When The Kinks released "Lola," most people didn't realize Lola was a man. "I was dancing with this beautiful blonde, then we went out into the daylight and I saw her stubble," Ray Davies said of the inspiration.
Moby says that "We Are All Made Of Stars" is scientifically accurate, since all matter originates from stardust.
"Celebration" by Kool & the Gang has a deeper meaning - it was inspired by a verse in the Quran where angels celebrate as God creates man.
Neil Diamond wrote "I'm A Believer" early in his career. It was a hit for The Monkees and revived by Smash Mouth in 2001 for the movie Shrek, helping make Diamond cool again.
"Reasons" by Earth, Wind & Fire is a popular wedding song, but it's actually about a one-night stand.
Billy Idol's "Eyes Without A Face" has a gruesome inspiration. It's based on a 1959 French movie about a surgeon who abducts young women and removes their facial features.
The "Lowdown" and "Lido Shuffle" singer makes a habit of playing with the best in the business.
The revered singer-songwriter talks inspiration and explains why she put a mahout in "Drop the Pilot."
Rockers, rappers and pop stars have been known to quote the Bible in their songs. See if you match the artist to the biblical lyric.
Before he was the champ, Ali released an album called I Am The Greatest!, but his musical influence is best heard in the songs he inspired.
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.