It’s 1988, and somehow — against all odds — the Beach Boys have the #1 song in America. Eric Alper joins Shane Hewitt for Throwback Thursday to unpack how Kokomo became a generational anthem, why Brian Wilson wasn’t even on the track, and how a song about tropical islands saved a California band’s career.

From family feuds to therapist blockades, discover the wild story behind one of the most unlikely pop comebacks ever. Plus, what Kokomo teaches us about reinvention, nostalgia, and the strange power of a conga line.

GUEST:
 Eric Alper
@thatericalper
thatericalper.com

Originally aired on 2025-11-06

It&rsquo;s 1988, and somehow &mdash; against all odds &mdash; the Beach Boys have the #1 song in America. Eric Alper joins Shane Hewitt for Throwback Thursday to unpack how Kokomo became a generational anthem, why Brian Wilson wasn&rsquo;t even on the track, and how a song about tropical islands saved a California band&rsquo;s career.
From family feuds to therapist blockades, discover the wild story behind one of the most unlikely pop comebacks ever. Plus, what Kokomo teaches us about reinvention, nostalgia, and the strange power of a conga line.
GUEST: Eric Alper @thatericalper thatericalper.com
Originally aired on&nbsp;2025-11-06

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Advertisement