Listen via: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | More Platforms
This week on The Story Behind the Song podcast, host Peter Csathy welcomes Susanna Hoffs, singer, songwriter, and guitarist of the beloved ’80s band, The Bangles. Hoffs takes us on a fascinating journey behind one of The Bangles’ biggest hits, the 1989 power ballad, “Eternal Flame.” Listen below or wherever you get your podcasts, and watch the full episode at the top of the page or on YouTube.
Discover the surprising inspiration behind “Eternal Flame,” including a pilgrimage to Elvis’s Graceland, where The King’s “eternal flame” was, ironically, extinguished. Hoffs shares how this serendipitous moment, combined with a touch of Spinal Tap humor, sparked the song’s initial lyrics with Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, and how quickly the melody and lyrics came together in a spontaneous writing session.
The conversation delves into the unique, highly democratic songwriting and selection process within The Bangles, where all four members contributed as writers, singers, and instrumentalists. Hoffs discusses the challenges and evolution of this process, especially during the making of their 1988 album, Everything, and the pivotal role of producer Davit Kahne, who brought a fresh energy and individualized approach to recording. She also shares an inspiring story about her recent performance experience at the BeachLife Festival, which reignited her passion for connecting with fans live.
Beyond music, Peter and Susanna explore her creative endeavors, including her recently-published novel, This Bird Has Flown, and the exciting news of its upcoming film adaptation. Hoffs also shares insights into her lifelong love for storytelling, whether in songs, books, or films.
Listen to Susanna Hoffs talk about “Eternal Flame” and more above or on your favorite podcast platform, or watch the full interview at the top of the page or on YouTube. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts. Hoffs was also a guest last fall on fellow Consequence podcast Kyle Meredith With…, where she discussed her recent archival album The Lost Record.
Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts. Fans can also check out our TSBTS merch — including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle — available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! Follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media, and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows.
Buy Now from Consequence Shop
Content shared from consequence.net.