"867-5309 (Jenny)" by Tommy Tutone (w/Chris DeMakes)

This week, we’re joined by Leah Haslage, host of the Bridechilla podcast, to dive into the cultural and musical legacy of Buffalo Springfield’s timeless classic, “For What It’s Worth.” Though often linked with the Vietnam War, the song’s origins trace back to the Sunset Strip curfew riots—a protest of a very different kind. With Neil Young and Stephen Stills at the helm, Buffalo Springfield laid the groundwork for an entire generation of folk rock. Together, we’ll explore how this iconic protest anthem transcended its original context, the ways pop culture—like Forrest Gump—has revitalized its relevance, and how music’s commercialization affects its impact. Let’s hit rewind on the 60s and uncover what made this track thunder. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5 Feb 53min

The 67th Annual Grammys delivered a night packed with unforgettable moments, and Chris and Matt are here to break it all down. From Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé’s big wins to Doechii’s historic Best Rap Album victory, they cover the night’s highlights, surprises, and controversies. They discuss powerful speeches—like Chappell Roan’s industry callout and Lady Gaga’s advocacy for trans rights—along with memorable performances from legends like Stevie Wonder. Sabrina Carpenter’s charm, Benson Boone’s unexpected entrance, and St. Vincent’s well-earned recognition all add to the mix, leaving us with one big question: is pop music in a better place than it’s been in years? Tune in to find out. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3 Feb 33min

Live from your podcast feed, it’s One Hit Thunder! This week, Chris and Matt dive into Ladies & Gentlemen...50 Years of SNL Music, the new documentary celebrating the legendary show's musical legacy. From the raw energy of punk rock chaos to the polished brilliance of pop icons, they break down the performances that defined generations. Along the way, they discuss The Lonely Island’s lasting influence, the unpredictable nature of live TV, and how SNL’s stage has been both a launchpad and a battleground for artists. Tune in for some thoughts and reactions about Questlove's newest music doc triumph. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

31 Jan 52min

This week, we’re joined by Jon Lewis of The Dopamines to dive into Faith No More’s explosive 1990 hit “Epic.” While it might seem wild to label anything connected to the prolific Mike Patton as a one-hit wonder, “Epic” remains their only Hot 100 crossover, landing in the Top 10 and cementing their place in rock history. We explore the band’s evolution, the creative dynamics that shaped their sound, and the hilarious rivalry with Anthony Kiedis. Along the way, we touch on Mike Patton’s many musical ventures, the quirks of Faith No More’s early years, and the legacy of a band that redefined alternative rock. Is “Epic” a thunderous triumph or a blunder in disguise? We’ll answer the age old question “WHAT…IS…IT?” in this episode! One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

29 Jan 56min

This week, we’re exploring When In Rome’s unforgettable 1988 hit, “The Promise.” What started as a Top 20 new wave anthem recorded in a garden shed has grown into a timeless classic, thanks in part to its revival in Napoleon Dynamite. We explore the band’s brief rise, their infamous breakup, and the messy legal battles that followed as former members fought over the rights to the name When In Rome. Along the way, we share our thoughts on the song’s emotional pull, its surprising dance floor appeal, and the challenges the band faced navigating the late 80s music scene. Is When In Rome certified thunder or a total blunder? We’re sorry but we’re just thinking of the right words to say. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

23 Jan 44min

In honor of an altogether dreadful Inauguration Day, we’re tackling what might just be the worst song in music history: Lee Greenwood’s bombastic ode to patriotism, “God Bless the U.S.A.” Sure, Greenwood had other country hits, but let’s face it—this is the only song he’s remembered for, and not for great reasons. Beyond the overly saccharine lyrics and predictable melody, we uncover the less-than-rosy details about Greenwood himself, including his stint as a grifter Bible salesman. Join us as we dive into why this song’s unearned legacy and its composer’s questionable backstory make it a strong contender for the most cringe-inducing track ever written. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

15 Jan 49min

We’ve finally hit 250 episodes, so what better time to talk about CeCe Peniston’s unforgettable 1991 dance anthem, “Finally”? While some may argue this is a controversial pick—Peniston did have a few other Top 20 hits—her name often lands on lists of ‘90s one-hit wonders. How did this powerhouse vocalist, whose talent and charisma were undeniable, end up with her career so tightly associated with just one song? In this episode, we dive into CeCe’s career, explore the enduring legacy of “Finally,” and uncover why her other successes were quickly overshadowed by this timeless classic. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9 Jan 38min

In this special live episode of One Hit Thunder recorded on January 3, 2025, Chris and Matt dive into the fiery world of The Thundred—the podcast’s list of the top 100 albums of all time, as voted by listeners, friends, and past guests. With emails pouring in from fans ready to share their hot takes, the duo reads through critiques, complaints, and cheers about the rankings, the snubs, and the surprises. From spirited defenses of favorite albums to passionate rants about what didn’t make the cut, the live interaction keeps things lively and unpredictable. It’s a fun, candid celebration of music fandom where listeners got to say exactly how they felt, and Chris and Matt embraced every bit of the chaos. JOIN OUR PATREON One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/onehitthunder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 Jan 1h 10min