The Beatles
A stunning snapshot of ordinary strangeness. You’ll hear about reading the news and holes big enough to drive a bus through—but not the title. And somehow, that makes it even more haunting.

“For What It’s Worth” – Buffalo Springfield
Written in response to 1960s unrest on the Sunset Strip, this song is often called “Stop, Hey, What’s That Sound.” The real title? Hidden like a secret. And still, everyone knows what it’s worth.

“Around the World” – Daft Punk
Okay, technically this one mentions the title. But here’s the punchline: it’s the only thing it says. Literally. “Around the World” is repeated 144 times. No verses, no bridges, no metaphors. Just two robots chanting a travel itinerary like it’s a mantra. And guess what? It still slaps.

“Subterranean Homesick Blues” – Bob Dylan
You’ll hear about fire hoses, parking meters, and the man in the coonskin cap—but the title is nowhere to be found. It’s Dylan in pure stream-of-consciousness mode. Blink and you’ll miss 14 social movements.

Whether it’s an epic rock suite or a protest anthem, these songs prove you don’t need to name-drop the title to make a song stick in someone’s brain forever. Sometimes, the mystery is the hook. And sometimes, like Around The World, you just want to be the loudest robert in the room saying your own travel plans.

10 Songs That Are Perfect for Your Graduation Day

Eric Alper
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10 Songs That Are Perfect for Your Graduation Day

Graduation is a time of major feels: joy, nerves, excitement, nostalgia. Whether you’re leaving high school, college, or another big chapter in life, music has a way of making it all feel even more real. The right song doesn’t just celebrate the finish line—it helps you remember how far you’ve come, and what’s waiting around the corner.

Here are 10 songs that are perfect for your graduation soundtrack—timeless, emotional, and ready to play as you turn the tassel.

“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” – Green Day
It’s the unofficial graduation anthem for a reason. Bittersweet and reflective, it says goodbye without being too sentimental. Acoustic guitar, life advice, and just the right amount of edge.

“Unwritten” – Natasha Bedingfield
This song is pure optimism in a melody. It reminds you that the future is exactly what you make it—and that every blank page is a chance to rewrite your story.

“Breakaway” – Kelly Clarkson
Whether you’re leaving a small town or just stepping into something new, this powerhouse ballad nails the feeling of growing up and breaking free—wings and all.

“I Lived” – OneRepublic
A love letter to taking risks, making mistakes, and doing it all over again. “I owned every second that this world could give” is the kind of lyric that deserves a spot in your yearbook.

“See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
This one hits hard, especially if graduation means saying goodbye to people who changed your life. Emotional, yes—but also hopeful.

“Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
For when you just want to celebrate and feel unstoppable. Freddie Mercury knew how to throw a sonic party, and this one’s still undefeated.

“Forever Young” – Alphaville
Dreamy, nostalgic, and timeless. This synth-pop anthem is like a yearbook set to music—a wish to never lose the spark that made you who you are right now.

“Started From the Bottom” – Drake
Graduation isn’t just about gowns and speeches—it’s about hustle. This track is for anyone who worked their way to the stage and earned every second of that walk.

“Graduation” – Vitamin C
This one might be a throwback, but it still lands. A slow-building ballad of friendship, memories, and the strange, wonderful feeling of growing up together.

“My Future” – Billie Eilish
Chill, wise, and surprisingly uplifting. This is the song for those walking into adulthood with curiosity, confidence, and a soft kind of self-love.

So whether you’re dancing in the gym, driving home with the windows down, or holding back tears in your cap and gown, let these songs be the soundtrack to a moment you’ll always remember. Congratulations, graduate. This is your time—and the playlist is just getting started.

10 Amazing Songs Paul McCartney Wrote for Other Artists

Eric Alper
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10 Amazing Songs Paul McCartney Wrote for Other Artists

Paul McCartney writes songs like the rest of us breathe. Some became part of The Beatles’ legacy. Some fueled Wings and his solo career. And some? He handed them off, shared them with friends, or helped shape them behind the scenes. These are the songs that flew from Paul’s pen into other voices and became their own kind of classic.

Here are 10 great tracks McCartney wrote or co-wrote that were performed by other artists—and every single one tells its own story.

“Come and Get It” – Badfinger (1969)
Paul wrote and recorded the demo in under an hour. When he offered it to Badfinger, he told them to copy the demo exactly. They did, and it became one of the first major hits for Apple Records. The blueprint was pure McCartney.

“World Without Love” – Peter and Gordon (1964)
Too romantic for John Lennon’s taste, this early McCartney gem found a perfect home with Peter and Gordon. It hit #1 in both the UK and the US. Peter Asher just happened to be the brother of Paul’s then-girlfriend Jane.

“Step Inside Love” – Cilla Black (1968)
McCartney wrote this warm, inviting song as a theme for Cilla’s BBC TV show. It turned into a single and became one of her best-loved tunes. Paul’s knack for writing with someone else’s voice in mind is clear here.

“Goodbye” – Mary Hopkin (1969)
After producing her breakout hit “Those Were the Days,” Paul offered Mary Hopkin this wistful original. It was a graceful follow-up and another Apple success. His acoustic demo is just as lovely and full of heart.

“Veronica” – Elvis Costello (1989)
McCartney teamed up with Elvis Costello for a songwriting partnership that gave us this emotional, sharp-edged hit. It became Elvis’s biggest US chart success, blending Costello’s storytelling with Paul’s melodic instincts.

“FourFiveSeconds” – Rihanna, Kanye West & Paul McCartney (2015)
McCartney’s acoustic guitar riff set the foundation for this surprise collaboration. The song became a global hit, bringing Paul into the orbit of a new generation and showing how timeless his musical touch remains.

“Mine for Me” – Rod Stewart (1974)
Paul and Linda McCartney co-wrote this reflective ballad for Rod Stewart’s Smiler album. With its gentle vibe and introspective lyrics, it fits right into the softer side of Paul’s songwriting universe.

“Penina” – Carlos Mendes (1969)
Written during a holiday in Portugal, McCartney gifted this tune to local artist Carlos Mendes. It became a popular single in Portugal. A rare Beatles rehearsal version of “Penina” still floats around for collectors.

“That Means a Lot” – P.J. Proby (1965)
The Beatles recorded it but left it unreleased. P.J. Proby took the song and gave it a theatrical edge that fit his style. It’s a perfect example of how deep the Lennon-McCartney songbook really runs.

“Woman” – Peter and Gordon (1966)
Paul released this under the alias Bernard Webb to see if a song could succeed without the Lennon-McCartney brand. It worked. The track soared up the charts, and the secret didn’t stay secret for long.

Paul McCartney writes with ease, generosity, and a sense of play. Whether the song ends up on a Beatles record or in someone else’s hands, the melody still carries his unmistakable spirit. The magic is always there—wherever it lands.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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