About this episode

This episode explores the transition from '80s prog-pop to songwriter sophistication and show-tune energy, featuring selections from Yes, Rickie Lee Jones, and more.

This episode moves from ’80s prog-pop precision into songwriter sophistication before landing in show-tune energy and one very David Foster-shaped category pick. Jonathan opens with a bright, punchy selection from Yes , leaning into the band’s more streamlined era where big musicianship meets accessible hooks. Curtis follows with a laid-back, character-rich track from Rickie Lee Jones , bringing that unmistakable blend of jazz, pop, storytelling, and offbeat cool. In the category songs , Jonathan brings Show Tunes into the mix with a theatrical selection from Brassroots District , giving the episode a little stage-ready flair. Curtis closes things out with Because David Foster , featuring Peter Allen and all the polished, dramatic, hyper-crafted energy that category name implies. Prog polish, songwriter charm, musical-theater detours, and peak Foster fingerprints—this one covers a lot of very specific ground. Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor. Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS. --- Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and…

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