Dem Vinyl Boyz

In this empowering episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we drop the needle on Janet Jackson’s breakthrough album Control—the 1986 release that redefined her career and reshaped the sound of pop and R&B. With this record, Janet stepped out from her famous family’s shadow and into full creative ownership, delivering a bold, confident statement of independence, strength, and style.

Control features genre-defining hits like "What Have You Done for Me Lately," "Nasty," "Control," and "When I Think of You", each track bursting with the sharp production of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and Janet’s fearless, fresh vocal delivery. The album blends funk, synth-pop, and R&B with assertive lyrics that speak to self-empowerment, personal growth, and taking the reins of your own life.

In this episode, we explore the cultural and musical impact of Control, how it launched Janet Jackson into superstardom, and why it's considered one of the most influential albums of the 1980s. From its fashion to its feminism, this record didn’t just change the game—it set the rules.

Join Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Control, the album that gave Janet her voice, gave pop music a new edge, and gave fans a fierce and fearless icon.

In this chart-topping episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we put the needle down on Taylor Swift’s pop breakthrough, 1989—the album that transformed her from country superstar to global pop icon. Released in 2014, 1989 marked a bold new era for Taylor, fully embracing synth-pop, 80s-inspired production, and glittering hooks that ruled the radio and rewrote the rules of pop stardom.

With massive singles like "Blank Space," "Shake It Off," "Style," and "Wildest Dreams," 1989 captured Taylor at her most confident, self-aware, and sonically adventurous. The album won the Grammy for Album of the Year and solidified her status as a cultural powerhouse, delivering anthem after anthem with sharp lyricism and polished production.

In this episode, we explore the evolution of Taylor’s sound, the stories behind her biggest hits, and how 1989 shaped the modern pop landscape. Whether you were dancing to it back in 2014 or discovering it on vinyl for the first time, 1989 remains a high point in Taylor’s discography—and a defining moment in pop music history.

Join Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Taylor Swift’s 1989, an album that doesn’t just sparkle—it roars.

In this ultra-smooth episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we pour ourselves a drink, dim the lights, and spin An Evening with Silk Sonic—the Grammy-winning 2021 debut from Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s funk-soul superduo. With velvet vocals, vintage vibes, and razor-sharp production, this album pays tribute to 70s R&B and soul while keeping things playful, fresh, and irresistibly cool.

Featuring silky tracks like "Leave the Door Open," "Smokin Out the Window," "Fly as Me," and "After Last Night," the album glides through themes of heartbreak, seduction, and suave confidence—all with lush instrumentation and undeniable charisma. Bootsy Collins, the funk legend himself, sets the tone as the host and spiritual glue of the album, giving it that extra flair of authenticity and funk royalty.

In this episode, we break down the magic behind Bruno and Anderson’s chemistry, the retro recording style, and why An Evening with Silk Sonic was more than just a passion project—it was a full-blown revival of a genre. Equal parts homage and innovation, this record brought soul music roaring back into the spotlight with class and swagger.

Join Dem Vinyl Boyz as we groove through An Evening with Silk Sonic, an album that sounds like it was pressed in 1974 but made to shine in the modern era.

In this smoke-filled episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we fire up Cypress Hill’s trailblazing 1991 self-titled debut album—an underground masterpiece that redefined West Coast hip-hop with a grimy, stoned-out edge and a sound like no other. This wasn’t just a rap album—it was a cultural shift, fusing Latin roots, hazy production, and aggressive bars into a revolutionary new wave of hip-hop.

With iconic tracks like "How I Could Just Kill a Man," "Hand on the Pump," "Latin Lingo," and "The Phuncky Feel One," Cypress Hill introduced the world to their hypnotic production (courtesy of DJ Muggs), the high-pitched, instantly recognizable flow of B-Real, and the gravelly counterbalance of Sen Dog. Their unapologetic embrace of cannabis culture, social frustration, and street narratives made them standouts in the early '90s rap scene.

In this episode, we explore the album’s gritty soundscapes, its bold cultural identity, and how it paved the way for future genre-blending artists. From the smoky clubs of L.A. to global influence, Cypress Hill's debut left a massive, green-tinged footprint on the game.

Join Dem Vinyl Boyz as we go track by track through Cypress Hill (1991), an album that lit the match for a new kind of West Coast sound—and never stopped burning.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we take a journey through outlaw country with Waylon Jennings’ Greatest Hits (1979)—a collection that captures the rebellious spirit and unmistakable sound of one of country music’s most legendary figures. By 1979, Waylon had already established himself as a pioneer of the outlaw country movement, and this album showcased his biggest hits, blending honky-tonk grit with rock ‘n’ roll energy.

Featuring timeless tracks like "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)," "Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys," "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way," and "Good Hearted Woman," this compilation embodies the heart and soul of Waylon’s career. His deep, rugged voice and raw storytelling connected with working-class fans, redefining what country music could be.

In this episode, we’ll break down the impact of Greatest Hits (1979), discuss Waylon’s role in shaping outlaw country, and explore how his rebellious attitude helped change the Nashville music scene. Whether you’re a longtime Waylon fan or new to his music, this episode will take you on a ride through some of the best country songs ever recorded.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Waylon Jennings’ Greatest Hits (1979)—an album that remains a defining collection of outlaw country classics.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we turn up the volume and dive into one of the biggest rock albums of the early 80s—REO Speedwagon’s Hi Infidelity. Released in 1980, this album catapulted the band to superstardom, blending arena rock anthems with heartfelt power ballads that defined the sound of the decade.

Hi Infidelity is packed with iconic tracks like "Keep On Loving You," "Take It on the Run," and "Don’t Let Him Go," showcasing the band’s ability to balance soaring melodies with raw emotion. The album was a massive commercial success, becoming the best-selling rock album of 1981 and cementing REO Speedwagon’s place in music history.

In this episode, we’ll explore the making of Hi Infidelity, the band’s transition from a hard rock sound to a more radio-friendly style, and the lasting impact of this record on classic rock. We’ll also discuss how REO Speedwagon’s mix of rock and romance resonated with audiences and helped shape the power ballad movement of the 80s.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we relive the magic of Hi Infidelity, an album that defined an era and continues to be a staple in rock history.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we groove through one of the most underrated gems in The Jacksons’ catalog—1980’s Triumph. This album marked a pivotal moment for the legendary group, as they fully embraced a polished, funk-infused sound while continuing to solidify their legacy beyond their Motown years.

Featuring standout tracks like "Can You Feel It," "Lovely One," "Walk Right Now," and "This Place Hotel" (originally titled "Heartbreak Hotel"), Triumph showcased The Jacksons at their creative peak. The album saw Michael Jackson taking on a more dominant role in songwriting and production, foreshadowing the legendary solo career he would soon launch into full force. With infectious grooves, uplifting messages, and some of the group’s tightest harmonies, Triumph proved that The Jacksons were still a dominant force in the music industry.

In this episode, we’ll break down the production, songwriting, and cultural significance of Triumph, exploring how this album not only set the stage for Michael’s Thriller era but also reaffirmed the Jacksons as pioneers of pop, R&B, and funk.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Triumph, an album that lived up to its name and remains a timeless classic in The Jacksons’ discography.

In this powerful episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into one of the most politically charged and influential hip-hop albums of all time—Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back. Released in 1988, this album reshaped the landscape of rap music, turning it into a platform for social change, activism, and unapologetic truth-telling.

Featuring revolutionary tracks like "Bring the Noise," "Don't Believe the Hype," "Night of the Living Baseheads," and "Rebel Without a Pause," Public Enemy used their music as a megaphone to address systemic oppression, racial injustice, and media manipulation. Chuck D’s commanding delivery, combined with Flavor Flav’s high-energy presence and the Bomb Squad’s groundbreaking production, made this album a sonic and lyrical force that remains relevant today.

In this episode, we explore the making of It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, its impact on hip-hop and culture, and why it still stands as a blueprint for politically conscious rap. From its hard-hitting beats to its thought-provoking lyrics, this album wasn’t just music—it was a movement.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Public Enemy’s landmark album, breaking down its fearless message, explosive production, and lasting influence on the world of hip-hop.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into the smooth harmonies and heartfelt R&B of Boyz II Men’s self-titled album. Released in 1997, this album showcased the group’s evolution from their early 90s dominance into a more mature, deeply emotional sound, proving why they are one of the most successful R&B groups of all time.

Featuring standout tracks like "4 Seasons of Loneliness," "A Song for Mama," and "Can’t Let Her Go," the album blends love, heartbreak, and soul in a way only Boyz II Men can. Known for their impeccable vocal harmonies, emotional ballads, and timeless storytelling, this album continued their reign in R&B, touching listeners with its raw emotion and beautiful melodies.

In this episode, we’ll explore the history of Boyz II Men, the impact of this album on their career, and how their signature sound helped shape modern R&B. We’ll also discuss their legacy, from their dominance of the 90s charts to their lasting influence on the genre.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Boyz II Men, an album that solidified the group’s status as R&B legends and continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into one of the most essential greatest hits compilations of all time—Chronicle, Vol. 1 by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Released in 1976, this collection of timeless classics showcases the raw energy, storytelling, and swamp rock sound that made CCR one of the defining bands of the late 60s and early 70s.

With unforgettable tracks like "Bad Moon Rising," "Proud Mary," "Fortunate Son," and "Have You Ever Seen the Rain?," Chronicle, Vol. 1 is packed with hit after hit. These songs became anthems of the Vietnam War era, resonating with themes of working-class struggle, rebellion, and the American experience. John Fogerty’s gritty vocals and driving guitar riffs gave CCR a distinct sound that blended rock, blues, and country influences.

In this episode, we’ll explore the impact of CCR’s music, the stories behind these legendary tracks, and how Chronicle, Vol. 1 remains a must-have album for rock fans. Whether you’re a longtime listener or discovering the magic of Creedence for the first time, this episode will take you on a journey through one of the greatest rock catalogs ever assembled.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Chronicle, Vol. 1, an album that immortalized Creedence Clearwater Revival’s legacy and continues to define the sound of classic American rock.

In this funky episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we turn up the heat and dive into Heatwave’s electrifying 1976 debut album, Too Hot to Handle. This album introduced the world to the band’s signature blend of disco, funk, and soul, making them one of the defining groups of the late 70s dance music scene.

Too Hot to Handle is packed with timeless grooves, including the smash hit "Boogie Nights," a disco anthem that still gets people moving today. The album also features the smooth and romantic classic "Always and Forever," one of the most beloved slow jams in R&B history, as well as "Ain’t No Half Steppin’," which showcases the band's funky musicianship and tight arrangements.

In this episode, we’ll explore the making of Too Hot to Handle, the band’s international lineup, and how their infectious sound helped define the disco-funk era. From club anthems to soulful ballads, Heatwave’s debut album remains a must-listen for fans of groove-driven music.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Too Hot to Handle, an album that brought the funk, ignited the dance floors, and solidified Heatwave’s place in music history.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into Sublime’s groundbreaking 1996 self-titled album, a record that has become synonymous with the laid-back yet edgy sound of 90s alternative music. Tragically released just two months after the untimely death of lead singer Bradley Nowell, this album stands as both a swan song and a legacy for the Long Beach-based band.

Packed with unforgettable tracks like "What I Got," "Santeria," "Wrong Way," and "Doin’ Time," Sublime’s self-titled album masterfully blends ska, punk, reggae, and hip-hop into a genre-defying sound. The lyrics balance humor and social commentary, while the music captures the sun-soaked, gritty vibe of California life. The album’s success propelled Sublime to legendary status, even as the band’s story came to a heartbreaking end.

In this episode, we’ll explore the making of this iconic album, the cultural impact of Sublime’s music, and how Sublime continues to inspire generations of fans. From its chart-topping singles to its deep cuts, this album remains a timeless tribute to Bradley Nowell’s talent and the enduring spirit of the band.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Sublime’s self-titled album, a record that shaped the sound of the 90s and beyond, cementing its place as one of the most influential albums in alternative music.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we explore the groundbreaking artistry of Frank Ocean’s debut studio album, Channel Orange, released in 2012. A genre-defying masterpiece, Channel Orange blends elements of R&B, soul, funk, and electronic music to create a deeply personal and evocative listening experience.

With tracks like "Thinkin Bout You," "Pyramids," "Bad Religion," and "Super Rich Kids," Frank Ocean delivers introspective lyrics and vivid storytelling that delve into themes of love, identity, wealth, and existential struggles. His unique ability to pair soulful melodies with innovative production earned the album widespread critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the creative process behind Channel Orange, Frank Ocean’s influence on modern R&B, and the cultural impact of this groundbreaking record. From its lush instrumentation to its deeply emotional storytelling, this album redefined the boundaries of what an R&B album could be.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Channel Orange, an album that not only pushed the envelope of musical innovation but also established Frank Ocean as one of the most influential artists of his generation.

In this soulful episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into The Allman Brothers Band’s sophomore album, Idlewild South, released in 1970. Widely regarded as one of the greatest Southern rock albums of all time, Idlewild South solidified the band’s reputation for blending blues, rock, and jazz into a sound that was entirely their own.

Produced by the legendary Tom Dowd, this album features standout tracks like "Midnight Rider," "Revival," and "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed." Each song showcases the band's incredible musicianship, from Duane Allman’s mesmerizing slide guitar to Gregg Allman’s soulful vocals and poetic songwriting. With its mix of emotional ballads and high-energy jams, Idlewild South set the stage for the band’s meteoric rise in the early 70s.

Throughout this episode, we’ll explore the stories behind the songs, the creative process during the recording at Capricorn Studios, and the album’s lasting impact on Southern rock and American music. We’ll also discuss how Idlewild South became a crucial stepping stone for the band as they prepared for their iconic live album, At Fillmore East.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Idlewild South, an album that captures the spirit, soul, and sound of The Allman Brothers Band and continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.

In this festive episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we celebrate the holiday season by diving into one of the most iconic Christmas albums of all time: Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song. Originally released in 1960, this album has become a cornerstone of holiday traditions, offering timeless classics that continue to warm hearts around the world.

Featuring Nat King Cole’s smooth, velvety vocals, the album is best known for its title track, "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)," which has become synonymous with the holiday season. Other standout tracks like "O Holy Night," "Deck the Halls," and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" showcase Cole’s ability to infuse traditional carols with unmatched warmth and elegance.

In this episode, we’ll explore the making of this holiday classic, its impact on Christmas music, and Nat King Cole’s legacy as one of the most beloved voices in music history. Whether you’re trimming the tree or sipping hot cocoa by the fire, this episode will take you on a nostalgic journey through the magic of the holidays with one of the greatest crooners of all time.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we unwrap the joy and timelessness of The Christmas Song, a record that captures the true spirit of the season.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we take a closer look at one of the most polarizing albums in rock history: Nickelback’s All the Right Reasons, released in 2005. Love them or hate them, Nickelback was undeniably at the top of their game during this era, dominating rock charts and radio stations around the world—while simultaneously becoming one of music’s most mocked bands.

All the Right Reasons cemented Nickelback’s commercial success, featuring massive hits like "Photograph," "Rockstar," "Far Away," and "Savin’ Me." These tracks combined their radio-friendly rock sound with themes of nostalgia, relationships, and fame, resonating with millions of fans. Yet, despite its popularity and chart-topping success, Nickelback often became the punchline of jokes, viewed as the quintessential "love-to-hate" band and a meme before memes were mainstream.

In this episode, we’ll unpack the stories behind the songs, explore why All the Right Reasons was so successful, and dive into how Nickelback’s music became both adored and ridiculed in equal measure. Regardless of the critics, the album sold over 10 million copies and continues to be a staple of 2000s rock nostalgia.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we revisit All the Right Reasons, reflecting on its undeniable impact, the cultural conversation surrounding Nickelback, and why this album remains a guilty pleasure for so many.

In this episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we crank up the volume and dive into Foo Fighters’ groundbreaking 1997 album, The Colour and the Shape. This iconic record marked a turning point for the band, transforming Foo Fighters from Dave Grohl’s post-Nirvana project into a full-fledged rock powerhouse.

The Colour and the Shape is packed with unforgettable tracks, including "Everlong," "My Hero," and "Monkey Wrench." The album captures a raw emotional depth while delivering the signature high-energy sound that would come to define Foo Fighters’ legacy. It’s a journey through themes of love, loss, and resilience, showcasing Grohl’s knack for both heart-pounding anthems and introspective ballads.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the stories behind the songs, the band’s lineup evolution during recording, and the album’s critical and commercial success. Join us as we celebrate The Colour and the Shape, a record that remains a cornerstone of 90s rock and a testament to the enduring power of Foo Fighters’ music.

In Part 2 of our exploration of The Very Best of Daryl Hall & John Oates, Dem Vinyl Boyz continue to celebrate the unforgettable music of the best-selling duo in music history. This episode dives into the second half of the album, highlighting even more chart-topping hits and hidden gems that cemented Hall & Oates' legacy as pioneers of pop, rock, and soul.

Tracks like "Out of Touch," "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)," and "Sara Smile" take center stage as we unpack their unique blend of smooth melodies and heartfelt storytelling. We'll explore the duo’s creative evolution, their influence on modern pop, and how these songs continue to resonate with audiences decades later.

We’ll also provide updates on their recent legal battle and reflect on the challenges of maintaining a decades-long partnership while navigating the complexities of the music industry.

Join us for Part 2 of this two-part series as we conclude our deep dive into The Very Best of Daryl Hall & John Oates, celebrating the enduring magic of their music and its place in pop culture history.

In this throwback episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into the new jack swing era with Bobby Brown’s breakthrough 1988 album Don't Be Cruel. As Brown's second studio album, Don't Be Cruel catapulted him to superstardom, showcasing his unique style that blended R&B, hip-hop, and dance-pop, all with an edge that made him a household name.

With hits like "My Prerogative," "Every Little Step," "Roni," and the title track "Don’t Be Cruel," this album delivered chart-topping singles that defined a generation. Produced by legendary producers like Teddy Riley and L.A. Reid, Don't Be Cruel not only dominated the charts but also solidified Bobby Brown’s place as one of the pioneers of the new jack swing sound.

In this episode, we’ll explore the making of Don't Be Cruel, discussing Brown’s transition from New Edition to solo success, the album’s commercial and cultural impact, and how Bobby’s bold style and dynamic performances set the stage for R&B’s evolution in the late 80s and early 90s.

Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Don't Be Cruel, an album that brought attitude, innovation, and a fresh sound to R&B, forever changing the landscape of the genre.

In this electrifying episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we dive into the heavy metal classic Blizzard of Ozz, Ozzy Osbourne’s groundbreaking debut solo album released in 1980. After his departure from Black Sabbath, Ozzy returned to the rock scene with a vengeance, proving his mettle with an album that would become a cornerstone of heavy metal.

Blizzard of Ozz features some of Ozzy’s most iconic tracks, including "Crazy Train," "Mr. Crowley," and "Suicide Solution." With Randy Rhoads on guitar, the album blends hard-hitting riffs, intricate solos, and Osbourne’s haunting vocals, crafting a sound that would inspire metal bands for generations to come. The album not only marked a new chapter in Ozzy’s career but also solidified his status as the Prince of Darkness.

In this episode, we explore the creation of Blizzard of Ozz, discussing the legendary collaboration between Ozzy and Rhoads, the impact of the album on the rock and metal landscape, and the stories behind these unforgettable tracks. Join us on Dem Vinyl Boyz as we celebrate Blizzard of Ozz, an album that helped shape the future of heavy metal and secured Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy as a true rock icon.

In this classic rock episode of Dem Vinyl Boyz, we take a trip back to 1976 with Best of the Doobies, the definitive greatest hits compilation from The Doobie Brothers. This album is a showcase of the band’s unique ability to blend rock, soul, and a touch of folk, creating a sound that has left an indelible mark on music history.

Best of the Doobies features some of the band’s most iconic tracks, including "Listen to the Music," "China Grove," "Long Train Runnin'," and "Black Water." These songs not only became staples of 70s rock radio but also defined the laid-back, yet energetic sound of the era. The album is a testament to The Doobie Brothers' versatility, bringing together their best work in a collection that continues to resonate with listeners today.

Throughout this episode, we’ll dive into the band’s history, the stories behind these hits, and how Best of the Doobies became a must-have record for rock fans. Join us as we explore the tracks that made The Doobie Brothers legends and reflect on the enduring appeal of this classic collection.

Dem Vinyl Boyz: Songs in the Key of Life Part 2

This week on Dem Vinyl Boyz, we continued our deep dive into Stevie Wonder’s monumental album, Songs in the Key of Life. In this second half of the album, we delved into Stevie's unparalleled songwriting and producing abilities, taking a closer look at how he crafted each track with a unique blend of soul, funk, jazz, and gospel that defined an era.

Songs in the Key of Life, released in 1976, remains a timeless masterpiece, thanks to Stevie's ability to capture universal themes through innovative compositions. The album is a testament to Stevie’s genius, revealing layers of musical complexity that speak to social issues, personal reflections, and pure, uplifting joy. We uncovered some hidden gems this episode – lesser-known facts and stories that shed light on how Stevie achieved his lasting success. Did you know that Stevie spent two years working on this album? It’s said that he recorded over 130 songs for it, eventually narrowing it down to the 21 that made the final cut.

Stevie Wonder's influence spans multiple decades, with hits that have touched audiences in the '60s, '70s, and beyond. His legacy is embedded in every groove of this double album, with tracks like "As" and "Another Star" still echoing through the soundscapes of today. Throughout our conversation, we shared how this album not only changed the course of music but also left an indelible mark on each of us personally.

Join Gentry Thomas, Ramo G, Memphis, and DJ Tomkat as we celebrate the artistry of Songs in the Key of Life and continue to showcase our love for vinyl records. Each week, we honor vintage vinyl and explore how these iconic albums came to be, bringing you the stories behind the music and the vinyl culture we’re passionate about. So, grab your headphones, drop the needle, and let’s dive into the magic of Stevie Wonder’s masterpiece.