Song 2: Linkin Park – One Step Closer (S.4 Ep.12), 16/01/2025

With Linkin Park back in a big way and the new record From Zero proving a hit with most but not ALL LP fans, it’s as good time to go back to the start Hybrid Theory was a huge record, released in 2000, it was and is packed full of massive tunes, the first of which to garner any attention and / or acclaim was One Step Closer, the debut single and second track from a generation defining record. One Step Closer still holds a special place in the hearts of fans because it was this song that introduced the band to a mainstream audience, setting the tone for their unique fusion of rock, nu-metal, and of course the electronic elements that became synonymous with their sound. (image: RTL.fr)

Let us take you back! The year is 2004, grime experienced its first wave of success the summer previous and the wait for Dizzee’s 2nd album is finally over With “Boy In Da Corner” Dizzee Rascal put Grime well and truly on the map, but what was to follow? Was it going to be another fad like those silly tectonic dances of the early 2000’s or was it here to stay? Dizzee is set to play den Atelier in tickets at atelier.lu

"I'm proud to say it, I love it when someone randomly hears a P.O.D song for the first time, and there's elements and they pause, and go 'THAT'S P.O.D'!" Welcome to Song 2, the podcast where we dive into the theory that the second song on an album is often the best or most important. This week, I’m chatting with Sonny, lead vocalist of the iconic band P.O.D. We explore the "Song 2" theory, the strategic importance of tracklisting, and how the second track sets the tone for an album’s journey. Tune in for an insightful conversation with Sonny about crafting memorable albums and the magic behind the perfect song order.

This week we are taking into consideration a tune that I would wager nearly all of you have heard…. ….on the radio, in ads, in your favourite TV shows, in films and in your sleep… and in your sleep. But, you might not immediately recall the artist’s name. So, if you happen to be on Who Want’s To Be A Millionaire, or any other quiz show and end up winning some moolah thanks to this and ergo us, then our cut is a meagre 7.5%... ok? Good. It is, of course Kaleo’s Way Down We Go, taken from the hugely successful debut album A/B released in 2016 via Elektra records.

"These days, I would say no, but I do recall being told that...and in the 90s we fell in suit and put our so-called single at that position (two)" Posdnuos, one of the legendary members of De La Soul, is our guest for this episode! Known for their innovative approach to hip-hop and their unforgettable lyrics, De La Soul has changed the game since their debut record, 3 Feet High and rising. In this episode, Posdnuos will delve into the fascinating world of tracklisting—an often underappreciated aspect of album-making. He’ll discuss how the sequence of songs can influence the listener's experience and why the second track holds particular significance in crafting an album's narrative – but he’s not sure that it is THE best by definition. Check out my two-part interview with Pos, available on RTL Play.

Today, we’re diving into ‘FutureSex/LoveSounds’—even if the title gives us a bit of a cringe!" "SexyBack" is widely regarded as the standout track on that album for several reasons. It marked a bold evolution in Timberlake's sound, merging pop, R&B, and electronic elements in a fresh, innovative way. Produced by Timbaland, the song features a driving beat and catchy hooks, making it perfect for pre-drinks and just as lively on the dance floor as it is on a bar stool.

"I wouldn't put any song on an album unless, I wanted the audience to go WOW!" Today, we have a rock legend in the mix: Alice Cooper! Known for his theatrical performances and groundbreaking sound, Alice has been a pivotal figure in the music world for decades. In this episode, we’ll dive into the often-overlooked topic of tracklisting. Alice will share his insights on how he carefully curates the order of songs on an album, discussing the emotional journey that each track takes listeners on. We’ll explore how the arrangement can transform an album from a collection of songs into a cohesive experience, and why each placement matters. But does he agree that the second track is the best? Let’s find out.

For this week’s episode, we’ve gone a bit META and employed AI to try and take this argument to it’s natural, or rather artificial conclusion. And before anyone scream out about the threat of SKYNET taking over track listing, I remind you that most of the songs you get, an the order in which you get them are being pumped and parped out by the ALGORITHM, anyway. This pod has always been a subtle love letter to the albums and mixtapes of the world and the range of answers we have had over our 4 seasons…and counting, goes to show just how personal a thing it really is. The two questions: we asked CHAT GPT on our theme were: “Why is the second song on an album the best or most important” And: “Which is the most important track on an album and why?”

"Two? Two is all about what it does to your body. But for me, four and seven are absolutely crucial!" Known for their catchy hooks and electrifying sound, Razorlight has made a significant impact on the music scene since their debut. In this episode, Johnny joins us to discuss one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of making an album: tracklisting and tells us if he’s a Song 2 fan. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the artistry behind the music, sit back and enjoy our conversation with Johnny Borrell. (image: Rob Crawford via Facebook)

Celebrated for its unparalleled ability to get just about anyone airborne, Jump Around is as strong an argument for Song 2 as it gets. It is a rather safe bet to say that if you’ve ever been to a sporting match, a rowdy get together or even just a social gathering where alcohol and personal interaction go hand in hand, odds on you have gone a bit salmon-like and leapt around to House of Pain’s 1990s jam ‘Jump Around’.