Booked On Rock

What went into creating one of the most recognizable sounds of the ’80s?

In this highlight from Booked On Rock, producer Robert Margouleff reveals the surprising story behind DEVO’s “Whip It” — including the unusual recording setup and the moment it didn’t go quite as planned.

Margouleff, known for his groundbreaking work with Stevie Wonder and as co-creator of the TONTO synthesizer, shares how creativity, experimentation, and a little risk led to a sound that became iconic.

👉 Hear more stories from Robert Margouleff on the full episode

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The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe

In this audio highlight from Booked On Rock, legendary producer Robert Margouleff shares his firsthand perspective on the extraordinary musical gift of Stevie Wonder.

Margouleff, who worked closely with Stevie during his classic 1970s run, recalls the moment it became clear that this was no ordinary talent—saying it was as if “God came down and put his thumb on his forehead.” From the groundbreaking albums like Music of My Mind, Talking Book, and Innervisions, this clip captures the awe and inspiration behind one of the greatest artists of all time.

🎧 Hear the full episode featuring Robert Margouleff for more incredible stories about Stevie Wonder, Devo, and the evolution of modern sound.

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💰 Get 15% OFF | Promo Code: BOOKEDONROCK
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Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network

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Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich:
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Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: [email protected]
 
The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe

This episode features an interview with Robert Margouleff, author of Shaping Sounds: Stevie Wonder, DEVO, The Synth Revolution, and My Life Behind the Music.

Grammy Award-winning producer Robert Margouleff takes you inside one of the most groundbreaking eras in music history. From co-creating the massive TONTO synthesizer to helping shape Stevie Wonder’s classic run of albums—Music of My Mind, Talking Book, Innervisions, and Fulfillingness’ First Finale—Margouleff shares firsthand stories of innovation, risk-taking, and redefining what popular music could sound like.

He also reflects on his work during the rise of the synth revolution, his connection to DEVO, and the creative breakthroughs that changed recording forever. This is a rare, in-depth conversation with the man behind the sound.

Purchase a copy of Shaping Sounds: Stevie Wonder, DEVO, The Synth Revolution, and My Life Behind the Music

Visit Robert Margouleff's website

Email Robert Margouleff: [email protected]

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🛒 Old Glory -  Iconic music and sports fan merch
💰 Get 15% OFF | Promo Code: BOOKEDONROCK
https://oldglory.com/discount/BOOKEDONROCK

Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network
 
BookedOnRock.com
 
The Booked On Rock Store
 
The Booked On Rock YouTube Channel
 
Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich:
BLUESKY
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
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Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore
 
Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: [email protected]
 
The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe

Did Bob Dylan hide The Beatles on his albums?

In this highlight clip, we take a closer look at the mysterious “Easter eggs” fans have spotted on John Wesley Harding and Nashville Skyline—including the long-debated image that some believe secretly features The Beatles.

This highlight features a clip from my conversation with Jim Windolf, author of Where the Music Had to Go: How Bob Dylan and the Beatles Changed Each Other—and the World. We explore the fascinating connection between Dylan and The Beatles, and how their influence on each other may have gone deeper than anyone expected.

Did Bob Dylan hide The Beatles on his albums?

In this highlight clip, we take a closer look at the mysterious “Easter eggs” fans have spotted on John Wesley Harding and Nashville Skyline—including the long-debated image that some believe secretly features The Beatles.

This highlight features a clip from my conversation with Jim Windolf, author of Where the Music Had to Go: How Bob Dylan and the Beatles Changed Each Other—and the World. We explore the fascinating connection between Dylan and The Beatles, and how their influence on each other may have gone deeper than anyone expected.

Listen to Episode 376 - Dylan & The Beatles: How They Changed Each Other—and Rock Forever - With Jim Windolf

🛒 Old Glory -  Iconic music and sports fan merch
💰 Get 15% OFF | Promo Code: BOOKEDONROCK
https://oldglory.com/discount/BOOKEDONROCK

----------

Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network

BookedOnRock.com
 
The Booked On Rock Store
 
The Booked On Rock YouTube Channel
 
Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich:
BLUESKY
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
X
 
Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore
 
Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: [email protected]
 
The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe

Was it really a mistake—or just a moment in time?

When Dick Rowe passed on The Beatles after their now-legendary Decca audition in 1962, it became one of the most debated decisions in music history. But is it fair to criticize him for it? 

In this episode highlight, featuring insights from Stuart Maconie, author of With a Little Help from Their Friends: The Beatles and the People Who Made Them, we take a closer look at the context behind that decision—what Rowe actually heard, the state of the music industry at the time, and whether history has judged him too harshly. Was this truly the biggest mistake in rock… or a reasonable call given the moment?

Listen to Episode 374 - Who Really Shaped The Beatles? The Story Behind the Band - With Stuart Maconie

🛒 Old Glory -  Iconic music and sports fan merch
💰 Get 15% OFF | Promo Code: BOOKEDONROCK
https://oldglory.com/discount/BOOKEDONROCK

----------

Booked On Rock is part of The Boneless Podcasting Network

BookedOnRock.com
 
The Booked On Rock Store
 
The Booked On Rock YouTube Channel
 
Follow The Booked On Rock with Eric Senich:
BLUESKY
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
X
 
Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore
 
Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: [email protected]
 
The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe