Dennis Diken: podcast appearances and interviews

Dennis Diken, born on February 25, 1957, is an American drummer known for his role as a founding member of the band the Smithereens. He formed the band in 1980 in Carteret, New Jersey, along with Pat DiNizio, Jim Babjak, and Mike Mesaros. In addition to his work with the Smithereens, Diken is a fill-in DJ at WFMU, where he shares his expertise in music through radio. He is also an author of liner notes and serves as a researcher for reissue projects, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of music history. Throughout his career, Diken has collaborated with a range of prominent artists, including Ronnie Spector, Dave Davies, Nancy Sinatra, Mary Weiss of the Shangri-Las, and Ben E. King. His work with other musicians extends to touring and recording with artists such as Dave Amels and R. Stevie Moore. Diken graduated from Carteret High School in 1975, alongside Jim Babjak. His varied career reflects his multifaceted engagement with music as a performer, historian, and educator.