A Breath of Fresh Air - warm, candid conversations with the biggest musical stars of the 60s 70s 80s

John McEuen was born in 1945 and spent his high school years in California’s Orange County. He and lifelong high-school friend Steve Martin both got a job in 1963 in the magic shop at Disneyland when they were just 16.

When John saw Missouri bluegrass group The Dillards in an Orange County club a couple of years later, his life changed forever. He knew he wanted to be “a traveling music man”.

As a multi-instrumentalist (banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle) John has been recognised as a founding member and award-winning outstanding performer of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. He left the group at the end of the 50th year anniversary tour in 2017 due to demands for his solo work and the desire to do new things.

In addition to John’s numerous solo accolades, NGDB was inducted in to Colorado Music Hall of Fame 2015. It's all covered in his book 'The Life I’ve Picked' from 2018.

In 1971 John initiated the now landmark Will the Circle be Unbroken* album, hooking Nitty Gritty Dirt Band up with his musical mentors Earl Scruggs and Doc Watson. The now multi-platinum “Circle” is in both the Library of Congress and the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Radio Host, author, television show producer, writer, concert promoter, multi-instrumental musician, performer and magician.

His second book – Will the Circle Be Unbroken – 50th anniversary Year – The Making of a Landmark Album captures 145 of his brother’s (record producer/manager) ‘masterpiece’ photos and tells the stories behind each one.

John has made over 46 albums (7 solo) that have earned four platinum and five gold records, multiple Grammy Awards and nominations, CMA and ACM awards, an Emmy film score nomination, IBMA record of the year award, and performed on another 25 albums as guest artist. John’s production of Steve Martin – The Crow won the 2010 Best Bluegrass Album Grammy.

Other accolades include: Grammy nomination for String Wizards II, the Uncle Dave Macon Award (for excellence in preservation and performance of historic music). He is a producer/composer of film scores and has produced award-winning projects of his own and for several other artists.

John has continually performed since 1963 – doing over 11,000 concerts, 300 television shows, 10,000 interviews and flown more than 4 million miles. John's rich history of creating, producing and preserving original and traditional folk music earned him the 2013 Charlie Poole Lifetime Achievement Award. John was inducted in 2017 to the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame

In this episode, John shares the stories from his musical life and tells us how excited he is to have recently released something entirely different. It's a spoken word album called "The Newsman: A Man of Record" which is a collection of poems and stories set to music.

Leland Sklar has been a prominent figure among Hollywood session bassists dating back to the 1970s and ever since. Born in 1947 in Milwaukee, Lee has more than 2000 albums to his credit (and still counting), and is considered to be one of the "A" players in the highly selective L.A. rock music community where the competition for recording dates is fierce, and where only the strongest survive.

His very recognisable bass playing style has been heard on hits by Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, Hall & Oates, Jackson Browne, Carole King, Phil Collins, Keith Richards and Reba McEntire to name just a few.

Leland has played on TV shows like Hill Street Blues, Knight Rider, Simon and Simon, and also on many films, including Forrest Gump, Ghost, Kindergarten Cop, and My Best Friend's Wedding.

Leland moved to Los Angeles when he was very young and started playing piano at age four. When he entered Junior High he fully intended to continue as a pianist in the school music program but found that there was an overabundance of piano students, but no string bass players. His instructor asked him if he’d consider playing bass and his life changed forever.

It was toward the end of the '60s that Lee met James Taylor and the pair started playing gigs together. However, when James Taylor’s "Fire and Rain" became a huge hit record, Leland Sklar's career also began to take off. The buzz surrounding this new bass player didn't take long to spread around Hollywood, and Leland Sklar quickly became one of the most sought after “A” list session musicians around town.

Today The Immediate Family of which he is a member can legitimately be called a supergroup.
Their new self-titled full-length album contains twelve original songs, including a rendition of the Waddy Wachtel/Warren Zevon cowrite "Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead" and the Danny Kortchmar/Jackson Browne collaboration "Somebody's Baby."

Over the years Leland has worked with most of the top session players in Hollywood and is especially close to his long-time friends and members of The Immediate Family. This iconic supergroup has played together for decades, but never as their own band. Known for their long, illustrious careers backing music's finest, guitarists Danny Kortchmar and Waddy Wachtel, drummer Russ Kunkel, and bassist Leland Sklar have come together, along with guitarist Steve Postell, to perform their own songs as The Immediate Family.

There is also a documenatry out now simply called The Immediate Family which details their rise to fame.

Meet the inimatable Leland Sklar this week as he shares the story of his meteoric rise to fame.

Tom Petersson is a musician best known as the bassist and co-founder of the iconic rock band Cheap Trick. Born in Rockford, Illinois, Petersson's musical journey began at an early age when he picked up the guitar. However, he later transitioned to bass guitar, a move that would define his signature sound and role in shaping Cheap Trick's distinctive style.

In the early 70s, Petersson co-founded Cheap Trick with guitarist Rick Nielsen, drummer Bun E. Carlos, and vocalist Robin Zander. The band quickly gained recognition for their high-energy performances, catchy melodies, and fusion of hard rock, pop, and punk influences. Petersson's melodic basslines became a hallmark of Cheap Trick's sound, adding depth and groove to their music.

Throughout his career with Cheap Trick, Petersson has been a key contributor to the band's success, both in the studio and on stage. His innovative bass playing can be heard on many of the band's hit songs, including "Surrender," "I Want You to Want Me," "Dream Police," and "The Flame."

In addition to his work with Cheap Trick, Petersson has collaborated with various artists and pursued solo projects. He released a solo album titled "Tom Petersson & Another Language" in 1984, showcasing his versatility as a musician beyond the confines of Cheap Trick's sound.

Petersson's influence extends beyond his musical contributions. His distinctive 12-string bass guitar, custom-built by Hamer Guitars, has become iconic in the rock world, inspiring generations of bassists. He is also known for popularizing the use of the 12-string bass in rock music, pushing the boundaries of the instrument and paving the way for its acceptance in mainstream rock.

Over the years, Petersson and Cheap Trick have received numerous accolades and awards, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016. Despite lineup changes and the evolving music industry, Petersson remains an integral part of Cheap Trick's enduring legacy, continuing to tour and record with the band, captivating audiences with his dynamic bass playing and infectious stage presence. Tom Petersson's contributions to rock music and his enduring influence on bassists worldwide solidify his status as a legendary figure in the annals of rock history.

Ian Gillan was one of the foremost vocalists of the heavy metal style of rock that emerged in the ‘70s, earning his greatest celebrity as a member of Deep Purple despite the fact that he also led his own bands. Ian began singing while still in his teens and was a member of several pub rock bands.  It was in one of these that he met bass player Roger Glover, and the two were invited to join Deep Purple in 1969. They debuted with the band in London of the same year. Ian Gillan’s voice was the making of Deep Purple and he was featured on a series of hugely successful  recordings including Fireball, Machine Head, Made in Japan and Who Do We Think We Are.

He also starred on Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's concept album Jesus Christ Superstar where he sang the title role. That album topped the U.S. charts in 1971.

Ian Gillan recorded and toured the world relentlessly in those days until he was hospitalised for exhaustion in 1971. He decided to take leave of the band and, just as he left, "Smoke on the Water" from Machine Head began making its way up the U.S. charts, where it would peak in the Top Five and go gold, becoming Deep Purple's biggest ever career hit.

Ian then bought a recording studio and signed a solo deal with a small record company. He formed the Ian Gillan Band and in 1975, their debut album, Child in Time, entered the charts. Switching record labels, the group simplified its name to Gillan and recorded a series of albums, many of which hit the charts worldwide.

At the end of 1982, Ian disbanded Gillan, announcing that he had to rest his vocal cords on doctor's orders. The following year, he surprised fans by joining Black Sabbath and recorded their album Born Again. He also began touring with the band. Ian says he was lucky to survive that ongoing party.

In 1984, the original 1969-1973 line up of Deep Purple got back together. They cut the million-selling Perfect Strangers and the House of Blue Light. In 1989, Ian Gillan again quit the band. That December, he participated in an all-star remake of "Smoke on the Water" issued as a charity single which made the British Top 40.

Ian Gillan continued to release solo albums. At the end of 1992, he again returned to Deep Purple and the band commenced a world tour. Ian left yet again and in 1998, he released yet another solo album. After 2009's offering, he continued to focus on Deep Purple and didn’t make another solo album for almost a decade.

These days Ian Gillan remains at the helm of Deep Purple and the album "Machine Head - Deluxe 50th Anniversary Edition" has just been released.

The box set with LP, three CDs, Blu-Ray, booklet and various memorabilia also includes a remastered version of the original mix, a 1972 concert recording from London and a previously unreleased recording from 1971 made at the Casino Montreux which later burned down. It was included, despite its limited sound quality, "because of its historical relevance" according to the notes on the back of the box.

Despite all the nostalgia and the loss of his wife a couple of years ago, Ian Gillan is again looking forward. He is currently living on the coast in Portugal and is at work on the band's next studio album - number 23 - with his long-time band mates Roger Glover and Ian Paice. The 78 year old is getting set for yet another Deep Purple tour that’s about to kick off in Australia.

Elliott Randall is one of the greatest guitarists of the Rock era. His solos on Steely Dan’s hit “Reelin’ In The Years” and Irene Cara’s “Fame” are nothing short of iconic.

To the uninitiated, it might seem like Elliott has made a career out of saying no to great opportunities. Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, The Blues Brothers and Toto all asked him to join their bands and he said no.

But Elliot is different. He has always trusted his intuition. Known as one of the greatest session musicians around, he's the man behind that renowned Reelin' In The Years Steely Dan solo (which is said to be Jimmy Page's favourite ever lead guitar break) among literally hundreds, if not thousands, of other cuts. He also continues to write, produce, consult, engineer, tutor and perform to this day.

In this interview we turn back the clock to learn about his upbringing in NYC and his passion for music ignited at a young age. During his formative years, Elliott immersed himself in the vibrant musical culture of the 50s and 60s. He took guitar lessons, honed his skills and his dedication caught the attention of instructors and peers alike. By the time he had ended his teens, Elliott had already been a pro' player for four or five years. In 1967, Musicor Records (who gave the world Gene Pitney) offered him a role as a Staff Musician. He then joined the roots fusion act Seatrain briefly in 1969, and signed as a solo artist, releasing his debut album in 1970.

It was the death of his good friend Jimi Hendrix that helped Elliott realise he didn't need to be the rockstar or the centre of attention so he began working with other artists and clients, providing solutions for their musical and commercial success.

The most well known four-and-a-half minutes of his guitar life became the lead breaks he added to Steely Dan's megahit Reelin' In The Years in 1972. It has received acclaim from other players and audiences alike.

Since then Elliott Randall has played with Joan Baez, Chuck Berry, Kate Bush, The Doobie Brothers, Peter Frampton, Art Garfunkel, Albert Hammond, Bob Marley, Yoko Ono, Gene Simmons, Loudon Wainright III, Gary Barlow of Take That fame, and many, many more.

He has also soundtracked jingles for some of world's biggest brands including Coca-Cola, Budweiser, McDonald's, Citi Bank, Procter & Gamble, MTV, ESPN and BBC TV. He's also performed for musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar on Broadway, and has been a musical consultant for Saturday Night Live and the film director Oliver Stone.

Elliott's passion for music continues unabated today. His story is fascinating and I hope you will enjoy every minute of it.

With his hard, edgy tone, rough and rowdy vocals, and barroom boogie aesthetic, Canadian singer, guitarist, and keyboardist Pat Travers is a fine example of a Canadian bluesy hard rock act.

He emerged during the '70s heyday of hard blues-rocking guitar heroes. His 8 albums from his 1976 debut through to 1984 netted seven Top 200 chart placements and two Top 40 singles, including the party anthem classic "Boom Boom (Out Go the Lights)."

Pat is equally adept at playing funk, jazz, and prog and has toured almost annually for more than 40 years.

Born in Toronto in 1954, Pat first picked up the guitar after seeing a local performance by Jimi Hendrix. He began studying the other top rock guitarists of the day - Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page.

He then hooked up with '50s rock & roll vet Ronnie Hawkins  (best known for performing with a backing band that would eventually become The Band.

But Travers' first love was hard rock, so he packed up and headed to London. In 1976 his performance at the Reading Festival resulted in two releases before he returned to North America and set his sights on the U.S. rock market.

The new Travers band lineup led to his most commercially successful period, resulting in a pair of Top 30 releases, including 1980's Crash and Burn.

Unfortunately as the '80s got underway, the music changed and bluesy hard rock wasn't in demand any longer.

Pat Travers continued releasing albums but they sold less so he opted to take a break from producing records although he did continue to tour solidly.

And he still does.

In 2022, Travers issued The Art of Time Travel, a return to hard blues-rock.

Numerous controversies and triumphs have only added depth to Pat Travers' storied career, and today his musical journey continues to evolve. His story is not just a biography but a testament to the enduring power of musical expression and the indelible mark one artist can leave on the world.

Pat has worked hard to establish his well deserved reputation as being one of the very best hard rock guitarists in the world today.

Born in Memphis, singer/songwriter/guitarist, Billy Burnette spent most of his youth in the presence of father Dorsey and uncle Johnny (of the legendary Rock and Roll Trio).  The Trio made the Rockabilly name famous by combining the name Billy and his cousin Rocky for the 1953 “Rockabilly Boogie” – thus making the term Rockabilly a household name.

The legendary trio influenced a diverse array of Rock icons including: the Elvis, Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Rod Stewart, Aerosmith, and Ricky Nelson. Elvis used to spend many evenings jamming with the band. It’s not surprising then that Billy started making music at the age of 7.

At 15 Billy picked up a guitar and began writing songs.  At 18, he was only a week out of high school when he recorded an album with famed Memphis hit-making producer Chips Moman (“Suspicious Minds” and “In the Ghetto” for Elvis).

In his early 20’s, Billy wrote songs for artists like Rod Stewart, Ray Charles, Roy Orbison, Tammy Wynette, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Everly Brothers, Conway Twitty, Loretta Lynn, Glen Campbell, and many more.

In 1980, Billy met Mick Fleetwood (of Fleetwood Mac).  The two musicians became fast friends and formed the band Mick Fleetwood’s Zoo

Soon after Billy began his journey as a member of one of the greatest rock bands of all time.  Billy joined and toured with Fleetwood Mac between 1987-1995, appearing on many of their albums.

In 2003, Billy co-wrote a tune for Bonnie Raitt and Ray Charles called “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind.” This tune appeared on the album Genius Loves Company, which was the last studio album that Ray Charles recorded and completed. The album garnered 10 Grammy nominations and won Album of the Year.
In 2006, Billy Burnette returned to his roots and recorded one of the most revered Rockabilly albums of his career, Memphis in Manhattan.  He not only recorded several original tunes – but also payed tribute to his father and uncle, by recording “It’s Late” and “Tear it Up.”   In addition, he recorded an Everly Brothers classic, “Bye, Bye Love,” and a song made popular by none other than his very own Memphis neighbour, Elvis: “Big Hunk of Love.”

A collaboration with Shawn Camp and Dennis Morgan became the hit song “River of Love.” George Strait recorded the tune for his 2008 album Troubador, and “River of Love” went on to become Strait’s 44th Number One hit single.

In the last few years, Billy Burnette has contributed his talents as a guitar player and singer on tours with legendary musicians Bob Dylan and John Fogerty. Additionally, he also collaborates regularly with the Mick Fleetwood Band.

Billy continues to write, record and perform today. He lives in Nashville and is still as passionate about making music as he has always been. I hope you enjoy the story of Billy Burnette's musical journey.

The Animals were an English rock band of the 1960s, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne. The original lineup featured Eric Burdon (vocals), John Steel (drums), Hilton Valentine (guitar), and Chas Chandler (bass). The group is most famous for their top-five hit single “House of the Rising Sun” along with other popular songs like “We’ve Gotta Get Out of this Place” and “It’s My Life”.

Early Years The Animals were formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1962, with Eric Burdon as lead singer and Chas Chandler as bassist and manager. They were joined by Hilton Valentine on guitar and John Steel on drums. The band was heavily influenced by rhythm and blues music, particularly that of Chuck Berry and Little Richard. They signed a contract with Columbia Records and released their first single, “Baby Let Me Take You Home” in 1964.

Breakthrough Success The Animals’ breakthrough came with the single “House of the Rising Sun”, which reached number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1964. The song was originally recorded by folk singer Woody Guthrie, but it was the Animals' version that achieved mainstream success. The song was also featured on their debut album, The Animals. The band followed up with another successful single, “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” which reached number two on the UK singles chart in 1965.Later Career The band released several more albums in the 1960s including Animal Tracks (1965) and Animalisms (1966). In 1967 they disbanded following Eric Burdon’s departure to form the Eric Burdon Band. The remaining members reunited briefly in 1977 for an album and tour before splitting again. In 1983, they reunited again for the album Ark and toured extensively throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Legacy The Animals are remembered as one of the most influential British bands of the 1960s, having helped to shape the sound of rock music for generations to come. They have been cited as an influence by many artists including Jimi Hendrix, Van Morrison, Neil Young, and Tina Turner. Their seminal song “House of the Rising Sun” has been covered countless times by other artists.

Original co-founder and drummer, John Steel joins us this week to share the story of his amazing musical journey.

Arthur Brown burst out of obscurity in 1968 with "Fire," an energetic fusion of blues, jazz and psychedelia with his over-the-top vocals invoking the dangers of the dark side. “Fire” launched Arthur to fame worldwide.

He was born in North Yorkshire in 1942. After attending a grammar school Arthur studied at University where he focused on law and philosophy. His interest in music began to overwhelm his academic pursuits, and he formed his first band, an R&B combo called Blues and Brown. After a spell in France, where he dabbled in theatre, Arthur returned to the U.K. and worked with a number of groups in London. Not long after Brown left one -the Ramong Sound, they changed their name to the Foundations and scored international hits with "Build Me Up Buttercup" and "Baby, Now That I've Found You." Arthur however wasn’t fussed.

He had Kit Lambert and Pete Townshend produce his self-titled debut album from which “Fire” emerged and The God of Hellfire was born. His band, The Crazy Worldof Arthur Brown was known for its live show, which featured Arthur wearing a helmet that spat fire. Sometimes he would take to the stage naked and as such became one of the most talked-about characters in British rock.

 In the wake of the success of their debut, the band cut a second album and kept touring; for a short while Carl Palmer took over as drummer. Arthur’s next group's sound was darker and even more esoteric than the Crazy World. Arthur then stepped out as a solo act with 1974's Dance with Arthur Brown, a more straightforward and accessible album rooted in international rhythms. His public profile got a boost in 1975 when he was cast as the Priest in Ken Russell's film adaptation of the Who's rock opera Tommy, which was a major box office success. The following year, he made a guest appearance on Tales of Mystery and Imagination: Edgar Allan Poe, the debut album from the Alan Parsons Project. In 1979. Klaus Schulze, of Tangerine Dream invited Arthur to lend vocals to some of his work but in the early '80s, Brown left England to settle in Austin, Texas, where he earned a degree in counseling and opened a music-based practice. He also opened a house painting and carpentry business with Jimmy Carl Black, a former member of Frank Zappa's Mothers of Invention. For the most part, Arthur had stepped away from music, though he and Jimmy Carl Black did team up again for 1988's Brown, Black & Blue, a powerful blues-rock set.

The new Crazy World returned for 2003's Vampire Suite, and Brown became a regular guest at Hawkwind concerts, appearing on their 2006 album Take Me to Your Future. 2008's The Voice of Love, released under the moniker the Amazing World of Arthur Brown, included guest appearances from Dick Taylor and Mark St. John of the Pretty Things. A spate of archival live releases dominated Arthurs's catalogue in the 2010s as he continued to tour extensively, including dates with Carl Palmer's group ELP Legacy and Hawkwind. Brown returned to recording with his latest edition of the Crazy World for 2014's Zim Zam Zim.

Arthur celebrated his 80th birthday in 2022 and today is in hot demand to play concerts and festivals all over Europe.

We catch up with the iconic artist this week and he regales us with a whole host of interesting stories.

John Hall is a founding member of the band Orleans and one of the main instigators of the No Nukes and MUSE (Musicians United for Safe Energy) movements. He’s been intimately involved in promoting social change and environmental advocacy, both as a private citizen and as an elected representative in Congress.

John was studying piano at 5, playing French horn, guitar bass and drums by 12. He started playing in the clubs of Greenwich Village by 18 and at 21 wrote and directed music for a Broadway and Off-Broadway play. He then worked on numerous projects including Seals and Crofts’ album Down Home. He toured with Taj Mahal and when he came home, started the band that would become Orleans in 1972.

Moving to Woodstock NY with his wife Johanna, the pair began writing together. They had major hits ‘Dance With Me’ and ‘Still The One’, songs that have garnered 9 million terrestrial airplays and hundreds of millions of streams.

John has also co-written songs for Janis Joplin, Millie Jackson, Bonnie Raitt, The Tymes, Chaka Khan and Chet Atkins among others. He co-founded the group Musicians United for Safe Energy and helped organise the 1979 No Nukes concerts at Madison Square Garden. His song 'Power' was its anthem, performed and recorded there by the Doobie Brothers with James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, Graham Nash, Carly Simon, Nicolette Larson, Phoebe Snow, and many more. That song was also sung by Peter Paul and Mary, Pete Seeger and others. John’s guitar playing was featured on albums by Browne, Raitt, Carly Simon, Little Feat and more. In the 90s the John Hall Band recorded two LPs: Search Party and All Of The Above, which contained the AOR and MTV staple Crazy (Keep On Fallin’). 

Environmental activism led John to serve on several boards. In 2006 he was elected to the US House of Representatives and also served on the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming.

Returning to private life in 2011, John continued to perform and record with Orleans and as a solo artist. During the pandemic, he wrote and recorded songs for his latest CD “Reclaiming My Time.”

John Hall joins us this week as special guest to share the stories (and the music) from his life. I hope you'll join us.

Meet Russell Morris, one of Australia's must enduring, most talented and most beloved singer, songwriters.

From his pop stardom in the '60s to pioneering singer-songwriter, Russell has shaped the country's musical landscape for over seven decades.

We explore the origins of his iconic hit, "The Real Thing," and the unconventional journey that led him to pursue a solo career. Discover the role Ian Meldrum played in transforming a six-and-a-half-minute epic into a chart-topping sensation, defying industry norms.

Russell shares anecdotes from his early days, revealing the supportive environment that fuelled his passion for music. From his unconventional start to becoming an Australian rock legend, this episode is a journey through the highs and lows of a remarkable career.

Starting as a pop sensation in the '60s, Russell faced a tough road ahead when his early hits didn't translate into lasting success. Undeterred, he explored different genres and even went MIA for a while. Fast forward to the '70s, and Russell makes a surprising comeback with the iconic "The Real Thing."

He shares the wild story behind the creation of the song, involving an LSD trip and a makeshift studio in a houseboat. The success of "The Real Thing" catapults him back into the limelight, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. Russell opens up about the challenges of dealing with record labels, the music industry, and the highs and lows of fame. Our chat delves into the nitty-gritty of Russell's artistic evolution, from pop to blues, and the unexpected twists that kept his career vibrant.

In a nutshell, it's a rollercoaster tale of a music legend who faced setbacks, embraced change, and ultimately found his groove, creating a legacy that spans decades.

At times, feeling like an old has-been, Russell yearned to create something current. After an album's failure, he faced the reality that people just weren't interested anymore. Undeterred, he looked in the mirror, realizing he couldn't sing pop songs as an old fart. So, he decided to return to his roots, exploring rhythm and blues, Tamla Motown, and Blues.

His Blues journey took an unexpected turn when he stumbled upon a 1918 police file photo of Thomas Archer, aka Shark Jaws. Inspired, he turned Archer's story into the blues hit "Shark Mouth," which marked the resurrection of his career.

His subsequent albums, like "Van Diemens Land" and "Red Dirt, Red Heart," defied industry expectations, blending blues and country. Despite initial skepticism, these albums went on to become chart-toppers.

Russell's bluesy revival continued with "Black and Blue Heart" in 2019, a pop-rock collaboration with Bernard Fanning and Nick Didier. He even joined forces with Rick Springfield, creating an album under the pseudonym Jack Chrome.

Fast forward to the present, and Russell Morris is still pushing boundaries. His latest release, "The Real Thing, The Symphonic Concert," features him performing with a 54-piece symphony orchestra. The idea, born from an encounter with businessman Clive Palmer, turned out to be a massive success, selling out venues across the country.

Russell's story is one of determination and resolve. A tale of belief in yourself and never giving up your passion.

He is an icon in Australia and loved by all. You may or may not know his name. You may or may not know his music but, by the time you've listened to this episode, I guarantee you will not forget him.

Allan Clarke is a British musician celebrated for his role as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band, The Hollies. With a career spanning decades, Clarke's distinctive tenor voice and songwriting prowess have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll.

Clarke co-founded The Hollies in the early 1960s with childhood friends Graham Nash, Eric Haydock, Tony Hicks, and Don Rathbone. Their harmonious blend and melodic pop-rock sound catapulted them to international stardom. Hits like "Bus Stop," "Carrie Anne," and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" became anthems of the era, showcasing Clarke's emotive vocals and contributing to the band's enduring legacy.

As a songwriter, Clarke collaborated with Nash and Hicks to pen some of The Hollies' most iconic songs. His ability to craft timeless tunes solidified the band's chart-topping success and earned them a permanent place in the pantheon of rock music.

In 1971, Allan Clarke briefly embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "My Real Name Is 'Arold" and "Headroom." Despite the solo endeavor, Clarke rejoined The Hollies in 1973, and the band continued to produce hits, notably "The Air That I Breathe."

Beyond his musical achievements, Clarke's enigmatic stage presence and charisma made him a captivating performer. His influence transcends generations, and The Hollies' catalogue remains a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.

Clarke's return to The Hollies in the '70s marked another chapter in their success, with a continued string of hits. His distinct vocal style, characterized by soulful nuances and emotional depth, remains a defining element of The Hollies' sound.

Allan Clarke's legacy extends beyond his contributions to The Hollies, encompassing solo ventures, songwriting brilliance, and a significant footprint in the evolution of rock music. His name is synonymous with harmony, melody, and the timeless resonance of classic rock—a testament to a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

Allan has recently released a new album - Resurgence - fulfilling a long time dream to collaborate again with Graham Nash. 

The album comes after he, his wife and his daughter all battled with cancer and as a result, finds Allan unable to hit the high notes that he’s become so famous for.

Determined to continue doing what he loves, Allan has penned many of the tracks on this album so that he’s able to sing in a lower key. The result is simply stunning.

I am excited to have Allan Clarke in conversation in this episode, sharing stories from his incredible musical journey. I know you'll enjoy hearing his tales too.

Former teen idol Bobby Sherman is 80 years old and still wowing them. He was born in Santa Monica, California and became interested in singing whilst at high school. Following his graduation, he was given the opportunity to sing for Sal Mineo’s band at a party and eventually got a gig as house singer for the ABC show ‘Shindig!’, which ran from 1964 to 1966.

His luck changed drastically in 1968 when he was cast in the role of a stammering, bashful logger in the TV drama series ‘Here Come the Brides’. The series became a hit and established him as an actor.

The following year Bobby released the song "Little Woman". The single charted #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually earned gold status. Bobby instantly became adored the world over and from the late 60s to the mid-70s, he toured extensively.

A frequent guest on TV variety shows and featured in an episode of ‘The Partridge Family’, he later had guest roles in several drama series including ‘Mod Squad,’ ‘Murder She Wrote,’ ‘Ellery Queen,’ ‘Frasier,’ ‘The Ed Sullivan Show,’ 'Good Day LA,’ ‘The Rosie O'Donnell Show,’ ‘Entertainment Tonight,’ and ‘Good Morning America,’ to name a few.

In 1981, Sherman starred in the musical comedy movie ‘Get Crazy’. Five years later, he joined the cast of the sitcom ‘Sanchez of Bel Air.’ His versatility as an actor allowed him to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles, showcasing a depth beyond his teen idol persona. These television appearances further solidified his status as a well-rounded entertainer.

After a 25-year absence, Bobby performed in "The Teen Idol Tour" in 1998 along with artists Davy Jones (The Monkees) and Peter Noone (Herman’s Hermits). While his presence in the spotlight may have waned in recent years, his enduring appeal remains.

Bobby Sherman scored so many hits during the late 60s and early 70s, including "Easy Come, Easy Go”, "Julie, Do Ya Love Me" and "La, La, La", all of which sold millions of copies and earned him gold discs. From 71 to 79, Bobby Sherman was married to his first wife. The couple had two sons, both of whom work in the entertainment industry today.

In the 90s, Bobby joined the Los Angeles Police Department as a technical Reserve Police Officer. He was later promoted to Captain in the Department and began serving in San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in 1999, eventually retiring in 2010. It was during this time that Bobby met his new wife, Brigitte Poublon. Together, the couple founded the not-for-profit Brigitte & Bobby Sherman Children's Foundation.

No surprise that Bobby Sherman - all round good guy and much loved entertainer has had several awards bestowed on him for his humanitarian efforts.

Bobby Sherman joins us this week to share tales of his incredible journey.

Helen O'Hara is a talented violinist best known for her contributions to British band Dexys Midnight Runners.

Born in London, Helens musical journey began at an early age. She exhibited a natural affinity for the violin, showcasing both technical prowess and a deep emotional connection to the instrument. Her early training and dedication to mastering the violin set the stage for her later success with Dexy's Midnight Runners.

She had met the charismatic Kevin Rowland in the late 70s and joined the band in the early 1980s, during a crucial period of the band's evolution. Her introduction added a distinctive and soulful dimension to the band's sound, creating a unique blend of rock, soul, and folk elements that set Dexy's apart in the music scene.

Dexys Midnight Runners, originally formed in 1978 in Birmingham, England, by Kevin Rowland, emerged as a prominent force in the New Wave and post-punk movements. The band was characterised by its eclectic musical style, combining elements of soul, pop, and Celtic folk, and was widely recognized for its energetic live performances.

The band achieved commercial success with their second album, "Too-Rye-Ay," released in 1982. This album featured some of Dexy's most iconic tracks, including the chart-topping hit "Come On Eileen." The distinctive sound of the album, marked by the prominent use of strings and horns, showcased the influence of Helen O'Hara's violin and contributed significantly to the band's success.

After the release of "Too-Rye-Ay," Dexys Midnight Runners underwent a significant transformation. In 1985, Kevin Rowland decided to disband Dexys Midnight Runners and subsequently reformed the group under the simplified name "Dexys." This change reflected Rowland's desire to move away from the Midnight Runners' image and to emphasize a new musical direction.

Under the moniker Dexys, the band continued to explore various musical genres and experiment with their sound. While the lineup underwent changes over the years, Helen O'Hara remained a key member, contributing her violin expertise to the evolving Dexy's sound.

Despite various challenges and lineup changes, Dexys (formerly Dexys Midnight Runners) continued to release music and tour, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. The band's legacy endures not only for their chart-topping hits but also for their willingness to push musical boundaries and embrace diverse influences, with Helen O'Hara's violin playing a crucial role in shaping their distinctive sound.

The extremely talented and humble Helen O'Hara joins us today as our guest to unravel the story of Dexys, to tell us about her personal journey and to share details of her recently released memoir 'What's She Like.'

John Kay and his band Steppenwolf were pivotal in shaping the rock music landscape of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born in Germany in 1944 as Joachim Fritz Krauledat, John’s journey to becoming a rock icon was filled with challenges and perseverance.

John’s early life was marked by adversity. He faced hardships in post-war Germany and immigrated to Canada as a teenager. His passion for music bloomed in the vibrant musical scene of Toronto. In the mid-1960s, he formed The Sparrows, which eventually evolved into Steppenwolf.

The band's name, inspired by Hermann Hesse's novel 'Steppenwolf,' reflected their non-conformist ethos. In 1968, Steppenwolf released their self-titled debut album, featuring the iconic song 'Born to Be Wild.' This anthem not only defined the band's sound but also became a rallying cry for the emerging counterculture.

John’s gravelly vocals and the band's driving rhythms encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the era. 'Born to Be Wild' notably coined the phrase "heavy metal thunder," cementing its place in rock history and earning a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.

Following their breakthrough, Steppenwolf continued to produce hits like 'Magic Carpet Ride' and 'The Pusher,' both of which showcased the band's musical versatility and social commentary. Their fusion of hard rock, blues, and psychedelic sounds appealed to a generation seeking liberation and self-expression.

Despite internal conflicts and line-up changes, John Kay remained the band's driving force. His introspective song-writing and distinctive voice contributed to Steppenwolf's enduring appeal. The band's albums, including 'Steppenwolf 7' and 'Monster,' further solidified their reputation as trailblazers in the rock genre.

John Kay is also known for his involvement in philanthropy through the Maue Kay Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife Jutta Maue-Kay. The foundation is dedicated to supporting various charitable causes, particularly those focused on wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and supporting the rights of animals. John, as a passionate advocate for wildlife and environmental causes, has channelled efforts and resources into initiatives that aim to protect endangered species, preserve habitats, and raise awareness about environmental issues.

Today, Steppenwolf’s iconic front man is still involved in various musical and philanthropic endeavours. He continues to perform, occasionally touring and playing live shows.

He rarely gives interviews anymore so I was particularly chuffed that he granted me some time to share his incredible story.

Chicago was one of the most successful bands of the rock era, racking up 21 Billboard Top Ten hits between 1970 and 1990. They were a band that placed equal (if not greater) emphasis on horns as guitar and picked up where Blood Sweat & Tears left off.

Chicago quickly learned how to channel their expansive sound into concise pop songs, scoring hits in the early 1970s with punchy tunes like "25 or 6 to 4" as well as producing sweet melodies like "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" and "Saturday in the Park." As the ‘70s went on, the band began to emphasise their softer side with bassist Peter Cetera singing mellow standards like "If You Leave Me Now," "Baby and "Hard to Say I'm Sorry."

The band kept the same sound after Cetera’s departure in the mid-1980s. They continued touring and producing albums despite the fact that hits dried up in the ‘90s. Despite this, Chicago remained a pop/rock institution, with original members keyboardist Robert Lamm, trumpeter Lee Loughnane and trombonist James Pankow.

Our guest today is Chicago co-founder Lee Loughnane who had been a music student at DePaul University with reed player Walter Parazaider and trombonist James Pankow. The three had moonlighted in St Louis’ clubs, playing everything from R&B to Irish music but it wasn’t long before organist and singer Robert Lamm was asked to join the band. The new group started playing around the Midwest and soon the sextet became a septet when Peter Cetera became the group’s third lead singer.

In 1968, they moved to Los Angeles and the album Chicago Transit Authority was released. The album reached the Top 20 and was certified gold. It went on to sell more than two million copies. The band shortened its name to Chicago and the second album in 1970 vaulted into the Top Ten even before its first single, "Make Me Smile," hit the Hot 100. It went on to reach the Top Ten, as did its successor, "25 or 6 to 4." The album quickly went gold and eventually platinum. "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" drawn from the group's first album, as its next single; it gave them their third consecutive Top Ten hit.

Chicago III came out in 1971, Chicago V in 1972 spending nine weeks at #1, spurred by its gold-selling Top Ten hit "Saturday in the Park.” The next Top Ten hit, "(I've Been) Searchin' So Long," was released in advance of Chicago VII while Chicago X  included the Grammy-winning number one single "If You Leave Me Now." Chicago XI in 1977 generated the Top Five hit "Baby, What a Big Surprise."

By 1984, the band released the biggest-selling album of its career, Chicago 17. It spawned two Top Five hits, "Hard Habit to Break" and "You're the Inspiration." At the turn of the '80s into the '90s, Chicago underwent two more personnel changes. In 1998, they released Chicago 25: The Christmas Album. The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

Their documentary “Now More Than Ever: The History of Chicago" debuted in 2017. Chicago received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and their 38th album was released in 2022.

Our guest today is co-founder Lee Loughnane who discusses how and why after 56 years, 100 million in album sales and 21 top 10 singles, the Chicago band are still rolling.

Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show was an American rock band formed in New Jersey in 1968. They enjoyed huge commercial success in the 1970s with hit singles including "Sylvia's Mother", "The Cover of 'Rolling Stone'", "Only Sixteen" and "A Little Bit More." Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show owes much of their success to poet Shel Silverstein.

The band had 8 years of regular chart hits. Their music spanned several genres, mostly novelty songs and acoustic ballads in the early years but then with their later material that consisted of disco-influenced soft rock. The band was then known as Dr. Hook.

Founded by Southerners, George Cummings, Ray Sawyer and Billy Francis, Dennis Locorriere joined the band as vocalist.

The "Hook" in their name was inspired by Sawyer's eyepatch and a reference to Captain Hook of the Peter Pan fairy tale. Ray Sawyer had lost his right eye in a car crash in 1967, and thereafter always wore an eyepatch.

For a while the group found it difficult to crack the bigtime. Luckily, in 1970 a musical director on an upcoming movie heard their tapes. Cartoonist, poet/songwriter Shel Silverstein decided Dr. Hook was the ideal group for the soundtrack. That movie helped Dr. Hook secure their first recording contract.

Clive Davis signed the band and they went on to international success. Silverstein wrote all the songs for their 1972 debut album.

The single "Sylvia's Mother" flopped on first release, but eventually became the band's first million-seller. Silverstein continued to write songs for Dr. Hook, including their entire second album, Sloppy Seconds.The band's second single, Silverstein’s "The Cover of 'Rolling Stone'" (1972), was another million-selling disc, poking fun at the idea that a musician had "made it" if they had been pictured on the cover of Rolling Stone.

In the United Kingdom, the BBC Radio network refused to play "The Cover of 'Rolling Stone'", because it considered doing so would be advertising a trademark name, which was against the BBC's policy (previously, the Kinks had to change "Coca-Cola" to "Cherry Cola" in their song "Lola" to get around the rule).

Dr. Hook became just as famed for their crazed stage antics, which ranged from surreal banter to impersonating their own opening acts, but it was the group's nonchalance about business matters that led to bankruptcy. The group’s line-up changed a few times over the years.  And in 1975 the band shortened its name to Dr. Hook. They signed with Capitol Records in 1975 and released a reworked version of Sam Cooke's "Only Sixteen" which revitalised their career and charted in the top ten the following year.

When they released a song called "A Little Bit More" soon after, it charted at number 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and spent two weeks at number nine on the Cash Box Top 100. It also reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and became Dr. Hook's joint second-best UK chart placing, matching "Sylvia's Mother".

Follow-ups to "A Little Bit More" included "Sharing the Night Together", "When You're in Love with a Beautiful Woman", "Better Love Next Time", and "Sexy Eyes" which featured prominent female backup singers. Each single became a certified million-seller.

Ray Sawyer left the band in 1983 to pursue a solo career, while the band continued to tour successfully for another couple of years, ending with Dr. Hook's One and Only Farewell Tour in 1985, with Locorriere as the sole front man. Dennis retained ownership of the Dr. Hook name and continued to tour and release his own solo albums. Ray Sawyer did not perform publicly after his last tour in 2015. Sawyer died in 2018.

This week Dennis Locorriere is our special guest. During our chat he speaks openly and honestly about his career and his affection for Ray Sawyer as well as his admiration for Shel Silverstein, without whom he’d still be playing the New Jersey club scene.

Canned Heat emerged in 1966 and was founded by blues historians and record collectors Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson and Bob “The Bear” Hite. Hite took the name “Canned Heat” from a 1928 recording by Tommy Johnson. They were joined by Henry “The Sunflower” Vestine, another ardent record collector who was a former member of Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention. Rounding out the band in 1967 were Larry “The Mole” Taylor on bass, an experienced session musician who had played with Jerry Lee Lewis and The Monkees and Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra on drums who had played in two of the biggest Latin American bands of the day.

The band attained three worldwide hits, “On The Road Again”, “Let’s Work Together” in 1970 and “Going Up The Country” in 1969: all of which became rock anthems.

They secured their niche in the pages of rock ‘n roll history with their performances at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival (along with Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and The Who) and the headlining slot at the original Woodstock Festival in 1969.

The band collaborated with John Mayall and Little Richard and later with blues icon, John Lee Hooker.

In September 1970, the band was shattered by the suicide of Alan Wilson. His death sparked reconstruction within the group and member changes have continued throughout the past five decades. In 1981, vocalist, Bob Hite collapsed and died of a heart attack and in 1997, Henry Vestine died in Paris, France following the final gig of a European tour.

In 2019, original bass player, Larry “The Mole” Taylor passed away with cancer.

Despite these untimely deaths, Canned Heat has somehow survived. They have played more festivals, biker gatherings and charity events than any other band in the world. They and/or their music have been featured on television and in films.

Now, more than fifty years later and with forty albums to their credit, Canned Heat is still going strong. They have been anchored throughout the past fifty-five years by the steady hand of drummer/band leader and historian, Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra.

Rolling Stone Magazine caled Darlene Love “one of the greatest singers of all time” but perhaps Paul Shaffer says it even more concisely: “Darlene Love is Rock N’ Roll!” – which was made official when she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Bette Midler, a great fan of her work, in 2011.

She was one of Phil Spector's hand-picked early '60's girl group singers and sang some lead vocals for the Crystals, Bob B. Soxx and the Blue Jeans. After turbulent times with Spector, Darlene also had hits under her own name.

The oldest of five children born in LA, Darlene’s father was a minister and ran a church in Texas. Darlene began singing at his church to the delight of the congregation. While attending high school in San Antonio, Darlene began joining glee clubs and a group called the Wailers that sang at school assemblies.

In 1956 the family moved back to Los Angeles. Shortly after her sixteenth birthday Darlene began singing in the church choir. It was during a choir practice that her voice caught the attention of the choir director. One day a girl that Darlene knew from church, asked her to sing at her wedding. What she didn't know was that the wedding was also an audition: Delores' bridal party included her friends Gloria Jones, Fanita Barrett, and Annette and Nanette Williams, who had a singing group called the Blossoms. They were looking to replace Annette who was pregnant.

Darlene was asked to sing with the Blossoms. Her parents at first refused to let her, but after meeting the Blossoms they relented. She started singing with The Blossoms in 1958. They recorded as a quartet and then a trio. They also did backup singing supporting Bobby "Boris" Pickett ("Monster Mash"), James Darren ("Goodbye Cruel World), Bobby Day ("Rockin' Robin") and many others.

Love was brought to Phil Spector's attention when he was looking for a lead singer for "He's a Rebel." which was to be released under the Crystal's name. When Darlene was asked if she knew about this she said "So What? The man just paid me triple scale."  She figured that it was a cute song, but it was probably going nowhere.

Love went on to record six Philles singles under her own name, including "Wait Til My Bobby Gets Home","(Today I Met) The Boy I'm Going To Marry", " and "A Fine Fine Bo”). She also appeared on Spector's Christmas Album. Love continued to sing with the Blossoms through the 60s. They were regulars on Shindig and toured with Elvis Presley in the early 70s. Love sang back-up for Dionne Warwick for ten years beginning in 1971 and later backing Aretha Franklin.

In the ‘80s Darlene branched out into acting appearing in the Lethal Weapon films and appearing in the Tony nominated 1985 the Broadway musical Leader of the Pack based on the songs of Ellie Greenwich. She also recorded two solo albums. 

Walter Trout is an American blues guitarist, singer and songwriter and probably the best performer I have ever seen play live.

Walter's backstory is a page-turner you won’t want to put down. Five decades in the making; it is equal parts thriller, romance, suspense and horror. There are musical fireworks, critical acclaim and fists-aloft triumph, offset by years in the wilderness and massive narcotic binges. He has been a gunslinger in bands from John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers to Canned Heat, and is now enjoying a solo career that’s taking him to new heights.

New Jersey born, Walter emerged as a luminary in the blues music landscape early on when his fascination with the guitar was sparked at a tender age. He showcased remarkable talent, performing in local bands before moving to Los Angeles in pursuit of a thriving music career.

Walter's breakthrough came when he joined the iconic blues-rock band Canned Heat in the '80s, propelling him into the limelight. Subsequently, his solo career skyrocketed, marked by the release of his debut album "Life in the Jungle" in 1990. Known for his fiery guitar solos and soul-stirring performances, Trout's discography boasts numerous chart-topping albums, including "Blues for the Modern Daze" and "Battle Scars," showcasing his prowess and deep connection with blues music.

Beyond musical success, Walter faced life-threatening health issues, culminating in a liver transplant. His triumphant return to music inspired fans worldwide, symbolising his resilience and unwavering spirit.

Throughout his journey, Walter Trout's influence on blues music remains profound. His electrifying live shows and dedication to preserving the essence of blues have solidified his legacy as a guitar virtuoso and a living legend. His enduring impact continues to inspire musicians and captivate audiences globally, and his story has to been heard to be believed.

Walter Trout joins us this week on A Breath of Fresh Air to share that story and some of his incredible music.

Joey Dee and the Starliters were a hot act in 1962 with the hit “Peppermint Twist.” — The Beatles opened for them and Dee helped out a young Jimi Hendrix.

Joey Dee with his group, The Starliters, helped launch the "Twist" craze in 1961 with their hit song "The Peppermint Twist". Joey is often billed as “The Godfather of The Twist.”

Joey Dee started out wanting to be a history teacher. Every cent he made as a teenage Bandleader went into his studies. But bookings for his band grew and Joey decided to make music his profession. In 1958 Joey recruited David Brigati for the band and the two began to share lead vocal honours for the Starliters.

 In 1960, the Starliters were noticed by an agent while performing at a New Jersey nightclub and they were booked to appear at a small venue on 45th Street in New York City called the Peppermint Lounge for what was supposed to be a one-time weekend gig. During their first appearance at the nightclub, actress Merle Oberon and Prince Serge Oblinski danced the night away together there and this was reported the next morning in the press. The following night, it took barricades and mounted police to keep the crowds in line. Celebrities like Judy Garland, John Wayne, Jackie Kennedy, Nat "King" Cole, Shirley MacLaine, Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote, and Liberace instantly became regular guests.

Joey and the guys (actor Joe Pesci and Jimi Hendrix were both band members for a while) were such a sensation that they became the house band for the Peppermint Lounge for over a year. Joey wrote "Peppermint Twist," as a tribute to the lounge and the song shot to #1 in early 1962.

Joey Dee and the Starliters filmed the movie Hey, Let's Twist which capitalised on the current twist craze and made the once-obscure Peppermint Lounge world famous.

In 1962, Joey Dee and the Starliters starred in their second film. The following year Joey Dee recorded an album with the Ronettes as his backup group. The Starliters toured Europe, performing one extraordinary night in Stockholm with The Beatles as their opening act. In 1964.

Joey Dee toured with various Starliters, including future Young Rascals Gene Cornish, Felix Cavaliere, and David's brother, Eddie Brigati.

Joey Dee continued to record and issue solo recordings from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s. Today Joey Dee and the Starliters consists of Joey sometimes performing with Bob Valli (brother of Frankie Valli) and original Starliter David Brigati. Joey continues to travel and make personal appearances with various Starliters.

Joey Dee joins us this week to share his incredible story.

One of Australia’s longest surviving vocal groups, the Delltones were formed in 1959. Comprising Ian ‘Pee Wee’ Wilson, Noel Widerberg, Brian Perkins and Warren Lucas.

The band performed at dances, as part of backing bands for artists such as Johnny O’Keefe. Occasionally performing a cappella covers of songs they heard on the radio, the band was influenced by 50s doo-wop vocal groups. The accidental death of Noel Widerberg, in 1962, did not deter the group from continuing.

With replacement Col Loughlan, they proceeded to tour and record, with singles such as ‘You’re The Limit’, ‘Get A Little Dirt On Your Hands’, ‘Come A Little Bit Closer’ and ‘Hangin’ Five’, all reaching the Top 5 in Australia. Later, the band took responsibility for the instrumental side of their act, and when beat music became popular, they turned to the clubs and pubs where they appeared regularly.

The band went to the UK in the late 60s, where they performed on the club circuit and recorded an album. They returned to Australia to find that they no longer had an audience, and disbanded in 1971.

They re-formed in 1981 with only one original member; the band toured often and recorded several albums, but hit singles have eluded them. They finally disbanded in 2016.

Our guest today is founder Ian "Pee Wee" Wilson. Pee Wee shares a lifetime of stories and amazing music.

Status Quo are one of Britain's longest-running bands, staying together for over six decades. During much of that time, the group was only successful in the U.K., where they racked up a string of Top Ten singles over the decades. In America, the Quo were ignored after they abandoned psychedelia for heavy boogie rock in the early '70s. Before that, the band managed to reach number 12 in the U.S. with the psychedelic classic "Pictures of Matchstick Men"

Following that single, the group suffered a lean period for the next few years before the band members decided to refashion themselves as a hard rock boogie band in 1970. The Quo have basically recycled the same simple boogie on each successive album and single, yet their popularity has never waned. If anything, their very predictability ensured the group a large following.

The guys started out as The Spectres with Francis Rossi (vocals, guitar) Alan Lancaster (bass) drummer John Coghlan and organist Roy Lynes. The group added Rick Parfitt (guitar, vocals) and changed its name to Status Quo.

Throughout the '70s, each album Status Quo released went into the Top Five, while their singles -- including the number one "Down Down" (1974), "Roll Over Lay Down" (1975), "Rain" (1976), "Wild Side of Life" (1976), and a cover of John Fogerty’s "Rockin' All Over the World" (1977) - consistently hit the Top Ten. Since they were experiencing a great deal of success, they didn't change their sound at all, they just kept churning out the same heavy boogie.

John Coghlan left Status Quo in 1981 – during rehearsals for the band’s 20th Anniversary album in Switzerland. Tensions had developed and John left to form his own band. By 1983 his own band featured a selection of respected musicians, comprising; guitarist Ray Majors (ex-Mott and British Lions), bass player Ian Ellis (ex-Savoy Brown and Steamhammer), and keyboard player Jeff Banister.

That same year John Coghlan teamed up with a trio of other well-known musicians called the Rockers. The four man line up boasted John on drums, Phil Lynott (Thin Lizzy’s frontman) on bass, guitar and vocals, Chas Hodges (from Chas ‘n’ Dave) on keyboards and Roy Wood (ex Wizzard, ELO and The Move) on guitar and vocals.

Coghlan continued to tour regularly playing with various musicians. He began working with Alan Lancaster in Australia who was putting together a band with Australian guitarist John Brewster, called the Bombers. John worked with The Bombers for a year but returned to the UK in 1990.

John Coghlan started working with his own band, John Coghlan’s Quo, during the late 1990s. By that time, Status Quo had scored 50 British hit singles, which was more than any other band in rock & roll history at the time.

This week John Coghlan joins us to explain what those heady days were like, why he left the band in 1981and what life holds for him today.

Few singer/songwriters are as individual and eclectic as Rickie Lee Jones, a vocalist and composer who’s able to weave jazz, folk, and R&B into songs for decades.

Rickie Lee’s greatest commercial success came at the outset of her career with ‘Chuck E’s in Love’, but a restless creative spirit and a stubborn refusal to be pigeon holed into any one musical niche, ensured her on-going status as a cult hero. Her second LP, 1981's Pirates added rock and soul flavours. Others followed.

As the '90s gave way to the 2000s, Rickie Lee continued to explore new directions, experimenting with trip-hop on 1997's Ghostyhead, a personal take on faith with 2007's The Sermon on Exposition Boulevard, and taking an introspective look into her own life on 2009's Balm in Gilead. 

Assuming full control of her music when she founded her own label to release 2015's The Other Side of Desire and 2019’s Kicks, her latest offering is Pieces of Treasure. It’s an incredible album that sees her paying tribute to the Golden Age of American Song writing with jazzy accents. 

In this episode, Rickie Lee Jones tells us how she endured a stormy childhood that saw her moved around from state to state. Eventually as a teenager she fled to seek refuge in Los Angeles in the mid-'70s. There she slept on people's couches, worked a series of waitressing jobs and occasionally performing in area clubs.  

She found a measure of success when Lowell George, the ex Little Feat frontman decided to record her song ‘Easy Money’. After that, fortune seemed to smile on her as she enlisted Russ Titleman to co-produce her self-titled 1979 debut LP which featured the hit 'Chuck E's in Love'. Have you ever wondered who Chuck E is? I have and she explains all.

With that album, Rickie Lee Jones became an overnight smash sensation. Her life was changed forever and a confident, self-assured young trend-setting artist emerged, leaving behind the shy girl who'd always resided in her cocoon.

Rickie Lee Jones joins me this week to tell her story and share some of her thoughts around her musical journey.

Marty Wilde (born Reginald Leonard Smith) is an English singer and songwriter who was among the first generation of British pop stars to imitate American rock'n'roll.

He began performing under the name Reg Patterson until he was spotted by impresario Larry Parnes who subsequently changed his name to Wilde.

From mid 1958 to the end of 1959, Marty was one of the leading British rock singers, along with Tommy Steele and Cliff Richard. His backing group, the Wildcats featured Big Jim Sullivan on lead guitar, and Brian Locking and Brian Bennett (drums) who later joined The Shadows.

Marty appeared regularly on TV and his fan base grew exponentially. He met and married Joyce who was one of The Vernons Girls who also appeared as TV show regulars. The courtship was highly public but, after the marriage, Wilde's popularity as a teen idol declined.

Marty moved partly into all-round entertainment, appearing in musicals such as the West End production of Bye Bye Birdie and films.

Over the past several decades you would have heard Louie Shelton's riffs and solos on many hits by artists such as;

THE MONKEES Last Train To Clarksville, THE JACKSON FIVE: I Want You Back, LIONEL RICHIE; Hello, THE CARPENTERS; We’ve Only Just Begun & Close To You, NEIL DIAMOND; Cracklin’ Rose, Play Me and I Am I Said, BOZ SCAGGS; Low Down plus albums with BARBRA STREISAND, JOE COCKER, THE MAMAS & PAPAS, MARVIN GAYE, JOHN LENNON, DIANA ROSS and many others.

For the past 50 years Louie has played on more hit records than any other guitarist in history.

He was also a member of the famous WRECKING CREW; a group of studio musicians who played on most of the hits from the early sixty’s, seventy’s and eighty’s.

He accompanied good friend Glen Campbell for two years on his hit TV show the Glen Campbell Good-Time Hour while at the same time was lead guitar player on other TV shows such as the Partridge Family, the Monkees and all their records.

As a producer Louie produced the many hits of SEALS & CROFTS such as Summer Breeze and Diamond Girl. He also produced the Art Garfunkel albums and many other artists.

Today, Louie and his family have taken up residency in Australia, on the sunny Gold Coast in Queensland, where he and his wife, Donnie, share their passion for golf and life in general.

He is still going strong musically. He has a recording studio in his home and has worked with some of Australia’s most successful rock bands including Noiseworks. Over the years Louie has continued to produce several bands, including Southern Sons, Mother Hubbard, The Wolverines and Bleu Tongue, and has been involved with such artists as Tommy Emanuel, Rick Price and Human Nature.

Louie Shelton does not intend to slow down any time soon. He joins us this week to share his incredible story.

In 1969, Mark Farner, along with Don Brewer (drums and vocals) and Mel Schacher (bass), formed the band Grand Funk Railroad. 

They quickly gained recognition for their energetic, bluesy rock sound. 

The band's name was a play on words, inspired by the Grand Trunk Western Railroad that ran through their hometown of Flint, Michigan. 

Grand Funk Railroad achieved massive success in the early 1970s. Their music was characterized by a blend of rock, funk, and blues. 

The band released a series of hit albums, including "On Time" (1969), "Grand Funk" (1970), "Closer to Home" (1970), and "E Pluribus Funk" (1971). These albums produced chart-topping singles such as "We're an American Band" and "Some Kind of Wonderful.” 

Known for their high-energy live performances, Grand Funk Railroad played to large crowds and set attendance records, including a legendary performance at the Shea Stadium in New York City. 

Their music resonated with the counterculture of the time and made them one of the most popular and commercially successful rock bands of the era. 

In 1972, Mark Farner left Grand Funk Railroad due to creative and contractual disputes. 

He embarked on a solo career, releasing albums like "Mark Farner" (1977) and "No Frills" (1978). He continued to tour and record as a solo artist while Grand Funk Railroad continued with a modified lineup. 

Grand Funk Railroad reunited in various lineups over the years, with Mark Farner rejoining the band for several reunions. 

Their music continued to be celebrated, and they received numerous accolades and honours for their contributions to rock music. 

Farner's guitar work and powerful vocals remained iconic in the world of rock. Some 50 years later something magical still happens when Farner takes the stage.  His voice is still strong and on key, his guitar playing still slick and lighting quick, and his trademark prancing still commands the stage and mesmerizes his audiences around the world.

“I love playing live where I can connect with people of all backgrounds,” he said. “ It’s all about the fans…and all about love.”

Mark is also known for his philanthropic work and his strong Christian faith, which has been a central part of his life. 

This week MARK FARNER joins us to share his story and incredible music.

Jamaican Reggae legend JIMMY CLIFF was born in 1948 as James Chambers and proved to be an accomplished performer at an early age.

At 14 he moved to Kingston and took the surname Cliff as a proclamation of the heights he imagined he would reach. In Kingston, Jimmy released the 1962 hit, Hurricane Hattie and numerous other recordings throughout the rest of the 1960s.

Jimmy Cliff moved to the UK in the late 60s and was bitterly disappointed with the racism he encountered there.

His song, Waterfall, won the Brazilian International Song Festival in 67 and in 68. He followed up Waterfall with the release of the protest song, Vietnam. In 1970, he enjoyed new success with his cover of the Cat Stevens song, Wild World.

Jimmy returned to Jamaica and left Island Records as they increasingly focused their attention on his protege, Bob Marley. It was at this time that Jimmy Cliff adopted the Muslim faith and the name, Na’im Bashir.

In 1972, Cliff starred in the film, The Harder They Come. The film and its soundtrack, comprised mainly of songs he wrote. Their instant popularity, along with his album Follow My Mind propelled Jimmy Cliff into stardom. For years he continued to release albums that were innovative and his songs always carried powerful messages.

His 1985 album Cliff Hanger won a Grammy Award and his cover of I Can See Clearly Now for the soundtrack to the film, Cool Runnings reached the Top 20 chart in the United States in 1993. Cliff continued his acting career in the films Club Paradise and Marked for Death.

In this week's episode, Jimmy Cliff discusses his journey as a musician and actor, sharing stories about his popular songs and the impact they had on people's lives. He talks about the inspiration behind his hit songs and how they motivated others to pursue their dreams. Cliff also reflects on his experience acting.

He discusses his relationship with Bob Marley and his role in discovering and promoting other talented artists including Desmond Decker.

He also tells us about his latest album 'Refugees' which addresses one of his most personal causes.

Jimmy Cliff's success in the music industry, in his words, has been driven by his confidence in himself and his ability to follow his own path. He is absolutely inspirational to chat with. I'm sure you will find him a delight to listen to.

- "You can get it if you really want." - Jimmy Cliff

Drummer SIMON KIRKE kept the beat for two of the '70s most popular bluesy hard rockers: Free and Bad Company.

Born in London, Simon developed an interest in music at a young age and joined a local band called the Maniacs to play drums and sing. He negotiated a deal with his parents after graduating high school, that if he couldn't make it as a drummer in a band within a two-year period, he would then start a college career. Just a few months before the self-imposed deadline, Kirke landed a gig with a group called the Black Cat Bones. He befriended the group's guitarist, Paul Kossoff, who convinced him to start a new band with singer Paul Rodgers and ex-John Mayall's Bluesbreakers bassist Andy Fraser.

This band became Free in 1968. The group would prove to be successful particularly on the strength of their classic 1970 release Fire and Water, and its anthemic hit single "All Right Now." However drugs and infighting began to dessimate the members' relationship and they broke up in 1973. Paul Kossoff passed away just three years later.

From the ashes of Free rose Bad Company. Simon and Paul Rodgers were joined by ex-King Crimson bassist Boz Burrell and ex-Mott the Hoople guitarist Mick Ralphs. The band became one of the first groups signed to Led Zeppelin's record label, Swan Song and their debut album, 1974's Bad Company, went on to become one of hard rock's all-time classics. Bad Company enjoyed several years of huge success before splitting up in 1982 (the group did reunite later in the decade without Rodgers, and again in the '90s when Rodgers rejoined). Simon Kirke has always been super busy. As well as his work with Bad Company, he guested on a long list of recordings by other artists including albums by Wilson Pickett, Jim Capaldi, Ringo Starr and Ron Wood, among countless others.He was often drumming live on tour with acts like Chuck Berry, Ray Charles, Bo Diddley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Ringo Starr & His All-Star Band.

In 2003, Simon went out on his very first solo tour and released his debut solo album. Since then there have been more solo albums, the latest of which is 2017's All Because of You.

Simon shares his incredible stories of success as well as his multiple personal and professional challenges with us this week.

Formed as a jazz ensemble in the mid-'60s, Kool & the Gang became one of the most inspired and influential funk units during the '70s, and one of the most popular R&B groups of the '80s after their breakout hit "Celebration." Just as funky as James Brown or Parliament (and sampled almost as frequently), Kool & the Gang relied on their jazz backgrounds and long friendship to form a tightly knit group.

 Their 21 Top 40 hits display a huge range, from the tough funk of "Jungle Boogie," to the smooth instrumental soul of "Summer Madness," to the lively pop of "Joanna." They hit the Top Ten of the R&B chart with several albums that include the gold Wild and Peaceful in 1973, the all platinum Ladies' Night in 79, Celebrate in 80, Something Special in 81 and Emergency in 84.  

Since the '90s, Kool & The Gang have focused most on touring, but they've released several original albums during this time too - the latest of which is People Just Wanna Have Fun in 2023.

Our guest today is ROBERT 'KOOL' BELL who with his brother Ronald, founded the group. The boys grew up in Jersey City and picked up the music bug from their father, who was a professional boxer. The duo formed the Jazziacs in 1964 with several neighbourhood friends: they soon renamed themselves the Soul Town Band and began playing clubs in Greenwich Village.

After a mix-up with a club owner resulted in the group being billed Kool & the Flames, (and in order to not offend James Brown) they changed their name to Kool & the Gang and quickly became a success on the R&B charts.

It was with their 6th album, Wild and Peaceful that Kool & the Gang hit the big time. "Funky Stuff" became their first Top 40 hit at the end of 1973. Then both "Jungle Boogie" and "Hollywood Swinging" reached the Top Ten. Over the next four years, Kool & the Gang delivered a Grammy-nominated recording and scored several Top 40 hits. Their hit "Open Sesame appeared on the Grammy-winning film soundtrack Saturday Night Fever.  However, after this, the rise of disco stalled their popularity.

In 1979, the group added two new vocalists, Earl Toon Jr and former Jersey nightclub singer James J.T Taylor. Kool & the Gang also began working with Brazilian jazz fusion arranger/producer Eumir Deodato who produced them from 1979 to 1982. Their first album together, Ladies Night  was their biggest hit yet, the first of three consecutive platinum albums, with the Top Ten singles "Too Hot" and the title track. Celebrate was released in 1979 and spawned Kool & the Gang's only number one hit, "Celebration," an anthem favoured by thousands at ball games, wedding receptions and even astronauts in space.

The group produced several more hits, including the single "Get Down on It." Between 1983 and 1985, the band had a pair of number two hits with "Joanna" and "Cherish.”

Kool & The Gang remained a going concern throughout the 2000s, teaming up with many younger artists. Fellow co-founders Ronald Bell and Dennis D.T Thomas both passed away in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The album "Perfect Union" was completed with both musicians and was released during the latter year. It was promoted with extensive touring, including performances in 2022 with the German Philharmonic Orchestra.

Just ahead of their 60thanniversary, Kool & the Gang quickly returned in 2023 with the album "People Just Wanna Have Fun" led by the single "Let's Party."

Kool & The Gang remain the most sampled group in the world. Their longevity is a testament to their talents and Robert ‘Kool’ Bell fills us in on all the ins and outs of their journey this week.

English singer-songwriter, NIK KERSHAW was a 1980s teen idol; he spent 62 weeks on the UK Singles Chart in 1984-5 and beat every other solo artist at the time. He appeared at Live Aid in 1985, and penned a number of hits for other artists, including a UK number one single in 1991 for Chesney Hawkes "The One and Only”.

Nik played guitar and sang in a number of underground bands from 76 before deciding on a career as a songwriter. However, he ended up performing his own songs rather than giving them to others, and signed a record deal in 1983, which spawned a debut single, "I Won't Let The Sun Go Down On Me", which just missed out on the UK Top 40. At the beginning of 1984, he made his breakthrough when "Wouldn't It Be Good", which reached Number 4 in the UK charts. He enjoyed three more Top 20 hits from debut album Human Racing, including the title track and a successful re-issue of his debut single, which ultimately proved his biggest hit as a performer when it got to Number 2 in the UK.

Nik won multiple awards and attracted admirers for his writing such as Elton John & Eric Clapton. He also gained a huge teenage fanbase; a phenomenon Nik says was extremely difficult to manage.

When he released the single "The Riddle", fans and journalists were sent into overdrive, as everyone tried to figure out what the meaning was behind the strange set of circumstances and clues which Nik had put in the verses and chorus. (It later turned out that it was all hastily created nonsense). 

In 1985 Nik was among a huge lineup of performers at Live Aid at Wembley Stadium. He tells us that performing there was one of the scariest days of his life. 

Soon after, Nik retired from recording music in favour of his original career path as a songwriter. His prowess as a songwriter served him well in 1991 when his song The One And Only, appeared on the soundtrack to the Brittish movie Buddy's Song and in the American film "Doc Hollywood", and provided a UK Number 1 single for the star of the film, Chesney Hawkes (son of the Tremeloes' Chip Hawkes). In 1993 The Hollies had a minor hit with another of his songs, The Woman I Love.

1999 saw the release of the Britpop-styled 15 Minutes; later on a collection of acoustic-led songs and 'EI8HT', a commercial MOR pop album. Nik released Oxymoron, in 2020 and is currently in the process of releasing a series of EPs, Songs from a Shelf. 

Nik Kershaw joins me this week as our special guest. As always it's a warm, friendly chat during which surprising things often come up.

Soft rock singer/songwriter, guitarist, pianist and producer KENNY LOGGINS had a consistent string of hits in the '70s, '80s and '90s. After playing in several bands in the late '60s and honing his songwriting chops as a staff songwriter, Kenny rose to prominence with Loggins & Messina, a duo with fellow singer/songwriter Jim Messina. The two were together from 72 to 76, and released a string of successful albums.

Kenny's first solo album was released in '77, and included the hit "I Believe in Love." He enjoyed even more success in the '80s, scoring hits with songs cut for movie soundtracks like "I'm Alright" (Caddyshack), "Footloose" (Footloose, and "Danger Zone" (Top Gun). Throughout the '90s and 2000s, Kenny continued to produce albums, and in the 2000s he also reunited with Jim Messina for a tour.

He was born in 1948, and the family moved to California when he was in his teens. Kenny initially turned to music as a way of compensating for his extreme shyness, and in the process discovered that he was a talented guitarist and had a voice. At the end of the decade, Kenny joined a band called Gator Creek and they were signed to a label. The group recorded one self-titled album, which was issued in 1970 and included an early version of "Danny's Song," a track he recorded again as part of Loggins & Messina.

Kenny Loggins was proficient on the guitar and piano, but it was his songwriting that enabled him to make his first lasting impression on the music industry. He took a job as a staff writer for Wingate Music, for $96 per week, and later that year, four of his songs ended up on a Nitty Gritty Dirt Band album. That album included the band's biggest hit, "Mr. Bojangles."

Next came "House at Pooh Corner." Kenny's success brought him to the attention of former Poco member Jim Messina. Jim thought he'd produce Kenny's debut album, but he also ended up playing and singing on the record, and it worked out so well that the two ended up in a duo. Loggins and Messina were among the most popular folk-based soft rock acts of the first half of the '70s, and enjoyed a four-year string of successful albums.

The pair broke up in 1976, and Kenny retained a strong following in the years immediately after. He went on to solo stardom with million-selling albums and he kept writing hit after hit after hit in the cheerful, sensitive style he had developed. Kenny Loggins also became known as the king of the movie soundtrack song, scoring Top Ten hits with "I'm Alright" (from Caddyshack), "Footloose" (from Footloose), "Danger Zone" (from Top Gun), and "Nobody's Fool" (from Caddyshack 2). In 1994, he issued a children's album, Return to Pooh Corner and released its sequel in early 2000. Kenny reunited with Jim Messina in 2005 for a successful tour, album, and concert video, and in 2007 he released his first new solo album in four years. It was followed by another children's album in 2009.

Kenny Loggins joins us this week to share the increible highs and lows of his musical journey. He also tells us about playing pickleball, venturing out on his e-bike with his new wife and his on-going search for the world's ( or at least Los Angeles') best donut. He also fills us in with details about his new book "Still Alright." You can pick up a copy from all good bookstores and online.

In the heart of the ‘Swinging Sixties’, a British rock band called Savoy Brown was born and almost immediately began to make a profound impact with their pioneering blues-rock sound. Energetic Blues has always been Savoy Brown’s calling card. 

 In fact, Blues Rock became the catch-all phrase in the late 1960s to describe the band’s music along with that of contemporaries including Cream, Fleetwood Mac, and Jimi Hendrix. 

 Even though the band was plagued with a constantly changing line-up, the group’s guiding hand from the outset in 1966 was held by its founder, the late Kim Simmonds. 

Unfortunately, Savoy Brown never reached the same level of commercial success as their contemporaries but despite this, they were a huge influence on the blues-rock genre, which led to their long-standing legacy in the industry. 

The band’s discography is a testament to their enduring influence. Albums like "Shake Down," "Blue Matter," and "Street Corner Talking" showcased the band's exceptional song writing and instrumentals. Through the 60s, 70s and 80’s songs such as “I’m Tired”, “Train to Nowhere”, “Tell Mama” and “Lay Back In The Arms Of Someone” became Hot 100 entries. 

Savoy Brown has always toured relentlessly, making it one of the longest running blues rock bands in existence.

They also provided other groups opportunity. Kiss opened the bill on a Savoy Brown national tour as did ZZ Top, The Doobie Brothers and many, many more acts. Former members, having cut their teeth under Simmonds’ leadership, have gone on to complete their careers with other bands. Among others, these include singer Dave Walker with Fleetwood Mac and Black Sabbath, Bill Bruford with King Crimson and Andy Pyle with the Kinks.

Savoy Brown helped spawn the 1968 UK Blues Rock boom and later opened the eyes of many 1970s American teenagers to their own home territory blues artists.

Today, more than 50 years later, Savoy Brown remains a formidable, progressive Blues Rock force. 

As the band continues today without its leader, Kim Simmonds, who passed away late last year, it is led by my special guests – bassist PAT DESALVO and drummer GARNET GRIMM. Both have been in the line-up for more than 10 years. 

I hope you enjoy the amazing story that is SAVOY BROWN’s musical journey.

Steve Katz and Blood, Sweat & Tears (BS&T) are synonymous with the golden era of American rock and jazz fusion. This iconic band, known for its genre-blending music, was founded by Steve Katz and went on to achieve massive success in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In this episode, we explore the fascinating story of Steve Katz and his pivotal role in shaping BS&T's ground-breaking sound.

Steve Katz was born in New York City and displayed a passion for music from a young age. His journey in the music world gained momentum in the early ‘60s when he joined The Even Dozen Jug Band, a folk collective. Later, he co-founded the influential rock band The Blues Project. In 1967, Steve co-founded Blood, Sweat & Tears, a band that aimed to fuse rock, jazz, and R&B elements to create a unique musical experience. His vision set the stage for a new era in popular music. 

As a founding member, guitarist, and songwriter, Steve played a vital role in shaping BS&T’s signature sound. His guitar work blended seamlessly with the brass section, creating a dynamic and unforgettable blend of rock and jazz. Under his creative leadership, BS&T released their eponymous album in 1968, which became a massive success, reaching the top of the charts. The album's hits like "You've Made Me So Very Happy" and "Spinning Wheel" showcased Katz's song-writing prowess and the band's ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries. Katz left BS&T in 1973 to concentrate on solo projects and collaborations with other artists including the late Lou Reed. He also delved into producing and engineering, contributing his expertise to various musical endeavours. BS&T's legacy remained strong, leading to reunion concerts and acknowledgments of their contributions. These reunions often highlighted Steve’s role in the band's success and his ongoing impact on the music world.

Steve Katz joins us this week to talk about his rock n roll life, his autobiography and the upcoming documentary ‘What the Hell Happened to Blood Sweat & Tears” that details the way the Nixon Government coerced and blackmailed the band to play for audiences behind the iron curtain.

It’s truly a fascinating story. I hope you enjoy it.

In the vibrant music scene of New Orleans during the 1960s, a group of exceptional musicians came together to form a band that would redefine funk music.

Bassist George Porter Jr. joined forces with Art Neville(keyboards), Joseph "Zigaboo" Modeliste (drums), and Leo Nocentelli (guitar) to create The Meters.

The name itself hinted at their precision and rhythm. The Meters introduced a distinctive sound that blended funk, R&B, soul, and New Orleans grooves. Their music was characterised by tight and infectious instrumental grooves that quickly caught the attention of music enthusiasts. Hits like "Cissy Strut" and "Sophisticated Cissy" showcased their innovative approach to rhythm and melody, laying the foundation for the future of funk music. Their albums "The Meters" (1969), "Look-Ka Py Py" (1969), and "Struttin'" (1970) propelled them to prominence. While their initial success was felt mainly in their hometown of New Orleans, their influence spread far beyond.

Despite not achieving mainstream commercial success, their impact on the music scene was undeniable. The Meters' music was more than just notes and beats; it was a source of inspiration for generations to come. Their rhythmic grooves became the foundation for hip-hop, with countless artists sampling their tracks. This influence solidified their legacy as pioneers of the funk genre. After the band's initial disbandment, George Porter Jr. pursued a solo career, showcasing his exceptional bass skills.

The Meters experienced various reunions over the years, with special performances and tours celebrating their musical legacy. Their enduring popularity spoke volumes about their lasting impact. In 2018, The Meters received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to their significant contributions to music. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the same year immortalized their place in music history. George Porter Jr. and The Meters revolutionized funk music with their unparalleled instrumental prowess and innovative grooves.

Their journey from New Orleans to the global music stage left an indelible mark on the industry. Their legacy continues to live on through their timeless music and the artists they've inspired, solidifying their status as true legends of funk.

Please join me this week as George Porter Jr shares his experiences and musical life with the legendary Meters.

Dave Warner is an iconic Australian musician, songwriter, and author. He gained popularity in the late 1970s with his band, Dave Warner from the Suburbs, and became known for his unique blend of punk and pub rock.

Hailing from Perth in Western Australia, Dave formed Australia’s first punk band PUS back in the early 1970s. By the time The Sex Pistols had formed, Dave had already moved on to a new phase of music and social commentary which he dubbed Suburban Rock. His band Dave Warner’s From The Suburbs was a major Australian pub band playing with the likes of Men At Work, Midnight Oil, INXS, Dragon and Skyhooks. His albums were highly original and successful, tapping into the psyche of the ordinary Aussie boy and girl.

Dave formed The Suburbs in 1977. The group developed a huge underground following, which led to Dave signing with Australia’s Mushroom Records in 1978. His first album, Mugs Game, went gold within a month of release. Dave’s second album, Free Kicks, was released in 1979.

Several albums later, Dave Warner retired from writing and performing music full-time, turning instead to writing plays, novels and screenplays.

Once nominated by Bob Dylan as his favourite Australian artist, Dave Warner continues to inspire.

He is the author of twelve novels, including the winner of the 1996 West Australian Premier’s Award for Fiction CITY OF LIGHT, and the 2016 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 'BEFORE IT BREAKS', and six other non-fiction titles.

Dave has written for feature film, stage, television, radio and newspapers. His first feature movie starred Kylie Minogue and Molly Ringwald was sold worldwide.  

Dave’s television credits include the INXS telemovie plus regular episodes of mainstream Australian primetime dramas.

This week on A Breath of Fresh Air, Dave Warner discusses his music career and the challenges of being pigeonholed into a specific genre. He shares his desire to create truly original music and his inspiration taken from figures like rocker, Lou Reed and American author, Thomas Pynchon.

This week we delve into the life and experiences of singer CANDI STATON, as she discusses her tumultous journey in the music industry, her battles with breast cancer, and the impact of her hit songs.

From overcoming addiction and abusive relationships to finding success in the disco era, Candi Staton's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of music.

The 83-year-old exemplifies versatility and resilience. She has managed to cross multiple genres and adapt to changing times, all while staying true to herself and staunchly refusing to imitate others. She’s faced many challenges but has always managed to come out stronger. Candi is not only a talented artist but also an inspiring figure who has managed to rise above several abusive marriages and dodgy managers.

Her rise to success is a story of talent, perseverance, and adaptability. From her humble beginnings in Alabama to becoming a disco princess, Candi has shown that she is a force to be reckoned with.

We hear how her journey began when she caught the attention of producer Rick Hall and married singer, Clarence Carter.

Crowned 'The First Lady of Southern Soul', she didn't stop there. In a bold move, she transitioned from soul music to disco, joining the disco craze that was taking over the music scene at the time. This decision proved to be a wise one, as her hit song "Young Hearts Run Free" became a massive success and solidified her legend status.

 Despite achieving success and fame, Candi reveals that there was always something missing in her life, leading to feelings of loneliness and emptiness. Candi acknowledges that she never fully resolved her loneliness despite being married six times.

She regales us with the long winded back story behind her other huge hit ‘You’ve Got the Love’ and says she’s flattered by the fact that many younger artists now cover her songs. She also tells us about her journey with breast cancer and how she has used this as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement.

As you’ll hear, Candi Staton is one helluva positive lady who’s never been happier than she is today. With new music out now and a series of gigs still to come, her story since she began singing in church as a child until today, is quite remarkable. To quote the title of one of her most recent albums, Candi Staton is 'Unstoppable'

I hope you enjoy our conversation.

ROXY MUSIC is the British rock band that emerged in the early 70s and became one of the pioneers of the glam rock and art rock movements. Formed in 1970 by singer and songwriter Bryan Ferry, along with bassist Graham Simpson and saxophonist ANDY MACKAY, the original lineup was completed by Brian Eno (synthesizers and keyboards), Phil Manzanera (guitar), and Paul Thompson (drums). The band's self-titled debut album, "Roxy Music," was released in 1972 and garnered critical acclaim for its innovative sound, blending elements of rock, glam, art, and electronic music. The album's cover featured model Kari-Ann Muller, which became one of the iconic images associated with the band. Throughout the 1970s, Roxy Music released a series of successful albums, including "For Your Pleasure" (1973), "Stranded" (1973), "Country Life" (1974), "Siren" (1975), and "Manifesto" (1979). The band's music and visual style were characterized by Bryan Ferry's distinctive vocals, Andy Mackay's saxophone and oboe contributions, and a blend of avant-garde and elegant imagery. In this episode, Andy Mackay tells us that Brian Eno left the band after the second album, but his influence on the band's early sound and artistic direction remained significant. Roxy Music continued to release albums and tour until they officially disbanded in 1983. Andy Mackay was an integral member of Roxy Music, known for his contributions on saxophone, oboe, and other woodwind instruments. His saxophone solos and musical arrangements played a significant role in shaping the band's unique sound. After the initial breakup of Roxy Music in 1983, Andy Mackay continued to work on various musical projects and collaborated with several artists. He reunited with Roxy Music for occasional tours and recordings when the band reformed in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

He and Roxy Music were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, where they performed a short set. The various band members continue to be very active in many different musical spheres and remain friends today. Over the years, Andy has recorded solo albums and other projects for TV and films well as playing sessions for many musicians including the various Roxy members. He also wrote a book on electronic music, studied theology and most recently finished the 3Psalms project, a work between genres, rock, classical, electronic sacred and secular which stands to sum up his lifetime interests.

Andy Mackay and former bandmate Phil Manzanera have recently completed the album Roxymphony and both have completed Roxy Music's 50th anniversary tour.

Singer GLENN LEONARD is best known for his time as a member of the iconic Motown group, The Temptations. Glenn joined The Temptations in 1975 as the first new member to join the group after their classic lineup had already achieved immense popularity. 

During his time with The Temptations, the group released several successful albums, including "The Temptations Do the Temptations" (1976), "Bare Back" (1978), and "Power" (1980). Some of their notable hits from this era include "Happy People," "Shakey Ground," and "Power.”

Glenn was a part of The Temptations "Reunion" tour and album in 1982, featuring The Classic Five lineup (excluding Paul Williams who had committed suicide in 1973 ).

After parting ways with the group in 1983 and being replaced by Ron Tyson, Leonard became a born-again Christian, entered into full-time ministry and was licensed in 1986. He became ordained and received a doctorate degree in the early 1990s.

He also pursued a successful solo career and today leads his own Temptation Revue Group.

In this episode, Glenn Leonard relates the story of The Temptations that formed in 1960 in Detroit, Michigan. The band are widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful groups in the history of popular music. Known for their signature harmonies, electrifying performances, and iconic choreography, The Temptations became synonymous with the soulful Motown sound.

Their timeless hits, including "My Girl," "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone," "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," "Get Ready," and "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)," showcased their ability to seamlessly blend soul, pop, and funk, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Glenn tells us that The Temptations received numerous accolades throughout their career, including induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Their enduring music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, and their contributions to the Motown era and soul music remain unparalleled.

Wanna know how Steely Dan's Jeff 'Skunk' Baxter became a missile defence expert? Take a listen to this week's episode.

Best-known for his work with Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers, JEFF "SKUNK" BAXTER's versatility and technique as a soloist made him a hugely in-demand session guitarist from the '70s on. Jeff (who still refuses to disclose the origins of his nickname) landed his first recording gig in 1969 with the psychedelic pop group Ultimate Spinach. 

In 1972, he began his association with Steely Dan, playing on their debut album, Can't Buy a Thrill. 

Following 1974's Pretzel Logic, Jeff moved on to the Doobie Brothers, debuting later that year on What Once Were Vices Are Now Habits and continuing on for several more albums through 1978.

During the mid-'70s, he also began to expand his session work, going on to work with the likes of Dolly Parton, Barbra Streisand, Rod Stewart, Bryan Adams, Ringo Starr, Carly Simon, Donna Summer, Joni Mitchell, Rick Nelson among many others.

Jeff's general interest in technology led him into production, most notably helming several albums for hard rockers Nazareth. 

He also developed an interest in military hardware and weapons systems and was hired in 2001 by the Bush administration as a defence analyst, also serving as a consultant to several U.S. congressmen (whilst continuing his music career). 

I hope you'll join me as I sit down and chat with the world-renowned guitarist to explore his incredible journey in music. From early beginnings at the age of five, to the legendary bands he's played with, and his journey to launching his first solo album, "Speed of Heat", this episode of A Breath of Fresh Air is riveting. 

Jeff shares about the intimacy of the guitar, his first band that was "way too nuts and way too much fun," and the secrets to his enduring success. 

We go behind the scenes of the iconic songwriting duo of Donald Fagan and Walter Becker, and learn how they made their mark in the music industry. 

Jeff walks us through his life and times. It's an incredible story about one helluva talented man.

This week we unlock the fascinating tales of three one-hit wonders.

Join me on a journey to meet The Royal Guardsmen’s lead singer, Barry Winslow, Balde Silva who is better known as Toby Beau and rediscover that incredible singer songwriter and producer, Terry Jack as we delve into his musical career and back catalogue. 

You'll gain insight into the highs, the lows, and everything in between, shedding light on the indelible marks each of these musicians have left on the music industry.

This episode is a homage to those artists who, despite having just one major hit, crafted unforgettable melodies that continue to resonate with generations of fans.

We kick things off by responding to a request from a listener who asked to hear how Canadian musician and environmentalist, Terry Jacks is doing today. He's been quiet these last few years but has recently had a 'best of' remastered. Terry Jacks is best known for his massive hit 'Seasons in the Sun' and has been suffering ill health recently so we catch up with his record label producer who fills us in on Terry's life and times. His story is nothing short of fascinating.

Next we venture to the American south to meet Balde Silver, better known these days by his stage name, Toby Beau. You may not remember the band but you're sure to recall their one huge hit, 'My Angel Baby'. Toby tells us all about his experiences with the legendary band Kiss, his meteoric rise to fame and how that one song set him up for a life of music and entertainment ever since. Next, an exploration into the life of Barry Winslow, who, at the helm of The Royal Guardsmen, took the world by storm with their chart-topping song about that little dog named Snoopy. At the time the Royal Guardsmen set out, Charles Schulz's comic strip – Peanuts - was at its peak of popularity and Charlie Brown's beagle somehow evolved into less of a pet than a voice of conscience. One of the recurring themes was Snoopy’s fantasy exploits as a World War I flying ace trying to defeat BaronVon Richthofen, aka The Red Baron.

Barry tells us all about how the Snoopy song came to be, the role producer Phil Gernhard played and how it changed the band members' lives forever.

I hope you'll tune in, sit back, and let the memorable stories behind your favourite one-hit wonders transport you back in time. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just love a good story, this episode is for you. 

Musician JOHN SPRINGATE is a former member of the British glam rock band Glitter Band. Born in England, John was a bass guitarist and vocalist for the group during their heyday in the 1970s. John's professional career started when he was 19 and worked on the gigging circuit for a few years working with people like Jonny Johnson and the Bandwagon and Clem Curtis and the Foundations before joining the Glitter Band.

The Glitter Band originally formed as the backing band for Gary Glitter, a prominent glam rock artist. John joined the band in 1973 and played a crucial role in their success. Known for their energetic live performances and catchy tunes, the Glitter Band achieved considerable commercial success during the glam rock era.

As a member of the Glitter Band, John Springate contributed to several hit songs, including "Angel Face," "Rock and Roll Part 2," and "Goodbye My Love." These songs showcased the band's trademark sound characterised by a combination of powerful drum beats, infectious melodies, and Springate's solid bass lines.

However, in the late 1970s, tensions arose between Gary Glitter and the Glitter Band, resulting in the band parting ways with Glitter in 1975. They continued as a standalone act, recording and releasing music under their own name.

After the Glitter Band disbanded in the early 1980s, John Springate pursued other ventures in the music industry. He embarked on a solo career and also worked as a television presenter. In recent years, he has occasionally reunited with former Glitter Band members for reunion concerts and performances, delighting fans of their glam rock era.

John also became a producer. Even more influential in his career development was the moment in the early 80s when he came out and started going to gay clubs. It was the golden age of Hi-NRG and Springate was suitably inspired to move into dance production. This is where he continues to make his living, scoring his biggest hit with Nikki French's version of 'Total Eclipse of the Heart.' He's also written theme tunes for many of Mike Mansfield's TV programmes and a disappointing Eurovision entry.

In recent times, the association with Gary Glitter has become controversial due to his criminal convictions for child sexual abuse. However, it is important to distinguish between Gary Glitter and the Glitter Band, as the band members themselves were not involved in any illegal activities and swear they knew nothing about Glitter's crimes at the time.

John Springate joins me this week to tell us his and the Glitter Band's story. He talks about the early days and why the band broke up and he discusses his latest solo recording called 72.

It's a fascinating conversation. I hope you enjoy it.

DAVE HOLE is Australia's premier internationally successful bluesman and a highly acclaimed slide guitar virtuoso.

He first burst onto the international scene in 1991 with “Short Fuse Blues”, the first of his seven albums released on the prestigious Alligator Records label. 

He is widely regarded as one of the all-time slide guitar greats whose playing is infused with the spirit of such legends as Elmore James, Duane Allman and Johnny Winter. Nine successful albums and countless tours of the U.S. and Europe have solidified Dave’s stature as one of the very best slide guitarists playing today.

 Dave grew up in Western Australia where, as a child he was somewhat isolated and somewhat lonely. So, he sought solace in music via the family radio and by the age of eleven had convinced his parents to buy him his first guitar.  He was immediately smitten and so began a lifelong passion for music and guitar in particular.

On leaving school Dave completed a degree in physics but by 1974 he was playing music full time. In 1976 he broke the little finger of his left hand playing Australian Rules football. The mishap led him to adopt his unusual slide guitar technique, one which caught the eyes and ears of the American public and turned the musician into a highly sought after player.

 The press gave him rave reviews reporting him as “Magnificent, staggering, almost beyond belief...” Almost overnight, Dave Hole became an international phenomenon.

 Hole was soon gigging non-stop across America and Europe, leaving audiences spellbound wherever he went. And it wasn't just the critics who were paying attention. Metallica's Kirk Hammett names Dave Hole as one of his favourite guitarists, saying “His slide playing kills me. He plays so fast, and his phrasing, intonation and tone are perfect”.

Meet the electrifying sister duo from Atlanta, Georgia, who have been setting the music scene ablaze with their soulful harmonies and roots rock sound. 

MEGAN AND REBECCA LOVELL  are LARKIN POE.

The sisters have taken the music industry by storm with their distinctive blend of traditional influences and modern sensibilities. 

From their early beginnings in a musical household to their rise to fame, Larkin Poe's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. 

The Lovell sisters were raised on a rich diet of blues, rock, and folk and embraced their musical heritage, channeling it into their own unique sound. Inspired by legends like Elvis Presley, Led Zeppelin, and The Allman Brothers Band, Larkin Poe developed a deep appreciation for the raw power and emotion of roots music. 

With their powerful vocals and remarkable instrumental skills, Larkin Poe quickly gained recognition for their captivating live performances. Their debut album, "Kin," released in 2014, showcased their ability to seamlessly blend blues, folk, and rock influences, earning them critical acclaim and setting the stage for their subsequent success. 

But Larkin Poe's music is more than just a homage to the past. They have carved out their own distinct path, infusing their sound with a modern twist and pushing the boundaries of their genre. From their virtuosic guitar playing to their heartfelt lyrics, the sisters captivate audiences with their authenticity and passion. 

In their most recent album, "Blood Harmony," Larkin Poe continues to evolve and experiment with new genres and styles. This record is a dynamic and unforgettable listening experience. 

Beyond their musical prowess, Larkin Poe has become influential advocates for women in the music industry. Through their work and public statements, they address issues of gender inequality and champion the empowerment of female artists. 

Their inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring musicians, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. 

Join us as we delve into the world of Larkin Poe, exploring their musical roots, their evolution as artists, and the impact they are making on the industry. 

In the rich tapestry of rock and roll history, certain bands stand out for their ground-breaking sound and unwavering commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Among these legends is Little Feat, a band known for their seamless fusion of rock, blues, R&B, and country. At the heart of their unique sound was the exceptional talent of keyboardist BILL PAYNE. This week’s episode delves into the remarkable journey of Bill Payne and Little Feat, celebrating their musical fusion and enduring impact.

Little Feat burst onto the music scene in the late 1960s, captivating audiences with their melodies and genre-defying style. Led by the charismatic Lowell George, the band's line-up was a powerhouse of musicians, and in the midst of this collective brilliance stood Bill Payne. His virtuoso skills on the piano elevated the band's sound, acting as a melodic thread that seamlessly wove together their diverse influences.

What set Little Feat apart was their ability to effortlessly blend musical genres. At the core of this sonic tapestry was Bill Payne's musical intuition. His ability to traverse from bluesy rhythms to soulful ballads, and from rollicking rock to intricate jazz-infused compositions, was unparalleled. Payne's piano became a vessel of expression, transcending boundaries and creating a sound that was uniquely Little Feat.

Beyond his instrumental prowess, Bill played a vital role in the band’s song-writing process. His compositions often delved into introspective themes, combining poetic lyricism with infectious melodies. Songs like "Oh Atlanta," with its infectious hooks and heartfelt storytelling, and "Dixie Chicken," a timeless anthem of love and longing, showcased Bill’s song-writing brilliance and contributed to the band's lasting legacy.

Little Feat was known for its amazing live performances. Bill Payne's presence on stage was magnetic, as he effortlessly switched between soulful piano solos and intricate keyboard textures, leaving audiences spellbound.

The band faced a devastating blow when Lowell George tragically passed away in 1979. However, instead of succumbing to despair, Bill Payne and Little Feat found strength in their shared love for music. Payne stepped up as a leader, guiding the band through this challenging period and ensuring that their innovative spirit endured. Their subsequent albums showcased their resilience and commitment to carrying forward their musical legacy.

Today the band continues to play for audiences around the world with Bill the last remaining original member.

In this wee's episode we explore the man and his craft.

Hailed as the new Beatles but "mismanaged and exploited beyond the bounds of human decency" Badfinger's thankless career drove two members to take their own lives. Badfinger could have been huge. What’s more, the band’s connections with The Beatles once earned them the tag of ‘the new Fab Four’. But instead, despite writing and recording some wonderfully memorable music, Badfinger went down in the annals of rock history for all the wrong reasons. Most people who remember the band today will probably point to the fact that two key members took their own lives.

The story of Badfinger is probably one of the most tragic in rock’n’roll. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong – twice– while their occasional triumphs over adversity never seemed to bring them their rightful reward. When Harry Nilsson first heard Without You (his future worldwide No.1 hit single), written by Badfinger’s Pete Ham and Tom Evans, he assumed it was a Beatles song. It was an understandable mistake, given that Paul McCartney had taken the band under his wing, signed them to The Beatles’ Apple label, and even written a hit for them in Come And Get It. Badfinger also backed George Harrison on his Bangladesh concerts. But their connection with The Beatles would become a double-edged sword.

My special guest this week is singer, songwriter and guitarist JOEY MOLLAND - Badfinger's sole surviving member.

During our chat, Joey discusses his life and career in the music industry. He talks about his early days in Liverpool, where he was part of a tight-knit musical community that included some of the most famous bands of the time, such as The Beatles and The Searchers. He talked about his experiences playing in various bands and making records, including joining The Ivey's, which later became Badfinger.

Joey talks about the success of Badfinger in America, particularly their hit song 'Come and Get It', which was written by Paul McCartney. He also discusses the band's formation and later successes with songs such as No Matter What and Day After Day. However, despite the band's success, Joey walks us through the struggles the band faced with management and financial ruin. He still believes that "whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger."

Today Joey Molland continues to perform under the name Joey Molland's Badfinger and is proud of the band's legacy of hits. He chats about his latest solo album, 'Be True to Yourself', which features collaborations with notable musicians such as Mark Hudson, a Grammy-winning producer who has worked with bands like Aerosmith and Rainbow. The album also features contributions from his friends Julian Lennon and The Monkees' Micky Dolenz.

"Be True to Yourself," is Joey Molland's sixth solo album and the first in seven years. It definitely has echoes of John, Paul, George and sometimes even Ringo. 

My special guest today is the remarkable BRUCE COCKBURN, a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter and virtuoso guitarist whose music has been enthralling listeners for more than half a century. Bruce's work is characteriSed by its profound exploration of spirituality, love, and nature, offering a thoughtful perspective on the world around us. His songs are celebrated for their eloquent lyrics and enchanting melodies, which are deeply rooted in his personal journey and experiences. From his early days as a folk-rock artist in the 60s to his current endeavours, Bruce continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his timeless music.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction
00:03:21 - Bruce Cockburn's Music Career,
00:07:10 - Political Songwriting
00:11:09 - Pursuing Music Passion
00:14:42 - Songwriting Process
00:19:20 - Bruce's Journey to Christianity
00:24:25 - Wondering Where the Lions Are
00:33:10 - Changes in Bruce's Music
00:36:40 - Bruce's Interest in Aid Organisations
00:38:12 - The Beneficiary of the System
00:44:20 - Canadian Music Hall of Fame
0:45:50 - Rarities Album
00:48:06 - The Frontman
00:50:49 - Bruce's Career summarised

I hope you enjoy my chat with this incredible musician and amazing human.