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Was and Was of Was (Not Was)

The songwriting team of David and Don Was comprise the dance rock band Was (Not Was). The brothers arrange and perform the songs, but feature a rotating lineup of vocalists to sing them. Their newest album is called What Up, Dog.

09:31
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Other segments from the episode on December 13, 1988

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, December 13, 1988: Interview with Michael Harrington; Commentary on the rock band The Coasters; Interview with Don Was and David Was; Review of Octavio Paz's book "Sor…
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27:49

America's Foremost Socialist

As a young man, Democratic Socialists of America co-chair Michael Harrington worked as social worker in St. Louis -- an experience which he credits with leading him to a life of service. Fatherhood readjusted his priorities; he moved to the suburbs and felt less conflicted about earning money. He is now a writer and social commentator. His new memoir, called The Long-Distance Runner, is about his struggle with cancer.

Interview
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06:39

A West Coast Group Wrote Songs for the Kids

Songwriters Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller formed the 1950s band The Coasters as a vehicle for some of their goofier work. Rock historian Ed Ward says they were some of the first to recognize the importance of rock music to teenagers.

Commentary
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03:49

Paz's "Sor Juana" Is Intellectual History at Its Most Dazzling

John Leonard reviews the new biography of the 17th century Mexican poet, whom Octavio Paz uses as a jumping-off point to discuss the intellectual and social history of his home country. Leonard says the book is worthwhile, but warns that it's not easy reading.

Review

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27:24

The Best Music of 1988

Rock critic Ken Tucker talks with Fresh Air host Terry Gross about the year in music. He says 1988 had an eclectic array of hits, with folk and hard rock albums both reaching the top of the charts.

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06:45

"What Up, Dog" Ia an Album of Vital, Messy Artiness

In an age when musical distinctiveness is paramount, the band Was (Not Was) switches genres -- and lead vocalists -- from song to song. Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews their new album, What Up, Dog, which features guest singers Elvis Costello and Frank Sinatra Jr.

Review
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40:35

An Homage to a Pop Music Genius.

Record producer and musician Don Was. He co-founded the funk rock group, "Was (Not) Was." This year he won a Grammy for Producer of the Year. In addition, he's produced a number of albums for Bonnie Raitt (Was produced Raitt's "Nick of Time" album which revived her career), Rolling Stones, Lyle Lovett, Al Green, Iggy Pop, and the B-52's. He's ventured into documentary film production with "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times," about ex-Beachboy Brian Wilson. Was directed the film.

Interview

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