Vincent Price did the spooky narration on "Thriller." He was paid a flat fee of $20,000, turning down a percentage of the royalties that would have paid him far more.
In the UK, the first #1 hit with a rap was "Candy Girl" by the American boy band New Edition in 1983.
"Feel It Still" by Portugal. The Man deals with lead singer John Gourley becoming a "rebel just for kicks" after having a daughter and settling down. "It's hard to be a punk when you're thinking about your baby daughter at home," he says.
Mick Jagger was a little freaked out when Maroon 5 released "Moves Like Jagger," a celebration of his stage moves. "It puts a bit of pressure on me when I go out dancing," he said.
"I Wish" by Skee-Lo was the first hit song to use the word "baller" in the chorus ("I wish I was a baller..."). That term pervaded pop music over the next several year.
In the Belly song "Feed The Tree," the title is a reference to bodies buried under a large tree, thus feeding it. The song is about death, and also respect - take your hat off for those feeding the tree!
The guitarist/songwriter explains how he came up with his signature sound, and deconstructs some classic Fear Factory songs.
The top Contemporary Christian artist of all time on song inspirations and what she learned from Johnny Carson.
The lead singer and pianist for Procol Harum, Gary talks about finding the musical ideas to match the words.
For songwriters, Johnny represents the American man. He has been angry, cool, magic, a rebel and, of course, marching home.
The Yardbirds drummer explains how they created their sound and talks about working with their famous guitarists.
Chris Stein of Blondie shares photos and stories from his book about the New York City punk scene.