On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song, Don McLean earned the title of America's Troubadour with his iconic 1971 hit song "American Pie." This eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock track is considered a cultural touchstone in the annals of Americana, tracking the loss of innocence of the early rock and roll generation through oft-debated reference-rich lyrics about "the day the music died."

On this episode of The Story Behind the Song, McLean joins host Peter Csathy to talk about how it took 10 years to write "American Pie," the song's legacy, and more. Then make sure to like, review, and subscribe to TSBTS wherever you get podcasts for updates on all our new episodes.

Listen to Don McLean for all this and more on your favorite podcast platform. Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for our series.

Fans of The Story Behind the Song can also check out our new merch for Season 2! Available now at the Consequence Shop, we have a killer new poster (framed and unframed) and a jigsaw puzzle (1,000 piece or 252 piece) featuring an original illustration referencing all the songs and artists from the first three years of the podcast. Grab yours now.

You can also follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media, and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows.

This week on The Story Behind the Song, host Peter Chatty welcomes the legendary Susanna Hoffs, singer, songwriter, and guitarist of the iconic 80s band, The Bangles. Hoffs takes us on a fascinating journey behind one of The Bangles' biggest hits, the 1989 power ballad, "Eternal Flame."

Discover the surprising inspiration behind "Eternal Flame"—a pilgrimage to Elvis's Graceland, where The King's "eternal flame" was, ironically, extinguished. Hoffs shares how this serendipitous moment, combined with a touch of Spinal Tap humor, sparked the song's initial lyrics with Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, and how quickly the melody and lyrics came together in a spontaneous writing session.

The conversation delves into the unique, highly democratic songwriting and selection process within The Bangles, where all four talented members contributed as writers, singers, and players. Hoffs discusses the challenges and evolution of this process, especially during the making of their 1988 album, Everything, and the pivotal role of producer Davit Kahne, who brought a fresh energy and individualized approach to recording. She also shares an inspiring story about her most recent, impactful performance experience at the BeachLife Festival, a moment that reignited her passion for connecting with fans live.

Beyond music, Peter and Susanna explore her creative endeavors, including her recently published novel, "This Bird Has Flown," and the exciting news of its upcoming film adaptation. Hoffs shares insights into her lifelong love for storytelling, whether in songs, books, or films.

Listen to Susanna Hoffs talk about “Eternal Flame” and more.Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts. Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below!

You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media.

On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song, The Killers frontman Brandon Flowers reflects on one of the band's earliest songs -- "All These Things That I've Done." Listen to Flowers' insight into the tune.

Flowers chats about the song's spiritual meaning, explaining how it grapples with themes of guilt, faith, and forgiveness. Ultimately, it's the sonic representation of Flowers' struggle to balance his Mormon beliefs and his pursuit of rock 'n' roll. He then touches on the cut's influences, referencing bands like U2 and David bowie, and previews The Killers' Las Vegas residency.

Listen to Brandon Flowers dive into "All These Things that I've Done" and more on your favorite podcast platform. Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for our series.

Fans of The Story Behind the Song can also check out our new merch for Season 2! Available now at the Consequence Shop, we have a killer new poster (framed and unframed) and a jigsaw puzzle (1,000 piece or 252 piece) featuring an original illustration referencing all the songs and artists from the first three years of the podcast. Grab yours now.

You can also follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media, and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows.