Hitmaker Dean Friedman (EP 74)
Attention, dear listeners! This episode carries a few advisory warnings. We're delving into content that features a song peppered with a spicy word or two and discussions that may not be appropriate for a younger audience. It's not exactly "shield your grandma's ears" material, but it's certainly not kindergarten fare. Consider this episode to have a "PG-13" rating—there's a bit of mischief, but all in good fun. Our squeaky-clean reputation? Well, it's taking a tiny holiday!
If what you hear doesn't offend you, then you may end up laughing with us. Is Derringer Discoveries now a comedy podcast? With the hitmaker Dean Friedman joining us, the answer is a definite yes! If you're not chuckling throughout this episode, perhaps it's time to see if your internal laugh meter needs a tune-up.
Additionally, we delve into Dean Friedman's 2005 UK tour, which nearly came to a halt due to a cannabis controversy! Can you say scandalous? Indeed, it was so scandalous that 39 of the 40 venues canceled upon learning of Dean's plans! We give a shout-out to the one venue in Scotland that supported Dean amidst the uproar.
But this is not the worst of it! In this episode, we analyze a song featuring a teenage protagonist who was (and may still be) a frequent visitor to the Golden Arches. A song so troubling that, in 1982, it was actually banned by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and it derailed Dean's career.
This episode also features a mix of positive, family-friendly content. For instance, we discuss how the vegetarian protagonist in Dean Friedman's international Top 40 hit "Ariel" influenced Paul Derringer's romantic life. Tune in to the episode to discover more!
We also learn of Dean's 44-year marriage to the love of his life, Alison. How many famous recording artists can make this claim? We don't know! (That's why we're asking.)
Furthermore, we reflect on Dean's illustrious 47+ year career in the music business, minus the almost 20 years he was exiled on a remote desert island (well, not an actual desert island - just New Jersey) after being banned by the BBC in 1982.
Besides the US and Canada Top 40 hit "Ariel," Dean also scored two Top 40 hits in the UK, with one reaching #3 in 1978. Interestingly, the same song banned by the BBC in 1982 was eventually covered by Canada's Barenaked Ladies and then it became a US Top 40 hit for another recording artist! That artist took it all the way to #1 in Norway.
What happens next after you've written a #1 hit? Well, if you're Dean, you license the song to one of the biggest corporations in the world and it becomes a major radio and television commercial.
To seal the deal, Dean agreed to revise the age of the person with whom the protagonist is in love, even though they were originally both the same age! Furthermore, you can no longer identify anyone in the song as a virgin. Gone is the purity! And no more polyester, which is how Dean described the clothing worn by the Golden Arches employee in the original version!
US listeners have likely heard the commercial, a snippet of which is included in this episode. It's best enjoyed with a cup of coffee, which will become clear upon listening.
After experiencing this fun-filled episode, you will have the opportunity to see Dean Friedman "live" in concert. Starting in early 2025, Dean will be on tour in the US and then the UK. Find your nearest city, buy tickets, and tell Dean that you heard him on Derringer Discoveries. You can do it right here:
Dean Friedman 2025 US Tour by Concerts, Inc. | Eventbrite
For those willing to journey to Charlottesville, Virginia (US), Dean's 2025 tour will feature a stop at Derringer Discoveries' Park Street Coffee House. Secure your tickets for the March 29th show before they're all gone.
Dean Friedman - In Concert [Charlottesville, VA] Tickets, Sat, Mar 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite
As a special bonus, attending the Charlottesville concert means you'll meet the three members of Team Derringer: Laura,
