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Johnson's Improbable History of Pop
KPBX: Saturday 8pm-9pm

John Johnson conducts a tour of the obscure world of early rock and pop music. The 95% of records that never got commercial airtime have a home, Johnson’s Improbable History of Pop features those artists who fell through the commercial cracks.

  • Samples from those, both international stars and local hopefuls, heavily influenced by Buddy's classic style.
  • Band members Martin Bond and Loren Iwerks share samples and stories from their recently re-issued 1979 debut album.
  • Guest David Miller shares samples of numerous North Idaho performers influenced by his singer/songwriter father Dale.
  • Three former members of Spokane's progressive hip hop group from 2010's share sounds and memories.
  • Selections from the early , most adventurous prime years of George Clinton's Parliament & Funkadelic.
  • Vintage self pressed indie releases from Eastern Washington and North Idaho from the 1970's into the 1990's
  • Highlights from U.K. series of compilations sampling indie releases of vintage singer/songwriters mixing various genres.
  • Original members Martin Bond, Harry Case, and Loren Iwerks share sounds and memories of their late 70s/early 80s popular Spokane progressive hard rock trio.
  • A recognition in song of violent race riots of 1919 that cost more than 3000 African/Americans their lives.
  • Mix of genres and styles drawn from vintage American 78's. Blues, hillbilly, jazz, and pop all get airtime.