Jukebox Journey Explores the Rhythm of Sleep

Host Kevin McCorry chronicles songs about our cycle of sleep, from hibernation to insomnia.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In this edition of Jukebox Journey, host Kevin McCorry explores the theme of sleep through a musical montage spanning decades and genres. The program pays homage to the hibernating groundhog, drawing parallels to the character arc of Bill Murray's role in the 1990s film "Groundhog Day". McCorry delves into the various states of sleep, from the deep slumber of true hibernation to the restless tossing and turning of insomnia, and how these experiences are reflected in popular music.

Why it matters

Sleep is a fundamental part of the human experience, yet it is often overlooked or taken for granted. By exploring the theme of sleep through the lens of music, this Jukebox Journey episode offers listeners a unique perspective on the importance of rest and the ways in which it shapes our daily lives and creative expression.

The details

The program features a diverse selection of songs that touch on various aspects of sleep, from Tom Waits' "Innocent When You Dream (78)" to The Beatles' "I'm So Tired". McCorry also incorporates clips from the film "Groundhog Day" to draw parallels between the character's journey and the universal experience of sleep. The episode explores the contrast between the deep slumber of hibernation and the restlessness of insomnia, as well as the sense of renewal and rejuvenation that can come with a good night's sleep.

  • The program is aired on February 1, 2026, coinciding with the annual Groundhog Day celebration.
  • The songs featured in the montage span multiple decades, from the 1950s to the 2000s.

The players

Kevin McCorry

The host of Jukebox Journey, a music-focused program on WHYY.

Bill Murray

The actor who played the lead role in the 1993 film "Groundhog Day".

Punxsutawney Phil

The famous groundhog whose annual appearance on Groundhog Day is the subject of the program's exploration.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A thousand people freezing their butts off, waiting to worship a rat. What a hype.”

— Phil Conners

“Standing here among the people of Punxsutawney, and basking in their hearths and hearts, I couldn't imagine a better fate than a long and lustrous winter.”

— Phil Conners

What’s next

The program will continue to explore the theme of sleep and its cultural significance in future episodes of Jukebox Journey.

The takeaway

This Jukebox Journey episode highlights the universal human experience of sleep, from the deep slumber of hibernation to the restlessness of insomnia, and how these states of being are reflected in the rich tapestry of popular music. By drawing connections between the groundhog's annual ritual and the character arc of Bill Murray's role in "Groundhog Day", the program offers listeners a unique perspective on the importance of rest and the ways in which it shapes our daily lives and creative expression.