Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' 1986 album, Good Music, features a title track that openly incorporates elements from several classic songs. This approach to songwriting, described by producer Kenny Laguna, involved blending recognizable musical phrases from artists like The Four Seasons, The Eagles, The Rolling Stones, and Bill Withers with their own original material. The track also notably featured backing vocals from four members of The Beach Boys, adding another layer of musical homage.
Key Takeaways
- Joan Jett's song 'Good Music' intentionally borrowed elements from other famous tracks.
- Producer Kenny Laguna confirmed the use of musical bits from artists like The Four Seasons, The Eagles, and The Rolling Stones.
- Four members of The Beach Boys provided backing vocals for the title track.
- The album Good Music was released in 1986 and peaked at number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Creative Process Behind 'Good Music'
The creation of Good Music, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' fifth studio album, involved a collaborative effort between Jett and producer Kenny Laguna. Released in 1986, the record contains ten songs. Half of these tracks were co-written by Jett and Laguna. Their songwriting method for the title track was particularly unique, focusing on integrating pieces from songs they admired.
Laguna explained this process in an interview with Songfacts. He stated that the intention was to create "good music as opposed to hack music." This philosophy guided their decision to respectfully reference established hits. The approach allowed them to craft a song that felt both new and familiar to listeners, tapping into a shared musical heritage.
Did You Know?
The album Good Music marked a period where Joan Jett and the Blackhearts continued to experiment with their sound, moving beyond their signature punk-rock influences to explore broader pop and rock elements. This blend contributed to its unique appeal.
Direct Musical References and Influences
Kenny Laguna detailed specific songs and artists that influenced 'Good Music'. He pointed out that the bell sounds in the track are directly from 'Rag Doll' by The Four Seasons. He suggested that careful listening would reveal this exact musical part. This kind of direct sampling, or homage as Laguna called it, was a core part of their creative strategy for the song.
Other notable influences included 'Take It Easy' by The Eagles. Laguna mentioned incorporating rhythms or melodies from The Rolling Stones and 'Bang a Gong (Get It On)' by T. Rex. He emphasized that these were small, brief inclusions, designed to be subtle nods rather than extensive reproductions. The goal was to avoid legal issues while still honoring their inspirations.
"We were trying to say good music as opposed to hack music," Laguna told Songfacts. "The bells are from ‘Rag Doll’ by The Four Seasons — if you listen carefully, it’s the exact same part. We took a bit from ‘Take It Easy’ by the Eagles. We had The Rolling Stones, we had ‘Bang A Gong’ by T-Rex. It was just a little homage. We’d take just a tiny bit — not long enough to get sued — but just little bits like the rhythms or melodies. We had ‘Layla’. if you listen carefully you can hear a little bit of ‘Layla’ in the fade. We also had ‘Lean On Me’ [by Bill Withers] in it."
Subtle Incorporations and Fades
Laguna also noted the inclusion of elements from 'Layla' by Derek and the Dominos, suggesting that listeners could hear a "little bit of ‘Layla’ in the fade" of 'Good Music'. Another reference was 'Lean on Me' by Bill Withers. These subtle inclusions demonstrate a sophisticated approach to songwriting, where small, evocative fragments are woven into a new composition.
This method allowed Jett and Laguna to create a rich musical tapestry. It resonated with fans who appreciated the blend of rock and roll history with fresh energy. The careful selection of these snippets ensured that the song maintained its originality while celebrating its roots.
A History of Influence
Artists often draw inspiration from their predecessors. This practice is common across all creative fields, including music. From classical composers reinterpreting folk tunes to modern artists sampling older tracks, the concept of building upon existing works is a long-standing tradition. Joan Jett's approach to 'Good Music' fits into this historical context, showcasing how artists can acknowledge their influences while forging their own path.
The Beach Boys Collaboration
Perhaps one of the most surprising collaborations on Good Music was the involvement of four members of The Beach Boys. Carl Wilson, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston, and Mike Love contributed backing vocals to the title track. This collaboration extended beyond just the title track; The Blackhearts also performed their own version of The Beach Boys' 'Fun, Fun, Fun' on the album.
Laguna initially invited Carl Wilson to the studio to play guitar on the song's second verse. During their time in the studio, Bruce Johnston also joined them. Laguna recounted the challenges of getting all the Beach Boys members together, noting their agent's advice that they typically did not record in the same room.
- Carl Wilson: Played guitar on the second verse.
- Bruce Johnston: Joined during the recording session.
- Mike Love: Expressed interest and later joined.
- Al Jardine: Also contributed to the backing vocals.
Bringing the Legends Together
Despite initial reservations about gathering all members, Mike Love eventually reached out. Laguna explained his earlier understanding that inviting all of them might result in none showing up. However, the situation evolved, and all four members came together for the recording. Laguna recalled Bruce Johnston's enthusiasm, stating, "We’re going to show you how to make a Beach Boys record."
The Beach Boys added their signature "beautiful ‘oohs'" to the track. Laguna also mentioned managing Darlene Love, who had a history of contributing to Beach Boys records without always receiving full credit. She had sung on 'Fun, Fun, Fun' and other tracks during their peak. This highlights the interconnectedness of many artists within the music industry during that era.
Chart Performance and Legacy
When 'Good Music' was released as a single in 1986, it reached number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. While not one of Joan Jett's highest-charting hits, its unique construction and high-profile collaborations made it a notable entry in her discography. The song stands as an example of artistic freedom and homage within the rock genre.
The album Good Music further cemented Joan Jett's reputation as an artist who defied conventional expectations. Her willingness to experiment with sound and openly acknowledge her influences demonstrated a confidence that resonated with her fanbase. The record remains a testament to the idea that creativity can thrive through both originality and respectful appropriation of musical heritage.
Collaboration Impact
The involvement of The Beach Boys on 'Good Music' provided a unique cross-generational appeal. It brought together Joan Jett's rock energy with the iconic harmonies of one of America's most beloved bands, creating a distinctive sound that appealed to a wide audience.
Joan Jett's Enduring Influence
Joan Jett's career has consistently showcased her ability to blend raw rock energy with pop sensibilities. Her approach to 'Good Music' reflects her broader artistic philosophy: drawing strength from diverse musical sources while maintaining a distinct personal identity. This blend has allowed her to remain a relevant and influential figure in rock music for decades.
Her work on Good Music demonstrates that artistic brilliance does not always require creating entirely new concepts from scratch. Instead, it can involve skillfully reinterpreting and reimagining existing ideas. This album serves as a reminder that music often builds upon a shared cultural foundation, with each artist adding their own unique voice to the ongoing conversation.