'60s '70s '80s - Warm, Candid, Classic, Rock Interviews with Music Legends - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR - podcast cover

'60s '70s '80s - Warm, Candid, Classic, Rock Interviews with Music Legends - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Iconic artists? Music Legends? Sandy Kaye interviews them all on A Breath of Fresh Air - a multi award-winning podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the artists you love. Through compelling conversations, we gain a rare, behind-the-scenes and intimate look at the personal stories and inspirations that fueled the music that shaped entire generations. Explore the lives, struggles, and creative journeys of these legends and relive the timeless hits that defined the soundtrack of our youth. It's all about Their Lives. Their Stories. Their Music https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au
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Episodes

Rick Wakeman's Iconic Career - A Life on Keys

Ever wondered what Rick Wakeman is best known for? What David Bowie songs he played on? Or what he's up to today? Tune in now to find out answers to these questions and lots more .... Rick Wakeman is a pioneering English keyboardist, composer, and producer celebrated for his virtuosity and innovation in progressive rock and beyond. Born in London, Rick showed prodigious talent from an early age, studying piano and honing his craft at the Royal College of Music. His career began as a sought-after...

Jan 08, 202552 min

FELIX CAVALIERE: The Rascals - The World's First Rock Band (encore)

Discover who wrote most of the Rascals songs. Find out what ex lead singer and founder Felix Cavaliere is doing now and learn all about one of the greatest bands of the '60s. Felix Cavaliere is a celebrated musician, songwriter, and vocalist, widely regarded as a pioneer of blue-eyed soul. Born in Pelham, New York, Cavaliere was introduced to music at an early age, taking classical piano lessons under his mother’s encouragement. While initially drawn to classical music, he soon discovered his pa...

Jan 01, 202552 min

Trailer

A show that delves into the musical and personal lives of the greatest hitmakers of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, uncovering the stories and inspirations that shaped some of the most unforgettable tunes of our generation. Join host Sandy Kaye for this intimate multi award-winning, music interview podcast that celebrates the timeless songs we grew up with and the legendary artists behind them. Relive the soundtrack of your youth, uncover secrets, recall cherished memories, and immerse yourself in the...

Dec 30, 202454 sec

ROSS WILSON - The Coolest Daddy Of Them All

From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, ROSS WILSON is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists. From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose number one anthem Eagle Rock and debut album “Daddy Who?” smashed all previous sales records in Australia an astounding 50 years ago in 1971, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits ‘Cool World’, ‘State of The Heart’, ...

Dec 26, 202452 min

How The GO-GO's Gina Schock Powered the Band to Rock History (encore)

Anyone who knows The Go-Go's knows they got the beat. But in the recent television documentary about them, fans also learn the true story of how they got it, lost it, and found it again. The film shows where The Go-Gos are today: making new music together for the first time in 20 something years. We catch up with drummer, Gina Schock and listen, mesmerized as she tells her incredible story. Gina Schock, born Regina Ann Schock in Baltimore, Maryland, is celebrated as the powerhouse drummer of The...

Dec 25, 202452 min

Iva Davies and Icehouse: Australia’s Rock Icons

Iva Davies was born and raised in regional Australia, where his early exposure to music set the stage for his remarkable career. Trained as a classical musician, he excelled as an oboist. However, the allure of rock music and the emerging punk and new wave scenes in the 70s inspired him to shift gears. Influenced by artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and Brian Eno, Iva began exploring electronic and experimental sounds, which would later define Icehouse’s unique style. In 1977, Davies formed ...

Dec 18, 202452 min

Brewer and Shipley's Mike Brewer (‘One Toke Over the Line’) Dead at 80

Mike Brewer, who partnered with Tom Shipley in the folk-rock duo Brewer & Shipley beginning in the late ’60s - best known for their 1971 hit single, “One Toke Over the Line,” has died. The news of his passing at age 80 at his home in Missouri, was announced by Shipley. The latter had visited “my friend of 65 years and musical partner for over 60” three days earlier at a hospital in Branson. By the mid-’60s, Brewer had relocated to Los Angeles and formed a band with Tom Mastin, Billy Mundi (l...

Dec 18, 202414 min

Liberty DeVitto: The Beat That Built BILLY JOEL’s Greatest Hits

Liberty DeVitto has long been recognised as one of the most influential drummers in rock history, renowned for his explosive energy, innovative rhythms, and deep connection to the music. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was captivated by drumming at an early age, inspired by legends like Ringo Starr , Dino Danelli, and Keith Moon . Raised in a vibrant, music-loving family, DeVitto honed his craft by playing along to records and developing his signature style—a mix of finesse, power, and an uncanny...

Dec 11, 202452 min

How COLD CHISEL and Don Walker Shaped Australian Rock Music History

Wondering what ever happened to Don Walker and Cold Chisel? Or maybe what songs Don wrote for the band and what his solo stuff is like? Check this out ... Don Walker, hailed as one of Australia's finest songwriters, has built an enduring legacy through his work with Cold Chisel, his solo career, and his literary pursuits. Born in Ayr, Queensland, in 1951, Don spent his formative years on a sugarcane farm, an environment that shaped his deep appreciation for storytelling and the Australian landsc...

Dec 04, 202452 min

From Cream's Jack Bruce to Malcolm Bruce: A Musical Lineage

Do you remember Cream? Of course you do. They were the first supergroup of the '60s. Ginger Baker , Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce made some amazing music in just under three years. Today, musician Malcolm Bruce , the son of Jack has dedicated himself to preserving the musical legacy of his father who was one of rock’s most influential figures. Jack Bruce was a trailblazing bassist, vocalist, and songwriter, best known as a founding member of Cream, alongside guitar legend Eric Clapton and the fier...

Nov 27, 202452 min

Former Little River Band Frontman - GLENN SHORROCK - The Original Voice Reminisces

Ever wondered what happened to Little River Band's Glenn Shorrock? Do you know which songs Glenn wrote for the band? Or how the original LRB lost their name? Listen in here to find out answers to these and a whole lot of other questions about Australia's most famous band as Glenn Shorrock joins us for an intimate chat. English born Glenn Shorrock is one of the most iconic and influential singer-songwriters to emerge from Australia’s rich music scene. Best known as the founding lead vocalist of L...

Nov 20, 202452 min

BOB MARLEY and the WAILERS - a Story of Love, Music and Politics - as told by Guitarist AL ANDERSON

So you'd like to know if any of the Wailers played with Bob Marley? What happened to the Wailers after Bob's death?How many songs did the group have? And what was Bob Marley's biggest hit? We answer all of these questions and more in this episode. Bob Marley was born in 1945, in Saint Ann, Jamaica. His father was a Jamaican of English descent. His mother was a black teenager. Bob started his career with the Wailers, a group he formed with Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingston in 1963. Marley married R...

Nov 13, 202452 min

GOLDEN EARRING's Radar Love and Beyond: Drummer Cesar Zuiderwijk Reflects

Do you know it's been 50 years since 'Radar Love', first hit the airwaves? Ever thought Golden Earring was a one-hit wonder? Do you know how they got their name? Find out all during this episode as Drummer Cesar Zuiderwik shares his stories and memories. Golden Earring , formed in 1961 in The Hague, stands as one of rock's longest-running and most influential bands, boasting a career that spanned 60 years before disbanding in 2021. Originally called The Golden Earrings, they were inspired by 196...

Nov 06, 202452 min

HUEY LEWIS & Bill Gibson: Heart and Soul of the News

Do you know why Huey Lewis doesn't perform anymore? What he's been diagnosed with and how many hits the band has had? Find out this week as Bill Gibson , Huey's friend and drummer for Huey Lewis and the News shares the stories that led to the band's global success. Bill has been a vital force behind the band’s distinctive sound since its formation in the late 70s. Growing up in Northern California, he was immersed in the local rock and blues scene, which shaped his versatile drumming style. His ...

Oct 30, 202452 min

The Smokie Legend: How Chris Norman Became Rock Royalty

Ever wondered why Chris Norman left Smokie? What he's doing now or if the band wrote their own songs? Tune in for all of these answers and more. As you know, Chris is a British singer-songwriter renowned for his iconic voice and role as the lead vocalist of the band Smokie. Born in 1950, Chris was exposed to music from an early age, influenced by the rise of rock ‘n’ roll in the 50s and early 60s. Inspired by legends like Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and The Beatles, he developed a passion for...

Oct 23, 202452 min

FOREIGNER's Al Greenwood and the Sound of '70s Rock

Ever wondered what Foreigner's biggest hit was? Or why they were called Foreigner in the first place? Maybe you'd like to know if there are any original members left and what happened to their lead singer? Did you see the band finally being inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame? All of these questions and more answered this week as Foreigner co-founder Al Greenwood joins us for a chat. Al is best known as the keyboardist of the iconic rock band Foreigner, formed in 1976 alongside Mick Jones...

Oct 16, 202452 min

TITO JACKSON: The Jackson 5's Guitar Man of Motown

Tito Jackson , born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, was a pioneering musician, singer, songwriter, and guitarist, most famous for his role as a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5. Growing up in a musical family, Tito's talent became apparent at a young age. He was the one who introduced the guitar to the Jackson family's sound, which soon became an essential element of their style. Alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito helped th...

Oct 09, 202452 min

DIRE STRAITS' Chris White on his Saxophone Legacy

Chris White is a highly respected British saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist, best known for his significant contributions to Dire Straits during the band's most commercially successful era. Born in Bristol, England, Chris's musical journey began at a young age, with a deep appreciation for jazz and blues music. Inspired by saxophone legends like John Coltrane and Charlie Parker , he honed his craft throughout the '70s and early '80s, becoming a sought-after session musician for both jazz and...

Oct 02, 202452 min

Gimme Some Lovin': The Spencer Davis Story

Spencer Davis was a British rock musician and bandleader who became a major figure in the 1960s British Invasion, most notably as the founder of The Spencer Davis Group. Born in Swansea, Wales, Davis began his musical journey at a young age, inspired by American blues, jazz, and skiffle music. After moving to Birmingham to attend university, Davis immersed himself in the city's burgeoning music scene, forming the Rhythm and Blues Quartet in 1963, which quickly evolved into The Spencer Davis Grou...

Sep 25, 202452 min

Blues Guitarist COCO MONTOYA -mentored by Albert Collins and John Mayall

Coco Montoya is a celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, recognized for his passionate performances and mastery of the blues genre. Born in Santa Monica, California, Montoya began his musical journey as a drummer, and his career took a pivotal turn when he met the legendary Albert Collins in the 1970s. Albert Collins became his mentor, teaching him the fundamentals of the blues and urging him to transition to guitar. Coco Montoya's left-handed, upside-down playing style and emotional ...

Sep 18, 202452 min

Charlie Musselwhite & Elvin Bishop: A Lifetime Playing the Blues

Charlie Musselwhite and Elvin Bishop, two towering legends in the blues world, have carved their places in music history through decades of innovation, collaboration, and a shared love for the blues. Both emerged from the heart of Chicago’s thriving 1960s blues scene, though they took distinct paths that would eventually lead to an unforgettable partnership. Musselwhite, born in Kosciusko, Mississippi, and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, grew up surrounded by the rich musical traditions of Delta b...

Sep 11, 202452 min

ALLMAN BROTHERS’ Sons: Devon and Duane Betts Lead Southern Rock

The Allman Brothers Band, established in 1969 in Georgia, stands as a cornerstone of Southern rock and American music history. Founded by brothers Duane and Gregg Allman, along with Dickey Betts, Butch Trucks, Berry Oakley, and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson, the band was instrumental in blending rock, blues, jazz, and country music into a genre-defining sound. Their innovative use of dual lead guitars and extended improvisational jams set them apart, creating a live experience that was both powe...

Sep 04, 202452 min

BURTON CUMMINGS - The GUESS WHO's Voice that Rocked the World

Burton Cummings' voice has been rated among the finest in rock music. Today he continues at the top of his game as performer, singer, songwriter, poet and recording artist. As lead singer and songwriter for Canada’s original rock ‘n’ roll superstars, The Guess Who , Burton scored an unprecedented string of international hit singles and albums including “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” “Laughing,” “No Time,” “Share the Land,” “No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature,” “Clap for the Wolfman”, “Albert Fl...

Aug 28, 202452 min

RICHARD T BEAR: Music and a Story for the Heart and Soul

Born in New York City and raised in the Caribbean as Richard Gerstein - Richard T. Bear boasts a career that spans more than 40 years, one that led to a string of acclaimed solo albums and collaborations with a number of influential icons, including Al Kooper , Stephen Stills , f ormer Rascals Gene Cornish and Dino Danelli, Kiss , Pat Benatar and many more. He has shared stages with artists such as Dave Mason, Mick Fleetwood, the Doobie Brothers, Richie Havens and Odetta. T. Bear penned "Love an...

Aug 21, 202452 min

UB40 - The World's Most Successful Reggae Band - Drummer JIMMY BROWN tells all

UB40 , a reggae band from Birmingham, UK, emerged in the late 70s from humble beginnings, with members scraping by on unemployment benefits. The band's original lineup consisted of friends from Moseley School of Art and local schools: Robin and Ali Campbell, Earl Falconer, Brian Travers, Jimmy Brown, Norman Hassan, and later, Michael Virtue and Astro. They named themselves after the unemployment benefit form "UB40" and quickly became known for their left-wing political stance, aligning themselve...

Aug 14, 202452 min

GERRY BECKLEY: Crafting AMERICA's Iconic Hits

Has Gerry Beckley retired? Does he still sing with America? Who influenced the band America? All these questions answered this week. Gerry Beckley is a singer/songwriter best known as a founding member of the classic soft rock outfit America. Alongside bandmates Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek , Gerry first gained recognition for hits like 1971's "Horse with No Name," 1972's "Ventura Highway," 1975's "Sister Golden Hair," and others. Though he and Dewey have continued to perform as America until rece...

Aug 07, 202452 min

TIM FINN's Epic Ride: SPLIT ENZ, CROWDED HOUSE and Solo Success

Where is TIm Finn today? What's the relationship between Tim Finn and Neil Finn ? Who did Tim FInn replace in Fleetwood Mac ? Answers to all of these questions and more: Tim Finn is renowned for his work with Split Enz , Crowded House, and as a solo artist. His musical journey began in New Zealand, where he developed a passion for music at a young age, inspired by the Beatles and other rock legends. Finn's early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of creativity and a drive to innovate with...

Jul 31, 202452 min

HUGH CORNWELL: From the STRANGLERS Punk to Solo Success

Remember Hugh Cornwell who fronted English band, the Stranglers? Wanna know what he's up to today? Tune in to find out! Best known as frontman of the Stranglers, one of the most long-lived and internationally popular bands from the original wave of British punk, Hugh Cornwell is also enjoying a successful solo career, that began with his debut solo album, Nosferatu in 1979 and continues long after he left the group in 1990. Born in 1949 and brought up in North London, Hugh began making music in ...

Jul 24, 202452 min

John Farrar (and Olivia Newton-John): Hopelessly Devoted to Hits

Wondering who wrote 'Hopelessly Devoted,' "You're the One that I Want" or "Magic" for Olivia Newton- John ? Tune in to find out ... John Farrar is an iconic Australian producer, songwriter, and musician whose influential career has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Renowned for his pivotal role in shaping the careers of many artists, John is perhaps best known for his exceptional work with Olivia Newton-John. His talent for crafting hit songs is evident in his contributions to the "G...

Jul 17, 202452 min

TOMMY JAMES (and the Shondells) : Chart-Topping Secrets

Want to know what '60s megastar Tommy James is doing today? Can you name Tommy James and the Shondells biggest hit? Would you like to know Tommy's life story? Tune in here because few stars had a better run on the pop charts in the '60s than Tommy James. As the leader of his group the Shondells, Tommy had a way with upbeat pop tunes that packied a solid rock & roll punch. The creator of songs like "Hanky Panky," "I Think We're Alone Now," "It's Only Love," and "Mony Mony" - the soundtrack to...

Jul 10, 202452 min
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