Tag Archives: Johnny Rotten

Diction Hooks: Guided By Voices, “Pivotal Film” (2001)

diction. 1. Choice and use of words in speech or writing.  (American Heritage Dictionary) A main reason I find myself wanting to listen again to a Guided By Voices track, “Pivotal Film,” is that it has an outstanding word hook … Continue reading

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Essence of Punk: Flatt & Scruggs, “Earl’s Breakdown” (1951)

[Creem‘s] point of view was vulgar, belligerent, often less respectful to rock’s major institutions . . . with the result that all of us—and especially me—were frequently assaulted with the epithet:  “You are such a punk.”  I decided this insult … Continue reading

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Rock Laughs: Dion, “Lovers Who Wander” (1962)

On Dial M for Musicology, Jonathan Bellman nailed a great new hook category by pointing out Dion’s “Lovers Who Wander” as the supreme laugh of romantic dismissal. Here it is: Dion’s Laugh I think it’s great because it’s so clearly … Continue reading

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