Episodes
In this episode, I take a look at December’s Children (And Everybody’s) by The Rolling Stones, an album that mixes fresh tracks with earlier releases and live recordings, all capturing the band’s evolving sound in 1965. I'll walk you through each of the 12 tracks, from the high energy of “She Said Yeah” to the reflective tone of “As Tears Go By.” As we go, I’ll talk about how the Stones balanced blues, rock, and soul, delivering a mix of lively performances and introspective moments. Join me...
Published 10/31/24
In this episode, I’m taking a look at "Out of Our Heads," a major turning point for the Rolling Stones. I’ll walk you through all 12 tracks, from powerful covers like "Mercy Mercy" and "Hitch Hike" to iconic originals like "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and "The Last Time." This album showcases the band’s evolving sound, blending blues, soul, and rock, while also highlighting their growing confidence as songwriters. Join me as I explore what makes this album such an important chapter in...
Published 10/24/24
In this episode of 100 Years Ago, I explore The Rolling Stones, Now!, the band's third U.S. album. Released in 1965, this album blends blues and R&B covers with original songs, showcasing the Stones' growing confidence as both musicians and songwriters. We discuss how their distinct sound transformed classic tracks and how this album played a key role in shaping their career. Join me as we break down each track and examine how this album influenced their rise to international success.
Published 10/17/24
In this episode, we explore the Rolling Stones' second album, 12 x 5, released in 1964. This album blends blues, R&B covers, and original songs, showcasing the band's evolving sound and musical influences. We discuss how the album was received by critics and fans, its impact on the Stones' career, and how it set the stage for their future success.
Published 10/03/24
In this episode of 100 Years Ago, we explore the Rolling Stones' debut album England’s Newest Hit Makers. I’ll talk about why the band chose each track, how their versions stood out, and how the album shaped their career. We’ll hear clips from seven songs, including “Not Fade Away” and “Tell Me,” while examining how the Stones’ love for blues and R&B set them apart from other British bands of the time.
Published 09/26/24
In this episode of 100 Years Ago, I take a look at the Rolling Stones' early struggle to reach the mainstream and how The Beatles helped by offering them the song "I Wanna Be Your Man." I explore the relationship between the two bands, their mutual support, and how the Stones began to carve out their own identity with hits like "Not Fade Away" and "Tell Me." Join me as we dive into the early days of rock's greatest rivalry and friendship.
Published 09/12/24
In this episode of 100 Years Ago, I explore The Rolling Stones' journey from the mid-2000s to today. I talk about their 2005 album A Bigger Bang, the record-breaking world tour, and their return to blues roots with Blue & Lonesome. I also reflect on Charlie Watts' passing, the band’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, and their latest music, including “Living in a Ghost Town.” Join me as I look at how the Stones have kept their legacy alive.
Published 09/05/24
In this episode of “100 Years Ago,” we explore The Rolling Stones' journey through the 1990s and early 2000s. We discuss the departure of longtime bassist Bill Wyman, the band’s continued evolution with albums like Voodoo Lounge and Bridges to Babylon, and the record-breaking tours that kept the Stones at the top of the rock world. We'll also dive into the solo careers of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, showcasing their unique styles and contributions to music. Join us as we look at how the...
Published 08/29/24
In this episode of "100 Years Ago," we look at The Rolling Stones during the 1980s. We start with their success in 1981 with Tattoo You, then explore the growing tensions between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, their solo projects, and the band's near-breakup. We also cover how they eventually made up, released Steel Wheels, and ended the decade with a huge world tour. Join us to hear about the challenges and triumphs that shaped this important time for the Stones.
Published 08/22/24
In this episode of "100 Years Ago," we explore how The Rolling Stones embraced the disco craze of the late 1970s and early 1980s, blending it with their iconic rock sound to create hits like "Miss You," "Hot Stuff," and "Emotional Rescue." Discover how the band stayed ahead of the curve, experimenting with new styles and solidifying their role as trendsetters in the ever-changing music landscape. Don’t miss this look at a pivotal era of the Stones' legendary career!
Published 08/15/24
In this episode of "100 Years Ago," host AC Bergen-Fischer explores the Rolling Stones' contributions to country music. The episode delves into how the Stones, inspired by American country legends like Hank Williams and Merle Haggard, incorporated country elements into their music. Key tracks like "Far Away Eyes," "Wild Horses," and "Dead Flowers" are highlighted, showcasing the band's ability to blend country with rock. The episode also touches on the influence of Gram Parsons and Bob Dylan...
Published 08/08/24
In this episode of "100 Years Ago," host AC Bergen-Fischer delves into how Keith Richards' experimentation with alternate guitar tunings, particularly open G, revolutionized his playing style and shaped the sound of The Rolling Stones. Richards' use of open G tuning, prominently featured in songs like "Jumpin' Jack Flash," "Brown Sugar," and "Start Me Up," allowed him to create punchy, rhythmic riffs that became iconic. This tuning also influenced his percussive and groove-oriented rhythm...
Published 08/01/24
In this episode of "100 Years Ago," host AC Bergen-Fischer explores The Rolling Stones' journey into psychedelic music. Starting with their 1966 album "Aftermath," the band began experimenting with new sounds and instruments. Influenced by The Beatles and the changing musical landscape, the Stones released "Between the Buttons" in early 1967, showcasing more complex arrangements. Later that year, they fully embraced psychedelia with "Their Satanic Majesties Request," their most experimental...
Published 07/25/24
In the early 1960s, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones emerged as two of the most influential rock bands, each representing different musical and cultural styles. The Beatles, with their clean-cut image and catchy melodies, quickly became global sensations, appealing to mainstream audiences. In contrast, The Rolling Stones embraced a rebellious, raw energy rooted in blues, attracting fans who preferred a grittier sound. The media fueled a rivalry between the two, leading to the famous Beatles...
Published 07/18/24
In the first episode of "100 Years Ago," host AC Bergen-Fischer introduces listeners to the podcast's focus on the history and legacy of The Rolling Stones. AC provides an overview of the band's formation in 1962, highlighting their early days of raw energy and rebellion. He shares his favourite Rolling Stones songs, such as 'Gimme Shelter' and 'Angie,' explaining why these tracks hold special significance. The episode also previews what listeners can expect in future episodes, including deep...
Published 07/16/24