The Backstage Pass: Song Stories

Step into the captivating world of rock 'n roll history with our latest podcast episode, as we delve deep into the enigmatic title that has become a timeless classic. Join us as we explore the compelling story behind "Angie" by The Rolling Stones, released in 1973.In the early '70s, the Rolling Stones found themselves at a crossroads. With inspiration waning, personal troubles mounting, and various addictions taking their toll, the bad boys of rock were facing a challenging time. Fleeing London for tax reasons, they became increasingly banned in several European countries due to Keith Richards' conspicuous drug consumption. The turning point came in March-April 1972 when Keith Richards underwent detox in Vevey, Switzerland, by Lake Geneva.As Richards emerged from the critical phase of detox, he seized his guitar and, in a single afternoon, composed a song he titled "Angie."But who is Angie? Wild rumors circulated, linking the song to American actress Angie Dickinson, who had a brief affair with Mick Jagger, Anita Pallenberg (Keith Richards' partner), a dedication to their daughter Angela Richards, or even Angela Barnett, David Bowie's wife, who claimed on television to have caught her husband in bed with Mick Jagger. However, the truth is simpler, almost mundane.Join us as we unravel the layers of this iconic track, exploring the personal and musical journey that birthed "Angie" by The Rolling Stones. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us in this captivating episode as we unravel the enthralling story behind the hit track "Here with Me" by the renowned artist Dido, released in 1999. Delve into the bohemian upbringing of Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O'Malley Armstrong, known as Dido, in North London, where her musical journey took root amidst an artistic household. From her early musical prowess to her collaboration with her brother Rollo, discover how a casual recording session transformed her life forever.Tune in to witness the serendipitous turn of events as Rollo's pursuit of fresh talent leads to the discovery of the mesmerizing voice behind "Here with Me." Experience the highs and lows of the song's initial reception, its poignant resonance, and eventual resurgence through an unexpected TV series. Learn how this emotional masterpiece defied odds, captured hearts worldwide, and solidified Dido's place in the music industry.Explore the intricacies of Dido's musical evolution, the impact of "Here with Me" on her debut album's meteoric success, and its enduring legacy in the hearts of millions. Don't miss this episode that celebrates the power of melancholic melodies and the journey of an artist who found her voice through life's bittersweet moments.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us on a captivating journey into the life of Alan Parsons, the mastermind behind the iconic song 'Eye in the Sky' by The Alan Parsons Project. Delve into the fascinating world of music production as we explore Parsons' early passion for sound engineering and his pivotal role in shaping some of the most legendary albums in history.From his humble beginnings as a young musician in London, to his time at Abbey Road Studios during the recording of The Beatles' 'Let it Be' and the monumental 'The Dark Side of the Moon' by Pink Floyd, Parsons' journey is one of dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to sonic perfection.Amidst his ventures at Abbey Road, Parsons crossed paths with lyricist Eric Wolfson, leading to the formation of 'The Alan Parsons Project.' Discover how a chance observation of surveillance cameras in a casino inspired the creation of the unforgettable hit 'Eye in the Sky,' a symbolic anthem of the 1980s that resonated with audiences worldwide.Tune in to uncover the behind-the-scenes anecdotes, creative process, and the cultural impact of 'Eye in the Sky,' a chart-topping sensation that continues to captivate music enthusiasts across generations.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of 'Behind the Hits,' we delve into the captivating story behind Tasmin Archer's iconic track, 'Sleeping Satellite,' released in 1992. Join us as we uncover the journey of a talented English artist who rose from the shadows of backing vocals to create a song that echoed a powerful critique of human nature.Tasmin Archer's musical journey began as a chorus member of the group Dignity in the late '80s, juggling various odd jobs to sustain her passion for music. From seamstress to secretary and even an employee at the Leeds tribunal, Archer's determination remained unyielding. Her breakthrough came when she crossed paths with musicians John Beck and John Hughes, altering the course of her life.During the summer of 1989, the trio crafted the instrumental for a song, but it lacked lyrics. Inspired by a news article commemorating the 20th anniversary of Neil Armstrong's first steps on the Moon, John Hughes discussed the idea with Tasmin Archer. The result? 'Sleeping Satellite,' a poignant reflection on the 1960s space race and humanity's unbridled competition to conquer Earth's natural satellite.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The inspiration for this song is found in the memoirs of one of the greatest British actors of all time: David Niven.  David Niven was known for his phlegmatic and elegant demeanor, but in his autobiography, "The Moon's a Balloon," he revealed a different side to his personality. It was this side that caught the attention of Genesis, and inspired their hit song "Mama." The song's haunting lyrics and eerie music video capture the dark and unsettling themes of Niven's memoirs. Join us as we dive into the story behind the creation of "Mama" and explore the connections between Genesis and David Niven.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

One of the most interesting parts of Roger Hodgson's early life was his father's departure and the guitar he left behind. Despite his shyness and introverted nature, Roger found solace and comfort in the instrument and spent countless hours teaching himself how to play. As he grew older, Roger's passion for music only intensified, and he began writing his own songs and experimenting with different sounds and styles. Eventually, he formed the band Supertramp with fellow musician Rick Davies, and together they created some of the most memorable and beloved music of the 1970s and beyond. But the guitar that Roger's father left behind remained a constant reminder of his early struggles and the source of his musical inspiration. In this podcast, we'll explore the deeper meaning behind "Dreamer" and how Roger's personal experiences and struggles influenced the song's lyrics and musical composition. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Adele's hit song "Someone Like You" is a heart-wrenching ballad that has become a staple of breakup playlists around the world. But what inspired this emotional masterpiece? The story begins in 2008, when a young Adele is in a relationship with a British photographer who is ten years her senior. She believes he is the love of her life, but their relationship eventually fizzles out and they go their separate ways. Devastated by the breakup, Adele turns to alcohol and writing as a coping mechanism. It's during this time that she pens the raw and emotional lyrics to "Someone Like You." But her heartbreak doesn't end there. Just weeks after their breakup, Adele learns that her ex is engaged, crushing any hope she may have had for reconciliation. The pain of this news only fuels her songwriting, and "Someone Like You" becomes a cathartic outlet for her emotions. Join us on this episode as we dive into the heartbreak and vulnerability that inspired Adele's iconic song, and discover how it became a timeless anthem for anyone who has loved and lost.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Discover the riveting narrative behind the iconic track "Roxanne" by The Police in this episode. Journey back to 1978 when the band was yet to make their mark, performing in dingy bars and cramped venues across Europe. From their memorable stint at Amsterdam's Paradisio to a serendipitous encounter in the seedy streets of Pigalle, Paris, lead singer Sting's escapade through the city sparks the genesis of a timeless song.Witness how a chance encounter with streetwalkers, inspired by the literary character Cyrano de Bergerac's tragic love story, led to the creation of "Roxanne," an eclectic fusion of rock, tango, and reggae. Despite its initial flop in the punk-centric scene of England, the track found an unexpected ally across the Atlantic in the form of Oedipus, the DJ of Boston's WBCN radio. His passionate promotion of the song on his punk rock show set the stage for The Police's meteoric rise to fame.Join us as we unravel the improbable connection between a French literary heroine, an American DJ, and a Pigalle prostitute within the extraordinary journey of a chart-topping hit that defied all odds.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the podcast where we uncover the stories behind the songs that have captured our hearts and left a lasting impression on us. In this episode, we delve into the making of Phil Collins' timeless hit, 'I Wish it Would Rain Down'. This song is the result of a unique collaboration between two musical titans - Phil Collins and his lifelong friend, Eric Clapton. The two have a rich history of working together, with Phil producing Clapton's album and Clapton occasionally lending his talents to Phil's songs. 'I Wish it Would Rain Down' was released in 1990 as part of Phil Collins' album, '...But Seriously', and quickly became a fan favorite. The song features Phil's signature soulful vocals, backed by Eric Clapton's legendary guitar skills. But what was the inspiration behind this haunting ballad? As we dive deeper into the lyrics, we discover that the song is an ode to lost love and heartbreak. Phil's powerful vocals and poignant lyrics take us on a journey of raw emotion, as he yearns for the rain to wash away the pain of a failed relationship. In this episode, we'll explore the creative process behind the song, uncovering the personal stories and experiences that inspired Phil to write this iconic piece of music.  So join us as we journey back in time to the making of 'I Wish it Would Rain Down', and discover the magic behind one of the most beloved songs of all time.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the story behind Prefab Sprout's hit song "Cars and Girls" released in 1988. The song was written by the band's frontman, Paddy McAloon, a renowned musical genius known for his smooth melodies and silky lyrics.  McAloon's songwriting skills are evident in "Cars and Girls," a song that features one of rock's biggest stars, Bruce Springsteen himself. McAloon's lyrics offer a satirical take on America's car culture and its obsession with Hollywood glamour, while the song's infectious melody and catchy hooks make it an instant classic.  Join us as we delve into the making of this timeless pop rock gem and explore the creative process behind one of Prefab Sprout's most beloved songs.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the podcast that tells the story behind the iconic song 'Sultans of Swing' by Dire Straits. In 1977, a young Mark Knopfler was a struggling English journalist with a passion for rock and guitar. He decided to take a leap of faith and leave his job to form a band with his brother David, his brother's roommate, and a friend of the roommate. The four young musicians were sharing a cramped apartment, and their financial situation was dire. Despite this, they were determined to make it in the music industry. After countless hours of practicing and performing at local pubs and clubs, they finally landed a record deal. 'Sultans of Swing' was the band's first single and it quickly became a hit, propelling Dire Straits to worldwide fame. The song's catchy guitar riffs and storytelling lyrics captured the hearts of music lovers everywhere. But the road to success was not an easy one. Mark Knopfler's journey to becoming one of the greatest guitarists of all time was paved with struggle, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of his passion. Join us as we dive deeper into the story behind 'Sultans of Swing' and explore the journey that led to the creation of this iconic song.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Step into the captivating world behind Tears For Fears' 1989 hit 'Woman In Chains.' In 1985, the duo found inspiration in a jazz trio's enchanting performance, leading to a powerful anthem rooted in feminist ideals. Discover how Roland Orzabal's literary exploration fueled the creation of a song urging women to reclaim their pivotal role in shaping a better future. The story unfolds with a chance encounter and a collaboration with jazz vocalist Oletta Adams. Join us as we unravel the narrative threads behind this iconic track, a modern fairy tale with a timeless message. Tune in for a journey through the making of 'Woman In Chains' on 'The Backstage Pass'.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us for an exclusive backstage pass to the story behind one of the most revealing POP tracks of its time. In this episode, we delve into the soulful ballad 'You Know I'm No Good' by the legendary Amy Winehouse, released in 2006. Amy Winehouse, known for her acclaimed jazz-infused debut album, collaborates with the hitmaker Mark Ronson, finding inspiration in the tumultuous love story with Blake Fielder. Amidst the tabloid frenzy fueled by their alcohol and drug-fueled escapades, Amy confronts her vices and flaws, unapologetically acknowledging her demons and the agony they bring.In a candid and almost raw confession, Amy's words unravel the complexities of her romance, the struggle against her addictive impulses, and the accumulation of unspoken tensions that eventually led to the song's creation. Mark Ronson's nostalgic 60s soul-inspired production complements Amy's unique voice, solidifying her status as the 21st-century diva, with 'You Know I'm No Good' becoming a cherished collector's item in her repertoire.Tune in to this episode as we uncover the deeply personal journey that birthed this iconic and intimate musical masterpiece.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Step into the captivating world of David Bowie as we unravel the extraordinary story behind one of his iconic tracks. In this episode, we delve into the ethereal realms of "Starman," released in 1972, by the kaleidoscopic artist who effortlessly embraced multiple identities.Our exploration begins in the vibrant neighborhoods of South London during the 1950s, where David Robert Jones grew up envisioning himself as a baseball player and spent countless hours tuning in to the radio waves of the American forces stationed in England. It was through this medium that he discovered the pioneering sounds of Rock 'n' Roll, courtesy of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Bill Haley, igniting within him a burning desire to become David Bowie.Fast forward to 1972, where Bowie, having experienced only a single hit in England, was already preparing his fifth album, the conceptual masterpiece titled "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars." Within this extraordinary musical voyage, "Starman" emerged as a celestial beacon, capturing the imagination of listeners worldwide.Join us as we navigate the cosmic landscape of David Bowie's artistic evolution, immersing ourselves in the magical essence of "Starman." Uncover the inspirations, the creative process, and the impact this timeless track had on both Bowie's career and the world of music.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating tale behind the renowned track 'Every Time You Go Away.' Initially penned by Daryl Hall for the acclaimed duo Hall & Oates, the song remained relatively unnoticed until Paul Young decided to breathe new life into it.Hailing from the vibrant town of Luton, just north of London, Paul Young's musical journey began as a bassist in various local bands. However, it was his distinctive vocal prowess that swiftly propelled him into the spotlight, earning him acclaim as a soul music virtuoso. His magnetic performances at university events left a trail of enamored fans, particularly among the young female attendees.By the early 1980s, Young had established himself as one of England's foremost white soul singers, affectionately dubbed 'Blue Eye Soul,' after his successful rendition of a Marvin Gaye classic. Riding this wave, Young made the pivotal decision to reimagine 'Every Time You Go Away,' originally an overlooked gem buried within a Hall & Oates album from the dynamic Philadelphia duo.Tune in to discover the fascinating narrative behind the renaissance of 'Every Time You Go Away' and how it became the defining milestone in Paul Young's illustrious career.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In the early 80s, Queen's fame was already well established, but the band wanted to break into the US market, where they weren't as popular as in the UK. So, they decided to make a music video for their song "I Want to Break Free" to be shown on MTV. The video, directed by David Mallet, was inspired by the British soap opera "Coronation Street" and featured the members of the band dressed in drag, with Freddie Mercury donning a wig and a pink dress. The video was meant to be a playful take on gender roles and stereotypes, but it caused controversy and backlash in the US, where many conservative groups criticized it for promoting homosexuality. Despite the controversy, the video was a hit in the UK and Europe, and it helped to increase Queen's popularity in the US. The song itself, written by bassist John Deacon, is a catchy rock anthem that urges listeners to break free from the constraints of their lives and pursue their dreams. "I Want to Break Free" became one of Queen's most popular songs and is still a fan favorite today. The song's message of liberation and self-expression resonated with audiences then and continues to do so today.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us as we delve into the heart-rending story behind one of Elton John's most iconic compositions, "Song For A Guy." Released in 1978, this instrumental masterpiece holds a poignant narrative that resonates with audiences to this day. After a two-year hiatus, Elton John finds himself at a creative crossroads, facing the daunting task of crafting music without his long-time collaborator, Bernie Taupin.In the late summer of '78, a pivotal moment unfolds. Emotionally drained and dissociated, Elton experiences a surreal detachment from his own being, sensing an impending farewell. This harrowing encounter with mortality weighs heavily on his soul, compelling him to find solace in the gentle keys of his piano. Thus, the haunting melody of "Song For A Guy" is born, a reflection of his inner turmoil and a testament to the fragility of life.Tune in to explore the touching journey behind Elton John's "Song For A Guy," a timeless melody that continues to stir hearts across the world.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us in this episode as we unravel the captivating story behind the iconic track "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" by Scottish pop-rock legends, Simple Minds, released in 1984.The narrative kicks off with the renowned Oscar-winning composer Keith Forsey, famed for his work on the musical soundtrack of the hit film Flash Dance. Amid his prolific engagement with film music in the early 80s, Forsey's song catches the attention for the movie The Breakfast Club.Against a backdrop of rejections from the likes of Bryan Ferry and Billy Idol, who were unable to commit due to time constraints, Forsey persistently pursues Jim Kerr, the lead singer of Simple Minds, a Scottish band on the brink of international success.However, Kerr's stance remains unwavering as he strictly adheres to singing only his own compositions, citing time constraints due to Simple Minds' ongoing studio commitments for their upcoming album.Despite initial reluctance, fate had other plans. The film's resounding success at the box office propelled "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" to sell over six million copies, propelling Simple Minds into the forefront of the music industry. This American anthem with its unfinished lyrics transcended time, becoming a beloved hit cherished by generations worldwide.Tune in to discover the remarkable journey of this unforgettable song and the unexpected twists that shaped its legacy.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us on a riveting journey through the captivating tale behind the timeless classic, Breakfast in America, by Supertramp, released in 1979. Composed by the visionary Roger Hodgson during the prime of his youth, the song chronicles his longing for the sun-soaked shores of California and the carefree American youth culture, while his heart remained entrenched in the mists of his native England.Against initial skepticism within the group, Roger's persistent vision culminated in the recording of Breakfast in America, a track featuring a myriad of instruments skillfully played by the band themselves. The song's seemingly prophetic undertones were soon validated as it skyrocketed to the top of global charts, ushering in a wave of unparalleled success for Supertramp.However, this meteoric rise also marked the beginning of the end for the band, as the fragile dynamic between the musical geniuses, Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies, strained to the breaking point, ultimately leading to the dissolution of Supertramp. Discover the poignant tale of egos, creativity, and the bittersweet success that defined one of the greatest hits of the late 1970s.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of 'The Backstage Pass,' where we peel back the curtain to reveal the captivating stories behind the greatest songs in music history. Today, we take center stage with The Police's 1979 hit 'Message In The Bottle.'Journey with us to 1976 London, where Sting and Stewart Copeland laid the foundation for The Police, driven by the success of 'Roxanne.' As the trio embarked on a European tour, inspiration struck in the confines of their tour bus, leading to the creation of 'Message In The Bottle.'Sting, searching for a melody, crafted the tune on his guitar, naming it on the spot when questioned by his bandmates. Yet, the genesis of the song harks back to a poignant moment in Sting's home studio, where his dog's yearning gaze sparked the narrative of a man marooned on an island, casting messages into the vast sea.Join us on 'The Backstage Pass' as we unravel the metaphorical layers of 'Message In The Bottle,' a song that catapulted The Police to their first UK number one hit. Discover the magic behind the lyrics and the poignant inspiration that resonated with audiences worldwide, forever solidifying this track as a classic anthem.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.