The Backstage Pass: Song Stories

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.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story behind Sinead O'Connor's iconic ballad "Nothing Compares 2 U". Originally written by Prince in just under an hour, the song didn't quite fit with his image at the time and was instead recorded by a group called The Family.  It wasn't until Sinead O'Connor's hauntingly beautiful rendition in 1990 that the song became a massive hit, topping charts around the world.  We explore the emotions and experiences that inspired the song's lyrics, as well as the cultural and political impact it had in the early 90s. Join us as we unravel the mystery behind one of the greatest love songs of all time.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us on this episode as we delve into the captivating story behind Queen's iconic track, "Somebody To Love," released in 1976. Discover why this particular song holds a special place in Freddie Mercury's heart, making it his personal favorite within the band's extensive repertoire.During the mid-70s, Queen established themselves as a prominent force in the rock music scene. Their relentless touring schedule, consisting of sold-out concerts and recording sessions, propelled them to great success. However, amidst the whirlwind of their demanding careers, the band found moments to reflect and create new material.For Freddie Mercury, the composition phase for a new album became an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery. Seated alone in front of his piano, he delved deep into the recesses of his soul. It was during this poignant moment that he experienced an overwhelming sense of loneliness, a feeling he longed to express through his music.Explore the profound emotions and personal struggles that inspired the creation of "Somebody To Love." Join us as we uncover the raw vulnerability and sheer musical genius that merged to produce this timeless anthem. From the soul-searching lyrics to the soaring harmonies, this episode will immerse you in the captivating journey of a legendary artist.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us in this episode of our podcast as we dive into the captivating story behind one of Joe Jackson's iconic tracks, "Steppin' Out." Released in 1982, this song showcases Jackson's unique ability to blend genres and create a sound that resonates with listeners even decades later.The tale begins with the birth of David Ian Jackson in 1954, into a humble working-class family in the southern region of England. Growing up, David faced health challenges as he was diagnosed with asthma at the tender age of 3. Unable to participate in sports, he sought solace in the world of literature and music.At the age of 11, David began taking music lessons, learning to play the violin, percussion, and oboe. However, it was when his parents gifted him a second-hand piano that his true passion was ignited. From that moment, David was determined to become a composer.In this episode, we'll explore how Joe Jackson's early struggles and unwavering pursuit of his musical aspirations shaped the artist he became. We'll uncover the inspirations and influences that guided the creation of "Steppin' Out," a track that perfectly showcases Jackson's ability to blend various genres, creating a unique and timeless sound.Tune in as we unravel the story behind the song and gain insights into the life and career of Joe Jackson. Whether you're a fan of his music or simply intrigued by the stories behind iconic tracks, this episode is sure to captivate you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to our podcast, where we take a deep dive into the story behind The Beatles' classic song, 'Strawberry Fields Forever'.  This song marked a turning point for the band, both in terms of their musical style and their creative process. After completing the album 'Revolver', the band started working on their next project, 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'.  'Strawberry Fields Forever' was the first track they recorded for the album. However, their record company and management were pushing for new material, and the band was forced to release it as a single instead.  Initially, the song was met with divided opinions from critics and fans. However, it would go on to become a highly influential track for the emerging psychedelic genre.  Interestingly, the Beatles decided to adhere to their philosophy of omitting previously released singles from their albums. This meant that 'Strawberry Fields Forever' would not be included on 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'.  In this podcast, we'll explore the creative process behind the making of this song, its musical style and influences, and the impact it had on the Beatles' career and on the music industry as a whole. Join us as we uncover the story behind 'Strawberry Fields Forever'.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we take you behind the scenes of some iconic songs. Today, we have a backstage pass to the story behind "Say what you want" by Texas, a track that changed everything for the band back in 1997.In this episode, we delve into the journey of Sharleen Spiteri, the lead singer of Texas, and how "Say what you want" became a pivotal moment in their career. Born in Bellshill, Scotland, Sharleen grew up in a household where music was always present. Her father, a sailor, would bring home stacks of records as a way to make up for his long absences. It was through these records that Sharleen discovered the captivating voices of Motown, the electrifying sound of Prince, the punk-infused energy of Blondie, and most notably, the influential music of The Clash, which left an indelible mark on her.Join us as we explore the origins of "Say what you want," the challenges faced by Texas, and the impact of this song on their trajectory. From its heartfelt lyrics to its infectious melodies, this track resonated with millions of listeners worldwide. We'll uncover the inspiration behind the song, its recording process, and the emotions that it evoked within the band and their fans.Tune in to this episode to discover the captivating story behind "Say what you want" and gain a deeper understanding of the song that propelled Texas to new heights.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us in this episode as we dive into the captivating story behind one of Eric Clapton's most iconic songs, "Wonderful Tonight." Released in 1977, this timeless ballad carries a tale of love, rivalry, and heartbreak that shaped the life of the legendary guitarist.During the late 1960s, Clapton was hailed as one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time. However, his personal life took a tumultuous turn as he struggled with addiction, seeking solace in a haze of drugs. In the midst of his decline, he found himself consumed by an unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, an ethereal model who happened to be married to none other than Clapton's closest friend, George Harrison.In a desperate attempt to win the affections of the enchanting Pattie, Clapton and Harrison embarked on a musical battle, using their songs as a battlefield for their rivalries and emotions. "Wonderful Tonight" emerged as a poignant testament to Clapton's longing and vulnerability, capturing the essence of his tumultuous journey.Join us as we delve into the intricate web of emotions, creative expression, and friendship entwined within this iconic track. Unravel the layers of Clapton's passion, heartache, and artistic brilliance that propelled "Wonderful Tonight" into the hearts of millions worldwide.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we unravel the captivating story behind the iconic track "Creep" by the renowned band Radiohead. From its humble origins, composed in a student's room, to its meteoric rise as a 90s anthem, this episode traces the captivating narrative of the song's evolution and reception.As we delve into the backstory, we discover how the lead vocalist and leader, Thom Yorke, penned this hauntingly personal melody at the tender age of 20, depicting the intense anguish of unrequited love. Despite its deeply relatable and emotive lyrics, the song faced initial setbacks, with producers doubting its commercial viability.Join us as we explore the astonishing contrast between its initial reception in the UK, where it was deemed too melancholic for mainstream appeal, and its resounding success in the grunge-driven American music scene. Against all odds, "Creep" shattered sales records, propelling Radiohead into the limelight.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us in this episode as we uncover the captivating story behind the iconic track "Lady in Red" by the renowned artist Chris de Burgh. With a global album sales record exceeding 40 million, Chris de Burgh's journey from his international upbringing to his musical breakthrough is a tale of resilience and passion.Born in Argentina to a diplomat father, Chris de Burgh's childhood traversed diverse landscapes, from Malta to Nigeria and Zaire. Settling in Ireland during his formative years, he discovered his musical talent while performing for guests at the family's transformed castle hotel.Despite his initial pursuit of language studies at the esteemed Trinity College, Dublin, Chris eventually followed his heart into the world of music. Overcoming early challenges, his career gained momentum, marked by a significant milestone as the opening act for Supertramp's 1974 tour.The turning point arrived in the 1980s when the European audience embraced his music, culminating in the release of the timeless ballad "Lady in Red" in 1986. Inspired by his first encounter with Diane, his future wife and mother of his children, the song immortalizes the essence of love and the ongoing commitment required to cherish one's partner.Tune in to delve into the emotional journey behind this legendary song, exploring the highs and lows of Chris de Burgh's life and the enduring legacy of "Lady in Red" that continues to captivate audiences across generations.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to "The Backstage Pass," where we unlock the captivating tales behind musical masterpieces. In this episode, we turn our spotlight on the genre-defying hit "Easy Lover" by Phil Collins and Philip Bailey, released in 1984.Our journey begins in Denver, where Philip Bailey's soulful roots take shape. From singing in his local church every Sunday to honing his drumming and percussion skills at university, Bailey's musical journey unfolds. Picture the scene in 1972 when Maurice White, Earth, Wind & Fire's leader, recognizes Bailey's extraordinary vocal range and invites him to join the iconic group.Fast forward to the '80s, where the ebb of Earth, Wind & Fire's success opens the door for Bailey's solo career. Enter Phil Collins, selected to produce Bailey's third solo album. As the recording progresses, Collins senses the need for a musical bridge, a track that defies categorization and unites pop, soul, and rock.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Al Stewart's "Year of the Cat" (1976) - In this episode, we explore the story behind Al Stewart's hit song "Year of the Cat." Despite its title, the song has little to do with Vietnamese astrology. Instead, it's teeming with references to one of the great moments in cinema history: the film Casablanca. Join us as we delve into the creative process that went into crafting this timeless classic, from the songwriting to the recording techniques. We also uncover the fascinating anecdotes and inspirations that shaped this iconic pop rock hit. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to go behind the scenes and discover the story behind "Year of the Cat."Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to a musical journey through the dazzling resurgence of the iconic David Bowie, marked by the chart-topping anthem that dominated both sides of the Atlantic in 1983. In this episode, we unravel the untold story behind the song that heralded Bowie's triumphant return - 'Let's Dance.'As Bowie grapples with personal demons, including a cocaine addiction and paranoia, he finds solace on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.The chance meeting sets the stage for an unexpected collaboration with Nile Rodgers. Experience the demo, witness the creative clash, and delve into the magic that transformed 'Let's Dance' into an ode to sensual dance and the pursuit of joy between two lovers. Upon its release, the song skyrocketed to number one across the globe, solidifying its status as David Bowie's biggest hit and an enduring favorite for music enthusiasts everywhere.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.