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5 Surprising Facts About Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble’s “Texas Flood”

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When Texas Flood dropped on June 13, 1983, it was an electrifying jolt to the music world. Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble came out swinging with a sound that was raw, real, and revolutionary. With Vaughan’s fiery guitar work and soul-stirring blues, this debut album didn’t just make waves—it created a flood.

1. It Was Recorded in Just Two Days
Talk about efficiency! Texas Flood was recorded in a mere two days at Jackson Browne’s personal studio in Los Angeles. With no overdubs, Vaughan and Double Trouble played as if they were performing live, capturing the raw energy that defined their sound.

2. A Legendary Studio with Humble Beginnings
The recording space wasn’t a high-tech marvel—it was a converted warehouse with concrete floors and rugs scattered around. Vaughan and the band set up in a circle, facing each other to create a live atmosphere. The simplicity of the setup became a defining feature of the album’s intimate sound.

3. A Loan That Changed History
To achieve their signature tone, Vaughan and the band took out a loan to purchase their equipment, including a rare Movement Systems Drum Computer and a Dumbleland Special amplifier. The investment paid off, with Vaughan’s guitar tone becoming one of the most iconic in blues history.

4. “Texas Flood” Has Roots in a Blues Standard
The title track, “Texas Flood,” wasn’t an original composition but a reimagined version of a blues song first recorded by Larry Davis in 1958. Vaughan’s version nearly doubled the original’s length, giving him ample space to unleash his dazzling guitar solos.

5. A Surprise Comeback for the Blues
At a time when mainstream rock dominated the charts, Texas Flood brought traditional blues roaring back into the spotlight. Critics praised Vaughan’s fresh yet faithful approach, making him a hero for a new generation of blues fans.

Stevie Ray Vaughan’s debut was a raw, soulful declaration of love for the blues, proving that even in a world dominated by synths and pop, pure talent and passion can create a lasting legacy.

5 Surprising Facts About Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”

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When Eurythmics released Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) on January 4, 1983, they unleashed a revolution. Packed with electronic ingenuity, emotional depth, and a groundbreaking visual aesthetic, this record didn’t just climb charts; it redefined the boundaries of pop music. Whether you’ve danced to the synth-pop anthem or admired Annie Lennox’s androgynous power in the music video, this album holds secrets that only make it more fascinating.

1. The Studio Was a Makeshift Musical Haven
Eurythmics didn’t record Sweet Dreams in a state-of-the-art studio. Instead, the album was born in the attic of a warehouse in Chalk Farm, London, equipped with just a handful of second-hand gear and a single microphone. The duo’s DIY ethic wasn’t just a necessity—it became a defining part of the album’s raw and innovative sound.

2. “Sweet Dreams” Wasn’t an Obvious Hit
Believe it or not, RCA Records initially doubted the potential of the now-iconic title track. The song’s lack of a traditional chorus made them hesitate. However, after a Cleveland radio DJ put it on repeat, its undeniable allure skyrocketed, forcing RCA to release it—and the rest is history.

3. Annie Lennox’s Suit Broke Barriers
The music video for “Sweet Dreams” didn’t just promote the song; it became a cultural landmark. Annie Lennox’s orange buzz cut and business suit challenged traditional gender norms, earning her a reputation as a pioneer of androgynous style and inspiring countless artists who came after her.

4. “Sweet Dreams” Almost Didn’t Exist
The song’s iconic riff came together almost by accident. Dave Stewart was experimenting with his new synthesizer when Lennox, depressed at the time, was suddenly energized by the sounds. She jumped in, adding her creative input, and the duo turned a spontaneous jam session into an unforgettable anthem.

5. A “Sweet” Connection to Other Hits
Here’s a fun twist: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) and Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” both became breakout hits in 1983. Both songs not only defined the sound of the year but also symbolized the power of reinvention, with their artists flipping traditional expectations of pop music on its head.

Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) continues to hold a place in music history as a masterpiece of ingenuity, resilience, and cultural impact. Whether it’s the unforgettable synth line, Lennox’s groundbreaking image, or its unorthodox production process, every detail about this record reminds us to hold your head up, keep moving on.

5 Surprising Facts About Cyndi Lauper’s “She’s So Unusual”

Let’s take a step back to 1983, a time when music was transforming and artists were using their platforms to make bold statements. Cyndi Lauper’s debut album She’s So Unusual was a game-changer. With its blend of fun, empowerment, and individuality, Lauper gave us more than songs; she gave us a lesson in how to embrace who we are and stand out in a crowd.

1. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” Was Almost a Completely Different Song
Written by Robert Hazard, the original demo of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was from a male perspective. Lauper, ever the creative visionary, flipped the lyrics to make it a feminist anthem. With a playful yet powerful twist, she transformed it into one of the most iconic songs of the ’80s—a true celebration of female empowerment.

2. The Album Cover Has a Story of Its Own
The vibrant album cover, shot by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, captures Lauper in a vintage red prom dress she purchased from the boutique where she used to work. The location? Henderson Walk in Coney Island. The whimsical and rebellious energy of the cover perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the album.

3. A Banned Song Made Headlines
The track “She Bop” wasn’t just a chart success—it was a controversial one. Its cheeky themes earned it a spot on the PMRC’s infamous “Filthy Fifteen” list in 1985. Far from a setback, the controversy only added to the album’s mystique and Lauper’s reputation as a fearless artist.

4. A Summer of Transformation Led to Magic
The album was recorded during the summer of 1983 in studios across New York City. Lauper, who had been performing in clubs after declaring bankruptcy following the breakup of her band Blue Angel, poured her personal trials and triumphs into the record. That resilience and spirit are evident in every note.

5. The Tracklist Includes Hidden Gems
While hits like “Time After Time” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” stole the spotlight, deeper cuts like “Witness” and “I’ll Kiss You” showcase Lauper’s range and knack for storytelling. These tracks cement her as more than a pop icon—they reveal her as an artist with depth and versatility.

Whether you’re blasting “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” on repeat or rediscovering its hidden gems, there’s always something new to uncover. And as Lauper herself proved, sometimes being unusual is exactly what the world needs.

 

5 Surprising Facts About R.E.M.’s “Murmur”

Some albums – like, once a generation, don’t just define a moment in time; they create a whole new language for music. Murmur, R.E.M.’s debut studio album, released on April 12, 1983, did just that. The mysterious lyrics, jangly guitars, and haunting melodies set a benchmark for alternative rock that still resonates today. Critics lauded its originality, Rolling Stone named it the Best Album of 1983, and even 40 years later, it remains a blueprint for indie music success.

But beyond its acclaim, Murmur has a treasure trove of stories, quirks, and hidden gems that make it even more fascinating. Here are five lesser-known facts about this iconic album:

1. “Talk About the Passion” Speaks to Hunger
Michael Stipe revealed that “Talk About the Passion” is a song about hunger, though its lyrics are deliberately ambiguous. The haunting line “empty mouths” is the closest the song comes to a direct reference. A later music video in 1988 made this theme explicit, juxtaposing images of homelessness with the staggering costs of military spending. Interestingly, the cello part in the song was played by an uncredited member of the Charlotte Symphony.

2. The Origin of “Radio Free Europe”
Before Murmur, “Radio Free Europe” was released as a single on Hib-Tone Records in 1981. The initial recording was raw and lo-fi, but it gained traction on college radio, earning R.E.M. a deal with I.R.S. Records. For Murmur, the band re-recorded it with producers Mitch Easter and Don Dixon, resulting in a cleaner, more polished version that became their first Billboard-charting single, peaking at #78.

3. The Kudzu Mystery
The album cover of Murmur features a dense tangle of kudzu, a fast-growing vine notorious in the South for overtaking landscapes. While it’s often interpreted as a metaphor for growth and decay, the image was chosen primarily for its aesthetic appeal. The train trestle on the back cover, now a local landmark in Athens, Georgia, has its own tale—it was saved from demolition after public outcry and is now part of the Firefly Trail.

4. A Reluctant Collaboration
R.E.M. initially clashed with their label’s choice of producer, Stephen Hague, whose polished style didn’t align with their vision. After a difficult trial session, the band pushed to work with Mitch Easter and Don Dixon, who took a hands-off approach, capturing the band’s live energy. This decision was pivotal in preserving the raw, timeless quality that defines Murmur.

5. The Ghost of Neil Bogan
In one of the rare instances of R.E.M. co-writing, Michael Stipe asked his friend Neil Bogan to contribute lyrics to “West of the Fields.” This collaboration is an anomaly in the band’s discography, adding a layer of mystique to the album’s already enigmatic lyrics.

5 Surprising Facts About The Police’s “Synchronicity”

Few albums capture the essence of an era like Synchronicity, the fifth and final studio masterpiece by The Police. Released in 1983, it defined a generation with hits like “Every Breath You Take” and “King of Pain.” While the album is widely celebrated, here are five lesser-known facts that add depth to its legacy.

1. “Every Breath You Take” Almost Tore the Band Apart

While recording their biggest hit, tensions between Sting and Stewart Copeland reached an all-time high, with verbal and physical altercations threatening to derail the project. The song ultimately had to be pieced together from overdubs after multiple failed takes, proving that behind the polished final product lay a stormy creative process.

2. The Symbolism of “King of Pain”

Written by Sting after his separation from his first wife, “King of Pain” is filled with poetic imagery symbolizing heartbreak and existential dread. The song underwent significant reworking during the mixing process, stripping back layers to highlight its emotional depth.

3. A Record-Breaking Number of Album Covers

Synchronicity was released with 36 different album covers, each featuring a unique arrangement of color stripes and band member photos. This creative marketing move turned the vinyl into a collector’s dream and added to the album’s mystique.

4. Carl Jung and Arthur Koestler’s Influence

The album’s title and many themes were inspired by Carl Jung’s concept of synchronicity and Arthur Koestler’s book The Roots of Coincidence. Sting, an avid reader, infused the record with philosophical depth, making it as much a literary exploration as a musical one.

5. Innovative Recording Techniques

To achieve the best sound, the band recorded their parts in separate rooms at AIR Studios in Montserrat, connected by video links. This unconventional setup helped maintain sonic clarity while also reflecting the personal tensions within the group.

10 Hit Songs That Were Originally Meant for Someone Else

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Music history is filled with incredible stories of songs that almost went to a completely different artist. Imagine a world where Elvis didn’t sing “Hound Dog” or Whitney Houston didn’t belt out “I Will Always Love You.” From last-minute swaps to surprising handoffs, here are 10 iconic songs that were originally written for or given to someone else.

1. “Nothing Compares 2 U” – Sinead O’Connor

Prince wrote “Nothing Compares 2 U” in the mid-‘80s for his side project, The Family. While their version went largely unnoticed, Sinead O’Connor’s haunting rendition in 1990 became a global hit, turning the song into a modern classic.

2. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston

Dolly Parton wrote this heartfelt ballad in 1973, but it became Whitney Houston’s signature song in 1992. Parton originally intended it as a farewell to her business partner, Porter Wagoner, before it was reimagined for The Bodyguard soundtrack.

3. “Umbrella” – Rihanna

“Umbrella” was originally written for Britney Spears, but her team passed on it. Rihanna’s powerhouse delivery turned it into a career-defining smash in 2007, cementing her status as a global pop icon.

4. “Yesterday” – The Beatles

Paul McCartney famously wrote “Yesterday” in a dream, but he initially considered giving it to another artist. At one point, it was almost recorded by Marianne Faithfull before The Beatles decided to keep it.

5. “Manic Monday” – The Bangles

Prince strikes again! He wrote “Manic Monday” under the pseudonym Christopher and originally intended it for his side project Apollonia 6. Instead, he gifted it to The Bangles, and it became one of their biggest hits.

6. “We Found Love” – Rihanna

Calvin Harris wrote this EDM anthem and initially planned to release it with Leona Lewis. However, Rihanna got her hands on it, and the song became a global phenomenon, dominating charts worldwide in 2011.

7. “You’re My Best Friend” – Queen

John Deacon wrote this heartfelt track for his wife, but Freddie Mercury’s emotional delivery brought it to life. While not technically intended for another artist, the song’s personal roots make it feel like a gift given to listeners.

8. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” – Simple Minds

Written by Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff, this iconic Breakfast Club anthem was originally offered to Billy Idol and Bryan Ferry, who both turned it down. Simple Minds reluctantly agreed to record it, and it became their biggest hit.

9. “Rock Your Body” – Justin Timberlake

Before Justified launched Justin Timberlake’s solo career, “Rock Your Body” was intended for Michael Jackson’s Invincible album. Timberlake’s slick vocals made it a standout track, proving it was a perfect fit for him.

10. “Happy” – Pharrell Williams

Pharrell originally wrote “Happy” for CeeLo Green, but it ended up being his own signature hit. While CeeLo recorded a version, his team passed on releasing it, leaving Pharrell to turn it into a worldwide sensation.

10 Of The Greatest Music Supergroups That Redefined Collaboration

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What happens when you take the biggest talents from multiple bands and put them together? You get a supergroup—a musical force so electrifying that their combined star power creates something truly special. From rock legends to genre-bending collaborations, these supergroups didn’t just push boundaries; they shattered them. Here are 10 of the greatest music supergroups that redefined what it means to make music together.

1. Cream

Cream set the blueprint for supergroups with Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce joining forces in 1966. Known for their blues-infused rock and extended jams, tracks like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “White Room” showcased their unparalleled musicianship and chemistry.

2. Traveling Wilburys

When George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne formed the Traveling Wilburys in the late ’80s, it was a dream team of songwriting legends. Their debut album Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1 was a masterclass in timeless, feel-good rock.

3. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, and Neil Young blended their folk and rock sensibilities into harmonies that defined a generation. Albums like Déjà Vu and performances at Woodstock turned them into the voice of the late ‘60s counterculture.

4. Audioslave

When members of Rage Against the Machine teamed up with Soundgarden’s Chris Cornell in 2001, Audioslave was born. Their mix of politically charged instrumentation and Cornell’s powerhouse vocals gave us hits like “Like a Stone” and “Cochise.”

5. The Highwaymen

Country legends Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson came together in the ‘80s to form The Highwaymen. Their blend of outlaw country storytelling made tracks like “Highwayman” enduring classics.

6. Them Crooked Vultures

This powerhouse trio of Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana), and John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin) created one of the most dynamic supergroups of the 2000s. Their self-titled album is packed with gritty riffs and mesmerizing grooves.

7. The Postal Service

Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie), Jimmy Tamborello (Dntel), and Jenny Lewis created indie magic with Give Up in 2003. Songs like “Such Great Heights” blended electronica with heartfelt lyricism, cementing their place in indie music history.

8. Velvet Revolver

Formed by members of Guns N’ Roses and Stone Temple Pilots’ Scott Weiland, Velvet Revolver brought hard rock swagger back to the early 2000s. Their debut album Contraband gave us hits like “Slither” and “Fall to Pieces.”

9. The Raconteurs

Jack White joined forces with Brendan Benson, Jack Lawrence, and Patrick Keeler to form The Raconteurs. Their mix of bluesy rock and sharp storytelling, especially on tracks like “Steady, As She Goes,” turned them into modern rock heroes.

10. Asia

With members from Yes, King Crimson, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Asia created arena-ready progressive rock in the ‘80s. Their debut album, featuring hits like “Heat of the Moment,” was a commercial juggernaut that proved prog rock could dominate the charts.

10 of the Greatest Rock Opera Albums That Changed Storytelling in Music

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Rock operas tell sweeping stories, blending theatricality with raw musical power. These albums transport listeners to vivid worlds, showcasing the artistry and ambition of rock at its best. Here are 10 rock opera albums that redefined storytelling and left an indelible mark on music history.

1. The Who – Tommy

Was there any doubt? The granddaddy of them all. Released in 1969, Tommy follows the story of a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who becomes a pinball champion and spiritual leader. This groundbreaking album by The Who laid the foundation for the rock opera genre, combining Pete Townshend’s visionary songwriting with the band’s explosive energy.

2. Pink Floyd – The Wall

Pink Floyd’s The Wall (1979) is a haunting exploration of isolation and self-destruction. Chronicling the descent of its protagonist, Pink, the album’s seamless storytelling and iconic tracks like “Comfortably Numb” make it a masterpiece of psychological drama and musical innovation.

3. The Who – Quadrophenia

The Who struck gold again with Quadrophenia (1973), a tale of teenage angst and self-discovery. Centered around Jimmy, a mod navigating 1960s Britain, this album blends autobiographical touches with Townshend’s layered compositions and the band’s visceral performances.

4. Green Day – American Idiot

Green Day reinvented themselves in 2004 with American Idiot, a politically charged rock opera. Chronicling the life of the “Jesus of Suburbia,” it’s a bold statement against apathy and conformity, with unforgettable anthems like “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.”

5. Meat Loaf – Bat Out of Hell

Though not a traditional rock opera, Bat Out of Hell (1977) is a theatrical epic that tells tales of youthful rebellion and doomed romance. Jim Steinman’s grandiose compositions and Meat Loaf’s soaring vocals make this album a larger-than-life experience.

6. David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

David Bowie’s 1972 classic chronicles the rise and tragic fall of Ziggy Stardust, a glam rock messiah. Through otherworldly tracks like “Starman” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Suicide,” Bowie weaves a narrative that’s as enigmatic as it is unforgettable.

7. Pink Floyd – Animals

Inspired by George Orwell’s Animal Farm, Animals (1977) is a scathing critique of societal divisions. Pink Floyd uses the metaphor of pigs, dogs, and sheep to create a dark and immersive tale, backed by some of the band’s most intricate instrumentation.

8. The Moody Blues – Days of Future Passed

This 1967 concept album blends rock and orchestral arrangements to explore the arc of a single day. While not a traditional opera, its seamless narrative and symphonic grandeur make it a trailblazer in musical storytelling.

9. My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade

The Black Parade (2006) is a gothic rock opera about life, death, and redemption. My Chemical Romance crafts a theatrical journey through grief and hope, with bombastic tracks like “Welcome to the Black Parade” leaving a lasting impact.

10. Rush – 2112

Rush’s 2112 (1976) tells a dystopian tale of individuality suppressed by an authoritarian regime. With its sprawling title suite, this album showcases the band’s technical prowess and visionary storytelling, cementing its place as a prog-rock classic.

 

 

5 Surprising Facts About Genesis’ “Selling England by the Pound”

Selling England by the Pound is still a roadmap of English culture, progressive rock mastery, and the creative dynamics of Genesis. Released in 1973, it’s become a cornerstone of prog rock, mixing intricate musicianship with vivid storytelling. While the album is celebrated for tracks like “I Know What I Like” and “Firth of Fifth,” there are plenty of fascinating details that even devoted fans might not know. Let’s dig into five lesser-known facts about this iconic record.

1. The Title Came From a Political Slogan

The album’s title was inspired by a Labour Party slogan from the time, which emphasized preserving English identity amidst growing American influence. Peter Gabriel suggested it to underline the band’s exploration of “Englishness” on the record, offering both a critique and celebration of their cultural roots.

2. Gabriel Wrote His Lyrics in Just Two Days

Peter Gabriel managed to write all his lyrical contributions for the album in a whirlwind two-day session. Despite the tight timeline, his vivid storytelling shines through, with references to British supermarkets, cultural icons, and fictional gang wars in tracks like “The Battle of Epping Forest.”

3. A Family Complained About the Noise During Rehearsals

The band rehearsed much of the album at a house in Chessington, where their loud sessions prompted complaints from neighbors. Ironically, this amateurish, impromptu environment added a playful charm to the album’s creative process.

4. Steve Hackett’s Nylon Guitar Was a First for Genesis

“After the Ordeal” marked the first Genesis track to feature Steve Hackett’s nylon-string guitar. While Hackett championed the track’s inclusion, Tony Banks and Peter Gabriel were initially against it, making its presence on the album a rare compromise within the band.

5. The Lawn Mower on the Cover Was Added Later

The iconic album cover, painted by Betty Swanwick, didn’t originally feature a lawn mower. The band asked Swanwick to add one to reference “I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe),” a request she fulfilled instead of creating an entirely new painting.

10 Songs About Baseball That Show It’s More Than Just a Game

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Baseball is still America’s pastime; it’s a deep well of inspiration for musicians across genres. From the crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, the sport has found its way into our collective cultural consciousness—and our playlists. These 10 songs show how the sport transcends the diamond to inspire music that hits home, whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love the idea of stepping up to the plate.

1. “Centerfield” – John Fogerty

John Fogerty’s Centerfield is the ultimate baseball anthem, filled with nostalgia and excitement. With its iconic opening riff and lyrics like “Put me in, coach! I’m ready to play,” the song perfectly encapsulates the spirit of every kid (and adult) who dreams of being on the field.

2. “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” – Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer

A classic sing-along heard in ballparks for over a century, this timeless tune is synonymous with the seventh-inning stretch. It’s a celebration of everything that makes baseball great—hot dogs, peanuts, Cracker Jack, and the thrill of the game.

3. “Glory Days” – Bruce Springsteen

Springsteen’s nostalgic tale of a former baseball star looking back on his glory days hits home for anyone who’s ever loved the game. With its upbeat tempo and poignant lyrics, it reminds us how baseball memories can stay with us long after we leave the diamond.

4. “Joltin’ Joe DiMaggio” – Les Brown and His Orchestra

This big-band ode to the Yankee Clipper captures the awe and admiration Joe DiMaggio inspired during his legendary career. Its catchy refrain, “Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?” is a nod to the lasting legacy of one of baseball’s greatest heroes.

5. “Cheap Seats” – Alabama

This country anthem celebrates the joy of watching baseball from the cheap seats, where the beer is cold, the hot dogs are warm, and the camaraderie is unbeatable. It’s a love letter to small-town games and the sense of community that baseball creates.

6. “Say Hey (The Willie Mays Song)” – The Treniers

This upbeat, jazzy tune pays tribute to the Say Hey Kid himself, Willie Mays. With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, it’s a fitting homage to one of baseball’s most electrifying players.

7. “Catfish” – Bob Dylan

Dylan’s tribute to legendary pitcher Jim “Catfish” Hunter highlights the grace and grit of the baseball diamond. The song paints a vivid picture of Catfish’s career and the larger-than-life aura that surrounded him on and off the field.

8. “A Dying Cub Fan’s Last Request” – Steve Goodman

Goodman’s humorous yet heartfelt ballad is a tribute to the eternal hope (and heartbreak) of being a Chicago Cubs fan. It’s a reminder that baseball fandom is about more than wins and losses—it’s about loyalty and love for the game, no matter what.

9. “Right Field” – Peter, Paul and Mary

This whimsical folk tune captures the perspective of a young player relegated to right field. Its charming lyrics and gentle melody remind us that every position on the team matters, even if it feels like you’re stuck where the ball never goes.

10. “All the Way” – Eddie Vedder

Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder pours his heart into this ode to the Chicago Cubs, capturing the joy of unwavering fandom. Written in honor of the Cubs’ die-hard supporters, it’s a rallying cry for anyone who dreams of their team going “all the way.”