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Downes Your Way

Downes Your Way

By Rebecca Downes

In Season 2, UK original Rock/Blues music artist Rebecca Downes, in conjunction with Blues in Britain (the monthly online and print magazine dedicated to the world of blues music, in all its shades and hues, in the U.K. and beyond) talks to artists and other leading players in the UK scene about the stresses and challenges they face, and the things they do to help them cope, including the role their pets play in relation to their mental health.

For more about Rebecca, see Season 1 and/or visit www.rebeccadownes.com.

For more on Blues in Britain, visit www.bluesinbritain.org/.
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Series 2 Ep 8: Review and Reflections

Downes Your WaySep 19, 2023

00:00
24:25
Series 2 Ep 8: Review and Reflections

Series 2 Ep 8: Review and Reflections

In this final episode of Series 2, Rebecca reflects on the thoughts of her guests, discusses some of the things she heard and considers how the next series might develop in the light of what she has learned.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca or Blues in Britain:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Sep 19, 202324:25
Series 2 Ep7: In Conversation with Alan Nimmo

Series 2 Ep7: In Conversation with Alan Nimmo

In this seventh episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to Alan Nimmo - guitarist, singer, songwriter and international touring musician with his band King King.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Alan Nimmo visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.kingking.co.uk/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Sep 08, 202351:01
Series 2 Ep 6: In Conversation with Big Boy Bloater

Series 2 Ep 6: In Conversation with Big Boy Bloater

In this sixth episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to Big Boy Bloater - guitarist, singer, songwriter, presenter and all-round entertainer.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Big Boy Bloater visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.bigboybloater.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Sep 01, 202346:41
Series 2 Ep 5: In Conversation with Chantel McGregor

Series 2 Ep 5: In Conversation with Chantel McGregor

In this fifth episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to another member of the music sisterhood – Chantel McGregor – award-winning musician, singer, songwriter and amazing guitarist.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Chantel McGregor visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.chantelmcgregor.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Aug 25, 202353:25
Series 2 Ep 4: In Conversation with Elles Bailey

Series 2 Ep 4: In Conversation with Elles Bailey

In this fourth episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to Elles Bailey - UK award-winning, charting musician; singer, songwriter, national radio DJ, international touring artist and mother.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Elles Bailey visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.ellesbailey.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Aug 18, 202338:53
Series 2 Ep 3: In Conversation with Danny Bryant

Series 2 Ep 3: In Conversation with Danny Bryant

In this third episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to Danny Bryant - UK blues rock musician, singer, songwriter, dog lover and – despite the challenges of Brexit for UK-based musicians – international touring artist.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Danny Bryant visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.dannybryant.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Aug 11, 202339:39
Series 2 Ep 2: In Conversation with Walter Trout

Series 2 Ep 2: In Conversation with Walter Trout

In this second episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to legendary blues guitarist Walter Trout about the challenges of the music business from the perspective of an international touring artist. Walter recounts many stories from his long career on the road, and has a powerful message to anyone starting a similar journey.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Walter Trout visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.waltertrout.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Aug 04, 202352:23
Series 2 Ep 1: In Conversation With Luke Morley

Series 2 Ep 1: In Conversation With Luke Morley

In this first episode of Series 2, Rebecca talks to Luke Morley of Thunder about the challenges of the music business and their impact on mental health, his new album 'Songs From The Blue Room', his animals and his songwriting.

This series of Downes Your Way is in association with Blues In Britain Magazine.

Original Music is 'With Me' from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint' written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.

For more information on Rebecca, Blues in Britain or Luke Morley visit:

https://www.rebeccadownes.com/

https://www.bluesinbritain.org/

https://www.lukemorleyonline.com/

Downes Your Way is recorded, edited and produced by Rebecca Downes and Colin Speller.

Comments and feedback to info@rebeccadownes.com.

© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2023

Jul 31, 202341:57
Series 1 Ep 24: A Little Help From My Friends - Rebecca Answers Livestream Questions

Series 1 Ep 24: A Little Help From My Friends - Rebecca Answers Livestream Questions

In this episode, Rebecca talks to Colin Speller, her Manager, about questions raised in the Downestream IV live session on Friday 12 June 2020. <br /><br />The merchandise discount code lasts until Monday 1 July 2020<br /><br />Background music is 'Sailing on a Pool of Tears - Chris Kimsey Re-Mix (Radio Edit)' which was a 2017 single release, written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes.<br /><br />Episode artwork photo is courtesy of Photography by Adam Kennedy.<br /><br />© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020
Sep 17, 202139:51
Series 1 Ep 23: Stripping Back 'Stripped Back' - The Making Of The New Album

Series 1 Ep 23: Stripping Back 'Stripped Back' - The Making Of The New Album

In this episode, Colin talks to Steve Birkett Snr and Steve Birkett Jnr about the making of the new album 'Stripped Back' that is due out on 9 April 2021, looking in detail at the recording, production, mixing and mastering. The music featured is short extracts of tracks from the new album. Music and podcast are © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2021.

Mar 29, 202158:28
Series 1 Ep 22: Stripped Back - New Album Out on 9 April 2021

Series 1 Ep 22: Stripped Back - New Album Out on 9 April 2021

In this episode, Rebecca talks to Colin about her new album 'Stripped Back' that is due out on 9 April 2021. The music featured is short extracts from 'Blues For Us' (new single, out now), 'More Sinner Than Saint' and 'Sailing On A Pool Of Tears', all from the new album.  Music and podcast are © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2021.

Mar 15, 202132:19
Series 1 Ep 21: Take Me Higher 3 - Vocal Coaching/The Impact of Brexit on UK Musicians

Series 1 Ep 21: Take Me Higher 3 - Vocal Coaching/The Impact of Brexit on UK Musicians

In this episode, Rebecca talks to Colin about her work as a vocal coach, then tables are turned as she asks Colin about the impact of the Brexit deal on UK musicians hoping to tour in Europe and sell merchandise to EU countries.  More details about Rebecca's vocal coaching services can be found on her website at www.rebeccadownesvocalcoach.com.  The music featured is a stripped-back version of Take Me Higher from the album More Sinner Than Saint, written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes and recorded during the live-streamed gig for the Tuesday Night Music Club in October 2020.  Music and podcast are © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2021.  

Jan 25, 202137:33
Series 1 Ep 20: The Story Behind The Lyrics - Believe

Series 1 Ep 20: The Story Behind The Lyrics - Believe

In an episode originally published as a Facebook Live broadcast, Rebecca and Steve chat with Colin Speller about the stories behind the lyrics of the songs on the second studio album Believe.  The conversation also includes some detail of the instrumental work and gives an interesting insight to the inspiration behind these wonderful songs.

The merchandise discount code lasts until Monday 18 January 2020

The podcast includes extracts from the following songs:

Never Gonna Learn,

Night Train,

It's That Easy,

Sailing On A Pool Of Tears,

Sweetness,

1000 Years,

Could Not Say No,

Long Long Time,

Momma's Got A Gun,

Salt Winds,

Come With Me Baby,

Believe.

All songs are written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes and are  © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017.

This podcast is © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2021.

Jan 04, 202135:19
Series 1 Ep 19: The Stories Behind The Lyrics - More Sinner Than Saint Part 2

Series 1 Ep 19: The Stories Behind The Lyrics - More Sinner Than Saint Part 2

In the second of two linked episodes, Rebecca and Steve talks about the stories behind the lyrics of the last six songs on the last studio album More Sinner Than Saint. The conversation also includes some detail of the instrumental work and gives an interesting insight to the inspiration behind these wonderful songs and includes a contribution from Frankie the dog.

The merchandise discount code lasts until Monday 23 November 2020

The podcast includes extracts from the following songs:

More Sinner Than Saint,
If I Go To Sleep,
Stand On My Feet,
Big Sky,
In Reverse,
With Me.

All songs are written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes and are © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019.

This podcast is © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020.

Nov 09, 202042:19
Series 1 Ep 18: The Stories Behind The Lyrics - More Sinner Than Saint Part 1

Series 1 Ep 18: The Stories Behind The Lyrics - More Sinner Than Saint Part 1

In the first of two linked episodes, Rebecca and Steve talks about the stories behind the lyrics of the first six songs on the last studio album More Sinner Than Saint. The conversation also includes some detail of the instrumental work and gives an interesting insight to the inspiration behind these wonderful songs.

The merchandise discount code lasts until Monday 23 November 2020

The podcast includes extracts from the following songs:

Take Me Higher,
Chains Fall Down,
Screaming Your Name,
Hurts,
Breathe Out,
Wave Them Goodbye.

All songs are written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes and are © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019.

This podcast is © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020.

Oct 26, 202029:43
Series 1 Ep 17: Even More Downestream - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

Series 1 Ep 17: Even More Downestream - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

In this episode Rebecca talks about the new single - Wave Them Goodbye Ft Alan Nimmo - her recent full band gig at Birmingham Streams and her next duo streamed gig via the award-winning Tuesday Night Music Club.<br /><br />The merchandise discount code lasts until Tuesday 29 September 2020<br /><br />Background music is 'Wave Them Goodbye Ft Alan Nimmo', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020.<br /><br />© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020
Sep 16, 202032:43
Series 1 Ep 16: It Seems Like 1000 Years - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

Series 1 Ep 16: It Seems Like 1000 Years - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

In this episode Rebecca gives an exclusive insight to two new releases, as well as talking about her forthcoming live stream gig, venturing out in this strange new world and vocal teaching from home.<br /><br />The merchandise discount code lasts until Tuesday 1 September 2020<br /><br />Background music is '1000 Years' from the album 'BeLive', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017.<br /><br />© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020
Aug 18, 202034:32
Series 1 Ep 15: One of our Key Workers - Back to the Start 7 with Aidan Goldstraw
Jul 06, 202038:49
Series 1 Ep 14: Mama Weer All Crazee Now - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

Series 1 Ep 14: Mama Weer All Crazee Now - Rebecca and Colin in Conversation

In this episode, as Lockdown continues, Rebecca chats to Colin Speller, her Manager, about her latest single release, the impact of aggressively negative feedback and the challenges of doing online performances.<br /><br />The merchandise discount code lasts until Monday 1 June 2020<br /><br />Background music is 'Mama Weer All Crazee Now (Radio Edit)' from the recent single release, written by Nodder Holder and Jim Lea and this version arranged by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes. <br /><br />© Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2020
May 19, 202041:08
Series 1 Ep 13: Lockdown But No Freeze-Frame - Rebecca in Conversation

Series 1 Ep 13: Lockdown But No Freeze-Frame - Rebecca in Conversation

In this episode, Colin Speller, Rebecca's Manager, talks to Rebecca about the Lockdown and the issues it raises both personally and professionally.<br /><br />The merchandise discount code lasts until Tuesday 5 May 2020<br /><br />Background music is 'Salt Winds' from the album 'Believe', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017
Apr 21, 202030:36
Series 1 Ep 12: Songs for Self-Isolation - Colin Speller
Mar 30, 202036:24
Series 1 Ep 11: Songs for Self Isolation - Steve Birkett
Mar 16, 202030:32
Series 1 Ep 10: Back To The Start 6 - Neil Ablard

Series 1 Ep 10: Back To The Start 6 - Neil Ablard

In the latest in our Back To The Start series, Colin Speller took the opportunity of a post-set break at Planet Rock Presents Winter's End festival to interview Neil Ablard, our new drummer, about his early life and his journey into music. The episode includes astonishing revelations about Rebecca's role as a site worker in a studio construction project!<br /><br />The Photo of Neil was taken by Campbell Stewart at the Ice Box, Glasgow.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />'Chains Fall Down' is from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019
Mar 03, 202029:44
Series 1 Ep 9: My Tracks for Solitary Confinement - Rebecca Downes
Feb 17, 202034:43
Series 1 Ep 8: Take Me Higher 2 - Support Gig Live Blog
Feb 03, 202030:55
Series 1 Ep 7: Our Fine Young Cannibal - Back To The Start 5 with Nigel Darvill

Series 1 Ep 7: Our Fine Young Cannibal - Back To The Start 5 with Nigel Darvill

In this episode, Colin Speller interviews Nigel Darvill, principal keys player for Rebecca, about his comprehensive, interesting and varied musical career.

In the course of the conversation, there's mention of an appearance on Top of the Pops, which can be seen at
https://youtu.be/DGOV7_svp8Y and details of Ricky Cool and the In Crowd can be found at http://rickycoolandtheincrowd.co.uk/.

Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.

'More Sinner Than Saint' is from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019
Jan 13, 202032:06
Series 1 Ep 6: Take Me Higher - How To Support Independent Music

Series 1 Ep 6: Take Me Higher - How To Support Independent Music

In this episode Rebecca and her Manager, Colin Speller, with background contributions from Ralph the dog, discuss the things fans can do to support an independent music act. Prompted by discussion on Facebook, their chat covers everything from social media to buying merchandise and from streaming to attending gigs. It's well worth a listen for fans of any independent act.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />'Take Me Higher' is from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019
Dec 09, 201934:04
Series 1 Ep 5: Stand On My Feet - The Journey Of A Song

Series 1 Ep 5: Stand On My Feet - The Journey Of A Song

Colin Speller interviews Rebecca and Steve about the journey of the track Stand On My Feet from the simple first idea created by Rebecca on a piano right through to the final track, mixed by Bill Drescher, that was released on the 2019 album More Sinner Than Saint. <br /><br />This episode gives an insight to the song writing and development process followed by Rebecca and Steve.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />'Stand On My Feet' is from the album 'More Sinner Than Saint', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2019
Nov 25, 201941:29
Series 1 Ep 4: Back to the Start 4 - Rebecca and Steve

Series 1 Ep 4: Back to the Start 4 - Rebecca and Steve

Continuing the theme of how it all started, Colin Speller interviews Rebecca Downes and Steve Birkett about their first meeting, the early days of their music and how they work together to write and release songs.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code is valid for two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />Background music is 'Back To The Start' from the album 'BeLive', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017
Nov 11, 201939:28
Series 1 Ep 3: Back to the Start 3 - The Management

Series 1 Ep 3: Back to the Start 3 - The Management

Roles are reversed in this episode as Rebecca interviews Colin Speller about how he got involved in her music business and what he thinks about the current state of the music industry.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />Background music is 'Back To The Start' from the album 'BeLive', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017
Oct 28, 201941:13
Series 1 Ep 2: Back to the Start 2 - Steve Birkett

Series 1 Ep 2: Back to the Start 2 - Steve Birkett

In this second episode, co-songwriter and lead guitarist describes his musical career up to the point he started working with Rebecca.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />Background music is 'Back To The Start' from the album 'BeLive', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017
Oct 07, 201932:36
Series 1 Ep 1: Back to the Start 1 - Rebecca

Series 1 Ep 1: Back to the Start 1 - Rebecca

In this first episode, Rebecca recalls her early music career taking us from first beginnings up to the point she met Steve Birkett.<br /><br />Please note that the merchandise discount code lasts two weeks from the date of publication.<br /><br />Background music is 'Back To The Start' from the album 'BeLive', written by Steve Birkett and Rebecca Downes © Rebecca Downes Music Ltd 2017
Sep 23, 201933:53