"November Rain" by Guns N' Roses has a literary influence: The lyric is based on a story called Without You by Del James.
Moby says that "We Are All Made Of Stars" is scientifically accurate, since all matter originates from stardust.
The Temptations sang backup on "Super Freak" by Rick James. He mentions them in the song when he says, "Temptations, sing!"
"London Calling" by The Clash was written amid widespread fears that the Thames River was going to flood the city.
"Personal Jesus," a song about "being a Jesus for somebody else," was inspired by Elvis and Priscilla Presley.
In Metallica's 1986 metal classic "Master Of Puppets," the "Master" represents drugs, controlling the user like a puppet. Lead singer James Hetfield wasn't an addict at the time, but 15 years later he needed rehab to treat his alcoholism.
Rob Halford dives into some of his Judas Priest lyrics, talking about his most personal songs and the message behind "You've Got Another Thing Comin'."
dUg dIgs into his King's X metal classics and his many side projects, including the one with Jeff Ament of Pearl Jam.
Steve Cropper on the making of "In the Midnight Hour," the chicken-wire scene in The Blues Brothers, and his 2021 album, Fire It Up.
Howard explains his positive songwriting method and how uplifting songs can carry a deeper message.
One of the first successful female singer-songwriters, Janis had her first hit in 1967 at age 15.
Meshell Ndegeocello talks about recording "Wild Night" with John Mellencamp, and explains why she shied away from the spotlight.