Coffee Break With Mary B's 5th Son
Join us every Sunday morning for coffee and life stories. Life is all about family, friends, and adventures. Our host Jeff will regale us with how coffee played an important role in his life and how his coffee awareness colored his experiences with movies, music, and television. As we all know life revolves around coffee. He invites you to enjoy your Sunday morning coffee with him. As his mother Mary always said "The two things that will make a day go by better is, coffee and a smile". Follow us on Instagram @marybs5thson - Jeff regularly updates the posts...
Letâs Have Chestnuts on an Open Fire!
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This week is all about the Wizard of Oz and the Christmas season. Two topics that don't seem to have a lot in common yet they do in the episode.Â
Get ready to listen to Jeff's favorite Christmas tunes by his favorite artists.
About the song:
đľ The Birth of a Classic - Chestnuts Roasting Over An Open Fire (1944)
The song was written in 1944 by
Mel TormĂŠ (singer, pianist, future âVelvet Fogâ) and his longtime songwriting partner Bob Wells.
The...
UFOâs and Have a Merry Little Christmas
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This week on Mary B's 5th son we have a returning special guest who has a request to ask of our audience. Listen out for that call out. We hope everyone is a fan of the song Have A Merry little Christmas. We have many amazing versions for everyone to enjoy for the start of Christmas season. Â
Enjoy this weeks hodge hodge of Christmas and space.....
A Winter Wonderland Sing-A-Long
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We take a sleigh ride into the story behind âWinter Wonderlandâ â one of the most beloved holiday standards of all time. Countless legendary artists who put their spin on it.
đŻ Key Topic Covered
How the song became a multigenerational tradition in movies, malls, and holiday specialsđ Fun Facts
Written in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, inspired by a real park sceneCovered by more than 200 artists and countingMakes seasonal chart comebacks every yearThese are the artists that you don't hear sing this song on the radio...GYPSY BABY
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This week, weâll be discussing songs that feature the word âgypsyâ in their titles or in the songs. Here are a few examples:
- âGypsyâ by Fleetwood Mac (1982)
- Stevie Nicksâ dreamy anthem about freedom and her pre-fame bohemian life.
- âGypsies, Tramps and Thievesâ by Cher (1971)
- A storytelling pop classic about prejudice and survival.
Get ready for even more!
Donât forget to listen to our opening shoutout.... Guess who that could be. You'll only know if you listen!!!!!
A Live Conversation about Connie Francis (Why she should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)
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Todayâs episode features a live chat with Jeff and the Producer about Connie Francis and her incredible talents. The big question is why so many female talents get ignored or forgotten by some big institutions. Weâre sharing an unedited, unscripted conversation that we hope you all enjoy! Get ready to dive in, and without further adoâŚ
Congrats Richard Carpenter Songwriters Hall of Fame Nominee!
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Richard Carpenter is renowned for his work with The Carpenters. Richard's sister, Karen Carpenter, was the lead singer of the band. The Carpenters rose to fame in the 1970s and reinvented the genre of soft rock. This podcast vehemently believes in The Carpentersâ deserved recognition of all they have achieved. Now that the Songwriters Hall of Fame has nominated Richard Carpenter for his incredible talent in songwriting, we want to start gathering support to have the Hall of Fame also recognize the band, The Carpenters. Hey podcast fans- let's all work together to get...
Paradise Tonight
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Episode Summary
This episode celebrates Charly McClain and Mickey Gilley for their #1 hit song Paradise Tonight. He again reminds everyone how it seems that no one plays Charly McClain songs on Country music stations. Also we celebrate the genius of Cynthia Weil, one half of the dynamic songwriting duo Mann & Weil, Her work has been recorded by many musicians and Jeff will discuss:âYouâve Lost That Lovinâ Feelinââ from the film Top Gun. In this episode Jeff will talk about a few of her songs and th...
Happy Birthday Marie Osmond And Live And Let Die!
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Episode Summary:
In this episode, we explore the emotional and spiritual journey of Marie Osmond, a beloved American entertainer whose career has been marked by incredible highsâand heartbreaking lows. From her early fame alongside her brother Donny to her solo success with âPaper Roses,â Marieâs life story is one of resilience.Â
Weâll discuss how Marie has turned grief into purposeâbecoming a vocal advocate for mental health, faith, and family unity. Listeners will also hear how her music and charity work (including with Childrenâs Mi...
Happy Birthday Mary B and Stella Stevens!
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This week Jeff's got some amazing mom stories from season 1! These oldie but goodies is why this podcast got started in the first place. Let's raise our mugs to celebrate the mom who made it all happen. Happy Birthday to Stella Stevens and all the other October birthday's!!!
-IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US CONTINUE TO CREATE CONTENT FOR YOU TO ENJOY EVERY SUNDAY...
Claudia Cardinale The Star From The Golden Age
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In this episode, we spotlight Claudia Cardinale, one of the most captivating actresses of European and international cinema. Known for her striking presence and unmatched versatility, Cardinale became a symbol of both Italian and French film throughout the 1960s and 70s.
Weâll explore:
đ Her rise to fame after winning a beauty contest in Tunisia, which led to her first film roles.đŹ Collaborations with legendary directors such as Federico Fellini, Luchino Visconti, and Sergio Leone.đ¸ Her unforgettable performances in films like 8½ (1963), The Leopard (1963), and Once Upon a Time in the West...A Salute To DJ's
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From the smoky nightclubs of the 1940s to the global EDM festivals of today, DJs have been the heartbeat of music culture. In this episode, we take listeners on a journey through the art and evolution of the disc jockey.
Weâll explore:
đď¸ The origins of radio DJs and how they shaped early pop cultuređď¸ The birth of club DJs, from vinyl to turntablesđ Legendary figures who defined generationsđś The ongoing debate: Are DJs musicians, curators, or cultural storytellers?Whether you grew up making mixtapes, raving until sunrise, or simply enjoying a...
Live On A Saturday Night
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In this episode, we dive into the storied history and passionate culture of Nebraska Cornhuskers football. Whether youâre a lifelong Husker fan, a college football history buff, or just curious about why a small Midwestern state lives and breathes football, this episode is for you.
Get ready for a really live and personal episode.
R.I.P The Turtles - Mark Volman
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Episode Overview
In this episode, we honor the remarkable career of Mark Volman, a musician, songwriter, and producer best recognized as a founding member of The Turtles and later as one half of the duo Flo & Eddie. Volmanâs humor, distinctive vocals, and collaborative spirit paved the way for a unique journey through the rock and pop landscape of the 1960s and beyond.
Key Topics Covered
The Early Days: Growing up in Los Angeles and forming The Turtles, who went on to achieve ma...Letâs Vote For The 5th Dimension for the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame
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Episode Summary:
In this episode, we step into the sunshine with one of the most iconic vocal groups of the late 1960s and 1970sâThe 5th Dimension. Known for their lush harmonies, groundbreaking hits, and timeless sound, this group bridged the worlds of pop, R&B, and soul while bringing messages of hope and togetherness to the charts. From âUp, Up and Awayâ to âAquarius/Let the Sunshine In,â their music became the soundtrack of a generation.
What Youâll Hear in This Episode:
đ The uniq...Remembering Rob Grill
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Rob Grill was the lead singer, bassist, and frontman of The Grass Roots, one of the most successful pop-rock bands of the late 1960s and 1970s.
Career Highlights
The Grass Roots had over a dozen charting singles, many with Grillâs signature vocals. Some of their biggest hits include:âLetâs Live for Todayâ (1967âTemptation Eyesâ (1970)Sooner or Laterâ (1971)Grill joined the band in 1967 and remained its driving force for decades, continuing to tour under The Grass Rootsname even after the groupâs mainstream success had peaked.He also r...Calling All Styx Fans!!!!!!
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Episode Summary
In this episode, we explore the journey of Styx, a Chicago-born rock band known for blending progressive rock ambition with arena rock power. From their early days in the late â60s to their chart-topping success in the late â70s and early â80s, Styx became famous for harmonies, theatrical storytelling, and genre-defying hits. Weâll discuss their classic albums and their lasting impact on rock history.
Why Youâll Love This Episode
If youâve ever found yourself singing along to Come Sail Away at full volu...
Itâs That Time Again: Micheal Martin, Youâre a Great Guy.
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This week's episode is all about the joys of early childhood friendship in the neighborhood of West Pullman in Chicago. Jeff will reminisce all about his friend, Michael. Get those mugs out for a very heart-warming and electric story. As always, he's got a great coffee and film review that you won't want to miss. Here is some exciting news - the intro now has a new voice. He hopes the audience can figure out where this new voice is. Enjoy that steaming mug of joe and have a happy Sunday from Mary...
Finally Take this job and shove it.
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Episode Summary:
From first gigs and dream careers to layoffs and hustle cultureâthis episode dives into the complicated world of jobs. Weâll talk about the evolution of work, iconic job-themed songs, labor movements, the dignity and drudgery of employment, and what âsuccessâ really means. Whether youâre grinding at a side hustle or clocking out at five, this episode is for everyone whoâs ever filled out a W-2.
In This Episode:
𧹠A brief history of labor in Americađś Songs that captured the working spirit: â9...Were they really number 1 on my birthday?
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Whoâs Sorry Now? A Connie Francis Retrospective
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Whoâs Sorry Now?â (1958)
Her breakthrough single, originally a 1923 tune; became her signature after a revival, launching her to stardomÂHer first-ever US No. 1, also recorded in German; historic as the first female-led Hot 100 chartâtopperitle track of her hit film, reached No. 4 US and became her hallmark springâbreak anthemA 1960s gem that experienced viral resurgence in 2025 via TikTok
Special Guest Has Questions For The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
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In this episode, we take a deep dive into the career of Three Dog Night, one of the most commercially successful American rock bands of the late 1960s and 1970s. With a signature sound defined by three lead vocalistsâDanny Hutton, Chuck Negron, and Cory Wellsâthe band carved out a unique niche in rock history.
How they became masters of turning other songwritersâ material into radio gold. From âJoy to the Worldâ to âMama Told Me (Not to Come),â âOne,â and âBlack and White,â Three Dog Night racked up 21...
It All Started 55 years agoâŚ
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Episode Summary:
In this episode, we rewind to July , 1970 â Dick Clark as host of American Bandstand. We explore how this humble local dance show in Philadelphia became a national phenomenon that would help launch careers, define youth culture, and soundtrack generations. From the clean-cut image to its early challenges with integration and censorship, we unpack the cultural ripple effect of this broadcast. And how did this teen dance party become a cornerstone of American pop culture?
Another week the music diedâŚ
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Background: Co-founder of The Whispers with twin brother Wallace âScottyâ Scott in 1963.
Career Highlights: Hits include âAnd the Beat Goes Onâ (1979), âRock Steadyâ; eight Top 10 R&B albums; inducted into National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014.
Passing: Died June 26, 2025, at age 81 in Northridge, CA, after a sixâmonth cancer battle.
Tributes: Celebrated by Questlove as âone of the most trusted voices in â70s soul music.â
Early fame: Teen idol of the late 1960s/early â70s with bubblegum pop h...
So they left, but....
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đď¸ Episode Title: Endless Summer, Final Curtain: The Beach Boys, Sly, and the Dark Side of the Dream
Show Notes:
In this episode, we dive deep into the haunting contradictions behind two of America's most iconic bands: The Beach Boys and Sly and the Family Stone. From the sun-soaked harmonies of California to the revolutionary funk-soul anthems of the '70s, both groups brought joy to millionsâbut beneath the surface lay tragic stories of family conflict, addiction, mental health struggles, and untimely death.
We expl...
Tribute to Amazing Men: Brian Wilson and Sly Stone
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In this episode, we dive into the minds of two of musicâs most brilliant and enigmatic figures: Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys and Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. Both transformed the soundscape of American musicâWilson with lush harmonies and symphonic surf-pop, and Stone with electrifying funk that fused soul, rock, and revolution. But behind the genius were turbulent lives marked by isolation, experimentation, and struggle.
We explore:
Brian Wilsonâs sonic innovation on Pet Sounds and his battle with mental illnessSly Stoneâs creation of a mul...You Should Be Ashamed Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
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In this episode, we take a heartfelt and critical look at one of the most beloved yet underappreciated duos in pop music history: The Carpenters. With Karen Carpenterâs hauntingly beautiful voice and Richardâs lush arrangements, The Carpenters defined a generation of soft rock and adult contemporary music. So why haven't they been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
We explore their groundbreaking influence, commercial success, and the cultural biases that may have kept them on the sidelines. From their string of chart-topping hits like âClose to Youâ a...
R.I.P Rick Derringer, Loretta Swit, and Cynthia Weil
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In this episode, we spotlight three unforgettable figures who shaped the sound, soul, and screen of American culture:
đ¸ Rick Derringer â From the rebellious energy of "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo" to his work with the McCoys and Edgar Winter, Derringerâs guitar riffs fueled a generationâs soundtrack.Â
đ Loretta Swit â Best known as the sharp-tongued, warm-hearted Major Margaret âHot Lipsâ Houlihan on MASH*, Loretta Swit broke stereotypes on-screen and became a symbol of resilience and complexity in TV's golden era.Â
âď¸ Cynthia Weil â One h...
Memorial Day
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In this episode, we pause to reflect on the meaning behind Memorial Dayâa day more than just barbecues and mattress sales. We are going to explore some tunes to listen to and get inspired by with some great music.Â
Remembering Eddie Rabbitt
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In this episode, weâre going to explore the life and music of Eddie Rabbitt, the country-pop crossover star who gave us some of the most iconic hits of the late â70s and early â80s. From writing songs for Elvis Presley to topping both country and pop charts, Rabbittâs influence went far beyond his signature song âI Love a Rainy Night.â
Eddie Rabbitt wasnât just a country artist; he was a musical bridge between genres, a radio staple, and a beloved sentimental favorite. So, grab your headphones and join us on a journe...
Happy Mother's Day
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Throw back episode!
Welcome to our first episode! Jeff has an exciting story for everyone this fine Mother's Day. He will tell us all about his coffee maker, his first cup of coffee, a life adventure, and his mother!!!
Let us raise our cups to the best women in our lives. If that be our mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, or any other amazing lady in our lives. Happy Mother's Day to all and enjoy this Sunday morning with Mary B's 5th son Jeff.
Songs About Small Town America
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In this episode, we take a heartfelt journey through the American songbook to explore how small towns have been portrayed in music. From the romanticized front porches and dusty roads to the heartbreak, nostalgia, and gritty realism, small-town life has long been a lyrical muse. We dive into tracks that celebrate tight-knit communities, critique limited opportunities, and immortalize the hometowns that shaped the artists behind the music.
Songs by John Mellencamp, Doobie Brothers, Tom Waits, among othersâoffer glimpses into the everyday hopes and struggles of small-town living. Whether it's a pl...
Movie Quotes turned into Songs
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When Movie Quotes Inspire Hit Songs
Have you ever heard a movie line that was so powerful, it became a song? Well, buckle up, because weâre about to dive into the fascinating world of movie quotes turned into songs! đŹđś
Weâll explore:
Songs that were directly inspired by famous movie lines.
How quotes like âShow Me the Money!â and âBig girls donât cry â inspired musical creativity.
Artists who turned classic dialogue into catchy choruses and unforgettable hooks.
The cultural impact of blending Hollywoo...
Happy Easter Paul Revere And Bobby Sherman
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This week, letâs toast to Easter and some classic tunes! This episode is a delightful trip down memory lane, filled with music and happy vibes. Happy Easter and happy spring!
-IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US CONTINUE TO CREATE CONTENT FOR YOU TO ENJOY EVERY SUNDAY MORNING OR ANYTIME!Â
Happy Birthday Claudia Cardinale!
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Episode Summary:
In this episode, we celebrate the enigmatic screen presence of Claudia Cardinale, one of the most iconic actresses of European cinema. Born in Tunisia to Sicilian parents, Cardinale rose to stardom in the 1960s and became known for her roles in masterpieces like 8½, The Leopard, and Once Upon a Time in the West. We explore how her unique blend of strength, beauty, and mystery defied the conventional âbombshellâ archetype and left a lasting mark on Italian and international film.
What Youâll Hear:
How C...
R.I.P. Val Kilmer
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Episode Description:
In this episode, we explore the fascinating life and career of Val Kilmer, a Hollywood icon known for his transformative performances and mysterious persona. From his early days as a Juilliard-trained actor to becoming Iceman, Batman, and Doc Holliday, Kilmerâs legacy is one of range, intensity, and resilience.
We also discuss the moving 2021 documentary Val, which gives fans an intimate look into his life, struggles with illness, and enduring creative spirit.
What You'll Hear In This Episode:
âVal Kilmer, the...
women In Music
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đ§ Episode Title: Sheâs Got the Beat: Women Who Shaped the Sound
Episode Description:
In honor of Womenâs History Month, weâre turning up the volume on the women whoâve shaped musicâon stage, behind the boards, and in the margins. From trailblazing legends to unsung heroes, this episode dives into the beats, ballads, and breakthroughs that wouldnât exist without women. Whether they were rocking arenas, penning protest anthems, or producing behind the scenes, these women didnât just play the gameâthey changed it.
What Youâll Hear...
Happy Birthday Charly McClain Country Music Superstar!
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This week Jeff wishes happy birthday to our girlâŚ. Charlie McClain! McClainâs contributions to country music during the 1980s have left a lasting impact, with her distinctive voice and memorable songs continuing to resonate with fans. Get ready to hear some amazing music this week!!Â
-IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US CONTINUE TO CREATE CONTENT FOR YOU TO ENJOY EVERY SUNDAY MORNING OR ANYTI...
My Brother John and WCFL
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This week we raise our cups and mugs to Jeff's brother, John. He is still very missed after all this time. So this episode is all about a record of his and listening to some amazing music.
-IF YOU LIKE THIS WEEKS EPISODE HELP US GROW THIS PODCAST BY RATING, SUBSCRIBE, AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @MARYBS5THSON. FINALLY, PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST WITH THOSE YOU LOVE TO HELP US CONTINUE TO CREATE CONTENT FOR YOU TO ENJOY EVERY SUNDAY MORNING OR ANYTIME!Â
All About Laura Branigan
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Episode Summary:
Today, Jeff is thrilled to have a special guest on the podcastâthe legacy manager of Laura! Laura Branigan wasnât just a singer; she was a force to be reckoned with. From her smash hit Gloria to the eerie Self Control, her voice left an indelible mark on the music industry. But behind the scenes, Braniganâs career, personal struggles, and artistic dreams painted a more complex picture of the woman behind the hits.
In this episode, weâre going to take a deep dive into...
From Close to You to Curtain Call: Karen Carpenter & Gene Hackman
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In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life and hauntingly beautiful voice of Karen Carpenterâone-half of the iconic duo, The Carpenters. From her meteoric rise to stardom in the 1970s to her heartbreaking battle with an eating disorder, we explore the talent, struggles, and legacy of one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
