The Best Song Ever (This Week)

Introducing - Hitmaker Chronicles : Toby Keith Beer For My Horses

Join us on “Hitmaker Chronicles” as we delve into the storied career of Toby Keith, spotlighting his groundbreaking duet "Beer for My Horses" with Willie Nelson. Released in 2003, this anthem not only dominated the charts but also ignited discussions on justice and camaraderie, solidifying Keith's place in country music history. From his roots in Oklahoma to his emergence as a country music titan, we explore how Keith's authentic storytelling and musical innovation have captivated fans worldwide. "Beer for My Horses" epitomizes Keith's blend of traditional country and thematic depth, celebrating virtues of patriotism and hard work while navigating the complexities of modern society. This episode unpacks the song's lyrical vividness, musical composition, and its impact, alongside the controversies it sparked, offering a comprehensive look at a track that continues to resonate with listeners and provoke thought. Join host Andrew Irons for this journey through a pivotal moment in country music, courtesy of Toby Keith and Willie Nelson.Follow Hitmaker Chronicles wherever you ger your podcasts.

"This Christmas" by Donny Hathaway

Christmas standards like "White Christmas" often balance the joy of the season with some melancholy. Donny Hathaway's modern standard of "This Christmas" celebrates the simple pleasures of the season, but the complexities of real life give a tinge of sorrow that presses us to enjoy those joys to the full. You can hear "This Christmas" and more songs by Donny Hathaway in a playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5msQTtkOwzRvTt5NoYk5Ao?si=0146d497298b49f1

And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda" by The Pogues (Shane MacGowan)

In honor of Shane MacGowan, frontman of The Pogues, who died this week at age 65, we are revisiting an episode from March of last year. "And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda" is a folk song about the WWI battle of Gallipoli, one that MacGowan in his inimitable growl made into something more devastatingly universal. A playlist of this and other songs relevant to the episode can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5oUG8FGmjhC0ZkzctKvFLP?si=78f2f40c8a934da1

"Monster Mash" by Bobby "Boris" Pickett & The Crypt-Kickers

Author: The Best Song Ever (This Week)"Monster Mash" by Bobby "Boris" Pickett & The Crypt-Kickers"Monster Mash" has been a Halloween hit for over five decades. Its roots are in the biggest dance craze inspired by a root vegetable -- The Mashed Potato -- and even Boris Karloff himself was a fan. You can hear "Monster Mash" along with 160 other Halloween songs in a 7.5 hour mix here:

"How Long Must I Wait for You" by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings

Author: The Best Song Ever (The Week)"How Long Must I Wait for You" by Sharon Jones & The Dap-KingsTold she was "too black and too fat" for a music career, Sharon Jones went to work as a corrections officer in one of the country's most notorious prisons. On the other side of 40, she found her spotlight with some funk and soul revivalists who built a band around her. She beat expectations and even beat cancer -- the first time. You can hear " "How Long Must I Wait for You" along with other songs by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings here: