For Lack Of A Better Title...

Off The Beaten Path - X-Mas Show

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:33:00 +0000

Welcome back my friends, to the show that never ends...well, technically, it ends after about 2 hours, but you know what I mean. This is my X-Mas Show...it's a straight edge Christmas...I'm a little sleep deprived. Let's get all the formalities out of the way. This will be premiering Monday 12/19/11 @ 12PM, replays on Wednesday 12/21/11 @ 4PM and Friday 12/23/11 @ 8PM (perfect for a Holiday party). See how to listen on Rock401.com

The first show of the New Year won't be until Monday 1/9/12...giving everyone involved a couple weeks off during the holidays. The first show of the year will be the Bands/Performers That Should Be In The RNRHOF, But Are Not Show. Only artists that have released their first album at least 25 years ago, are eligible. Using the Rock Hall's qualifications.

Off The Beaten Path X-Mas Show

The Man In The Santa Suit – Fountains of Wayne

Someday At Christmas – Pearl Jam

Yule Shoot Your Eye Out – Fall Out Boy

A Christmas Carol – Tom Lehrer

The Blizzard – Camera Obscura

Fairytale of New York – The Pogues

Christmas Is The Time To Say I Love You – Billy Squier

Santa Claus Go Straight To The Ghetto – Mojo Nixon

The 12 Days of Christmas – Straight No Chaser

You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch – Gary Hoey

Run Rudolph Run – Lemmy/Gibbons/Grohl

The Winter Song – Angel

Silent Night – The Dickies

Merry Christmas (I Don’t Wanna Fight Tonight) – Ramones

Christmas At Ground Zero – Weird Al Yankovic

Winter Wonderland – Fleming & John

Suddenly It’s Christmas – Loudon Wainwright III

Five Wishes On Christmas – Steve Martin

Christmas In Hollis – Run–DMC

O Holy Night – South Park Kids

Father Christmas – The Kinks

One More Christmas (To Put Up With You) – Amazing Royal Crowns

Little Saint Nick – Beach Boys

Hey Santa! – Chris Isaak

Santa Bring My Back My Baby – Elvis Presley

We Three Kings – Reverend Horton Heat

Christmastime – Aimee Mann & Michael Penn

Thanks For Christmas – XTC (The Three Wise Men)

Christmas Card From A Hooker – Tom Waits

The Twelve Days of Christmas – Bob & Doug McKenzie

I Am Santa Claus – Bob Rivers

A Christmas Without Weed – Phish

Christmas Song – Metro

Season’s Greetings – Saturday Night Live

Off The Beaten Path - Show #14

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:01:00 +0000

We are back for another installment of Off The Beaten Path on Rock401.com. There will be one more show before 2011 goes away. The Christmas show will be airing in the middle of the month on 12/19/11. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, because I believe show #14 is as good as any other show I've put together. I hope you all enjoy listening to it. The premiere date is Monday, 12/5/11 @ 12PM EST...with replays on Wednesday, 12/7/11 @ 4PM and Friday, 12/9/11 @ 8PM.

Lastly, I'll be doing another themed show after the New Year, about bands/performers that should be in the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame (that aren't). Not sure when, but it'll probably be late January or early February. Nominate bands for that show...that's always a great debate. They have to be eligible for nomination. Basically, it has to be 25 years since they released their first album.

On with the play list:

Off The Beaten Path Show 14

Last Kiss – Joe Bonamassa

Astro Man – Jimi Hendrix

(Vocal Break 1)

The Devil You Know – Anthrax

Find Your Way Back – Jefferson Starship

Little Fighter – White Lion

Electric Eye – Judas Priest

(Vocal Break 2)

Movin’ On Up – Primal Scream

I Think She Likes Me – Treat Her Right

What’s He Got? – The Producers

Back Of My Mind – The Autumn Defense

Give It Up – Hothouse Flowers

(Vocal Break 3)

The Dead Heart – Midnight Oil

She’s A Runner – Billy Squier

New Girl Now – Honeymoon Suite

3 Strange Days – School Of Fish

(Vocal Break 4)

Cheap Reward – The Devil Makes Three

Sex Beat – The Gun Club

Road Runner – Backbeat Band

Rumble In Brighton – Brian Setzer Orchestra

If Sugar Was As Sweet As You – Rockpile

(Vocal Break 5)

Flame – Sebadoh

Teenage Gluesniffer – The Queers

21^st Century (Digital Boy) – Bad Religion

Dope Nose – Weezer

Boxcar – Jawbreaker

Somewhere – Husker Du

(Vocal Break 6)

The Stroll – The Diamonds

Smokey Joe’s Café – The Robins

Rag Doll – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

He Doesn’t Know Why – Fleet Foxes

Hope you enjoy it...Thanks for listening.

Off The Beaten Path - Show 13

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 23:31:00 +0000

Alright loyal listeners...it's show # 13 coming at you on Monday, 11/14/11 @ 12PM with replays to follow on Wednesday, 11/16/11 @ 4PM and Friday, 11/18/11 @ 8PM, all EST on Rock401.com. Off The Beaten Path Show 14 will premiere on December 5th and the Christmas/Holiday Show will premiere on December 19th. So get those requests in ASAP. Go to the Facebook page here. Without further ado, here's the play list for Show 13

Off The Beaten Path Show 13

Hello America – Def Leppard

Let’s Dance – Chris Montez

Memphis – Chuck Berry

Little Red Riding Hood – Sam the Sham & The Pharaohs

Ace of Spades – Motorhead

Unchained – Van Halen

Green-Tinted Sixties Mind – Mr. Big (Hair Metal Song of the Week)

Why Do You Think They Call It Dope? – Love/Hate

Old Money – The Upper Crust

Down With The Ship – Scatterbrain

Do Ya – ELO

The Jean Genie – David Bowie

Gudby t’Jane – Slade

The Lies In Your Eyes – Sweet

Candy-O – The Cars

Oliver’s Army – Elvis Costello & the Attractions

Girls – Dwight Twilley

Sweet Lady – What Made Milwaukee Famous

Ca Plane Pour Moi – Plastic Bertrand

Looking For Clues – Robert Palmer

Sick of Myself – Matthew Sweet

Stardog Champion – Mother Love Bone

Porch – Pearl Jam

Bottle of Fur – Urge Overkill

Story Of My Life – Social Distortion

Fly Me Courageous – Drivin’ and Cryin’

Can’t Even Tell – Soul Asylum

Why Does The Sun Shine? – They Might Be Giants

Cheapskate – Supergrass

Mystic Eyes – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Off The Beaten Path - Halloween Show

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 03:16:00 +0000

I would normally write a lot more about the show and various other things, but I'm still trying to recover from the benefit concert. It was a very late night, but we did raise some money...even in the bizarre New England snowstorm of late October 2011. Hopefully you'll enjoy the show. Monday 10/31 @ 12PM, Wednesday 11/2 @ 4PM and Friday 11/4 @ 8PM.

Off The Beaten Path - Halloween Show

Fire – The Crazy World of Arthur Brown

Halloween Hootenanny – Zacherle

Dead Man’s Party – Oingo Boingo

War Pigs – Black Sabbath

Halloween (She’s So Mean) – Rob Zombie and the Ghastly Ones

City of the Dead – The Clash

I Put A Spell On You – Screaming Jay Hawkins

The Halloween Dance – Reverend Horton Heat

Wolfman’s Brother – Phish

Man On The Silver Mountain – Rainbow

Cemetery Gates – Pantera

Godzilla – Blue Oyster Cult

Little Demon – The Amazing Crowns

Country Death Song – Violent Femmes

Ghost Rider – Henry Rollins

Hell – Squirrel Nut Zippers

Ghouls Night Out – The Misfits

I Drink Blood – Rocket From The Crypt

Head Crusher – Megadeth

Night Creatures – Superchunk

Halloween – Stephen Lynch

Boris The Spider – The Who

The Thing That Should Not Be – Metallica

Monster Mash – Bobby Boris Pickett

The Witch – The Sonics

Munsters Theme – Los Straitjackets

Cretin Hop – The Ramones

Stigmata Martyr – Bauhaus

Thriller – Michael Jackson

Happy Halloween - Zacherle

Off The Beaten Path Show # 11

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 02:18:00 +0000

I don't get a chance to post a lot in the blog anymore. I however never forget to post the play list for the next radio show. Please don't forget to "Like" our page on Facebook...all the kids are doing it. It's also the easiest and quickest way to find out what's going with the show. There will be a special Halloween show coming up on Halloween, since it falls on a Monday this year. So, look for that in a couple of weeks. We still have show # 11 to debut...so without anymore delay...here we go.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 11: Monday 10/17 12PM, Wednesday 10/19 4PM and Friday 10/21 8PM EST on Rock401.com

Hello There – Cheap Trick

Squeaky Fingers – Ted Leo & The Pharmacists

Public Image – Public Image Ltd.

Get It On (Bang A Gong) – The Power Station

Super Stupid – Funkadelic

Ozone Baby – Led Zeppelin

Valley Girl – Frank Zappa

Corona – Minutemen

Made For You – Rocket From The Crypt

Satisfaction – Devo

Video Killed The Radio Star – The Presidents of USA

Into Your Arms – Lemonheads

Everyday Clothes – Jonathan Richman

Hastily – Snake Rattle Rattle Snake

Peek – A – Boo – Siouxie & The Banshees

Tattooed Love Boys – The Pretenders

Dreaming – Blondie

Ooo Wee – Kitty, Daisy & Lewis

Don’t Run Wild – The Del Fuegos

Sailing Off – The Throttles

I Know A Place – The Shods

Dig For Fire – Pixies

East Coast Hollywood – Daddie Long Legs

Tommy The Cat – Primus

I Feel Love – Paul Gilbert

Smooth Up In Ya – Bullet Boys (Hair Metal Song of the Week)

Say What You Will – Fastway

Aces High – Iron Maiden

It’s Love – King’s X

Handshake Drugs - Wilco

Go to the Facebook page and tell me what you think.

Off The Beaten Path On FaceSpace/MyBook

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 02:27:00 +0000

Just something different I found

I finally took the show to Facebook. I figured it's much easier to find everything in one spot. I'll still post my playlists here before the show and they will also get posted on Facebook. It's the K.I.S.S. theory...Keep It Simple Stupid.

Also, since most of the world uses Facebook...no, really they do...they made a movie about it...I figure the odds that I'll get song requests would be better. So, here goes nothing...like usual.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 10

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000

This is a very special show, because I'm giving away a prize. No, I'm not kidding...more about that in a few minutes. This is already the 10th show of Off The Beaten Path. I just like playing music and promoting bands that many haven't had the chance to hear before. Anything I can do to help out a band that I like, I'll do. All bands are struggling...unless they are a household name. Those are few and far between these days. On with the playlist.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 10 - Mon. 9/26 12PM, Wed. 9/28 4PM, Fri. 9/30 8PM all EST on Rock401.com

Bad Motor Scooter – Montrose

Fireball – Deep Purple

Hammer To Fall – Queen

Long May You Run – Neil Young

Don’t Leave Me On My Own – Chris Issak

Stephanie Says – Velvet Underground

Late In The Evening – Paul Simon

Satan Is Real-Straight To Hell – Hank Williams III

Dead In The Water – Supersuckers

10 AM Automatic – The Black Keys

Nights Like These – Lucero

Crime Scene Cleanup Team – Tin Horn Prayer

These Days – REM

The Whole Of The Moon – The Waterboys

Unsung – Helmet

Psalm 69 – Ministry

Turn Up The Night – Black Sabbath

Give It To Me Good – Trixter

Loanshark Blues – Rory Gallagher

Autonomy – Buzzcocks

Dirty Boots – Sonic Youth

Los Angeles – X

Me! I Disconnect From You – Gary Numan/Tubeway Army

2000 Man – Rolling Stones

Here Today – Beach Boys

I’m Gonna Love You Too – Buddy Holly

I’m Only Sleeping – Beatles

With A Girl Like You – The Troggs

Superfly – Curtis Mayfield

Baby, I’m A Star - Prince

On to the prize...If you can tell me what the Hair Metal Song of The Week (I always point it out, but not this show) is...I'll give you free entry into The Benefit Concert for Mark Smith on October 29th at Ri Ra in Providence, RI. Of course, you kinda have to be in the New England area to get this prize...sorry to all my listeners out of the area. It's a hell of a value...There will be three great bands playing that night and a raffle that is growing by the day. So, you can use the money you save on getting into the show to buy raffle tickets.

All answers must be emailed to me personally here. We'll exchange some info and I'll put you on the list. Take advantage of it. Also here is the poster for the show...which Bragg Art & Design did as a favor.

Oct. 29th Ri Ra Providence, RI

Hall of Mediocrity 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:17:00 +0000

It's that time of year again music fans. I'm looking for you my loyal readers to nominate new potential members to the Hall of Mediocrity.

Last year's proud members: Whitesnake and Grand Funk Railroad won't be in attendance this year. In fact, many of the other members of the prestigious Hall, sent cease and desist letters, which we proudly display next to their exhibits. They just keep giving us stuff. I knew we inducted them for a reason.

This is open to all of you. All you have to do is follow the rules as stated here:

I will be using the Rock Hall Induction Rules, as well as a couple of my own, which are as follows:

1. There are no novelty, one hit wonder bands, such as Jimi Hendrix and The Grateful Dead...just seeing if we're paying attention. Although, technically...they are one hit wonders.

2. No band/performer will be inducted into the Hall of Mediocrity that are already in the "real" Hall of Fame. I'm not taking anyone out that is already in, regardless of how I really feel about the band or performer. You got lucky Aerosmith...very lucky.

3. All bands being inducted are currently eligible for the Rock Hall and should they ever be inducted into the "real" Rock Hall, will be asked to leave immediately. Those Hall of Fame bands get real egotistical, very quickly. Plus, let's face it...they graduated to the big leagues...I'd never hold them back from going.

The nominees will be announced in November. The induction will take place in December, just like last year...if I can get the elks lodge in Walla Walla, Washington this year...

I hope you all participate. It'll make it more fun.

10 Years Ago...Where Were You?

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 15:15:00 +0000

Dropping my car off for a brake job. Waiting in my co-worker Mike's (Tank) truck, while he got some breakfast treats and hearing everything on the radio. The day is a blur, but I remember a lot of it very vividly. Setting up the screen in the demo room to watch the news coverage, listening to the radio all day, calling my then girlfriend and now wife to make sure she was alright. So much has changed...

So where were you?

Off The Beaten Path Show # 9

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:07:00 +0000

Hey look...it's your 43rd favorite internet radio show back again for another go round. Bands you thought you left behind in high school and others you've never heard of. In all seriousness, all the music I play is good, on some level...other levels might just be higher than others.

It's also the first show where I talk about the benefit concert for my friend Mark that I'm putting together. Now, there is a team working on this concert with me...which is fantastic. I hope it goes as well as I'd like it to. On with the new play list, premiering this Monday on Rock401.com

Off The Beaten Path Show # 9 ( Mon. 9/12/11 12PM, Wed. 9/14/11 4PM and Fri. 9/16/11 8PM)

In The City – The Jam

Driven To Tears – The Police

Eighties – Killing Joke

School Days – The Runaways

Too Fast For Love – Motley Crue

You’re In Love – Ratt (Hair Metal Song of the Week)

Hell Bent For Leather – Judas Priest

Belly Of The Beast – Anthrax

Got Me Under Pressure – ZZ Top

Helen Wheels – Wings

Jeepster – T. Rex

Action – Sweet

A Million Miles Away – The Plimsouls

Kiss Me On The Bus – The Replacements

Winter Games – Superchunk

Big Brown Eyes – The dB’s

History Never Repeats – Split Enz

All Gone Bad – The Throttles (Playing the Benefit Concert)

Aces and Twos – The Devil Makes Three

Little Tiny Moustache – Stephen Lynch

Ragged Wood – Fleet Foxes

Jelly Bean – Eddie Cochran

The Loveless – Heavy Trash

Americadio – Slim Cessna’s Auto Club

The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret – Queens of the Stone Age

Hate To Say I Told You So – The Hives

Cut Your Hair – Pavement

Almost Ready – Dinosaur Jr.

Ride Away – Daddie Long Legs (Playing the Benefit Concert)

Scarlet Begonias – Grateful Dead

If your in the New England area and would like to come to the benefit show...just follow the link to the event page. We'd love to have you come on down. Hope you enjoyed the 9th show...be back for the next one in a couple of weeks.

The Music Experiment - Part Who Knows? (The New Favorite Band)

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 19:44:00 +0000

ZZ Top

Granted she's only 3 months old, but she went nuts for ZZ Top earlier today. I was watching a concert of theirs and she was kicking her feet and making all kinds of noise. Wouldn't take her eyes off the screen...so I know she was paying attention. If I walked by, her eyes would follow me, but then she'd realize that she wasn't watching the concert anymore...eyes right back on Billy Gibbons. She has good taste already.

I know what you're thinking...of course she likes them and she'll like the Wiggles and Dora and a bunch of other kids music when she's introduced to them. I'm not so sure.

She still cries whenever Peter Frampton comes on the radio. If she hears, "Baby, I Love Your Way" or "Show Me The Way" once more...I think she'll throw her bottle at the radio.


Poor Guy

This experiment will continue for a very long time. If I can avoid kids music and pop junk forever with her...I will.

Can A Brother Get A Break?

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 11:39:00 +0000

I just picture Ice T saying this. The man is still a pimp. Anyways, enough of that and on to what this blog is about.

I don't know if I've ever been this busy in my life. Maybe, just before I was about to get married, but right now I think this period, tops that. In fact, at the moment I write this, I should still be sleeping, but it's the only time have to write. As most loyal readers (if I have any left) know, I haven't written many blogs lately. Let's look at my latest schedule.

From 8-13 to 8-20 we were on vacation in NH. I don't know if you've ever packed for (at the time) 2 1/2 month old baby for a week in what could be unpredictable weather. Holy crap did she need a lot of stuff. Still mission accomplished. I don't really remember much of it, because I blinked and it was over.

Today (Saturday 8-27) is the baby's Baptism/Christening (I don't remember what it's called). So all week it's been about coordinating and purchasing food for the cookout. A cookout that is probably going to be a cook-in. Seems like the east coast is about to get slammed by a hurricane called Irene. Sounds like one of those tough biaatches from my high school days in Brockton, MA. The hurricane's last name wouldn't happen to be Sanchez, would it? Are her main weapons razor sharp Lee press-on nails and pulling hair? Girl fights, way worse than boy fights.

Speaking of Brockton, the very next day (Sunday, if your keeping score) is a family reunion of sorts. The guys I hung around with in Brockton and even after I moved to a different town, will all be getting back together for the first time in at least 10 yrs. Jeff has managed to get everyone together. Just like back in the days when we were younger, it doesn't matter what we do. It'll be great just to spend a few hours with everyone.

The following weekend, Labor Day weekend, we head down to PA. Riley gets to meet her third great-grandmother. This weekend, as far as I know, will wrap up the whirlwind of travel that we've taken her on. This (now) 3 month old baby will be to as many states as I went to when I was a teenager.

Plus, before I forget...I've been putting together a benefit concert for my friend that has been in the hospital for the past 2 months. You know in my free time. Just something to try to help him out with hospital bills and what not. I can report he's doing 1000 times better than he was at the beginning. He's come a long way, but still has a long way to go. The man is a fighter and he's proven he won't give in. Without getting into any details, he was in about as bad shape as you could be in. I'll report more on the concert as it gets closer.

I still won't get a break. There are no sick days for Daddy. No complaints however, I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 8

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 02:47:00 +0000

Monday 8/8/11 @ 12PM ET, Wednesday 8/10/11 @ 4PM ET and Friday 8/12/11 @ 8PM ET...Show # 8...I'm very proud it's gone on so long. This will most likely be the only show for August. We have our family vacation and the christening for the baby the very next week. Just not enough time with the technology that is needed, but I'm still going to give it a shot.

I'd do it on vacation, but we unplug for that entire week. As off-grid as we can get. It's a beautiful thing...I suggest doing that for at least a weekend every six months or so. You're not really missing anything...it'll all be there when you get back.

Here's the Playlist for Show # 8

Bad Reputation – Joan Jett

See No Evil – Television

Girl U Want – Devo

Fantasy – Aldo Nova

Never Enough – LA Guns (Hair Metal Song of The Week)

Fighting My Way Back – Thin Lizzy

Love or Confusion – Jimi Hendrix Experience

Kid Charlamagne – Steely Dan

Kate – Ben Folds Five

Do You Wanna Hold Me – Bow Wow Wow

Head On – Jesus And Mary Chain

She Bangs The Drum – Stone Roses

Who’s Gonna Save Us? – Living End

She Gave Good Sunflower – Black Crowes

The Drowsy Surgeon – Joe Fletcher & the Wrong Reasons

’67 Serenade – Jay Berndt

The Village Green Preservation Society – Kinks

When Will I Be Loved – Everly Brothers

Ooh La La – The Faces

I’m On Fire – Dwight Twilley

I’m A Boy – The Who

Rock and Roll Girls – John Fogerty

World Turning – Fleetwood Mac

Who Do You Love – Bo Diddley

Hope – Descendents

Ya Ya – Lee Dorsey

Set Your Goals – CIV

Banana Splits – The Dickies

Rock Around With Ollie Vee – Buddy Holly

Ashes to Ashes – Faith No More

Straight To Hell – The Clash

Hope you enjoy it...take care

What Happened To July?

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:17:00 +0000

No, there isn't a reason why Richie Cunningham is pictured, but who doesn't love Ron Howard? Anyways, July flew by and I didn't do a whole lot with this blog. I haven't given up on it or quit...it's just that real life get's in the way sometimes.

I'm doing full on Daddy Duty from about 8AM to about 6PM and then more after the wife goes to bed. Plus, the physical toll it takes. You just don't want to write after that. I'm loving every minute of it, but just can't find time to write that often.

The 8th Off The Beaten Path Radio Show has been completed. I'll post more when it gets closer to it's debut.

Me along with a couple of other friends have started to plan a fundraiser for my friend Mark. He's been in the hospital for over a month with an illness that is still undetermined. He's starting to show improvement, which is really all you can ask for. Still in the planning stages, but there has been talk of a concert with some great Rhode Island bands and a raffle. More to come on that when plans get solidified.

Our family vacation will be coming up quickly in the month of August and we can't wait. A week at the lake is always a good way to recharge the batteries. Seeing family and old friends. It's easily the best place on Earth for us. A little piece of heaven.

That's what I've got for you. I'll be back with more news on the radio show, as well as, the fundraiser.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 7

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:59:00 +0000

I'm Back. Well, not that I ever really went anywhere. Just trying to get through one of the hottest weeks in recent memory. We've also been trying to get our 2 month old daughter onto a sleep schedule. So far, so good. Just been extremely busy with Daddy Duty and loving every minute of it. Parenting is probably the toughest job you'll ever love.

Off The Beaten Path Show # 7

While My Guitar Gently Weeps – Yellow Matter Custard

The Shape I’m In – The Band

Get Over You – The Undertones

Something I Learned Today – Husker Du

Better Living – Tin Horn Prayer

Johnny Sunshine – Liz Phair

Don’t Care – Klark Kent

Shadow Of A Doubt – Tom Petty

For All To See – Buffalo Tom

Planeride – Clowns For Progress

Break It Up – Rocket From The Crypt

Another State Of Mind – Social Distortion

I’m Always In Love – Wilco

Summer Of Drugs – Soul Asylum

Love Gun – KISS

Play With Me – Extreme (Hair Metal Song of the Week)

Lights Out – UFO

The Outsider – Black Country Communion

Tristessa – Smashing Pumpkins

I Can’t Stand Up For Falling Down – Elvis Costello

Older Guys – Flying Burrito Brothers

Working Girl – The Members

Land Ho! – The Doors

Coming Up Close – ‘Til Tuesday

What Am I Doing Hanging ‘Round – The Monkees

Sway – Rolling Stones

Satisfaction Guaranteed – The Firm

And We Danced – The Hooters

I Just Wanna Get Along - The Breeders

Twisting By The Pool – Dire Straits

I think the show is another good one. Tune in to Rock401.com Monday @ 12PM Eastern, Wednesday @ 4PM and Friday @ 8PM.

The Final 9

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:05:00 +0000

Now that my wife is back to work and I'm taking care of the baby full time, I haven't had the time to do a weekly Nine By Design. So, it's being retired. It may come out of retirement once I get my daughter into a schedule, but as of right now, I think 40 is a really good number to stop on. Who knows, it may become the Brett Favre of my blog or it's leaving the band to work it's long awaited solo project.

I'll leave with this for the weekend:

I was going to add "Nine In The Afternoon" by Panic at the Disco, but I just couldn't deal with it. Ugh...just...ugh.

Cheers, Happy Weekend!

All The Young Dudes

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 03:04:00 +0000

Or dudettes...We're taking our little baby girl to her first concert on Friday. We figure she'll be 7 weeks old, it's about time she rocks out. We're taking every precaution for her hearing, since it's as good as it'll ever get...not like vision which takes time to come in. We have some earplugs for her. It's an outdoor show, so the sound will have a place to go, unlike in a club. The Throttles are playing and they aren't nearly as loud as they used to be. I hope my friends are able to make it down for the show. What could be a better evening? Good music, outdoors and it's free.

Blog Blocked

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 02:40:00 +0000

This is what has been happening when I try to blog lately. I'm getting "Blog Blocked" by the baby. It's not without trying or lack of material, it's just no time and a lack of sleep. I'll figure this out somehow...the transition may just take longer than I expected.

Live Your Life

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:10:00 +0000

Health emergencies can lead to many things. Panic is usually the first on the list, because the unknown is scary. People deal in their own ways. Some fall apart, some step up their game and others fall somewhere in the middle. You never really know how you're going to react until it's time and you're tested. Words are said that might be better thought, than uttered.

Transference of anger is a bitch. I've done it most of my life. If I'm mad about something, someone or a situation, the wrong person usually gets the brunt of it...the anger. Even when you know that you are doing it, it doesn't change the fact you can't stop it. I see a lot of that happening currently, thankfully not by me this time, but with others. We're human, mistakes are made and emotions can play havoc with your thought process and actions.

One of my oldest friends is currently in the hospital and in pretty bad shape, but as always there's hope. A better hospital, with probably, most likely, better doctors. Rhode Island tends to scare me about their health care. I'm originally from Massachusetts and some of the best hospitals in the USA are in Boston. I'm bias, I guess. I like living, you should to. Times like these you start reflecting, which can both be good and bad. Makes you look in the mirror a little.

I'm just babbling now, because that's what these things tend to do to you. You don't want to say/do the wrong thing and it doesn't help when you don't know what that might be. Send positive vibes/thoughts my way and I'll send them along to him.

Nine By Design 40

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 03:28:00 +0000

Okay, I know it's not Friday. Real life got in the way. Took the family to the mall (Sears) to get some auto repairs and it literally took the entire day. Walking around the mall for hours upon hours with no real spending money, blows big time. This will be a quick Nine By Design. Newer bands (to me at least) that I'm getting into these days.

New Bands (for me):

Volbeat - I saw them for the first time on the Revolver Golden Gods Awards show. Really liked them. They mix metal with alternative and have a sense of humor. I hope this band from Denmark hit big in America.

Fleet Foxes - Still don't know much about this band, but the more I hear from them the more I like them.

Black Country Communion - Holy crap are they good. Just heard their second album, aptly titled 2. Glenn Hughes (Black Sabbath, Deep Purple), Joe Bonamassa, Jason Bonham and Derek Sherinian (ex-Dream Theater) really make great music together. Good blusey, hard rock...

Ted Leo & The Pharmacists - Still getting into Mr. Leo and his merry men. Still have yet to be disappointed by anything I hear from him. Great revved up power pop, with clever hooks and melodies.

Gary Moore - He passed away a few months ago sadly. I'm still discovering how great a guitarist and singer he was. Just amazing stuff.

Devil Makes Three - Really great songs and fun music from this three piece hailing from California.

Jay Berndt - The next three will be local bands/musicians I really like. It's my blog, my rules. All have been written about here and played on my radio show. Berndt is a fantastic songwriter. Here's a real performer and not the junk considered country these days.

Joe Fletcher & The Wrong Reasons - Another really great songwriter and performer. We have our fair share in Providence, RI.

The Throttles - From the ashes of The Amazing (Royal) Crowns comes, The Throttles. Just three superior musicians. Great garage rock mixed with some rockabilly and various other genres. Totally worth your time.

As I finish up the baby's crying and I've got to go. Cheers, Happy Long Weekend!

Off The Beaten Path - Rocks The 4th

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:19:00 +0000

Everything has been worked out and Show # 6 will premiere on the Fourth of July @ 12PM. The schedule has changed a bit. It will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday, every other week. We'll get into that more at a later time. Make Off The Beaten Path the soundtrack (for 2 hours) at your cookout/party. Listen on Rock401.com then and for the rest of the day.

Off The Beaten Path - The Mess

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 11:30:00 +0000

I'm pissed. Another radio show misses it's premiere date. I know it's a part-time thing for the owner of the station/producer, but WTF. This is just getting ridiculous. I've already heard the, "You can find another Internet Radio Station" thing. Maybe I will. Anyone know of any stations? I don't get paid for this...it's just for fun, but I take it very seriously. I apologize to my 6 loyal listeners. I don't know when it will be on, because he doesn't know when he'll get to it.

Friendship Isn't A One Way Street

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 03:32:00 +0000

This is a real picture from downtown Providence, RI. Friendship St. is really a one way street, at least in Rhode Island it is, but not in life. Well it shouldn't be. Had a nice get together with an old friend tonight. Someone I've known for more than half of my life. One of those people that your there for no matter how long its been since you've last talked or seen them.

As we all know, life can be pretty cruel. It's how you make it through and who helps you along the way that matters. Nobody has a perfect life, but we all try to make the most of what we're dealt. Some people are better at it than others. I'm in the middle...great sometimes, horrible others.

I can be tough on friends. Mood stabilizing medications have made me easier to deal with. We'll just keep it there. So, it's nice when you can just pick up from where you've left off the last time, whenever that was. We talked about a variety of things that I'm not about to go into here, but mainly how it would be nice to see everyone (the people we hung out with a lot, back in school) again. Just to catch up and not have it be 5,10 or 20 years since some of us have seen or spoken to one another.

I've never had many friends. Lots of acquaintances, but not many people I consider true friends. It would be good to see everyone. People that I've always gotten along with and some that I've had issues with or have had issues with me, but time heals most wounds. Either way, I'd still be interested in seeing them, good, bad or otherwise...although, I think things would be just fine. I think we made some progress to achieving that goal tonight.

Off The Beaten Path Show #6

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:51:00 +0000

It's that time again folks. Another radio show. It sort of creeps up on you. You would think doing a show every other week would give me plenty of time to get everything done, but with the new baby, I have to block out time to get the show done. No complaints, but you have to become super efficient. Here is the playlist for the new show premiering Wed. June 29th @ 12PM, replaying on Thurs. the 30th @ 4PM and Friday the 31st @ 8PM on Rock401.com.

Off The Beaten Path Show #6

Thunderhorse – Dethklok

Big Bottom – Spinal Tap

Fever Dog – Stillwater

Turn Me Loose – Loverboy

Don’t Tell Me You Love Me – Night Ranger

Girls With Guns – Tommy Shaw

Long Way To Love – Britny Fox (Hair Metal Song of the Week)

Shake – Otis Redding

Cold Sweat – James Brown

I Can’t Get Next To You – Temptations

Bernadette – Four Tops

Rock ‘n’ Roll Butler – The Upper Crust

Kidz Cereal – Z

Fat – Violent Femmes

Women Like To Slow Dance – Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers

Talking Seattle Grunge Rock Blues - Todd Snider

If Your Gonna Be Dumb, You Gotta Be Tough – Roger Alan Wade

Excitable Boy – Warren Zevon

Hot Child In The City – Nick Gilder

I Knew The Bride – Nick Lowe

The Ballad of El Goodo – Big Star

Not Too Soon – Throwing Muses

Got You (Where I Want You) – The Flys

Down In The Park – Foo Fighters

Bull In The Heather – Sonic Youth

Neat Neat Neat – The Damned

Ex Lion Tamer – Wire

I Only Wanna Be With You – Volbeat

Mouth For War – Pantera

Let There Be Rock – AC/DC

Please tune in, at one of the times for the show. I think you'll have a good time.

Playing Favorites - The 1960's - Albums #15 to #1

noreply@blogger.com (Derek Johnson) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 19:47:00 +0000

I'm back for the second part of this countdown Playing Favorites - The 1960's. This is the entry where you'll probably get mad. Again, like I said before...this isn't like other lists per se. Make your own if you disagree with me. Let's get this thing rolling...

15. The Velvet Underground & Nico - VU

Super experimental, thanks to John Cale. Nico was a model, not a singer. She was in the band at the insistence of Andy Warhol. Classic songs are all over this album. "Heroin," "I'm Waiting for the Man" and basically the entire album. The beginning of the DIY, minimalist and punk ethos. Their influence was huge in alternative music and is still being felt today.

14. The Doors - The Doors

Three superior musicians and a poet is how I tend to look at this band. Jim Morrison, wasn't a singer and never really claimed to be. He did a decent job, but had a way with the written language. He was the front man and got all of the press due to his drunken/drugged up antics. The thing I've always loved is, their biggest hit, "Light My Fire" wasn't written by Morrison, but by Robby Krieger. I've always loved that fact. The three musicians are outstanding players and the music is what made this band. Get beyond Morrison.

13. The Band - The Band

If you really like musicians, this is "the band" for you, no pun intended. All supreme players of multiple instruments. Three out of the five members can sing well and have their own style that really individualize a song. Robbie Robertson is a forgotten guitar hero, possibly due to the fact he's kind of a jerk. They are the soundtrack of Americana, but are mainly Canadian (only Levon Helms is American). If you do nothing else, watch The Last Waltz, their farewell concert. The guests that came out alone make it a must see.

12. Live at the Apollo - James Brown

As great as James Brown is, he's that much better live and here is the proof. This is early James Brown, but it's dynamic. The Famous Flames were his back up band and they are hot. This is how he earned the nickname, "The Hardest Working Man in Show Business." It was all about sweat and giving it to the crowd.

11. Abbey Road - The Beatles

Just missing the top 10, don't worry, I think the Beatles will be just fine. All of the Beatles albums are classics and even though I left out my least favorite ones, they still dominate this list. There are no bad songs, a couple silly ones and yes, they let Ringo sing, but it all works. Through the watchful eyes and ears of George Martin, producer extraordinaire. George Harrison is more prominent as a songwriter on this album.

10. Tommy - The Who

Pete Townshend is an amazing talent, on par with Brian Wilson. He would often demo all the songs on a Who album, playing all the instruments and present it to the band. Unlike Wilson, he would let the boys play their own parts, like only they could. So, when he wrote a story, it took on a life of its own. A rock opera. He tested the waters on their second album, A Quick One. Writing "A Quick One While He's Away" as a mini-rock opera. Then Quadrophenia, would come a little later.

9. Let It Bleed - The Rolling Stones

To this point, probably the best album they put out. Brian Jones was an after thought. He only appears on two songs and briefly. Mick Taylor had been added as his replacement and would make a huge impact on the band during his tenure. Another album with no bad songs. Jagger/Richards were approaching their golden period as songwriters. Maturing and developing their craft, equaling, IMO, Lennon/McCartney.

8. Are You Experienced? - Jimi Hendrix Experience

One word can describe this album: WOW. No one had heard anything like it and really everyone has been playing catch up since. Power trio, fuzz, feedback, guitar pyrotechnics and Hendrix singing, leading the band and setting the music world on fire, literally. The more I learn about Hendrix the person, the more I like and understand him. He was not a favorite for years. I respected, but didn't like him, but a lot of that has changed after really looking into him. I've always been a huge fan of Mitch Mitchell, his drummer.

7. The Beatles (White Album) - The Beatles

I told you they would be fine. This album is great, but it can be a hard album to listen to. It's a moody album. There are happy songs, silly songs, epic songs and sad songs. I guess you can expect that from a double album with four people jockeying for position and purpose in the band. Have the Beatles ever really made a bad album? They may have some questionable songs, but a bad album...I'd say no.

6. Highway 61 Revisited - Bob Dylan

Rolling Stone has this album as the 4th best ever, but it's "only" (oh no) the 6th best of the 60's for me (remember, I'm nobody). I just feel there are stronger albums ahead of it. Great songs, unbelievable guest musicians (Al Kooper and Mike Bloomfield) and Dylan's unforgettable voice. Check it out, it's definitely worth the purchase.

5. Led Zeppelin II - Led Zeppelin

Maybe it's because I love harder rock, but this album is extremely important. The bombast, the wailing guitars and soaring vocals. The hard blues and what could be and has been classified as metal. They just have this power in their music that takes you away with them. All of them are quite amazing at their craft, but John Paul Jones is the secret weapon of this band. He would become infinitely more importantly in the following albums. He would only play bass and organ on this album, while also singing backing vocals.

4. Blonde On Blonde - Bob Dylan

This is probably my favorite Dylan album, but I'm not the biggest fan of him. I like and respect him, but don't love him. It's a double album and I'd say the first important one. Rick Danko and Robbie Robertson (of the Band) make appearances amongst other great musicians. I think the songs are stronger on this album. He also went to Nashville for some sessions, which does have an influence on his sound.

3. Rubber Soul - The Beatles

Just an amazing record. So many classic songs, but most Beatles songs are classics. They had begun coming into their own and were more than just a pop group. This is the second most important Beatles album, IMO. Only beaten out by the record that is at number 2. They were becoming more concerned with their sound and production. Which will lead us into...

2. Revolver - The Beatles

In my opinion, it's their best album. What started with Rubber Soul, was continued with this album. Stronger, more diverse songs, with different instrumentation and recording techniques. There are your classic pop songs, but there are songs on this album that changed the view of what a pop song is. A truly important piece of acetate. That was inspired by the album at number 1. So without further ado...

1. Pet Sounds - The Beach Boys

The production on this album is superb. You can really hear the depth of Brian Wilson's ideas, the sounds and painstaking effort he put into this record. It's blood, sweat and tears folks. He led the recordings from the beginning, using session musicians instead of the band on a lot of songs. The Beach Boys are really a vocal group, more than they are a band. Think about it. They could sing better than any group, including the Beatles. Their harmonies are second to none. The music Brian heard in his head, they couldn't play, so he got people that could. This album is a masterpiece. Please check it out.

Yes, I know Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band isn't included in the top 30. I don't hate that album, I like that album, but there are other albums I like more and it misses my Top 30. I just don't think it's nearly as good as most people do.