Episodes
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In this episode of the Perfectly Good Podcast, hosts Jessie Jackson and Sylvan Groth explore John Hiatt's rare cover of 'I Spy for the FBI' from his 1980 album '2 Bit Monsters.' They delve into the song's origins, originally recorded by Jamo Thomas and Luther Ingram and the G Men, and written by Richard Wiley and Herman Kelly. The discussion highlights the song's historical context, chart performance, and how it fits into Hiatt's discography. The hosts also compare the song's playful take on infidelity to the teenage romances and simple comedies of the 60s and 70s, reflecting on the cleverness of the lyrics. Additionally, the episode touches on broader themes like musical joy and artist tribute albums, with teasers for future guest commentators and avenues for fan interaction via social media and email. The hosts wrap up by expressing gratitude to their listeners.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
01:39 Discussing 'I Spy for the FBI'
02:23 Song Background and History
04:33 Break and Return
07:53 Analyzing the Lyrics
10:16 Cover Versions and Interpretations
11:46 John Prine Tribute Album Speculations
13:00 Analyzing the Lyrics: I Spy for the FBI
13:26 Fun and Light-hearted Infidelity Themes
14:48 John Hiatt's Unexpected Covers
17:03 The Joy of Musical Homage
20:26 Connecting with Fans and Future Plans
22:06 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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In this episode of the 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth recount a memorable meet-up in Stockbridge, sharing a meal and live music. They then dive into an analysis of John Hiatt's song 'I Love That Girl' from the album 'Dirty Jeans and Mudslide Hymns.' They explore the song's lyrics and the portrayal of love, delving into both personal anecdotes and broader relatable themes. The discussion addresses various interpretations, including the significance of a '65 dress,' the romantic narrative amidst life's struggles, and characters’ emotional journeys. The speakers also reflect on love's joyous essence, supported by Hiatt's soulful music, and discuss the song's technical production, ending with an invitation for listener participation
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Missing episodes?
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In a lively podcast episode, hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth explore John Hiatt's song 'I Look for Love' from his 1982 album 'All of a Sudden,' produced by Tony Visconti. They discuss its 80s production, notable reception, and the impact of its lyrics, including power dynamics in relationships and emotional themes. The hosts share a deep appreciation for the song while expressing curiosity about acoustic or rock renditions. They also mention Roseanne Cash's version and their personal experiences with that song.
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This episode of the podcast dives deep into John Hiatt's music, discussing I Know How to Lose You' from 'Mystic Pinball.' Hosts Jesse and Sylvan analyze the themes of loss, self-recrimination, emotional honesty, and identity in Hiatt's lyrics. They explore the lyrical intricacies, the emotional nuances of vocal performances, and how songs can shift in meaning when detached from their albums. The discussions also cover the impact of different musicians' contributions, the interpretations brought by cover versions, particularly those by non-native English speakers, and the varied emotional expressions in acoustic versions. Reflecting on personal connections and thematic depth, the hosts invite audience engagement and offer a rich analysis of love, heartache, and personal growth through Hiatt's musical journey.
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In this podcast episode, hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth discuss the song 'I Know a Place' from John Hiatt's album 'Tiki Bar is Open.' They touch on the album's release date, production credits, and the various versions of the song available on Spotify and YouTube. They delve into the lyrical content, interpreting themes of trauma and redemption, and express mixed feelings about the song's impact. The hosts also highlight a live duet version of the song performed by John Hiatt and Joe Bonamassa, which they feel elevates the song significantly.
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In this episode of the 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth discuss the John Hiatt song 'I Killed an Ant with My Guitar' from his 1975 album, Overcoats. They analyze the humor, musical arrangement, and deeper meanings behind the song's seemingly simple and quirky lyrics. The hosts explore Hiatt's use of wit and character, calling attention to the song's whimsical approach and unconventional cover versions from international bands. Comparing early and later works, they delve into Hiatt’s evolving vocal style and thematic depth.
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This special episode of Perfectly Good Podcast/Set Lusting Bruce deviates from its usual focus on Bruce Springsteen to honor the late Kris Kristofferson, who passed away a day before recording. Host Jesse Jackson welcomes a group of passionate guests, including music historian Scott, podcast host Joe, longtime fan Winn, and frequent concert-goer Tim. Each shares their personal connections to Kristofferson's music, films, and activism. The discussion highlights his major songs, his influence on country music and the outlaw movement, his diverse career from Rhodes Scholar to helicopter pilot and actor, and his steadfast political activism. The episode encourages listeners to appreciate Kristofferson's extensive catalog and cherish live music experiences.
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In this podcast episode, hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth discuss John Hiatt's song 'I Just Don’t Know What to Say' from the album Mystic Pinball. They explore the song's themes of forgiveness, emotional turmoil, and the complexities of adult relationships. Throughout the discussion, they share personal anecdotes related to the song's lyrics and reflect on the maturity and introspection in Hiatt's music. The hosts also dive into the song's production details and commercial performance, eventually reevaluating their initial ratings based on the depth of their conversation.
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In this episode of 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson @jessejacksonDFW and Sylvan Groth @sylvangreeneyes welcome guest Joe Kay @playthatpodcast from the Play that Rock n' Roll podcast to delve into John Hiatt's song 'I Got a Gun' from the album 'Warming Up to the Ice Age.' The trio discusses the song's dark themes of abuse and revenge, the implications of its lyrics, and the 1980s influences on its production. They also touch on the broader context of domestic violence in media and the emotional catharsis potentially offered by the song. The episode includes a lively analysis of the song's narrative perspective, the problematic nature of vigilante justice, and comparisons to other media. They conclude with individual ratings of the song and Joe's enthusiastic participation in the ongoing exploration of John Hiatt's discography.
Podcast: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/playthatrocknroll
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/playthatpodcast
YouTube: youtube.com/c/playthatrocknroll
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In this episode of Perfectly Good Podcast, hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth are joined by comedian Tania Pearl Lewis to discuss and analyze John Hiatt's song 'I Don't Even Try' from the album Riding With The King. The discussion covers the song's clever lyrics, the humor, and the emotions it portrays. Tania shares her personal connection to the song and her experiences as a long-time Hiatt fan. The hosts also touch on the nostalgia of phone numbers in songs, and the relatability of the lyrics. Additionally, Sylvan provides historical context and mentions other similar 'phone number' songs from the era. The episode concludes with the hosts rating the song and Tania promoting her parody travel guide book and her comedy-related endeavors.
https://www.amazon.com/Other-Guide-World-Atlas-Snubbed/dp/B0CSYH83Z8
http://www.tanialewiscomedy.com/index.html
https://www.youtube.com/@tlewis1834
https://www.instagram.com/taniapearllewis/
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In this special crossover episode of Perfectly Good Podcast and Set Lusting Bruce, hosts discuss their passion for Bruce Springsteen instead of their usual subject, John Hiatt. Sylvan Groth, though not as devoted to Bruce as she is to John, shares her respectable Bruce fan credentials, recounting early memories and family connections to Springsteen's music. They delve into the particulars of Bruce's 'Nebraska' album, discussing its recording process and thematic depth. The conversation also explores similarities and differences between the fan bases of Bruce Springsteen and John Hiatt, touching on how Bruce's working-class themes resonate despite his commercial success. The hosts also entertain the idea of musical covers and collaborations between Bruce and John. In the end, they extend an invitation to listeners to join their discussions on both podcasts
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In this episode of the 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth discuss the John Hiatt song 'I Could Use an Angel' from the album 'All of a Sudden.' They critically analyze the song's lyrics, production, and overall coherence, expressing their disappointment and confusion with its quality. They delve into specific lyrics, trying to find hidden meanings while acknowledging the song's word salad nature. They encourage fans to engage with the podcast through various social media platforms.
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Sylvan @sylvangreeneyes and Jesse @jessejacksonDFW are joined by guest Eric Miller to discuss the song 'I Can't Wait' by John Hiatt. They delve into the origins and themes of the song, its lyrical elements, and the impact of Bonnie Raitt's vocals. The hosts also reflect on the personal experiences and emotional depth conveyed in Hiatt's music, while comparing it to other artists and songs. The episode emphasizes the song's portrayal of longing and the struggle between life on the road and the desire for home. Ratings and analyses are provided, with a consensus that the song is a solid, meaningful piece in Hiatt's discography.
Eric's Blog
https://currentpub.com/2024/05/24/bring-the-family/
The Innocence Mission
https://www.theinnocencemission.com/
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In this bonus episode of 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth celebrate completing the letter 'H' in their alphabetical countdown of John Hiatt songs. They discuss the variety of songs covered, the enjoyment of the journey, and their appreciation for John Hiatt's evolving songwriting. Highlights included their milestone 100th episode and high ratings for 'Have a Little Faith in Me.' They reflect on the unique perspective gained by analyzing songs out of chronological order and look forward to tackling more letters and expanding their guest list. The episode ends with promotions for listener engagement and a charitable concert supporting the John Hiatt Fund.
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The hosts, Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groff, kick off the podcast with a trigger warning due to sensitive subjects related to abuse discussed in the upcoming episode. They dive into analyzing John Hyatt's song 'Hurt My Baby,' touching upon the emotional depth and the trauma reflected in the lyrics. The episode shares personal anecdotes and reflections from both hosts, including Sylvan's own experiences with trauma, to highlight the song's impact. The hosts also provide background information on John Hyatt's 2008 album 'Same Old Man' and invite listener engagement, especially from those with professional insights into trauma and abuse. The episode wraps up with a detailed rating of the song, appreciating its mature and compassionate portrayal of painful experiences.
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Last year, we put the word out for fans to send us short clips of them wishing John a happy birthday.
This year, we wanted to repost it, to help celebrate his 72nd birthday! Also be sure and check out our special 2024 Birthday episode, where we share Sylvan's sermon The Gospel according to John Hiatt.
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In honor of John Hiatt's 72nd birthday, we are sharing the sermon "The Gospel According to John Hiatt" which Sylvan gave at the First Universalist Parish of Chester Vermont on July 29, 2009. Consider sending your birthday wishes by making a donation to the John Hiatt Adolescent Recovery Fund at Cumberland Heights.
Donate to a Non-Profit Treatment Center | Cumberland Heights
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Perfectly Good Podcast has hit their 100th episode. Jesse Jackson and Sylvan Groth reminisce about personal stories and John Hiatt's music, alongside Jesse's wife, Linda Jackson, who shares her musical memories and connection to the podcast. The episode encapsulates deep conversations about Hiatt's 'Howlin' Down the Cumberland,' personal anecdotes, and reflections on the importance of music in their lives
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In the 99th episode of the 'Perfectly Good Podcast,' hosts Jesse Jackson @jessejacksondfw and Sylvan Groth @sylvangreeneyes discuss John Hiatt's song 'How Bad's the Coffee.' They share personal anecdotes and reflect on the charm and significance of diners and bad coffee, linking it to the song's lyrics and themes. The episode also hints at a special guest for the next episode and encourages feedback from listeners. Alongside discussing the song's musical and lyrical aspects, they recall heartwarming experiences with familiar dining places and emphasize the comfort of routine and simple pleasures. #johnhiatt #americanamusic
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In this episode of Perfectly Good Podcast, host Sylvan @sylvangreeneyes and Jesse @jessejacksonDFW dive deep into John Hiatt's song 'Homeland.' They discuss the song’s lyrical complexity, exploring themes of historical trauma, unsettled spirits, and the sense of belonging. The conversation includes insights into Hiatt's songwriting process, reactions from a previous episode, and personal anecdotes, like Sylvan's encounter with a young fan at a Hiatt concert. The episode also touches on the upcoming event 'Poets and Prophets: A Salute to Songwriter John Hiatt' at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
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