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Deconstructing Phil Spector's Wall of Sound

Writer Mark Ribowsky has a new biography on the prolific and reclusive record producer, called He's a Rebel. Phil Spector innovated new studio techniques; his airy, heavily-overdubbed music helped form the California sound. Ribowsky also describes Spector's severe, domineering personality, and his frustration with changing trends in pop music.

27:38
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Other segments from the episode on March 24, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, March 24, 1989: Interview with Mark Ribowsky; Commentary on Thelonious Monk; Interview with Nicholson Baker; Review of the home video release of the film "Mrs. Miniver."
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06:56

Paying Tribute to Thelonious Monk

Pianist Kenny Barron says that the late jazz musician's style was jagged, percussive and dissonant. Barron performs some of Monk's compositions to demonstrate this innovative approach.

Commentary
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03:31

Mrs. Miniver's Past Acclaim Overshadowed By Present-Day Criticism

Critic Ken Tucker reviews the Oscar-winning 1943 film, which was credited with galvanizing support for the Allies during World War II. Contrary to some contemporary attitudes toward the movie, critic Ken Tucker says Mrs. Miniver critiques, rather than celebrates, bourgeois life.

Review

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06:15

You Can't Trust HBO's 'Phil Spector,' But You Can Enjoy It.

David Mamet, the writer and director of the new HBO movie Phil Spector starring Al Pacino and Helen Mirren, includes a disclaimer at the beginning of the film: While the movie might be based on the controversial music producer, "This is a work of fiction. It's not 'based on a true story.'

Review
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09:49

Maturity Brings a More Soulful Sound

Darlene Love sang with the 1960s girl group The Blossoms, and recorded hits with producer Phil Spector. Their professional relationship was rocky; Love later severed ties with him. Her first solo album, Paint Another Picture, has just been released.

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