Sleep with Rock Stars

By request of a loyal listener, this special edition of the Spinal Tap episode includes over 2 hours of sleep noise following the sleepy reading about the band. Here's the original Spinal Tap sleep podcast, a true fan favorite.

Summary Settle in and drift off with the story of Tina Turner on Sleep with Rock Stars, the Gen X sleep podcast, because you deserve a good night's sleep...or whatever. In this calming episode, we gently trace Turner's incredible journey, from breaking barriers in rock with the Ike and Tina Turner Revue to her powerful, record-shattering solo comeback. With her unmistakable voice, electric stage presence, and a resilience that defined an era, Tina Turner became one of the best-selling artists of all time. As the pace slows, we reflect on her lasting legacy and the strength, talent, and heart that continue to inspire generations, perfect company for a peaceful night’s sleep. Chapters Links en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tina_Turner Mentioned in This Episode Recommended If You Like sleep, relaxation, Gen X, Gen X music, classic alternative music, sleep podcast for Gen X, relaxing music podcast, fall asleep to music stories, bedtime stories for adults, calm podcast about music, sleep podcast with Wikipedia readings, relaxing rock podcast, chill music history podcast, relaxing classic rock podcast, soothing voice podcast, R.E.M. sleep podcast, Talking Heads podcast, The Clash music history, David Bowie bedtime story, Prince music podcast, Indigo Girls story podcast, The B-52s podcast, Spinal Tap episode, Buzzcocks punk history, 80s music sleep podcast, 90s alternative sleep podcast,...

Summary Grab your pirate costume and your best Vans, because this week on Sleep with Rock Stars we’re cruising back to 1982 for a deep dive into Fast Times at Ridgemont High, the movie that taught Gen X everything we needed to know about pizza delivery, mall jobs, and the perils of falling for a guy in a Cheap Trick shirt. We’re breaking down how this coming-of-age classic captured the awkward, hilarious, and occasionally heartbreaking chaos of high school life before social media (or even cordless phones). From Stacey Hamilton’s rites of passage to Jeff Spicoli’s surfer-philosopher wisdom, it’s all here: sun-soaked, hormone-fueled, and soundtracked to perfection. Speaking of soundtracks, we’ll spin through the film’s killer playlist, songs by The Go-Go’s, Jackson Browne, and Billy Squier that still slap harder than a substitute teacher’s pop quiz. We’ll also spotlight how Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and a young Forest Whitaker went from Ridgemont nobodies to Hollywood legends. So kick off your checkerboard slip-ons, dim the lava lamp, and tune in as we revisit the fast times, slow dances, and eternal cool of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Because growing up might’ve been rough, but the soundtrack totally rocked. Takeaways Fast Times at Ridgemont High Chapters Mentioned in This Episode Recommended If You Like sleep, relaxation, Gen X, Gen X music, classic alternative music, sleep podcast for Gen X, relaxing music podcast, fall asleep to music stories, bedtime stories for adults, calm podcast about music, sleep podcast with Wikipedia readings, relaxing rock podcast, chill music history podcast, relaxing classic rock podcast, soothing voice podcast, R.E.M. sleep podcast, Talking Heads podcast, The Clash music history, David Bowie bedtime story, Prince music podcast, Indigo Girls story podcast, The B-52s podcast, Spinal Tap episode, Buzzcocks punk history, 80s music sleep podcast, 90s alternative sleep podcast, podcasts to help you sleep, soothing Wikipedia readings, relaxing storytelling for adults, calm late-night podcasts, gentle podcasts about music, bedtime listening for Gen X, sleep aid podcast with voice, wind-down podcasts for adults, relaxing audio for music lovers, indie rock bedtime stories, Relaxing stories about iconic music from R.E.M. to Bowie, A

Summary Van Halen has always been that band you crank up in the car without thinking twice. From their ’72 beginnings in Pasadena to ruling the ’80s airwaves, they were pure rock adrenaline. We’ll hit the big moments like Diamond Dave’s wild front-man era, Sammy Hagar stepping in, and of course the Van Halen brothers driving it all with Eddie’s game-changing guitar work. There were fights, hits, shake-ups, and some truly iconic albums, but the legacy they left is undeniable. So grab a seat, and let’s revisit the soundtrack of a generation. Chapters Show Notes In this episode, we’re diving into the whole Van Halen saga, from their Pasadena garage-band start in ’72 to becoming one of the biggest rock forces of our era. We walk through the classic lineup: Eddie melting faces on guitar, Alex pounding the drums, Diamond Dave doing his thing up front, and Michael Anthony holding it all down. Their debut album blew the doors off the rock world, and their live shows were the kind you bragged about for years. We get into Eddie’s mind-bending guitar work, the wild chemistry within the band, and how everything shifted when Sammy Hagar stepped in and kicked off a whole new run of hits. It’s the full ride of big highs, creative clashes, and the tough goodbye after Eddie’s passing in 2020. The goal? Bring back that Gen X nostalgia and honor a band that rewired rock ’n’ roll for all of us. Links Van Halensource materialGen X sleep podcast about David Bowiemixed tape Takeaways Mentioned in This Episode

Summary Welcome back to Singles Going Sleepy, the series where we help you kick insomnia to the curb without turning your bed into a co-working space or a Netflix vortex. In this episode, we're throwing it back to a time when the bed was sacred, for sleep and the horizontal tango. We’re talking boundaries, people. Your bed isn’t your office, your social feed, or your snack zone. It’s your fortress of solitude. Your velvet underground. Your place to unplug, not scroll yourself into a cortisol spiral at 2 a.m. By ditching the doomscrolling and late-night email marathons, you train your brain to associate your bed with what it was built for: rest and intimacy, not existential dread and blue light headaches. So tune in as we lay down the gospel of reclaiming your bed. Make it boring. Make it sexy. Just make it yours. Sleep will show up, and maybe someone else will, too. Links Thank You with Brown NoiseSleep with R.E.M. Part 2Fan Club and Tip Jar Take Aways In this episode of Singles Going Sleepy, we keep fighting the good fight for better sleep: no supplements, no crystals, just solid habits and a little self-respect. improvetwoyou Chapters 00:32 Building Your Sleep Toolbox 01:29 Creating a Restful Space 01:45 The Sanctuary of Sleep 02:28 The Journey to Rest Recommended If You Like sleep tips, improve sleep, Singles Going Sleepy, sleep techniques, sleep toolbox, bed for sleep, sleep and intimacy, cognitive association, relaxation techniques, creating a sleep space, bedtime routine, sleep sanctuary, restful sleep, sleep connection, unwinding before bed, deep breathing for sleep, calming bedtime practices, sleep environment, tips for better sleep, sleep podcast Transcript 00:00:00.880 - 00:03:18.480 In this episode of Sleep with Rockstars, we continue our Singles Going Sleepy series of tips for improving your sleep. You can find our other short Singles Going Sleepy sleep tips sleepwithrockstars.com for each sleep tip we offer. Try it consistently for several weeks before...

Summary Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club, where we’re all about vibing with our favorite tunes and diving into the deep cuts that make our playlists louder than a karaoke night gone right. This episode is all about celebrating the indie music scene. No pretentiousness here, just genuine passion for the sounds we love. Our rotating crew of music aficionados pulls up a barstool to share what’s currently spinning in their heads and hearts, from overlooked gems to the fresh bands that are about to blow up. We're cutting through the usual industry chatter and gatekeeping, so you can enjoy real talk about the tracks that resonate with us, whether they’re from that cozy basement show or a band on the verge of their big break. So, pour yourself a drink, get comfy, and let’s hang out, because music is always better with friends! Show Notes Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the hangout where indie music lovers meet to swap stories, share obsessions, and discover their next favorite song. Picture this: a round of drinks, a few deep cuts spinning in the background, and a bunch of folks geeking out over the sounds that move us, from basement shows to breakout bands. No pretentious vibes here, just real talk about what makes great music stick. Each month, I’m joined by a crew of passionate voices as we dive into the heart of indie music culture, exploring how sound evolves, the grassroots scenes that shape it, and the hidden gems that deserve a bigger spotlight. Expect plenty of laughs, a few wild stories, and a lot of “Wait, you’ve GOT to hear this track!” moments. So grab a drink, pull up a stool, and join the conversation. Because at Dive Bar Music Club, everyone’s got a song worth sharing. Links divebarmusicclub.com Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers: easygoing vibes, great conversation, and seriously good tunes. divebarmusicclub.com indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast, , indie music podcast, music recommendations, music playlists, new music finds, deep cuts, music discussions, music experts, indie bands, music nerds, basement shows, favorite songs, music community, podcast episodes, music industry insights, music culture, new artist spotlight, music lovers, indie music trends, music discovery, Dive Bar Music ClubTranscript Speaker A 00:00:01.600 - 00:00:49.300 Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Every month, a rotating crew of indie music experts pull up a barstool to talk about what's spinning in their playlists...

Summary In this episode, we open the trunk on Repo Man, that gloriously weird, punk time capsule that only the '80s could have produced. Directed by Alex Cox, the film’s a mash-up of UFOs, repossessed cars, and existential dread, basically, the Gen X starter pack. We dig into its wild stew of consumerism, alienation, and anti-establishment snark, all wrapped in a killer punk soundtrack that still makes you want to dye your hair green and quit your day job. More than just a midnight-movie fever dream, Repo Man nails the vibe of a generation side-eyeing suburbia and asking, “Is this it?” So grab your headphones, drop out (responsibly), and join us as we unpack the chaos, meaning, and strange comfort of this cult classic, the perfect companion for anyone drifting off into sleep or just drifting off in general. Show Notes Repo ManthatRepo Man Kick back, close your eyes, and let the soothing hum of cultural disillusionment lull you to sleep. Because nothing says “sweet dreams” like radioactive car trunks and punk existentialism. Takeaways Repo Man Links Repo Man mixed tapesource material Singles Going...

Summary This episode digs into the legacy of The Clash, the band that took punk, lit it on fire, and threw it at the establishment. We’ll look at how they didn’t just play loud, they said something. Their lyrics punched back at injustice, their shows doubled as protest rallies, and they made activism sound like a killer hook. We get into the major moments. The highs. The feuds. The weird collaborations. And, yeah, the loss of Joe Strummer, a gut punch that marked the end of an era, but not the end of their influence. Musically, The Clash didn’t stay in their punk lane. They grabbed reggae, ska, and rockabilly, stirred it all together, and somehow made it work. Their sound was a rebellion you could dance to. So hit play, settle in, and let the story unfold. This is punk history as a bedtime story. Just with more distortion and a lot more heart. Show Notes London CallingSandinista! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sleep With Rockstars 01:27 Transitioning to Rest and Reflection 06:38 The Clash's Legacy and Reunion Talks 15:36 The Clash's Political Legacy 19:44 The Clash's Enduring Influence 21:48 The Clash's Cultural Impact Takeaways Links en.wikipedia.org/wiki/the_ClashThe Clash, Part 1Fan Club Mentioned in this Episode

Summary This episode of Sleep With Rock Stars keeps the Singles Going Sleepy series rolling, because sleep isn't a to-do list item, and trying to force it never worked (just ask any insomniac with a bedside clock glowing like a microwave). Here’s what we’re laying down: Think of it as sleep advice for those of us who’ve been through Y2K, three reboots of Batman, and still can’t figure out how to “relax” on command. Links to Other Sleep Tips Episodes How to Sleep with Rock StarsSingles Going Sleepy #1Sleep with BuzzcocksSingles Going Steady Show Notes In this episode of Singles Going Sleepy, we unpack the art of building your personal “sleep toolbox," because better rest isn’t about one magic fix, it’s about stacking small, smart moves that actually work (eventually). require We wrap with a gentle reminder: sleep isn’t a task to conquer. It’s a natural process that happens when you stop trying so hard. Let go. Tune in. Sleep will show up. Eventually. Probably when you least expect it. Takeaways In this episode of Singles Going Sleepy, we dig into sleep strategies that actually make a difference: no crystals, no snake oil, just practical moves for the chronically tired. Here’s the rundown: Because honestly? Rest isn’t earned through effort. It’s what happens when you stop trying so hard. Chapters

Summary This episode is a deep dive into the gloriously weird world of Talking Heads, the band that made it cool to be intellectual, awkward, and funky all at once. We rewind to 1975, when art school kids ditched the sketchbooks and picked up guitars, birthing a band that would go on to blend punk, funk, art rock, and world beats into something totally original, and totally danceable. Along the way, they teamed up with sonic wizard Brian Eno, dropped mind-bending albums like Remain in Light and Speaking in Tongues, and turned music videos into avant-garde performance art. We track their rise, their implosion in 1991, and the solo side quests that followed. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just Head-curious, we’re here to celebrate a band that didn’t just make music, they made a whole generation rethink what music could be. Show Notes In this episode, we crank up the oversized headphones and dive headfirst into the sonic rabbit hole that is Talking Heads, the band that made being smart, strange, and rhythm-obsessed something to aspire to. Here’s what we cover: From RISD to CBGBGenre soup, served hot'Talking Heads: 77'Enter Brian EnoMore Songs About Buildings and FoodRemain in LightNot just a band: a movementwereLegacy check If you’ve ever danced to “Once in a Lifetime” while questioning your entire existence, this episode’s for you. Takeaways In this episode, we invite you to lie back, tune in, and zone out, because sleep is the new rebellion. Here's what we're whispering into your subconscious tonight: Relax like it's 1989Let the words wash over youTalking Heads, talking sleepRemain in LightRepetition = ritualNot every band hitsStay in the now Links

Summary Tonight, we crank up the volume on The Clash, the band that didn’t just play punk, they weaponized it. Born in the gritty chaos of 1976 London, The Clash brought together the firebrand Joe Strummer, the guitar-slinging Mick Jones, and a crew of musical insurgents who didn’t care about rules, unless they were breaking them. They didn’t stick to just punk, either; they mashed it up with reggae, ska, and rockabilly, creating a sonic Molotov cocktail that captured the anger, hope, and dirty sneakers of a generation. From the raw rebellion of White Riot to the genre-busting brilliance of London Calling, we’ll track their meteoric rise, their inevitable implosion in ’86, and the legacy they left behind, one that still echoes through headphones, protest marches, and garage bands everywhere. So grab your safety pins and sarcasm, we’re diving into the glorious mess that was (and is) The Clash. Show Notes Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sleep With Rockstars 02:22 The Clash: Formation and Early Years 09:49 The Clash's Emergence 15:44 The Clash's Rise to Fame 21:13 The Clash: Rise of a Punk Icon 32:30 The Disintegration and Breakup of The Clash Takeaways Links en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_ClashSleep with BuzzcocksFan Club

Intro In this episode, we tackle the thrilling world of sleep routines because apparently, adulting includes going to bed at the same time on purpose. We break down why sticking to a consistent sleep-wake schedule isn’t just something your mom nagged you about in the '80s, but actually a cornerstone of better sleep. We’ll share practical tips you can add to your personal sleep toolbox (right next to your collection of broken remote controls and existential dread). Fair warning: these strategies work best when you actually use them, repeatedly, over a few weeks. But stick with it, and your circadian rhythm will stop acting like it’s jet-lagged from a rave. Long story short: routine equals rhythm, rhythm equals sleep, and sleep equals not feeling like a zombie in a cubicle. Let’s get some rest, with style. Show Notes In this episode of Singles Going Sleepy, we dive into the ever-thrilling world of sleep hygiene, because nothing says “living the dream” like fine-tuning your bedtime routine. We're talking real strategies for better sleep, not just lavender sprays and wishful thinking. The focus? Building a consistent sleep schedule and a toolbox of techniques that actually help you chill out and crash (without doomscrolling yourself into oblivion first). Consistency is the name of the game here—because your circadian rhythm isn’t just going to fix itself. The episode walks you through how to find the mix of habits that work for you, so your nights feel less like a caffeine-fueled rerun of insomnia and more like a warm, comforting blanket of REM. (We've got R.E.M., too--parts 1 and 2.) Bonus: there’s a guided meditation packed in, complete with calming visuals and breathing that won’t make you roll your eyes (well, maybe just a little at first). It’s a grounding, reflective pause that ties it all together with a Gen X-friendly reminder: sleep is a rebellion against chaos. Or at least, a way to stop feeling like a walking hangover. So if your relationship with sleep is more “it’s complicated” than “deep and meaningful,” this episode’s your new late-night companion. It's science meets chill, with a little side of snark. Takeaways In this episode of Singles Going Sleepy, we keep riding the velvet wave of sleep improvement, because burnout is so 1999. Here's what's up: sleepwithrockstars.com Chapters Recommended If You Like sleep tips, sleep improvement, improve sleep quality, sleep meditation, circadian rhythm, bedtime routine, sleep toolbox, consistent sleep schedule, sleep techniques, relaxation methods, restful sleep,...

Summary Put on your red shoes and relax… Again. "Sleep with David Bowie, Part 2" This podcast takes a dreamy dive into the chameleon-like world of David Bowie—rock’s original shapeshifter and patron saint of reinvention. From Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke, we trace the cosmic arc of a man who never met a genre he couldn’t bend to his will. We zero in on the Berlin Trilogy era—Low, "Heroes", and Lodger—where Bowie traded glitter for grit and helped rewrite the rules of music. Ambient soundscapes? Experimental funk? Existential sax solos? Check, check, and check. Whether you grew up blasting Changes on vinyl or discovered Bowie between Labyrinth reruns and late-night mixed tapes, this series offers a gently trippy tour through his legacy—with a mellow narration style perfect for drifting off. So get comfy, Gen Xers. Let’s turn and face the strange… and maybe catch a little sleep while we’re at it. Links You May Like David BowieWikipediaFan Club Show Notes Cue the synths and grab your black trench coat—this episode dives deep into David Bowie's Berlin years, when he swapped glitter for grit and made getting weird an art form. We kick things off with Low, the album that had fans scratching their heads and future musicians taking notes. With its ambient soundscapes and fragmented funk, Low didn’t just break the mold—it set it on fire, then rebuilt it with circuit boards and saxophones. We track Bowie’s sonic left turn, explore how Brian Eno and Robert Fripp helped him color outside the lines, and unpack how Heroes followed Low like the cooler, slightly more optimistic sequel. Alienation, addiction, identity—Bowie spun it all into music that still feels like the future. By the time we get to Lodger, we’re fully in Bowie’s experimental zone, where genres blur, boundaries collapse, and nothing is quite what it seems (in the best way possible). It’s a love letter to reinvention, resilience, and one man’s refusal to play it safe. Whether you wore out your Heroes cassette in '77 or found Bowie on a late-night YouTube spiral, this episode’s for you. Takeaways Low"Heroes"Lodger) Under Pressure Chapters

Sleep with Prince, Part 3 Sleep with Rock Stars, the Gen X Sleep Podcast. You deserve a good night's sleep…or whatever. Relax and unwind while award-winning radio host and podcaster, Sloane Spencer, lulls you with soothing details about bands and musicians beloved by Gen X. Start with a calm meditation to train your brain that it's time to sleep, settle your headspace, and drift off with a low, mellow, sometimes whispering history lesson about the best bands to ever grace your mixed tapes. This Week Prince's websitesource materialSleep with PrinceMixed tape Summary We're diving deep into the purple kingdom of Prince, the one-of-a-kind genius who made us all want to wear velvet and high heels. We'll sift through the massive pile of music that's come out since he left the building, from those epic compilations to the legal smack downs over his estate. We're also hitting the rewind button on his entire career, checking out how a kid from Minneapolis became the Funky One. Get ready to discuss everything from his trailblazing tunes and boundary-pushing style to the way he shook up conversations about race and gender. And hey, while we're at it, we'll give you a chill vibe so you can drift off to sleep, maybe dreaming in purple. Listen, follow, share, rate, and review! Listen anywhereLet us know which bandsJoin the Fan Club Learn "How to Sleep with Rock Stars" here and in our "Singles Going Sleepy" mini-episodes full of sleep tips. Takeaways Companies Mentioned in this Episode Recommended If You Like sleep podcast, bedtime stories, Prince music, Gen X musicians, relax and sleep, music for sleep, bedtime reading, soothing podcasts, calming music, sleep...

Summary: This installment of Singles Going Sleepy, sleep tips for Gen X, from Sleep with Rock Stars emphasizes the importance of effectively managing auditory stimuli to enhance slumber. Lower the volume, creating an optimal environment for rest. Use a sleep timer to prevent abrupt awakenings caused by later audio content. Set your phone or app timer to conclude two minutes prior to the end of your sleep podcast. You can reduce disturbances, for a tranquil transition into sleep. You deserve a good night's sleep...or whatever. Show Notes: Remember when falling asleep meant the TV was blasting static at 3 a.m., and your only sleep timer was sheer exhaustion? Well, welcome to adulthood, where we pretend we're totally fine while clutching our third cold brew and wondering why we can't sleep. You may find our overview of "How to Sleep with Rock Stars" helpful. In this episode, turn down the volume. Lowering the audio on your sleep podcast might sound like a throwback to Grandma's “just close your eyes” sleep advice, but hear me out. We’ll get into the groove of sound management (very grown-up, very fancy), and I’ll walk you through the magical, often-overlooked power of the sleep timer. Set it to end before the podcast does, so you don’t jolt awake at 2 a.m. when the next episode launches into an enthusiastic ad for meal kits. Think of this as curating your bedtime vibe—less "midnight infomercial," more "Zen mixed tape from 1992." By the end, you’ll not only have the tools to drift off like a pro, but you might just start viewing sleep as the sacred ritual it truly is. So grab your Walkman (metaphorically, unless you’re really committed), lower that volume, and let’s reclaim rest like it’s 1984. Takeaways: Recommended If You Like: sleep tips, restful night, sleep podcast, sleep timer, relaxing sounds, calming podcasts, sleep techniques, podcast for sleep, bedtime routine, sleep advice, gentle sleep sounds, how to sleep better, mindfulness for sleep, podcast sleep aid, quieting the mind, deep relaxation, getting better sleep, soothing sleep environment, managing sleep distractions, peaceful night's rest

Summary This episode’s all about the Indigo Girls, because yes, your mixtape from 1992 deserves a comeback. We’re diving deep into the origin story of Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, the Atlanta folk rock duo who gave us harmonies, heart, and a healthy dose of political fire long before it was cool. From open mic nights to major labels, from protest lines to platinum albums, they’ve never stopped marching to their own beat (in perfect harmony, of course). We’ll break down how their wildly different songwriting styles somehow make perfect sense together, and how they’ve kept the magic alive through decades of change. So whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the activism, or just need something chill to drift off to, press play, and let Indigo Girls lull you to sleep. Show Notes We start slow and mellow, easing into the roots of Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, two Georgia kids whose grade-school friendship morphed into a decades-long creative force. From Emory University open mics to major-label success, their rise was equal parts grit, harmony, and stubborn integrity. We’ll spin through their breakout albums like Strange Fire and the self-titled ‘89 classic that gave us "Closer to Fine" (you just hummed it, didn’t you?). Then we trace their bold shift from corporate studios back to indie freedom—because staying true to their sound meant rewriting the rules. Of course, the Indigo Girls are more than music. They’ve long been at the frontlines of activism: fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, environmental justice, and always weaving purpose into melody. As we reflect on their legacy (and their still-going-strong career), it’s clear: these aren’t just folk-rock icons; they’re cultural changemakers. So whether you’re tuning in to learn, reminisce, or drift off under the stars, this episode is your acoustic blanket. No need to stay awake—just stay present. Takeaways Links indigogirls.comWikipedia Mentioned in this Episode Sleep with R.E.M. Recommended If You Like sleep podcast, Indigo...

Summary: In this episode, we hop in the DeLorean and cruise back to the early ‘90s to bask in the purple glow of The Artist Formerly Known as Prince—yes, that’s the unpronounceable symbol guy your parents warned you about. We're talking 1991 to 1996, a transformative stretch where Prince dropped bangers like Diamonds and Pearls, gave the record label execs a collective migraine with his name change, and basically redefined what it meant to be a musical rebel without a pause. We break down the high notes, the wild wardrobe choices, and the kind of creative genius that made the rest of us wonder if we should just stick to our day jobs. Prince wasn’t just ahead of his time—he broke time, rearranged it, and added a killer guitar solo. So grab your Walkman, light some incense (or at least pretend to), and let this episode be your chill soundtrack to remembering a legend who didn’t just play by his own rules—he rewrote them in purple ink with a heart-shaped quill. Don't miss our first episode featuring Prince. Show Notes: Gen X Hearts Prince – The Bold, the Purple, and the Unpronounceable Let’s rewind to a time when flannel was in, mixtapes were sacred, and Prince was busy blowing our collective minds—again. In this episode, we dive deep into the wild, genre-bending ride that was Prince’s evolution from the early to mid-'90s. We're talking Diamonds and Pearls, The Gold Experience, and all the brilliance in between. If you remember staying up to watch MTV just hoping they’d play “7” or “My Name Is Prince,” this one’s for you. This wasn’t just Prince making music—this was Prince waging an artistic rebellion in real time. From his legendary (and let’s be honest, delightfully petty) war with Warner Bros. to the moment he changed his name to a symbol and made every music journalist collectively lose their minds, Prince was showing us what it looked like to fight for creative control with style, sass, and a gold lamé jumpsuit. We break down each album, track the twists and turns, and sprinkle in some behind-the-scenes stories that’ll make you nod, laugh, and maybe throw on your old raspberry beret. Also, yes—we talk about the eyeliner. Because of course we do. Bottom line: This isn’t just a podcast episode. It’s a love letter from one Gen Xer to another, honoring the artist who taught us that being fabulous, bold, and unapologetically yourself was the real path to greatness. Blouses win. 💜 Takeaways: Links referenced in this episode: Prince's Wikipedia...

Summary Tonight on Sleep with Rock Stars, we’re diving headfirst into a cosmic party that started way back in 1976—when a group of beautifully weird souls from Athens, Georgia, formed one of the quirkiest, most beloved bands in rock history: the B-52s. With Fred Schneider’s deadpan sass, Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson’s galactic harmonies, Ricky Wilson’s twisted guitar tunings, and Keith Strickland’s rhythmic genius, this crew crashed the mainstream with a sound that felt like a B-movie dance party in a UFO. From the surf-spiked chaos of “Rock Lobster” to the karaoke anthem that is “Love Shack,” they carved out their own neon-lit lane in music history. We’ll boogie through their beginnings, bask in their big hits, and trace the evolution of their sound, all the way to their recent not-so-farewell farewell tour. So slip on your bouffant wig, grab a flaming volcano drink, and get comfy—because we’re celebrating the band that made weird cool, and turned every misfit into a rock star. Show Notes This episode of Sleep with Rock Stars dives into the glittery, offbeat world of the B-52s—the band that crash-landed into our ears in 1976 after an impromptu jam session in Athens, Georgia, and never looked back. With Fred Schneider’s sprechgesang swagger, Kate and Cindy’s cosmic vocals, Ricky Wilson’s mutant surf guitar, and Keith Strickland keeping the groove weird, they built a sound as out-there as their thrift store wardrobe. We trace their rise from underground oddballs to MTV darlings, from the surreal brilliance of “Rock Lobster” to the cultural juggernaut that was “Love Shack.” Along the way, we dig into their lo-fi beginnings, their genre-hopping evolution, and the creative resilience that carried them through personal loss—especially the heartbreaking passing of Ricky Wilson. Fast-forward to today, and they’re still serving kitschy cool on their farewell tour and Vegas residency. This episode celebrates the B-52s not just as icons of new wave, but as the ultimate party band—equal parts camp and catharsis—who turned weird into wonderful and left a beehived mark on pop culture. Takeaways Links en.wikipedia.org/wiki/the_B-52sThe B-52sSleep with R.E.M. Part 1Sleep with Rock StarsSleep with Rock Stars Fan Club

Summary: Clench, Release, Repeat—Because Apparently That Helps You Sleep Ah, the sweet relief of bedtime—when your brain finally has time to replay every awkward thing you’ve said since 1987. But what if, instead of spiraling into the abyss of middle-of-the-night overthinking, you could actually relax on purpose? Show Notes: In this episode, I introduce you to a shockingly simple technique: build tension, then let it go. That’s it. No Himalayan chanting bowls. No biohacking gadgets. Just your hands, some intentional fist-clenching (not the ragey kind), and a countdown worthy of a launch at Cape Canaveral. You may find our overview of "How to Sleep with Rock Stars" helpful. We’ll start with the basics: get in bed (not optional), close your eyes (strongly encouraged), and get ready to channel your inner stress ball. You’ll tighten your fists, hold for a few counts, then release—like you’re squeezing out all the day’s nonsense and watching it dissolve into your comforter. Why does this work? Because your body and brain are still on dial-up when it comes to subtle cues. Give them a physical signal, and they finally get the message: it's time to chill. Plus, it’s an easy win to add to your sleep toolbox—right next to “don’t drink espresso after 4 p.m.” and “stop doomscrolling in bed.” So tune in, unclench (literally), and let this old-school, low-effort trick help you ease into sleep like it’s 1986 and the only thing on your mind is whether you remembered to set the VCR. Takeaways: Recommended If You Like: sleep tips, relaxation techniques, restful sleep, sleep podcast, mindfulness for sleep, tension release, sleep techniques, bedtime routine, anxiety relief, sleep aids, guided relaxation, sleep meditation, restful night's sleep, improve sleep quality, sleep exercises, sleep hygiene, calming techniques, sleep therapy, self-care for sleep, relaxation exercises

Summary This episode of Sleep With Rock Stars blasts off with the starman himself — David Bowie. From Ziggy to the Thin White Duke, we trace Bowie’s many shape-shifts through the '70s and beyond, when eyeliner, existential dread, and synths collided in beautiful chaos. He wasn’t just ahead of his time — he was time, bending it with every new persona. We drift through his strange, stylish rise from obscure oddball to pop culture demigod, soundtracked by a discography that swings from space rock to soul to Berlin weirdness. So lie back, close your eyes, and let Bowie’s brilliance beam you into a dreamy orbit. This isn’t just a sleep story — it’s a glitter-dusted lullaby for the Gen X soul. Show Notes This episode floats in a most peculiar way through the glam, strange, and genius-filled orbit of David Bowie — patron saint of alien misfits, eyeliner, and existential cool. We start in postwar England, where a sax-playing art school dropout named David Jones is already too weird for the room. A few flops and hair colors later, Ziggy Stardust crash-lands in glitter and paranoia, kicking off a string of identities that challenged gender, genre, and gravity itself. From glam to soul to krautrock to “Let’s Dance,” we trace Bowie’s sonic shapeshifting — including his Berlin Trilogy, which was moodier than a '90s teen and twice as stylish. Along the way: makeup instead of monkhood, teeth too British even for Britain, and the weirdest hooks that somehow became hits. We talk music. We talk myth. We talk about how Bowie made experimental art sound like pop — and vice versa — all in a soothing tone to help you drift off into orbit. So dim the lights. Slip on your metaphorical red shoes. And let the man who fell to Earth gently guide you to sleep — in platform boots. Takeaways Links en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_BowieSleep with Rock Stars Fan ClubR.E.M.Spinal Tap Musicians and Related Themes Mentioned in this Episode mixed tape