American Songwriter

On the Charts 45 Years Ago, REO Speedwagon Scored Their First No. 1 Hit With One of Their Most Misunderstood Songs

In December 2024, arena-rock mainstays REO Speedwagon took their final bow after nearly 60 years of entertaining. Formed in ...
American Songwriter

3 Songs That Turned the Hammond Organ Into a Rock Star Weapon in the 1960s

The Hammond organ was a bit of an unsung hero among 20th-century rock songs, including these three legendary tracks.

One of Rock’s Greatest Bands Was No. 1 With Its Only Chart-Topper 42 Years Ago Today

One of the greatest rock bands of all time was dominating the Billboard Hot 100 on this day 42 years ago. However, their 1984 run at No. 1 turned out to be the only time they reached the top of the ...

1974 Top 5 Funk Anthem 'Jungle Boogie' Was Inspired by a Classic No. 1 Rock Riff

In 1974, Kool and the Gang had a huge hit with the song “Jungle Boogie.” The song, from the band’s 1973 album Wild and Peaceful, peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 on ...