Why 'Maps' Is One of Rock's Most Iconic Love Songs

In 2003, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs were not only emerging as one of the most stellar bands in a particularly thrilling New York rock scene, but also as one of the most exciting bands in the world. Their breakout hit "Maps" would be a major pop crossover moment, joining the lexicon of great and timeless rock and roll love songs.

At the band's helm was Karen O, the firecracker of a lead vocalist whose songwriting, style and stage presence has influenced an ever-growing list of rock and pop stars in her wake. She met drummer Brian Chase while attending Oberlin and later connected with guitarist Nick Zinner at NYU. When the three combined forces in 2000, it would lead to the arty-punk tour de force that was their debut album Fever to Tell and some of the most talked about gigs around NYC during the Meet Me in the Bathroom era.

On this week’s episode hosts Rob Sheffield and Brittany Spanos discuss "Maps" by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and are joined by their brilliant colleague Julyssa Lopez to meditate on what makes the song (and its legendary video) so iconic, while also breaking down Karen O's legacy as one of the great vocalists and frontpeople in rock history.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:15 Discussing 'Maps' by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
01:03 Personal Reflections on 'Maps'
01:35 The New York Punk Rock Scene
03:32 Formation and Rise of Yeah Yeah Yeahs
05:17 Impact and Legacy of 'Maps'
09:23 Influence on Pop and Teen Pop
11:46 Beyoncé's Interpolation in 'Lemonade'
13:35 Indie Sleaze Revival
19:29 Karen O's Influence and Future
31:12 Conclusion and Credits

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