The Nicolette Larson hit "Lotta Love" was written by Neil Young, who recorded a very different version of the song.
Brad Pitt and Elvis both get mentions in the 1997 Shania Twain hit "That Don't Impress Me Much."
The phrase "Mamma Mia" was big in 1976. It was the name of a popular Abba song, and also showed up in the lyrics to "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen.
"It Wasn't Me" by Shaggy was based on an Eddie Murphy comedy bit where he would deny everything no matter how badly he was caught.
The Hollies hit "The Air That I Breathe" was written in part as a reaction to the smog in Los Angeles.
Lyrically, Elvis Costello's "Watching The Detectives" was inspired by American detective shows; musically, it was inspired by The Clash.
A popular contemporary folk singer, Williams still remembers the sticky note that changed her life in college.
Jim talks about the impact of "The Middle" and uses a tree metaphor to describe his songwriting philosophy.
Sheryl Crow's longtime songwriting partner/guitarist Jeff Trott reveals the stories behind many of the singer's hits, and what its like to be a producer for Leighton Meester and Max Gomez.
An interview with Dr. John Covach, music professor at the University of Rochester whose free online courses have become wildly popular.
You know the scenes - Tom Cruise in his own pants-off dance off, Molly Ringwald celebrating her birthday - but do you remember what song is playing?
Kristian talks songwriting technique, like how the chorus should redefine the story, and how to write a song backwards.