In Episode 32 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into the self-titled 1996 album Sheryl Crow, ranked #475 on Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. This sophomore record marked a decisive turn for Crow as a producer, songwriter, and artist determined to define herself beyond the massive success of Tuesday Night Music Club. The duo explores the album’s gritty production, thematic depth, and impressive musical range—highlighting Crow’s defiant vocals, smart arrangements, and her evolution as a bandleader.

From radio staples like "If It Makes You Happy" and "Everyday Is a Winding Road" to overlooked gems like "Home" and "Love Is a Good Thing," this episode blends music theory, and production analysis.. Along the way, the hosts unpack artistic independence, unexpected harmony choices, and why Crow deserves more respect in both pop and rock circles.

Key Points

• Sheryl Crow (1996) is her second studio album and a bold departure from the collaborative feel of Tuesday Night Music Club.


• Dan and Carl dig into the production choices—especially Crow’s use of distorted Wurlitzers, dry vocal doubles, and male background vocals that add gravitas.


• Special attention to vocal technique—Dan breaks down how Crow uses melody, harmony, and tone to define character and mood across tracks.

Music Referenced

• I Just Can't Stop Loving You by Michael Jackson


• Celine Dion


• Prince


• Stevie Wonder


• Don Henley


• Rod Stewart


• Sting


• Continuum by John Mayer


• Selena


• Bonnie Raitt


• Miranda Lambert


• St. Vincent


• Heart Like a Wheel by Linda Ronstadt


• You're No Good by Linda Ronstadt


• Amy Mann


• Cowboy Junkies


• One of These Nights by The Eagles


• Billy Preston


• Let It Be by The Beatles


• Abbey Road by The Beatles


• We Like It Here by Snarky Puppy


• Jay Dilla


• Jolene by Dolly Parton


• Chris Stapleton


• Cake


• For What It's Worth by Buffalo Springfield


• Jimi Hendrix


• Creedence Clearwater Revival


• Nirvana


• Beck


• Foo Fighters


• John Scofield


• Where Is My Mind by The Pixies


• Don't You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds


• The Rolling Stones


• Kevin Gilbert


• David Baerwald


• Bill Bottrell


• Neil Finn

Join us next week when we dig into #1 Record by Big Star.