Documenting Popular Music was a mini, radio-documentary series, hosted by journalist/songwriter Robert Neil, that examined the artists and music from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. O&F Studios presented the series as a podcast, and at the height of the series’ popularity, guests included artists such as singer/songwriter Rusty Young (Poco), singer Debbie Boone, guitarist Doug Jackson (Ambrosia), UK sensation Young Gun Silver Fox and producer Norbert Putnam (Dan Fogelberg, Joan Baez, Jimmy Buffet).
Jazz artists were also a staple of DPM, and the series featured notable performers such as Ron Aprea, Sarah Partridge and Randy Waldman. Additionally, DPM presented album reviews and “theme shows” that spotlighted popular trends.
Here is a collection of some of series’ most popular shows:
Rusty Young, the leader of Poco, talks in-depth about his first solo album and joyfully reminisces about the past.
Debby Boone talks to Robert Neil in detail about her career, her famous relatives and her #1 hit “You Light Up My Life.”
A look at Dan Fogelberg’s career with thoughts and recollections from Norbert Putnam, who produced albums by the young singer at the beginning of his career.
A look at the individual careers of the Monkees in the 70s and 80s, Parts I & II
A look at the the historic writing partnership between legendary songwriters Neil Diamond and Gilbert Bécaud in the late 1970s
The story of how Barry Manilow’s “Could It Be Magic” Finally Became a Hit
Jazz musician Ron Aprea talks about his tribute album to John Lennon and about working with the former Beatle on Lennon’s 1974 ‘Walls and Bridges’ album. Included are some previously unheard stories.
European sensation Young Gun Silver Fox (Andy Platts and Shawn Lee) talk with Robert Neil about the success the duo has had with their ‘Yacht Rock’ sound.
Robert Neil takes a look at the new tribute album to Dan Fogelberg featuring The Eagles, Donna Summer, Garth Brooks, Vince Gill, Randy Owen and many others.
Robert Neil takes a look at Neil Diamond’s new studio album ‘Melody Road.’
Robert Neil speaks with jazz musician Randy Waldman about his Grammy-award winning album ‘Superheroes’ as well his extensive career playing with artists such as Barbra Streisand and Frank Sinatra.
Robert Neil takes a look at overlooked and underplayed Christmas songs in the U.S. This episode features artists from Japan, Canada, the U.K. and the U.S.
