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Donnie Iris: The Hit You Know, The Career You Don’t [Episode 362]
Published 2 months, 2 weeks ago
Description
Rock fans know “Ah! Leah!” — but there’s so much more to the story.
In this episode, I’m joined by D.X. Ferris, author of The Story of Donnie Iris and The Cruisers, for a deep dive into the career of Donnie Iris — from his early days with The Jaggerz and Wild Cherry to his breakout success with The Cruisers and the timeless power-pop anthem “Ah! Leah!”
We explore how Iris crafted one of the most recognizable hooks in rock radio history, why his music still resonates decades later, and the perseverance that built a lasting career far beyond a single hit. Ferris shares insights from his book, behind-the-scenes stories, and perspective on what makes Donnie Iris such a uniquely enduring artist.
If you think you know Donnie Iris, think again.
Purchase a copy of The Story of Donnie Iris and The Cruisers
Find out more about D.X. Ferris
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The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe
In this episode, I’m joined by D.X. Ferris, author of The Story of Donnie Iris and The Cruisers, for a deep dive into the career of Donnie Iris — from his early days with The Jaggerz and Wild Cherry to his breakout success with The Cruisers and the timeless power-pop anthem “Ah! Leah!”
We explore how Iris crafted one of the most recognizable hooks in rock radio history, why his music still resonates decades later, and the perseverance that built a lasting career far beyond a single hit. Ferris shares insights from his book, behind-the-scenes stories, and perspective on what makes Donnie Iris such a uniquely enduring artist.
If you think you know Donnie Iris, think again.
Purchase a copy of The Story of Donnie Iris and The Cruisers
Find out more about D.X. Ferris
----------
🎧 Listen Ad-Free on Patreon
Support Booked On Rock and get every new episode completely commercial-free with the Backstage Pass.
Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/BookedOnRock
🛒 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
TIKTOK
X
Find Your Nearest Independent Bookstore
Contact The Booked On Rock Podcast: thebookedonrockpodcast@gmail.com
The Booked On Rock Music: “Whoosh” by Crowander / “Last Train North” & “No Mercy” by TrackTribe