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What goes into writing an iconic rock ballad?

Songwriters Jerry Leiber (L) and Mike Stoller at the release party for their autobiography "HOUND DOG" at a private residence on June 7, 2009 in New York City.
Songwriters Jerry Leiber (L) and Mike Stoller at the release party for their autobiography "HOUND DOG" at a private residence on June 7, 2009 in New York City.
(
Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Bobbi Marcus PR
)
Listen 17:26
What goes into writing an iconic rock ballad?
Mike Stoller and his partner Jerry Leiber wrote some of the most iconic songs in modern music, including "Hound Dog," “Stand by Me” and “Yakety Yak.”Smokey Joe’s Cafe, a live revue of the pair’s songs, is currently playing on the mainstage of the Pasadena Playhouse. We talk to Mike Stoller about what goes into writing such iconic anthems.

Mike Stoller and his partner Jerry Leiber wrote some of the most iconic songs in modern music, including "Hound Dog," “Stand by Me,” “Yakety Yak,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Spanish Harlem,” "On Broadway," "Kansas City," "Love Potion #9," "Fools Fall in Love,” and many more.

Smokey Joe’s Cafe, a live revue of the pair’s songs, is currently playing on the mainstage of the Pasadena Playhouse, where it runs through October 13th. We talk to Mike Stoller about what goes into writing such iconic anthems.

Do you have a favorite Stoller and Leiber hit? Why does their music resonate with you?

Guest:

Mike Stoller, legendary songwriter