Page 692 – That Eric Alper

Sierra Hull Stuns With Acoustic “Spitfire” on Kelly Clarkson Show

Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

Sierra Hull Stuns With Acoustic “Spitfire” on Kelly Clarkson Show

Monday’s episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show gave fans a rare treat: Sierra Hull on acoustic guitar performing “Spitfire” from her latest album, A Tip Toe High Wire. Rare in that she’s most known for her mandolin playing, as she was the first woman to win Mandolin Player of the Year at the International Bluegrass Music Association Awards (IBMA), a category she’s won six times to date.

“Spitfire” follows her grandmother’s story of tragedy and perseverance from verse to verse, showing off the award-winning instrumentalist’s deft songwriting skills. “Young love one month a wife / River took him under, took his life / She cried ‘Oh Lord, how can I be a widow before eighteen,” Hull sings over her own accompaniment in the song’s opening lines. “She was a beautiful, fiery woman who loved her family in the deepest of ways,” Hull says of her Granny. “When I need to find some extra strength in my own life, I remember her resilience.”

“Spitfire” is from Hull’s A Tip Toe High Wire—titled after the chorus of “Spitfire”—released March 7th. Self-produced with longtime friend and engineer Shani Gandhi, A Tip Toe High Wire is not only Hull’s first album in five years and the first to feature her skilled and seasoned touring band—Shaun Richardson (guitar), Avery Merritt (fiddle), Erik Coveney (bass), and Mark Raudabaugh (drums)—but it’s also her first album to be released independently.

Up next for Hull: Fresh from the Viva El Gonzo Festival where, in addition to her own full band sets, she guested with Goose on a two-song sit-in for Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” and The Wood Brothers’ “Atlas,” Hull and band take the stage at Hollywood Bowl tonight as part of Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour of which she’s on through May. Then, it’s headlong into festival season with stops at Railbird, Earl Scruggs Music Festival, and more. A full tour routing can be found below.

On tour:
May 16 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl ✶
May 17 – Felton, CA – Felton Music Hall
May 18 – Wheatland, CA – Toyota Amphitheatre ✶
May 20 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater ✶
May 22 – Spokane, WA – ONE Spokane Stadium ✶
May 24 – Ridgefield, WA – Cascades Amphitheater ✶
May 25 – Quincy, WA – The Gorge Amphitheatre ✶
May 31 – Lexington, KY – Railbird Music Festival 2025 #
June 28 – Sisters, OR – Big Ponderoo 2025 #
July 17 – Trumansburg, NY – Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival 2025 #
July 19 – Oak Hill, NY – Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2025 #
July 24 – Bethlehem, NH – The Colonial Theatre
July 25 – Hiram, ME – Ossipee Valley Music Festival 2025 #
August 1 – Ninilchik, AK – Salmonfest 2025 #
August 8 – Morgantown, WV – Hazel Ruby McQuain Amphitheater
August 10 – Lowell, MA – Lowell Summer Music Series
August 30 – Mill Spring, NC – Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2025 #
September 10 – Las Vegas, NV – Bender Jamboree 2025 #
September 17 – Nashville, TN – Fogg Street Lawn Club
September 19 – Chattanooga, TN – IBMA Bluegrass Live 2025 #
September 21 – North Adams, MA – FreshGrass MASS MoCa
October 30 – Live Oak, FL – Hulaween (with The Infamous Stringdusters) #
✶ Outlaw Music Festival Tour w/ Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Billy Strings, and more
# Festival

Briscoe Pays Tribute To Blaze Foley And Alabama Shakes With “Hold On” And “Clay Pigeons”

Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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Briscoe Pays Tribute To Blaze Foley And Alabama Shakes With “Hold On” And “Clay Pigeons”

Austin-based Americana folk-rock band Briscoe share their take on “Hold On” by Alabama Shakes and the Blaze Foley classic “Clay Pigeons” which was made famous by legendary singer-songwriter John Prine. The songs are accompanied by a behind the scenes look at the recording process of “Hold On” live from the studio.

“Brittany Howard is a once in a lifetime type of talent, and Alabama Shakes has quickly cemented themselves as one of the best modern rock bands around. I remember hearing “Hold On” for the first time on Sirius XM’s “The Spectrum” in the early 2010’s and it’s been one of our favorites ever since. It was a dang good time giving such an awesome tune a touch of the Hill Country Sound!.

As for “Clay Pigeons”, we’re simply not sure there’s a better written song. Blaze Foley’s ability to convey the tragedy and hardship of his life through beautifully written songs is second to none. It’s certainly a lofty feat to cover a song of this stature, but our hope is to honor the life and the work of one of the greatest songwriters this world has ever seen” says Truett Heintzelman of the covers.

The band will also feature at the annual Austin City Limits music festival this October. Briscoe, which is comprised of UT Austin Alumni Philip Lupton & Truett Heintzelman continue to evolve as their adventurous songwriting narrows the gap between classic American roots music and its modern-day incarnation. These latest covers follow a recent live EP featuring songs from the band’s debut album ‘West of It All’ which was produced by Grammy-nominated producer Brad Cook (Bon Iver, The War on Drugs, Waxahachie) and their first self-titled EP. The collection also includes a rare cover of “Never Been To Spain”, made famous by the 60s group Three Dog Night.

From free backyard performances on the outskirts of UT Austin’s campus to sold-out gigs at Stubb’s, Briscoe’s growth — like the group’s music itself — has been organic. Bandmates Truett Heintzelman and Philip Lupton built their grassroots following the old-school way: by carving out a sound that nodded to the golden era of folk, rock, and pop music, then getting onstage and building a genuine relationship with their audience. That authenticity led to opening slots for Caamp, Dave Matthews and Zach Bryan. Signed by ATO Records while still pursuing undergraduate degrees as college students, the Texas natives wrote ‘West of It All’ as graduation loomed in the distance, funneling the stories of their college experience — from heartbreak to hard-won lessons to weekend trips into the rural countryside — into a raw, rugged blend of classic and contemporary influences.

Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s Release “Even If It’s Broke” and Announce Fall Tour

Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and musician Brent Cobb and his band The Fixin’s debut their new song, “Even If It’s Broke,” today.

The song is the second unveiled from Cobb’s new album, Ain’t Rocked in a While, which will be released July 11 via Ol’ Buddy Records/Thirty Tigers and is the first project he’s recorded with his band (pre-order/pre-save here). Ahead of the release, Cobb recently unveiled the title track, which Whiskey Riff praises as “rocking southern soul…this single rips,” while Glide proclaims, “The fuzzy garage-rock tune features psychedelic tendencies that aid in the message of the song: never forget to leave some time for old-fashioned rocking.” Watch the official music video HERE.

Produced by Cobb and Oran Thornton, Ain’t Rocked in a While captures the electric energy of Cobb’s live shows while still keeping his signature storytelling at the forefront. Recorded live to tape at The Black Palace in Springfield, MO, the album finds Cobb returning to his roots as he blends his timeless country sound with influences from the classic rock bands he grew up listening to—Black Sabbath, Metallica and AC/DC.

Reflecting on the project, Cobb shares, “I feel like sometimes when people come to our shows, there might be a disconnect. People might view me as just a singer-songwriter—you know, sit down and tell ’em a nice little Southern story, sing ’em a song. And our live show kinda rocks. Sometimes people are taken aback. I want people to have an album of reference.”

In celebration of the new music, Cobb & The Fixin’s will embark on an extensive headline tour this fall, including newly confirmed stops at New York’s Bowery Ballroom, Los Angeles’ Troubadour, Seattle’s Tractor Tavern, Minneapolis’ Fine Line, Chicago’s Joe’s on Weed St., Washington, D.C.’s The Hamilton, Tucson’s Club Congress and Portland’s Aladdin Theater, among many others. See below for the complete itinerary or visit www.brentcobbmusic.com/tour for full details.

In addition to Cobb (vocals, guitar), The Fixin’s are Len Clark (drums), MattMcDaniel (guitars) and Josh Williams (bass).

Based in Ellaville, GA, Cobb has released five albums to date, including 2023’s acclaimed Southern Star—a love letter to his southern roots, filled with the sounds and stories of his home state of Georgia. Of that record, Rolling Stone declared, “Few artists embody the South quite like Brent Cobb…he summons the easygoing vibes and sounds of his native Georgia,” while No Depression praised, “A true songwriting craftsman with a disarming drawl and plainspoken lyricism, Cobb’s music often feels like it exudes a sense of authenticity and tradition.”

In addition to his work as an artist, Cobb is an esteemed songwriter with cuts by Luke Combs, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Riley Green, Little Big Town, Hailey Whitters, Whiskey Myers and many more. His song “Snakebite” was featured in the first season of Paramount’s Landman this past fall, and in 2021 he released his first children’s book, Little Stuff, inspired by his song of the same name from Keep ‘Em on They Toes.

Ain’t Rocked in a While Track List:
Beyond Measure
Ain’t Rocked in a While
Bad Feelin’
Do It All the Time
Even If It’s Broke
In Our Hands
Power Man
Take Yer Meds
Til Dawn
Beyond Measure (Fixin’s)

Brent Cobb Confirmed Tour Dates:
June 5—Newport, KY—Southgate House Revival
June 6—Huntington, WV—The Loud
June 7—Maryville, TN—The Shed
June 26—Marietta, OH—Adelphia Music Hall
June 27—Indianapolis, IN—The Vogue
June 28—Alton, IL—Mississippi River Festival
July 10—Oklahoma City, OK—Beer City Music Hall
July 11—Fort Worth, TX—Billy Bob’s
July 18—Redmond, OR—FairWell Festival
July 19—Whitefish, MT—Under The Big Sky Festival
July 20—Whitefish, MT—The Remington
August 1—Bozeman, MT—Sweet Pea Festival
August 15—Des Moines, IA—Iowa State Fair
August 16—Hobart, IN—The Art Theater
August 17—Cadillac, MI—Coyote Crossing Resort
August 22—Douglas, GA—Martin Center
August 28—Columbus, OH—A&R Bar
August 29—Lexington, VA—Lime Kiln Theater
September 25—Minneapolis, MN—Fine Line
September 26—Davenport, IA—Raccoon Motel
September 27—Chicago, IL—Joe’s on Weed St.
September 28—Grand Rapids, MI—The Stache
September 30—Flint, MI—The Machine Shop
October 1—Cleveland Heights, OH—Grog Shop
October 3—Toronto, ON—The Velvet Underground
October 4—Buffalo, NY—Buffalo Iron Works
October 5—Pittsburgh, PA—Thunderbird Café & Music Hall
October 7—Washington, D.C.—The Hamilton
October 8—Ardmore, PA—Ardmore Music Hall
October 10—Woodstock, NY—Levon Helm Studios
October 12—Fall River, MA—Narrows Center for the Arts
October 13—New York, NY—Bowery Ballroom
November 7—Kansas City, MO—Knuckleheads Saloon
November 10—Albuquerque, NM—Revel
November 11—Tucson, AZ—Club Congress
November 13—Los Angeles, CA—Troubadour
November 16—Menlo Park, CA—The Guild
November 18—Healdsburg, CA—Little Saint
November 20—Portland, OR—Aladdin Theater
November 21—Seattle, WA—Tractor Tavern
November 22—Spokane, WA—The District at Knitting Factory
November 23—Great Falls, MT—The Newberry

Danny Burns and Dan Tyminski Reimagine “Brother Wind” With Celtic Soul and Appalachian Fire

Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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Danny Burns and Dan Tyminski Reimagine “Brother Wind” With Celtic Soul and Appalachian Fire

Acclaimed Irish bluegrass artist Danny Burns teams up with American bluegrass legend Dan Tyminski on “Brother Wind,” a riveting reimagining of Tim O’Brien’s beloved folk anthem. The track is a haunting and reflective ballad that captures themes of restlessness, resilience, and the search for peace. Infused with Burns’ Celtic soul and Tyminski’s Appalachian fire, the track soars with longing and quiet redemption. Their voices — gritty and golden — intertwine like old friends on a dusty road, breathing new life into a beloved folk anthem.

With warm acoustic guitar, steady banjo, and a driving beat, the instrumentation creates an evocative soundscape. Burns is joined by instrumentalists Cody Kilby (guitar), Billy Contreras (fiddle), Matt Menefee (banjo), Ethan Burkhardt (upright bass), and Jerry Roe (drums), while Tyminski’s unmistakable harmonies bring a weathered depth to the lyrics.

The song quickly caught the attention of The Bluegrass Situation, which featured the track and its official music video in their “You Gotta Hear This” roundup. Reflecting on the collaboration, Danny Burns shares, “‘Brother Wind,’ by the mighty Tim O’Brien, has long been a favorite of mine since coming across it on the Transatlantic Sessions. I couldn’t have been more delighted when my musical brother Dan Tyminski agreed to sing with me — he brought his iconic golden voice to this track.”

Southern Sky has already begun making waves, led by the breakout success of its lead single, “Blue Ridge Blue.” Released on February 12, the track — written by acclaimed songwriter Jim Beavers and featuring bluegrass luminaries Sam Bush and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes — quickly climbed to #1 on both the Bluegrass Today Airplay Chart and the Grassicana Chart, spending multiple weeks at the top. The single has also earned consistent rotation on SiriusXM’s Bluegrass Junction, where it remains one of the station’s most played tracks. With its strong chart performance and widespread airplay, “Blue Ridge Blue” stands as Danny Burns’ most successful single on bluegrass radio to date.

Southern Sky is a nine-track journey where Irish roots meet Southern soul, driven by fiddles, dobros, and rich storytelling. Joined by musical legends like Vince Gill, Tim O’Brien, and Ricky Skaggs, Burns crafts soaring melodies that echo the warmth and texture of the American South. “It takes a village,” he says, likening the album’s spirit to Allen Toussaint’s “Southern Nights,” where Appalachian tales blend with deep Southern twang.

Born and raised in Donegal, Ireland, his unique blend of bluegrass, country, Celtic, and folk music has captured the attention of some of Americana’s biggest names, many of whom have joined him on various projects. For the first two decades of his career, Burns honed his craft as a traveling folk singer, sharing the musical traditions of his native Ireland across the United States and captivating audiences with a tapestry of stories and melodies.

Danny Burns is an Irish-born, Americana singer-songwriter whose genre-blending sound fuses bluegrass, country, Celtic, and folk traditions. Raised in Donegal, Ireland, Burns has collaborated with icons like Vince Gill, Tim O’Brien, Ricky Skaggs, Sam Bush, and Steve Earle, earning acclaim from Rolling Stone, CMT, American Songwriter and Billboard. His critically acclaimed 2019 debut North Country and 2021’s Hurricane established him as a rising force in roots music. In 2022, he scored his first #1 on the Grassicana charts and held the top spot on the Gospel Bluegrass chart for thirteen weeks. His forthcoming LP Southern Sky (out August 22 via Bonfire Recording Co.) continues his tradition of cinematic songwriting and all-star collaborations, led by the chart-topping single “Blue Ridge Blue.”

How Independent Musicians Can Use Meta Ads to Grow Their Fanbase

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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How Independent Musicians Can Use Meta Ads to Grow Their Fanbase

You’ve written the songs. You’ve poured your heart into the recordings. Now what? How do you actually get people to care? In a world where algorithms rule and organic reach is fading like your first band’s MySpace page, paid ads on Facebook and Instagram (a.k.a. Meta) are the secret weapon every indie musician needs. Here’s how to get started—even if your budget is closer to pizza money than major label cash.

1. Choose Your Mission: More Listeners, More Clicks, More Hype
Running a Meta ad without knowing what you want is like booking a tour without a map. Are you promoting your new single? Trying to fill a room on a Friday night? Or just want more fans to know your name? Meta lets you pick your objective—like Traffic (more people to Spotify), Engagement (more likes and comments), or Conversions (like email signups). Pick one, or run multiple campaigns side-by-side. Clarity = results.

2. Your Audience Is Out There—Meta Will Help You Find Them
Billions of people scroll Facebook and Instagram daily. But you don’t want everyone. You want your people. Target by age, location, interests, and similar artists (like fans of Paramore, Tyler Childers, or Bon Iver). You can even upload your email list or build a “Lookalike Audience” of potential superfans who just haven’t met you yet. Start smart, then let Meta’s algorithm do the heavy lifting.

3. Let Meta Learn—Don’t Micromanage the Algorithm
Yes, you’re a control freak. That’s why your harmonies are tight and your merch table looks like a boutique. But when it comes to Meta ads, give the algorithm room to work. Don’t over-narrow your targeting or tinker with settings every day. Ads need time to “learn” who’s responding. Think of it as letting your song breathe—sometimes, the magic happens when you leave it alone.

4. Your Ad Is Your Show Poster—Make It Count
Your ad creative is the first (and maybe only) impression. Don’t just slap up your cover art—create something thumb-stopping. Use lyric videos, behind-the-scenes studio clips, or a raw demo-to-final comparison. Meta prefers video, and so do fans. Add a clear call to action (“Listen Now,” “Join My Mailing List,” “Come to My Show”) so no one’s confused about what to do next.

5. Start Small, Think Big: $5/Day Can Work Wonders
You don’t need a giant budget. Many artists start with $5–10/day, enough to test different creatives and see what lands. Got one ad crushing it? Pause the rest and build off that success. Meta’s dashboard gives you real-time data on who’s clicking, who’s skipping, and what’s worth your hard-earned cash.

6. Watch the Stats Like You Watch Your Mix Levels
Look for metrics like click-through rate (CTR), cost per click (CPC), and conversion rate. Is Instagram performing better than Facebook? Are fans in Germany loving your stuff more than the folks next door? Use this info to fine-tune future campaigns. And remember: test, learn, repeat. Marketing, like songwriting, is all about finding the hook that sticks.

7. Treat Every Ad Like a Gig—Keep the Energy Fresh
If you’re seeing ad fatigue (falling engagement, rising costs), don’t panic—just refresh the creative. Post a new clip, write a new headline, change up the CTA. Your ad audience gets tired fast, just like a hometown crowd. Keep it interesting and keep them coming back.

Running Meta ads might feel like venturing into the business side of the biz, but guess what? This is part of the art now. Your music deserves to be heard, and with a few smart moves, your next fan could be just one scroll away. Rock the algorithm the same way you rock the stage—authentically, strategically, and loud.

If you’re still looking for help, or have any questions, or looking for more information, email me, I’ll be happy to chat – Eric@ThatEricAlper.com and talk soon!

10 Unknown Facts About Chris Cornell

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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Chris Cornell left behind a legacy of sonic innovation, poetic lyrics, and unforgettable performances. But beyond the iconic hits and the heavy rock stardom, there are facets of his life and artistry that even die-hard fans might not know. Here are 10 lesser-known facts that show why he remains one of the most complex and compelling figures in rock history.

1. He Started Out as a Dishwasher and a Fish Monger
Before international fame, Cornell held down jobs far from the stage. He worked as a dishwasher and later at a seafood wholesaler as a fish monger. These roles helped him survive during his most reclusive years, especially as he battled with anxiety and rarely left his home. The blue-collar grind added to the authenticity and grit that later defined his music.

2. His First Instrument Was a Snare Drum
Cornell didn’t begin with the guitar or vocals. It was a snare drum, gifted by his mother, that became his lifeline during a dark period of depression. That single instrument eventually led him down a path to music that would define the grunge generation. He credited it with saving his life.

3. He Had a Secret Cameo in the Movie Singles
While most fans know Soundgarden appears in Cameron Crowe’s 1992 film Singles, few remember Cornell also made a brief cameo as a pedestrian. Though he was originally considered for the main role of Cliff Poncier (later played by Matt Dillon), Soundgarden’s touring schedule made it impossible.

4. “You Know My Name” Wasn’t on the Official Casino Royale Soundtrack
Despite writing and performing the 2006 James Bond theme “You Know My Name,” Cornell’s track was curiously left off the official Casino Royale soundtrack. The omission was due to contractual issues and artistic decisions, yet the song went on to become a classic Bond anthem.

5. Temple of the Dog Was Not Meant to Be a Band
Cornell originally conceived Temple of the Dog as a one-off tribute to his friend Andrew Wood. He never expected it to become such a defining moment in grunge history. The collaboration unintentionally launched Eddie Vedder’s career, with Cornell bringing him in for a duet on “Hunger Strike.”

6. He Recorded an Entire Live Album Acoustically with No Backing Band
In 2011, Cornell released Songbook, a live acoustic album that featured stripped-down versions of his solo work and classics from Soundgarden, Audioslave, and Temple of the Dog. The raw performances spotlighted the sheer power of his voice and songwriting, earning praise as one of his most intimate releases.

7. He Maxed Out a Credit Card to Fund His Music
Long before success, Cornell recorded his solo debut Euphoria Morning with help from friends—and not much money. But earlier in his career, when working with Soundgarden, he maxed out a credit card to cover recording costs, an act of risk that underlined his commitment to the craft.

8. He Recorded the Entire Euphoria Morning Album with Just One Mic
When Cornell started recording Euphoria Morning at home, he only had a Studer four-track machine and a single microphone—no mixer, no VU meters. The result was a hauntingly personal record that many fans now consider his finest solo work.

9. He Co-Wrote a Song with a Fan Dying of Cancer
In one of the most heartfelt moments of his career, Cornell turned a poem from a dying fan into a song titled “I Promise It’s Not Goodbye.” He posted the song on his website, using it as a way to raise awareness and money for glioblastoma research. It remains a deeply moving artifact of his compassion.

10. He Was Posthumously Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
In 2025, Cornell was officially inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Soundgarden. Though he didn’t live to see the honor, it capped a legacy that had long been cemented by critics, fans, and fellow musicians alike.

Happy Days Meets the Brady Bunch in This Wild ’70s Anti-Smoking PSA

Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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Happy Days Meets the Brady Bunch in This Wild ’70s Anti-Smoking PSA

In a wonderfully bizarre 1974 PSA, Happy Days stars Tom Bosley and Marion Ross move into the Brady Bunch house to lecture about the dangers of smoking. Bonus points: Cousin Oliver (Robbie Rist) shows up as their kid. Only in the ’70s.

These Albums Were Dirt Cheap And Changed Music Forever

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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These Albums Were Dirt Cheap And Changed Music Forever

Who says you need a million-dollar budget and a luxury studio to make a classic? These 10 legendary albums were recorded on shoestring budgets, often with secondhand gear, borrowed time, and sheer determination.

“Black Sabbath” – Black Sabbath
With just £1,000 to their name, Black Sabbath recorded their self-titled debut in a single day, leaving £600 for studio time after settling personal debts. It birthed heavy metal as we know it. Not bad for a band that thought they were rich because they could finally buy shoes.

“Bleach” – Nirvana
$606.17. That’s how much Nirvana spent on their debut album. Funded by guitarist Jason Everman (who was briefly in the band), the 1989 release turned into the grungy blueprint for an era. That receipt is now a rock ‘n’ roll relic.

“Bob Dylan” – Bob Dylan
The voice of a generation spent just six hours in the studio for his debut. Total cost? $402 in 1962. Dylan’s blend of folk authenticity and poetic brilliance proved you didn’t need polish—just power in the lyrics.

“Please Please Me” – The Beatles
Made in under 10 hours for £400, The Beatles’ debut was fueled by raw energy and the drive of four lads from Liverpool. George Martin made every penny count, and the band made history.

“De Stijl” – The White Stripes
Recorded in Jack White’s own living room on an 8-track tape machine for just $500, this 2000 album was a lo-fi masterclass in analog grit, minimalist blues-rock, and garage revival brilliance.

“My Aim Is True” – Elvis Costello
Elvis Costello was still clocking hours as a computer programmer when he recorded this debut across six four-hour sessions. The total bill? About £1,000. The impact? Priceless.

“Kill ’Em All” – Metallica
Metallica scraped together $15,000—peanuts by early ‘80s standards—and recorded their debut in New Jersey. Fast, raw, and loud, it sparked a thrash revolution and changed the metal landscape forever.

“Ramones” – Ramones
Made in a week for $6,400, the Ramones’ debut distilled punk down to its rebellious core. The cover cost just $125. The legacy? A generation of misfits, Mohawks, and three-chord glory.

“McCartney” – Paul McCartney
Using a Studer 4-track, one mic, and zero VU meters, Paul McCartney recorded most of his 1970 solo debut at home—proving that even a Beatle could go DIY when inspiration struck.

“Nebraska” – Bruce Springsteen
Armed with a four-track cassette recorder and $1,050 of home gear, Bruce Springsteen laid down the haunting demos that became Nebraska. He tried re-cutting them with the E Street Band—but nothing beat the raw emotion of the original tapes.

20 Hidden Messages of Vinyl Runout Grooves

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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20 Hidden Messages of Vinyl Runout Grooves

Before digital bonus tracks or deluxe editions, vinyl lovers had a secret language all their own—etched right into the runout grooves of their records. These tiny inscriptions, nestled between the last song and the label, have long been a space for cryptic phrases, inside jokes, and rebellious declarations. From modern-day vinyl pressings by LCD Soundsystem going back to Joe Walshe, the messages range from cheeky to profound, rebellious to ridiculous. Here’ a dive into some of the most iconic, surreal, and poetic etched-out messages that have graced the grooves—none of them explicit, all of them unforgettable.

“SEE U IN 5 YEARS” – LCD Soundsystem (American Dream D-side)
James Murphy gave us this playful farewell—only to return sooner than expected. A nod to the band’s self-aware brand of irony and their ever-elusive retirement.

“NEW YORK I LOVE YOU BUT YOU’RE BRINGING ME DOWN” – LCD Soundsystem (The Long Goodbye)
Etched over 10 sides of their farewell box set, this full lyric unspools like a love letter and a lament to the band’s home city.

“DON’T DISILLUSION ME” / “I’VE ONLY GOT RECORD SHOPS LEFT” – Joy Division (Love Will Tear Us Apart)
Factory Records never missed a chance for enigmatic melancholy. This etched confession perfectly matches the aching romance of the A-side.

“WELCOME LUCY… 12-3-82 10:12 AM” – Joe Walsh (You Bought It – You Name It)
A surprisingly tender moment for a rocker known more for sarcasm and swagger.

“ARENA ROCK IS THE NEW WAVE / PUNK ROCK IS THE NEW NOSTALGIA” – Minutemen (Double Nickels on the Dime)
The hardcore scene loved the groove message, and the Minutemen delivered a deadpan manifesto straight from the SST school of wit.

“FREE SLY STONE” / “FREE JAMES BROWN!” – Primal Scream (Loaded EP)
Pressed by Porky himself, these two sides are a rallying cry and a tribute to two soul legends amid the early ’90s acid house explosion.

“HELLO WATERFACE” / “GOODBYE WATERFACE” – Neil Young (Tonight’s the Night)
This cryptic greeting-and-farewell bookends an album steeped in loss, mourning, and ghostly grooves.

“DO WHAT THOU WILT / SO MOTE IT BE” – Led Zeppelin (Immigrant Song 7″)
Zep’s nod to Aleister Crowley’s occult teachings—equal parts cosmic wisdom and classic rock mystique.

“IF LOVE IS THE ANSWER YOU’RE HOME” – Daft Punk (Random Access Memories)
A bit of vinyl zen from the robots, making your turntable feel like a warm philosophical hug.

“NEVER LET YOUR MONSTER LAY DOWN / FROM THE POLACK WHO SAILED NORTH” – Hans Zimmer (Interstellar OST)
Even film scores have their cryptic charm. These etchings on the Interstellar soundtrack sound like space-age bedtime stories.

“GUARANTEED BRAND SPANKIN’ WHO / WHO IS JOE SUIT?” – The Who (Face Dances)
The Who’s grooves aren’t just for music—they’re for riddles too.

“THE CHICKEN WON’T STOP / THE CHICKEN STOPS HERE” – Joy Division (Still)
Nonsensical? Maybe. Memorable? Absolutely. A glimpse into the band’s surreal humor beneath all that gloom.

“TO LIFT A GLASS… LOVE FROM RUDI!” – Paul McCartney (Wonderful Christmastime)
A sweet toast sealed forever in vinyl, McCartney’s message is as warm and melodic as the track itself.

“DANCE ROCK IS THE NEW PASTURE / CHUMP ROCK IS THE NEW COOL” – Minutemen (Double Nickels on the Dime)
Sharp as ever, Minutemen’s groove scribbles are post-punk poetry.

“LUNCHEON COUNTER OF THE DELI KIND / CALL IT IN THE AIR” – Joe Walsh (But Seriously, Folks…)
A mix of deli wisdom and fate-driven instruction, Walsh’s humor lives in every inch of vinyl.

“IT USED TO BE SECRETS! I COULDN’T GIVE THEM AWAY / WHAT MADE YOU LOOK HERE?” – Jane’s Addiction (S/T)
A perfect pair of fourth-wall-breaking etchings from a band built on mystique and mischief.

“WATCHING LOVE GROW – FOREVER / HOW I WISH WE WERE HERE WITH YOU NOW” – Led Zeppelin III
Tender, wistful, and a little bit ghostly. Classic Zeppelin sentimentality.

“I THINK I’VE GOT EUTHANASIA / ANYWAY I’VE GOT TO GO NOW” – Depeche Mode (Love In Itself 2)
Two lines, equal parts techno paranoia and poetic withdrawal.

“FALLING, SHIRLEY EVERY TIME I SQUARE OFF AGAINST SOMEONE’S GOD…” – Hüsker Dü (Zen Arcade)
No one said punk had to be simple. Hüsker Dü gave us cryptic fury worthy of literary analysis.

These etched messages are a reminder that music has always been more than just sound—it’s storytelling, rebellion, humor, and sometimes a quiet whisper only heard by the curious. The next time you’re cueing up a record, take a second to peer into the grooves. You never know what secrets the wax might be holding.

When Vinyl Heals: 20 Charity Albums That Changed Lives Through Music

Eric Alper

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May 18, 2025

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When Vinyl Heals: 20 Charity Albums That Changed Lives Through Music

Sometimes, a song is more than a song. It becomes a rallying cry, a beacon of hope, or a vehicle for real-world change. Across decades, musicians have stepped up to raise money for causes that matter, creating charity albums that not only moved us emotionally—but moved the needle for humanitarian aid, health, education, and justice. From global icons like George Harrison and Elton John to projects uniting genres and generations, these albums prove that when artists band together, the result is magic.

Here are 20 great charity albums of all time, and every one of them made a difference.

‘AHK-toong BAY-bi Covered’ – Various Artists (2011)
What happens when legends cover legends? You get this bold reinterpretation of U2’s ‘Achtung Baby’ with Nine Inch Nails, Patti Smith, Depeche Mode, and Jack White all offering their spins. Sales supported Concern Worldwide’s humanitarian efforts, proving rock can indeed roll toward justice.

‘Axis of Justice: Concert Series Volume 1’ – Various Artists (2004)
Co-founded by Tom Morello and Serj Tankian, Axis of Justice unites music and activism. This live collection features System of a Down, Audioslave, and Flea, all raising funds for social justice causes—where political fire meets musical power.

‘Bob Dylan: Christmas in the Heart’ – Bob Dylan (2009)
Only Dylan could sing about chestnuts roasting and have it echo like a prayer. This holiday album’s proceeds forever support Feeding America, Crisis UK, and the World Food Programme. A stocking stuffer with a purpose.

‘Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan’ – Various Artists (2012)
A mammoth tribute to Dylan’s work and a 50th-anniversary celebration of Amnesty International. With over 80 artists including Adele, My Morning Jacket, Elvis Costello, and Patti Smith, this album stands as one of the most ambitious musical fundraisers ever.

‘Classic Elton John’ – Elton John (1994)
A greatest-hits collection that went straight to the heart—literally. Proceeds from this timeless set supported Ronald McDonald House Charities, showing Elton’s music not only sparkles, but heals.

‘Common Thread: The Songs of the Eagles’ – Various Artists (1993)
Country stars like Vince Gill and Travis Tritt covered Eagles classics to raise money for Don Henley’s Walden Woods Project. Nature, harmony, and timeless songwriting, all in one.

‘Diana, Princess of Wales: Tribute’ – Various Artists (1997)
After Diana’s tragic death, the music world responded with this emotional compilation featuring Eric Clapton, Queen, R.E.M., and Celine Dion. Every note helped continue Diana’s humanitarian mission.

‘Future Soundtrack for America’ – Various Artists (2004)
Curated by They Might Be Giants and supported by MoveOn.org, this quirky, impassioned compilation includes R.E.M., Tom Waits, Blink-182, and David Byrne. A sonic call to civic action in uncertain times.

‘Give US Your Poor’ – Various Artists (2008)
Fighting homelessness through harmony, this album paired icons like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi with people experiencing homelessness. A poignant, powerful reminder that everyone deserves a voice.

‘God Bless America’ – Various Artists (2001)
In the wake of 9/11, musicians united for this benefit album supporting the Twin Towers Fund. Featuring Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” and Withers’ “Lean On Me,” it helped a grieving nation find its footing.

‘Hear ‘n Aid’ – Various Artists (1986)
Move over “We Are the World”—metalheads had their own moment with Dio, Judas Priest, and Scorpions thrashing for a cause. This heavy metal charity album raised $3 million for famine relief in Africa.

‘Hope for Haiti Now’ – Various Artists (2010)
Released in response to the devastating Haiti earthquake, this telethon-turned-album featured Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Springsteen, and Coldplay. Every download was a donation—and a lifeline.

‘In the Name of My Father: The Zepset’ – The Jason Bonham Band (1997)
Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham’s son Jason paid tribute with this thunderous live album. All proceeds went to the Big Sisters of Los Angeles and a motorcycle camp in John’s memory.

‘Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur’ – Various Artists (2007)
A Lennon tribute for a cause that needed urgent attention. U2, Green Day, R.E.M., and Snow Patrol covered Lennon’s work with proceeds going to Amnesty International’s efforts in Darfur.

‘No Alternative’ – Various Artists (1993)
A defining moment of ’90s alt-rock—with Nirvana (unlisted, naturally), Smashing Pumpkins, and Patti Smith—raising awareness and funds for AIDS relief. A culture-shaping charity LP if there ever was one.

‘Nobody’s Child: Romanian Angel Appeal’ – Various Artists (1990)
Spearheaded by Olivia Harrison, this LP helped orphaned children in Romania. It features the Traveling Wilburys, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and Paul Simon. George Harrison once again led with heart.

‘Peace Together’ – Various Artists (1993)
Music met peace activism with this benefit for Northern Ireland’s youth. Irish legends like U2, Sinead O’Connor, and the Cranberries contributed alongside Peter Gabriel and Blur. Healing through harmony.

‘Songs for Japan’ – Various Artists (2011)
After the catastrophic Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, this multi-label, multi-genre effort featured Dylan, U2, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga. Global stars, global support, global impact.

‘Sweet Relief: A Benefit for Victoria Williams’ – Various Artists (1993)
When singer-songwriter Victoria Williams was diagnosed with MS, friends like Pearl Jam, Lucinda Williams, and Lou Reed recorded her songs. It launched the Sweet Relief Fund, now a vital lifeline for musicians in need.

‘We Are the World’ – USA for Africa (1985)
The blueprint. Written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, produced by Quincy Jones, and featuring everyone from Springsteen to Stevie Wonder, this track—and album—raised over $60 million for famine relief in Africa. Charity music’s Mount Rushmore.