Discover
The Vinyl Curriculum
The Vinyl Curriculum
Author: Logan and Jim
Subscribed: 0Played: 1Subscribe
Share
© Logan and Jim
Description
The Vinyl Curriculum is a music podcast where Logan and Jim explore a different theme or era in music history. Each episode, Jim plays songs from before Logan was born in an effort to introduce him—and listeners—to amazing tracks worth revisiting. Jim shares some background of each song, while Logan listens with fresh ears and gives each track a grade. Originally broadcast live on WRLA, Lewis University’s radio station, the podcast version includes the commentary—but only parts of the music (thanks, licensing rules). Follow the linked playlist in the show notes to hear the music for yourself!
29 Episodes
Reverse
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim take a trip back to the 1970s to explore the world of folk music — acoustic guitars, thoughtful lyrics, and the artists who helped define the era.Joining the conversation is special guest Kevin, who helps guide the discussion through some of the standout sounds of the decade. But not everyone in the room is fully on board… Logan quickly makes it known that 70’s folk might not be his thing, which leads to some spirited debate and more than a little irritation from Jim.Between the music, the commentary, and the generational clash of opinions, this episode turns into a lively discussion about what makes folk music resonate with some listeners — and not so much with others. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or siding with Logan on this one, it’s an entertaining listen all the way through.
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim turn the lights down and the volume up for Episode 25: “The Club.” We’re stepping into the world of club dance music — the beats, the drops, the anthems that fill the floor and keep it moving all night long.Joining the guys is special guest Grace — Jim’s daughter — bringing a fresh perspective (and probably better dance instincts) to the mix. From certified bangers to guilty pleasures, the trio breaks down what makes a true club track, how dance music has evolved across generations, and which songs still hit the hardest when the bass kicks in.Whether you’re front row by the DJ booth or just vibing in your car pretending you are, this episode brings the energy. Lace up your dancing shoes — class is officially in session. 🕺💃This episode contains short audio excerpts used for the purpose of commentary, criticism, review, and educational discussion. The excerpts are incorporated into a transformative podcast format in which the hosts provide analysis, historical context, and grading of the material.We encourage viewers to listen to the full songs prior to the episode and to support the original artists by streaming or purchasing their music.Use of this material qualifies as fair use under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. All rights to the original recordings remain with their respective copyright holders.
Season 2 of Vinyl Curriculum kicks off with a new sound and a new voice 🎶Logan and Jim dive into the world of New Wave, breaking down the synths, style, and swagger that defined an era. And for the first time ever, the show welcomes a special guest — Jim’s son, Trey — bringing a fresh perspective to the conversation.From iconic bands to underrated tracks, the guys explore what makes New Wave distinct, why it still influences music today, and which songs still hold up decades later.New season. New guest. New Wave.We’ll be playing short excerpts of each track for review and critique under fair use. Please support the artists by streaming the full songs.#VinylCurriculum #NewWave #Season2 #MusicPodcast #80sMusic #SynthPop #MusicDiscussion
It’s the Vinyl Curriculum year wrap-up 🎶 Logan and Jim look back on the highs and lows of the year in music, revisiting some of their favorite songs, cringing at a few of the worst picks, and breaking down their music app wraps to see what they actually listened to all year long. From surprising standouts to questionable skips, this episode puts a bow on the year and sets the tone for what’s next on Vinyl Curriculum.#VinylCurriculum #YearInReview #MusicPodcast #BestSongs #WorstSongs #MusicWrap #PodcastEpisode #MusicTalk
It’s the Vinyl Curriculum year wrap-up 🎶 Logan and Jim look back on the highs and lows of the year in music, revisiting some of their favorite songs, cringing at a few of the worst picks, and breaking down their music app wraps to see what they actually listened to all year long. From surprising standouts to questionable skips, this episode puts a bow on the year and sets the tone for what’s next on Vinyl Curriculum.#VinylCurriculum #YearInReview #MusicPodcast #BestSongs #WorstSongs #MusicWrap #PodcastEpisode #MusicTalk
Vinyl Curriculum celebrates the season with its first-ever Holiday Special. In this episode, Logan and Jim step away from the usual artist-focused format and review some of Jim’s favorite holiday songs, breaking down the music, memories, and meaning behind each track. From timeless Christmas classics to personal favorites, it’s a festive conversation filled with nostalgia, vinyl, and holiday spirit.Want to listen to the playlist?Spotify PlaylistApple Music PlaylistVinyl Curriculum Website
Season 1 wraps up with a full tank of soul and a dash of chaos! 🚗💨 Logan gets a second shot at picking the tunes—this time, the Blues Brothers soundtrack—while Jim grabs the clipboard to do the grading. Will Logan redeem himself, or crash and burn in a cloud of rhythm and blues? 🎷Want to listen to the playlist?Spotify PlaylistApple Music PlaylistVinyl Curriculum Website
Episode 19 of The Vinyl Curriculum dives into U2’s The Unforgettable Fire. Jim insists it’s a masterpiece; Logan’s just hoping to stay awake till the last track. 🔥 Will he finally appreciate a full album? Tune in and find out! Want to listen to the playlist?Spotify PlaylistApple Music PlaylistVinyl Curriculum Website#U2 #UnforgettableFire #TheVinylCurriculum #80sRock #MusicPodcast #VinylCommunity #StorytellingThroughMusic #LoganNoEmotion #JimLosesIt
In this week’s episode of The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim take a deep dive into Billy Joel’s iconic album Piano Man. From the heartfelt storytelling of the title track to the vivid characters scattered throughout the record, Jim passionately breaks down Joel’s genius — while Logan, as usual, keeps his trademark poker face. His lack of emotion drives Jim up the wall as he tries to get Logan to feel the music instead of just analyzing it. The result? A hilarious mix of frustration, laughter, and genuine appreciation for one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#BillyJoel #PianoMan #TheVinylCurriculum #ClassicRock #MusicPodcast #VinylCommunity #StorytellingThroughMusic #LoganNoEmotion #JimLosesIt
In this episode of The Vinyl Curriculum, Jim and Logan switch things up with a full-album experience. Jim plays Bat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf from start to finish, guiding Logan through one of rock’s most iconic and theatrical records. From epic ballads to explosive anthems, the duo dives into the stories, sound, and legacy of this larger-than-life masterpiece. Tune in as they try something new—listening to and discussing an album in its entirety.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#TheVinylCurriculum #BatOutOfHell #MeatLoaf #ClassicRock #FullAlbumListen #VinylRecords #AlbumExperience #RockHistory #NowSpinning #MusicPodcast #TurntableTalks #VinylCommunity
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim spin back to the early 1990s — a transformative era when alternative rock broke through the mainstream and redefined the sound of a generation. From the gritty Seattle grunge scene to jangly college radio hits and boundary-pushing indie acts, we trace how bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, R.E.M., and The Smashing Pumpkins shaped music history and influenced countless artists that followed.We’ll unpack the cultural movements, sonic experimentation, and rebellious energy that fueled this alt-rock explosion — plus share personal stories and deep-cut recommendations you won’t want to miss.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #AltRock #90sMusic #Grunge #AlternativeRock #Podcast #MusicHistory #Nirvana #PearlJam #REM #SmashingPumpkins #90sAlternative
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Jim and Logan take center stage as they explore the magic, music, and storytelling of Broadway. From timeless classics to modern hits, the duo dives into what makes show tunes so powerful—how they blend character, emotion, and spectacle into unforgettable performances.They discuss the evolution of musical theatre, highlight iconic composers, and share how Broadway has influenced pop culture, film, and even modern recording techniques. Whether you’re a lifelong theatre lover or just curious about why people can’t stop singing “Defying Gravity,” this episode will have you ready for the curtain call.🎶 Tune in, take your seats, and let’s hit the lights—it’s showtime!Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#Broadway #MusicalTheatre #VinylCurriculum #Podcast #ShowTunes #MusicHistory #BehindTheMusic
This week, Logan and Jim dive into the world of collaboration in music. From legendary duets and powerhouse supergroups to behind-the-scenes partnerships that shaped entire genres, the guys break down how working together has sparked creativity and changed the course of music history.Expect stories, laughs, and of course, tracks that highlight the magic of two (or more) voices, minds, and sounds coming together. Whether it’s unexpected pairings, timeless collabs, or the ones that redefined what music could be, this episode is all about the art of making music together.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #MusicPodcast #CollaborationInMusic #Duets #Supergroups #BehindTheMusic #MusicHistory #PodcastLife #NowSpinning #MusicLovers #ClassicRecords #OnTheTurntable #VinylCommunity #PodcastRecommendations #ListeningTogether
🎙️ In this week’s episode of The Vinyl Curriculum, Jim and Logan are joined by special guest Harold McCay, a true connoisseur of 1960s folk music. Together, the guys dive into a hand-picked Late 60s folk playlist, unpacking the stories behind the songs, the cultural movements that shaped the era, and the lasting influence of folk on today’s music. Harold brings his deep knowledge and passion for the genre, sparking fresh insights and lively conversation as the trio explores the sounds that defined a generation.🎧 Catch the conversation, the music, and the moments that make this one special.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page
This week on the Vinyl Curriculum Podcast, we’re digging into the world of cover songs—the art of taking someone else’s music and making it your own. Logan and Jim break down some of the most iconic covers in music history, from reinventions that became bigger than the originals to bold takes that divided fans. Along the way, they’ll explore why certain covers work, how artists put their own stamp on familiar tracks, and the moments when a cover completely redefined a song’s legacy.Whether you’re a fan of faithful tributes or transformative renditions, this episode shines a light on the creativity and risks behind covering a song.🎧 Tune in, and maybe you’ll discover a cover you like even more than the original.Visit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page
The Vinyl Curriculum is turning up the energy with a trip back to the 1990s dance floor. From Eurodance anthems to house beats and radio-ready club tracks, the decade delivered infectious grooves that still make people move today. In this episode, Logan and Jim dig into the biggest dance hits, the artists who defined the sound, and the cultural wave that made 90s dance music unforgettable. Expect memories, fun stories, and plenty of beats that will get stuck in your head.#VinylCurriculum #90sDance #Podcast #MusicHistory #DanceHitsVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, we’re flipping the script—Logan takes the reins and picks the music. From hidden gems to tracks that have shaped his own taste, this episode is a personal playlist full of stories, surprises, and the kind of variety you’ve come to expect from the show. Tune in for fresh takes, fun facts, and a deeper dive into the songs that make up Logan’s soundtrack.🎧 Catch the conversation, the music, and the moments that make this one special.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #Mistakes #Podcast
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, we’re turning up the groove and diving into the funky side of the 1970s. From Parliament-Funkadelic’s spacey jams to Stevie Wonder’s groundbreaking sounds and Earth, Wind & Fire’s unstoppable energy, the decade redefined rhythm and soul. We’ll explore how funk shaped not just the music charts but also culture, fashion, and the dance floor. Tune in as we spin some of the funkiest records of the era and talk about why the 70s still make us want to move today.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #Mistakes #Podcast
This week, on episode 8 of The Vinyl Curriculum, we travel back to the early 80s. Before they were icons, these artists were just fresh faces dropping their very first albums—and wow, did they make a splash. From U2 to Madonna, Stevie Nicks to R.E.M., these records didn’t just start careers… they rewrote the rules. Hear the songs that launched legends. Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #Mistakes #Podcast
In this episode of Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim dive into the vibrant world of modern indie music. From basement bands to festival headliners, they explore the genre’s evolution, DIY spirit, and genre-bending sounds that are redefining the music scene today. Expect fresh picks, unexpected gems, and a conversation that unpacks what makes indie feel so personal, and so powerful, in today’s streaming era. Whether you're a longtime fan or just indie-curious, this episode hits all the right notes.Listen to the Spotify PlaylistListen to the Apple Music PlaylistVisit the Vinyl Curriculum Landing Page#VinylCurriculum #Mistakes #Podcast




















