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In this episode of the DC Rock History Podcast, we dive into the career-launching debut album from one of DC’s own—Nils Lofgren—and his band Grin’s self-titled 1971 album. Known for his electrifying performances with Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young, Nils Lofgren first made his mark right here in the DC area. Growing up in Bethesda, Maryland, Nils got his start in local bands and quickly became one of the area’s most in-demand guitarists. With Grin, he created a distinct blend of rock, folk, and West Coast polish that captured a unique moment in early ’70s music.
Recorded at the famed Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco, Grin’s debut album balances raw rock energy with melodic sophistication, highlighting Lofgren’s guitar prowess and lyrical depth. Join hosts Philip Basnight and Alex Vidales, along with guest Brian & Stephen of Brian K. & The Parkway, as they explore this pivotal album. They discuss standout tracks like “Like Rain” and “18 Faced Lover,” along with the influence of Lofgren’s time in DC’s vibrant teen club scene and his early collaboration with Neil Young on After the Gold Rush.
We’ll also trace Grin’s impact on the DC rock landscape, reflecting on other influential bands of the era and the legacy of DC’s dynamic live music circuit. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Lofgren’s work or just discovering his roots, tune in as we celebrate Grin and its place in DC’s rock history.
Go Further:
•Grin – AllMusic
•Classic Rock Review - Nils Lofgren & Grin
•Capitol Rock – The Hangmen and DC Rock History
•Washington Post - Nils Lofgren Feature
Follow Us:
•Social Media: @dcrockpod
•Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
•Philip Basnight – Broke Royals
•Alex Vidales – StageCraft
•Brian K. Pagels – Bandcamp
Artwork by Rebecca Basnight
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In this episode of the DC Rock History Podcast, we spotlight one of the most influential yet underrated figures in rock music—Link Wray—and his self-titled 1971 album. Known for pioneering the power chord with his seminal instrumental “Rumble,” Wray’s influence reverberates through generations of guitarists, from Jimmy Page and Pete Townshend to modern-day rockers. But there’s more to Wray’s story than the raw power of his music. Born in Dunn, North Carolina, and raised in a time of racial and cultural tension, Wray brought the struggles and resilience of his indigenous heritage into his work.
Recorded at his family’s farm in Accokeek, Maryland, the Link Wray album marked a significant shift from his earlier rock-and-roll sound to a deeper, roots-driven exploration of Americana and blues. Join hosts Philip Basnight and Alex Vidales, along with guests Liam Hughes of Ekko Astral and Don Potter of Outerloop, as they dive into the making of this underappreciated gem, discussing its unique recording process, standout tracks like “Fallin’ Rain” and “Fire and Brimstone,” and the eventual critical reappraisal that has earned it a place in the pantheon of influential albums.
We’ll also trace the connections between Wray’s work and the broader DC music landscape, touching on other local guitar greats like Danny Gatton and Roy Buchanan. So, whether you’re a longtime fan of Wray’s groundbreaking sound or new to the story behind this 70s classic, plug in your headphones and get ready for a journey through the raw, unfiltered spirit of DC’s rock legacy.
Go Further:
•Link Wray - AllMusic
•Vinyl Me, Please - Link Wray Feature
•Pitchfork - Pitchfork Review
•Rock the Potomac Excerpts by Mark Opsasnick
Follow Us:
•Social Media: @dcrockpod
•Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
•Philip Basnight - Broke Royals
•Alex Vidales - StageCraft
•Liam Hughes - Ekko Astral | Topshelf Records
•Don Potter - OuterloopArtwork by Rebecca Basnight
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The Fallen Angels’ album It’s A Long Way Down captures the dark, experimental edge of the late 60s D.C. rock scene, blending complex psych influences with themes of existentialism and societal critique. Rising alongside local contemporaries like The Cherry People, The Fallen Angels pushed the boundaries of rock, moving from Georgetown clubs to recording with the iconic Roulette Records. But how did a band so fiercely original navigate the challenges of D.C.’s underground music scene?
In this episode, hosts Philip Basnight and Alex Vidales sit down with Eduardo Nunes, host of the long-running podcast Discologist and a member of the Wammies advisory committee, to discuss It’s A Long Way Down and the band’s impact on D.C. music. We explore how the album reflects the experimental influences of its time, discuss standout tracks like “Poor Old Man” and “Something New You Can Hide Behind,” and consider the band’s legacy in shaping D.C.’s unique music identity. Plus, Eduardo shares his thoughts on the psychedelic movement’s impact on bands like The Fallen Angels and their place in D.C.’s storied rock history.
So, plug in your headphones and join us as we journey back to the late 60s to rediscover one of D.C.’s most groundbreaking rock bands.
Go Further:
• The Fallen Angels - AllMusic
• Light in the Attic - The Fallen Angels Reissue
• Mark Opsasnick - Rock the Potomac, Capitol Rock
• Steve Hoffman Forums - The Fallen Angels
Follow Us:
• Social Media: @dcrockpod
• Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
• Philip Basnight - Broke Royals
• Philip Basnight - Stagecraft
• Eduardo Nunes - Discologist
Artwork by Rebecca Basnight
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The Cherry People’s album And Suddenly captures the energy and optimism of the 60s D.C. rock scene, blending pop, psychedelia, and rock into a sound uniquely their own. Rising to prominence in the wake of the British Invasion, The Cherry People took the nation’s capital by storm, building their reputation at local clubs before recording their debut album in New York. But what happens when a local sensation meets the challenges of national fame?
In this episode, host Philip Basnight sits down with The Currys, an Americana trio from Charlottesville, VA, to dig into the band’s journey from D.C. rockers to national recording artists. We explore how And Suddenly reflected the influences of its time, discuss standout tracks like the title song “And Suddenly,” and reflect on the band’s impact on the broader 60s rock landscape. Plus, The Currys share their own thoughts on the British Invasion’s effect on American bands and how The Cherry People fit into the fabric of that era’s music.
So, cue up your headphones and join us as we travel back to the swinging 60s to rediscover one of D.C.’s pioneering rock bands.
Go Further:
•The Cherry People - BadCat Records
•The Cherry People - All But Forgotten Oldies
•Punky Meadows - Washington City Paper
•The Beatles First U.S. Performance - DCist
•The Guardian - 101 Strangest Records
Follow Us:
•Social Media: @dcrockpod
•Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
•Philip Basnight - Broke Royals
•The Currys - Official Website
Artwork by Rebecca Basnight
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The Hangmen’s debut album Bitter Sweet is a testament to the untamed energy and raw talent of D.C.’s 60s rock scene, but it’s also a record marked by turbulence and transformation. From their early days as local favorites at Montgomery Junior College to playing at the home of Robert and Ethel Kennedy, The Hangmen pushed the boundaries of garage rock in the nation’s capital. But what happened when this promising band signed with Monument Records, known for its polished, radio-ready sound?
In this episode, hosts Philip Basnight and Alex Vidales sit down with Pete Stahl of Scream and Wilfredo Morales to unravel the complex history behind Bitter Sweet. They dive into flash mobs in Falls Church, early DC rock clubs, and the cultural significance of songs like “What a Girl Can’t Do” and “Dream Baby.” Plus, Pete and Wilfredo share their personal connections to the album and reflect on The Hangmen’s enduring influence on D.C. rock.
So, cue up your headphones and join us as we explore DC-area teen sensations and the swinging 60s.
Go Further:
Capitol Rock by Mark Opsasnick
Interview with Tom Guernsey - 60s Garage Bands
George Daly’s Legacy in A&R - Billboard
Follow Us:
Social Media: @dcrockpod
Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
Philip Basnight - Broke Royals
Alex Vidales - StageCraft
Wilfredo Morales - [email protected]
Pete Stahl - Scream
Artwork by Rebecca Basnight
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In 1959, rock pioneer Bo Diddley made a surprising move from Chicago to Washington, D.C., a decision that would shape the local music scene in unexpected ways. Known for his signature beat, homemade guitars, and magnetic stage presence, Bo left an indelible mark on D.C.’s music history. But why leave Chicago for the capital? And what legacy did he build here?
In this episode, Philip Basnight, Alex Vidales, and special guest John Kelly—longtime Washington Post columnist and drummer for The Airport 77s—dive into the D.C. years of Bo Diddley’s career. We’ll explore his influence on local musicians, his infamous feud with Ed Sullivan, and the overlooked brilliance of Bo Diddley Is a Gunslinger. Grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s get rocking!
Go Further:
Bo Diddley’s Best Albums - Louder Sound
Bo Diddley on The Ed Sullivan Show (1955)
Spinning Blues Into Gold by Nadine Cohodas
Follow Us:
Social Media: @dcrockpod
Email us your thoughts or questions: [email protected]
Philip Basnight - Broke Royals
Alex Vidales - StageCraft
John Kelly - The Airport 77s
Artwork by Rebecca Basnight
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DC Rock History- A podcast exploring Washington, D.C.’s greatest rock albums. Featuring Link Wray, The Hangmen, The Fallen Angels, and more.
