Coffee Break With Mary B's 5th Son

Send us Fan Mail Who’s Sorry Now?” (1958) Her breakthrough single, originally a 1923 tune; became her signature after a revival, launching her to stardom  Her first-ever US No. 1, also recorded in German; historic as the first female-led Hot 100 chart‑topper itle track of her hit film, reached No. 4 US and became her hallmark spring‑break anthem A 1960s gem that experienced viral resurgence in 202...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we take a deep dive into the career of Three Dog Night , one of the most commercially successful American rock bands of the late 1960s and 1970s. With a signature sound defined by three lead vocalists —Danny Hutton, Chuck Negron, and Cory Wells—the band carved out a unique niche in rock history. How they became masters of turning other songwriters’ material into r...

Send us Fan Mail Episode Summary: In this episode, we rewind to July , 1970 — Dick Clark as host of American Bandstand . We explore how this humble local dance show in Philadelphia became a national phenomenon that would help launch careers, define youth culture, and soundtrack generations. From the clean-cut image to its early challenges with integration and censorship, we unpack the cultural rip...

Send us Fan Mail Background : Co-founder of The Whispers with twin brother Wallace “Scotty” Scott in 1963. Career Highlights : Hits include “And the Beat Goes On” (1979), “Rock Steady”; eight Top 10 R&B albums; inducted into National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014. Passing : Died June 26, 2025, at age 81 in Northridge, CA, after a six‑month cancer battle. Tributes : Celebrated by Ques...

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode Title: Endless Summer, Final Curtain: The Beach Boys, Sly, and the Dark Side of the Dream Show Notes: In this episode, we dive deep into the haunting contradictions behind two of America's most iconic bands: The Beach Boys and Sly and the Family Stone. From the sun-soaked harmonies of California to the revolutionary funk-soul anthems of the '70s, both groups b...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into the minds of two of music’s most brilliant and enigmatic figures: Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys and Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. Both transformed the soundscape of American music—Wilson with lush harmonies and symphonic surf-pop, and Stone with electrifying funk that fused soul, rock, and revolution. But behind the genius were turbulent liv...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we take a heartfelt and critical look at one of the most beloved yet underappreciated duos in pop music history: The Carpenters. With Karen Carpenter’s hauntingly beautiful voice and Richard’s lush arrangements, The Carpenters defined a generation of soft rock and adult contemporary music. So why haven't they been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we spotlight three unforgettable figures who shaped the sound, soul, and screen of American culture: 🎸 Rick Derringer – From the rebellious energy of "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" to his work with the McCoys and Edgar Winter, Derringer’s guitar riffs fueled a generation’s soundtrack.  🎭 Loretta Swit – Best known as the sharp-tongued, warm-hearted Major...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we pause to reflect on the meaning behind Memorial Day—a day more than just barbecues and mattress sales. We are going to explore some  tunes to listen to and get inspired by with some great music. 

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we’re going to explore the life and music of Eddie Rabbitt, the country-pop crossover star who gave us some of the most iconic hits of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. From writing songs for Elvis Presley to topping both country and pop charts, Rabbitt’s influence went far beyond his signature song “I Love a Rainy Night.” Eddie Rabbitt wasn’t just a country artist; h...

Send us Fan Mail Throw back episode! Welcome to our first episode! Jeff has an exciting story for everyone this fine Mother's Day. He will tell us all about his coffee maker, his first cup of coffee, a life adventure, and his mother!!! Let us raise our cups to the best women in our lives. If  that be our mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, or any other amazing lady in our lives. Happy Mother&...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we take a heartfelt journey through the American songbook to explore how small towns have been portrayed in music. From the romanticized front porches and dusty roads to the heartbreak, nostalgia, and gritty realism, small-town life has long been a lyrical muse. We dive into tracks that celebrate tight-knit communities, critique limited opportunities, and immortal...

Send us Fan Mail When Movie Quotes Inspire Hit Songs Have you ever heard a movie line that was so powerful, it became a song? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of movie quotes turned into songs! 🎬🎶 We’ll explore: Songs that were directly inspired by famous movie lines. How quotes like “Show Me the Money!” and “Big girls don’t cry ” inspired musical creativit...

Send us Fan Mail This week, let’s toast to Easter and some classic tunes! This episode is a delightful trip down memory lane, filled with music and happy vibes. Happy Easter and happy spring! -IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US CONTINUE TO CREATE C...

Send us Fan Mail Episode Summary: In this episode, we celebrate the enigmatic screen presence of Claudia Cardinale, one of the most iconic actresses of European cinema. Born in Tunisia to Sicilian parents, Cardinale rose to stardom in the 1960s and became known for her roles in masterpieces like 8½ , The Leopard , and Once Upon a Time in the West . We explore how her unique blend of strength, beau...

Send us Fan Mail Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the fascinating life and career of Val Kilmer, a Hollywood icon known for his transformative performances and mysterious persona. From his early days as a Juilliard-trained actor to becoming Iceman, Batman, and Doc Holliday, Kilmer’s legacy is one of range, intensity, and resilience. We also discuss the moving 2021 documentary Val ,...

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Episode Title: She’s Got the Beat: Women Who Shaped the Sound Episode Description: In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re turning up the volume on the women who’ve shaped music—on stage, behind the boards, and in the margins. From trailblazing legends to unsung heroes, this episode dives into the beats, ballads, and breakthroughs that wouldn’t exist without women. Whether the...

Send us Fan Mail This week Jeff wishes happy birthday to our girl…. Charlie McClain! McClain’s contributions to country music during the 1980s have left a lasting impact, with her distinctive voice and memorable songs continuing to resonate with fans. Get ready to hear some amazing music this week!!  -IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON I...

Send us Fan Mail This week we raise our cups and mugs to Jeff's brother, John. He is still very missed after all this time. So this episode is all about a record of his and listening to some amazing music. -IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US C...

Send us Fan Mail Episode Summary: Today, Jeff is thrilled to have a special guest on the podcast—the legacy manager of Laura!  Laura Branigan wasn’t just a singer; she was a force to be reckoned with. From her smash hit Gloria to the eerie Self Control, her voice left an indelible mark on the music industry. But behind the scenes, Branigan’s career, personal struggles, and artistic dreams painted...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life and hauntingly beautiful voice of Karen Carpenter—one-half of the iconic duo, The Carpenters. From her meteoric rise to stardom in the 1970s to her heartbreaking battle with an eating disorder, we explore the talent, struggles, and legacy of one of the greatest vocalists of all time.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into two worlds that spark creativity and culture. First, we revisit our favorite coffee scenes in movies—moments that capture the warmth, conversation, and unexpected epiphanies that unfold over a simple cup of joe. Then, we shift gears to explore the  legacy of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, unpacking its iconic history, controversies, and its enduring...

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode Summary: Step up to the jukebox, drop in a coin, and take a ride through music history! From dive bars to diners, jukeboxes weren’t just machines; they were portals to new sounds and shared experiences. In this episode, Jeff talks about some listener mail, his father's record collection, and his personal opinions . We also dive into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame...

Send us Fan Mail Podcast Episode: Songs That Sing About Omaha Episode Summary: From indie rock to country classics, Omaha, Nebraska has made its way into some iconic songs. But why do musicians keep coming back to this Midwest city? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the songs that mention Omaha—what they say about the city, the artists behind them, and what makes this place such a lyrical...

Send us Fan Mail 📞 Long-Distance 💕 or not: The price of calling in 1970s and beyond and here are some of those songs 🎶 Episode Overview Before unlimited data plans and FaceTime, making a simple phone call—especially long-distance—was a costly and emotional act. The 1970s saw a wave of songs that captured the tension, longing, and financial burden of making a call, turning the telephone into a p...