Electric Friends: A Gary Numan Podcast

If you'd like to buy Electric Friends merch including stickers, T-shirts, mugs and more, please head to https://electric-friends.printify.me/In this episode I dive into one of the most unexpected Gary Numan surprises of recent years — the release of Like a B-Film, a previously unheard Telekon-era demo that suddenly appeared via the 45th anniversary re-issue.I explain how the track appeared almost out of nowhere. Very quickly, it became clear this was genuine: raw 1980 synth textures, unfinished edges, and Gary’s unmistakable vocal — a time capsule suddenly dropped into the present.The episode looks closely at the lyric sheet shared by fans online, lines that shrink humanity into “little pictures,” reference “B-films” and deadened media culture, and land on stark declarations like we are broken, we are shattered, we are glass. I discuss how the imagery hints at emotional numbness, voyeurism and disconnection — themes that would later define tracks like I Dream of Wires and Remind Me to Smile.We also hear Gary himself address the track at Hammersmith — admitting he doesn’t remember writing it, joking that it probably didn’t make the album “because it’s happy,” and marvelling at Beggars Banquet uncovering a demo he’d forgotten.The episode includes reactions from fans comparing the sound to John Foxx, celebrating the synth tones, and debating whether it ever would have sat comfortably on Telekon — or whether saving it has made the surprise even sweeter.I also preview other demos on the anniversary release, and reflect on why unheard material still excites Numan fans after four decades.

In this special episode of Electric Friends: A Gary Numan Podcast, I pay tribute to John Webb, Gary Numan's brother, bandmate and lifelong friend, who passed away in 2025 during the Telekon 45th anniversary tour.The episode reflects on John’s incredible life — from joining Tubeway Army as a teenager to performing on stage across the world, before embarking on a second remarkable career as a professional pilot and aerobatics display leader.Through archive clips and personal memories, I celebrate John’s warmth, humour and creativity. We hear about Gary’s emotional statement following his Birmingham show, where he broke down during 'Please Push No More' after receiving the tragic news. Gary later described his brother as “someone I loved more than the world,” a sentiment shared by so many who knew him.I revisit highlights from my interview with John, including stories of playing with Tubeway Army at the Roxy Club at just 12 years old, touring with Gary through the 80s, and the time Queen’s Roger Taylor borrowed his drum kit during the recording of Dance.The episode also celebrates John’s later musical work as Donovan Silver, his album Alpha, and his return to live performance after nearly three decades.

Announcement! If you'd like to buy Electric Friends merch including stickers, T-shirts, mugs and more, please head to https://electric-friends.printify.me/The story behind Gary Numan’s first ever single ‘That’s Too Bad’ — from punk beginnings to sci-fi storytelling and the birth of Tubeway Army.In this episode of Electric Friends: A Gary Numan Podcast, I take us right back to where it all began — 1978’s That’s Too Bad, the very first Tubeway Army single that launched the career of one of Britain’s most original and influential artists.Before the synths, the fame and Are ‘Friends’ Electric?, Gary was a teenager playing in bands like Mean Street and The Lasers. It was during those early sessions that Tubeway Army was born — with Paul Gardiner on bass and Gary’s uncle Jess Lidyard on drums — and punk attitude collided with futuristic imagination.I explore how That’s Too Bad captured that moment perfectly: a raw, nervy, paranoid slice of late-70s punk with flashes of the science-fiction world Numan would soon make his own. With lyrics about surveillance, alienation and fractured identity, the track already hinted at the themes that would define his later classics like Down in the Park and Metal.Featuring Gary’s own reflections on signing with Beggars Banquet, working at WHSmith up to release day, and even his brief spell under the name Valerian, this episode digs into the single’s evolution — from its rough demo on The Plan to the sharper 1978 version.There’s also listener memories from lifelong fans, from discovering the blue vinyl Tubeway Army album to hearing That’s Too Bad live decades later.Plus, I share the latest Numan news — including the surprise discovery of a previously unheard Telekon track, Like a B Film.

Catch up on the latest from the world of Gary Numan, including new TV shows, podcasts, radio specials, tour updates and more.

This episode looks back at Gary Numan's cover of 'On Broadway', made famous by The Drifters in 1963. Gary's live version in 1979 was an inspired synthpop reworking, featuring Ultravox star Billy Currie on keyboards.

In the first of a new series of bonus minisodes - here's your latest Gary Numan news update.Please get in touch at numanpodcast@gmail.com

Taking a look back at Gary Numan's triumphant Glastonbury Festival debut on Saturday.

For the 50th episode of Electric Friends, I have another special interview - with Gary Numan's eldest daughter, Raven Numan!Raven has released six excellent tracks in recent months, including 'My Reflection' and 'Just a Number', having worked with Gary's producer Ade Fenton.In this interview, Raven opens up about having a pop icon as her dad, following his footsteps into music, how music has helped with her mental health, her love of Nine Inch Nails, plans for her debut album and much more.

For this special episode of Electric Friends, I speak with Gary Numan's longtime friend, collaborator and producer - Ade Fenton.Ade has worked with Gary on all his albums since 2006's Jagged, and is currently working on Gary's latest album - with the reworks of Sacrifice, Exile and Pure coming soon.In the podcast, Ade discusses:How Numan's music first inspired him to get into the industryHow he first met Gary and the first tracks he worked onHow he deals with criticisms from some Numan fansWhat fans can expect for upcoming new releases from GaryWorking with Gary's daughter Raven on her first albumHis work on film soundtracks and whether Gary would ever do the sameMuch more!

Taking a look at Gary Numan's third single from I, Assassin - the moody 'White Boys and Heroes' featuring Pino Palladino's fretless bass and Wham-style music video.

Looking back at the fantastic bonus track from Tubeway Army's Replicas album: eight minutes of pure synthpop brilliance, later covered by Matt Sharp and Damon Albarn.

For this special episode, I asked you to rank your favourite Gary Numan albums from worst to best. Hundreds of you voted, and here I bring you the full countdown of 24 albums, including Gary's words about each LP.What will be number one? I won't give it away here, but do you agree?

For this episode, I look back at Gary Numan's Dance album opener - the haunting 9+ minute track, Slowcar to China.From its real-life inspirations and other theories to the album's sound as a whole, it's time to head back to 1981 and for one Gary's best ever LPs.

"Take that smile off your face, wipe that tear from your eye, don't say you're sorry for me".For this episode, we look back at Paul Gardiner's solo single 'Stormtrooper in Drag', co-written with Gary Numan and with Gary on lead vocals.The underrated track about drug use and loneliness showcased the lost potential of the late Paul Gardiner, and gave Numan fans a look at what was to come on the Dance album, as well as some fresh music after his farewell concerts in 1981.I look back at Paul's other tracks, Gary's reaction to his death aged just 25, the song's cover versions and lyrics meaning.Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

In this latest interview special of Electric Friends, I speak to a legend in Gary Numan's music history: Rrussell Bell.In case you didn’t know - Rrussell is a prolific musician, composer and comedy writer. After graduating in Physics at London University, he joined Tubeway Army in 1979 - first appearing on record on 1980’s We Are Glass. He would then spend the next 10 years recording with Gary and touring the world in his band. He would then go on to form the band Dramatis alongside Chris Payne, Ced Sharpley and Denis Haines.Also a seasoned session player, he is also an award winning jingle writer, worked as a musical director for BSB, and has worked on many film and TV projects. This includes acting, stand-up comedy and script-writing for people such as Craig Charles and Keith Allen. He released his first EP Like a Human in 2019.Rrussell very kindly agreed to be on the show, and I hope you enjoy this special interview!Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.Tom invites Rrussell Bell, a prolific musician and former member of Gary Numan's band, to share his experiences and insights from his extensive career. Rrussell reflects on his early days in the entertainment world, growing up in a family of performers, and how that shaped his artistic journey. He discusses his transition from an aspiring guitarist to joining Tubeway Army, highlighting the challenges and excitement of auditioning for Gary Numan. The conversation delves into memorable moments from their tours, including the immense popularity of Numan in the late '70s and the exhilarating atmosphere of live performances. Rrussell also touches on his diverse career beyond music, including writing jingles and comedy, and hints at upcoming projects with Dramatis, emphasizing his enduring passion for creating music.Takeaways: Rrussell Bell discusses his early life growing up in a family of entertainers, including trapeze artists and comedians. He shares how he first became a fan of Gary Numan after seeing him perform on television during the 1970s. Bell highlights the unique experience of touring with Gary Numan, recalling the excitement and challenges of live performances. The recording process for albums with Numan involved a collaborative effort, allowing band members to contribute creatively. Bell reflects on the bittersweet feelings surrounding the end of Numan's career during the Wembley gigs, leading to the formation of Jamatis. His diverse career spans music, comedy writing, and jingles, showcasing his multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.

"Lee Cooper!"For this episode of Electric Friends, I look back at one of Gary Numan's first ever projects - a TV advert jingle!Gary recorded a short track called 'Don't Be a Dummy' for Lee Cooper jeans, which became very popular in 1979, just before he found fame with 'Are Friends Electric?'.This episode delves into the making of the song, why Gary didn't record a full version, the cover single by John Du Cann, Gary's other advert attempts and more.Clips used:Tubeway Army/Gary Numan - 'Don't be a Dummy'Tubeway Army - 'Something's in the House'John Du Cann - 'Don't be a Dummy'Gary Numan - '7 Up'Gary Numan - 'Cars (Premier Mix)'Lee Cooper advert (Dummies to the Left)Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

For this interview special, it’s with a bonafide music legend: Bill Sharpe.Bill Sharpe is a classically trained pianist and jazz rock musician, who once worked alongside John Peel at the BBC and Trevor Horn in an early band. In 1980, he co-founded the band Shakatak, who scored many big hits around the world with their brand of post-disco jazz-funk.In 1985, he teamed up with Gary Numan on what was meant to be a one-off single, but later turned into several songs, and a whole album - with 1989’s Automatic. He is a prolific songwriter and musician, who has collaborated with many other stars over the years, and is still performing with Shakatak today.In the episode, Bill discusses:How he came to work with Gary Numan and their writing processesThe unreleased demos he made with Gary after Automatic - could they ever be released?How Shakatak came aboutHis friendship with John PeelClips used:Shakatak - Steppin'Shakatak - Easier Said than Done (TOTP)Sharpe & Numan - Change Your MindSharpe & Numan - New Thing from London TownSharpe & Numan - No More LiesShakatak - Nightbirds (TOTP)Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.Tom interviews Bill Sharpe, a member of the iconic band Shakatak, delving into his illustrious career and his unique collaboration with Gary Numan. The discussion highlights how their partnership began almost by chance when Sharpe was working on a solo album and reached out to Numan, leading to the creation of the hit "Change Your Mind." Sharpe reflects on his classical training and early influences in music, detailing the evolution of Shakatak and their rise to fame with hits like "Easier Said Than Done." The conversation reveals the challenges faced in the music industry, including the ups and downs of record label support, and the lasting impact of their work together. Listeners gain insight into Sharpe's passion for music, the dynamics of collaboration, and the joy of performing live, demonstrating that the spirit of creativity remains vibrant even after decades in the industry.Takeaways: Bill Sharp discusses his classical music background and journey into jazz and funk. The formation of Shakatak was influenced by diverse musical experiences and collaborations. Bill shares the serendipitous collaboration with Gary Numan that led to successful tracks. The creative process behind 'Change Your Mind' involved innovative studio techniques and remixing. Sharp reflects on the band's global success and their enduring appeal in the music industry. He expresses disappointment over the lack of promotion for the album they created together.

"I don't suppose you ever laughed at me"For this episode of Electric Friends, I look back at Gary Numan's 1985 album The Fury, and in particular its lead single 'Your Fascination'.Including:How Gary continued his funk/industrial style from BerserkerHow radio continued to ignore him despite being a funky bangerHow he turned to co-producers and took on a new songwriting technique for the albumIts music video co-starring his then-girlfriendTheories to what the song is aboutClips used:Gary Numan - Your FascinationGary Numan - MiraclesGary Numan - TricksRetrosound - PPG Wave Soundscapes IIGary Numan - Revolution (audiobook)Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

"We're in the building where they make us grow, and I'm frightened by the liquid engineers, like you."For this episode, I look back at one of Gary Numan's best-known and best-loved songs, 'Metal', from 1979's The Pleasure Principle.The track was the first song on the album with lyrics, and was inspired by the writings of Philip K Dick, about a machine with a desire to be human.The perfect synthpop track was never a single, but it became one of Gary Numan's most-performed songs, and was later covered and sampled by a number of artists, most notably by Trent Reznor's Nine Inch Nails.The episode looks at:What 'Metal' is all aboutIts somewhat forgotten music videoWhy it was never released as a singleThe various live versionsWhen Gary performed it with Nine Inch Nails in 2009Clips used:Gary Numan - MetalThe Beach Boys - Do It AgainGary Numan - Metal (live, 1979)Gary Numan - Metal (live, 1986)Gary Numan - Metal (live, 2018)Gary Numan - Metal 98Gary Numan - MoralGary Numan - Revolution (audiobook)Tubeway Army - The CraziesTubeway Army - We Have a TechnicalNine Inch Nails - MetalNine Inch Nails - Metal (live, 2009)Planet Funk - Who SaidAfrika Bambaataa - MetalNouvelle Vague - MetalPoppy - MetalPlease get in touch on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

For the latest interview special of Electric Friends, I speak to Gary Numan's brother John Webb, aka Donovan Silver.Donovan opens up about his close bond with older brother Gary, what it was like growing up with him and the first time he joined Tubeway Army on stage as a 12-year-old.He also speaks about joining the band full-time as a teenager and their various tours, as well as working alongside Queen legend Roger Taylor on drums.Donovan also gives a fascinating account of his impressive aviation career, as well as his return to music, including his most recent album Alpha.Clips used:Gary Numan - (R)Evolution (audiobook)Tubeway Army live at the Roxy - Boys (1977)Gary Numan - Remind Me to Smile (live, 1983)Gary Numan - CrashJohn Webb - The Experiment of LoveDonovan Silver - AlphaTubeway Army - Me! I Disconnect from YouPlease get in touch on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.