The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the songs.

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Stretch 'Why did you do it?'

2024-11-0205:26

Step into the intriguing world of Rock'n Roll's most notorious swindle as we delve into the captivating story behind the song "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, released in 1975. Join us as we uncover the chain of events that led to this audacious move and explore the impact it had on the music industry.In the late 1960s, Fleetwood Mac stood tall as the epitome of British Blues greatness, capturing the hearts of millions. However, fame and excessive drug use left scars on the band, prompting them to take a much-needed hiatus. Little did they know, their manager, Clifford Adams, had other plans in store.With an American tour already booked and tickets sold, Adams faced a daunting challenge. His solution? Persuading Mick Fleetwood, the iconic drummer and founding member of Fleetwood Mac, to perform the shows with a group of newly recruited musicians. The hope was to deceive the American audience and avoid detection.In this episode, we uncover the audacity and cunning of Adams' plan, exploring the motivations behind it and the consequences it had for all involved. We delve into the rise of Stretch, the band created for the sole purpose of continuing Fleetwood Mac's tour, and examine the impact of this controversial move on the music industry as a whole.Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, examining the twists and turns that shaped this unforgettable track. Discover the secrets, the betrayals, and the ultimate legacy left by this audacious chapter in Rock'n Roll history.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Coldplay 'Viva La Vida'

2024-10-2605:54

In this episode, we delve into the story behind Coldplay's hit song 'Viva La Vida'. Released in 2008, the song was a massive commercial success and won the band multiple awards. But what inspired its creation? During a trip to Mexico, Chris Martin visited the Frida Kahlo Museum and was struck by the artist's life and work. This experience inspired the lyrics of 'Viva La Vida', which explore themes of power, revolution, and the fleeting nature of success. The song features an energetic and anthemic sound that has captivated audiences around the world. Join us as we explore the story behind this iconic song and its enduring legacy.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

David Bowie 'China Girl'

2024-10-1907:35

Welcome to a backstage pass to unravel the captivating story behind one of David Bowie's greatest hits: "China Girl." Join us in this episode as we explore the remarkable journey of this iconic song. In 1977, David Bowie decided to lend a helping hand to his friend Iggy Pop in recording his debut album. Bowie, well-acquainted with the studios at Château d'Hérouville near Paris, France, set up camp there with Iggy Pop. It was during their time at the château that they crossed paths with a French singer who was also working on his own album—Jacques Higelin. To accommodate this unexpected convergence of talent, Higelin and his Vietnamese partner, Kuêlan Nguyen, occupied a wing of the château. After intense recording sessions, it became customary for everyone to gather in the salon to unwind, drink, smoke, and engage in late-night improvisations. It is in this convivial atmosphere that David Bowie found himself enchanted by Kuêlan's presence, and in secret, they shared a few stolen kisses. Join us as we delve into the hidden layers of this encounter, the inspirations behind "China Girl," and the impact it had on David Bowie's musical journey. Gain insights into the cultural influences and personal connections that shaped the song's creation and understand its significance in the context of Bowie's discography. Whether you're a devoted David Bowie fan, an aficionado of iconic rock hits, or simply fascinated by the interplay between personal experiences and musical masterpieces, this episode will transport you into a world of creativity, passion, and cultural fusion.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Stranglers 'Golden Brown'

2024-10-1205:19

Join us in this episode as we delve into the captivating story behind the iconic song "Golden Brown" by The Stranglers, released in 1982. This track, a shining gem of 80s rock production, holds a fascinating narrative that revolves around the life of Jean-Jacques Burnel, the band's bassist.Born to French restaurateurs who later settled in England, Burnel pursued a university degree in economics. However, his true passion lay in Karate, a martial art he practiced as an amateur. Dreaming of traveling to Japan to learn from the great masters, Burnel embarked on a journey to make his aspirations a reality.It was during this time that fate intervened. On a fortuitous evening, returning from a rigorous training session, Burnel encountered a hitchhiker who expressed gratitude by inviting him to join his roommates for a few beers. Little did Burnel know that this encounter would change the course of his life forever.In this episode, we unravel the intricate threads that connect Burnel's personal journey, the chance encounter, and the formation of The Stranglers. We explore the creative process behind "Golden Brown," a song that exudes a hypnotic allure and captivates listeners with its melodic richness and poetic lyrics.Tune in to this episode of our podcast as we uncover the story behind "Golden Brown" by The Stranglers, a timeless masterpiece that encapsulates the serendipitous nature of life's extraordinary moments.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Phil Collins 'In The Air Tonight'

2024-10-0505:47

Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we take you behind the scenes and uncover the fascinating stories behind iconic songs. In today's episode, we have an exclusive backstage pass to the track "In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins, taken from his debut solo album. In 1981, Phil Collins had already spent four years as the lead singer of Genesis, experiencing a whirlwind of album releases and worldwide tours. However, amidst the glitz and glamour, Collins was facing a profound personal crisis. His wife, Andrea, whom he had known since primary school and was the mother of their son Simon, could no longer bear the long absences and had a brief affair with a decorator friend. Fueled by intense anger and a need to exorcise his demons, Phil Collins channelled his emotions into creating "In the Air Tonight."This emotionally charged song became a centerpiece of Collins' first solo album, "Face Value," which delves into the failure of his marriage and the subsequent divorce. Join us as we unravel the layers of this haunting track, exploring the raw emotions, personal turmoil, and artistic expression that gave birth to one of Phil Collins' most iconic songs.Tune in to this episode to discover the story behind "In the Air Tonight" and gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact it had on Collins' career and personal life.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Pretenders 'Brass in Pocket'

2024-09-2804:56

In this episode, we explore the tale behind the timeless track "Brass in Pocket" by The Pretenders, released in 1979.Join us as we unravel the intriguing journey of Chrissie Hynde, the mastermind behind this influential band from the 80s rock scene. Born in the early 1950s in Akron, Ohio, Chrissie grew up in a conservative working-class environment. With only three old albums at home, she turned to the radio for musical inspiration.At the tender age of 14, Chrissie experienced a transformative moment when she heard the Beatles on the airwaves. It was a pivotal moment that ignited her passion for music and set her on a path to stardom. Determined to become a rock star, she made a life-altering decision. When her mother presented her with a watch as a coming-of-age gift, Chrissie traded it for a second-hand Gibson guitar, symbolizing her unwavering dedication to her musical aspirations. At the age of 22, Chrissie Hynde took a leap of faith, leaving behind her art studies and embarking on a journey across the Atlantic to London. This decision would prove to be a defining moment in her life, as she ventured into the vibrant music scene of the British capital.Tune in to this episode as we uncover the story behind "Brass in Pocket," a song that not only left an indelible mark on the rock genre but also showcases the resilience and determination of Chrissie Hynde. Join us as we pay homage to the legacy of The Pretenders and their influential contribution to music history.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Bryan Ferry 'Don't Stop the dance'

2024-09-2105:39

In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the story behind the iconic track "Don't Stop the Dance" by Bryan Ferry, released in 1985. Join us as we explore the journey of an artist who has sold over 30 million records to date.Born in Washington, a small town in northeast England, Bryan Ferry grew up amidst the gray and gloomy atmosphere of the post-war era. While his parents envisioned him becoming a lawyer, Ferry, like a moth drawn to a flame, developed an insatiable passion for music, particularly the sounds emanating from the United States.Through the narrative of Bryan Ferry's musical upbringing, we unravel the inspirations and influences that shaped "Don't Stop the Dance." Join us as we explore the themes, the creative process, and the impact of this timeless track that continues to resonate with audiences across the globe.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Portishead 'Glory Box'

2024-09-1406:36

Join us for a captivating journey as we delve into the fascinating story behind one of the iconic tracks in the world of trip hop. In this episode, we explore "Glory Box" by the renowned group Portishead, released in 1994.Travel back in time to Bristol, England, in 1991, where a unique program initiated by Margaret Thatcher aimed to assist unemployed individuals in creating their own businesses. It is within this context that the tale of this mesmerizing song begins. Geoff Barrow, a talented assistant sound engineer, proposes the idea of establishing a music production company during a meeting.Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of "Glory Box" from its humble beginnings in a coffee break conversation to becoming a global chart-topper. Gain insights into the creation process, the emotions woven into the song's lyrics, and the impact it had on the trip hop genre. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Portishead, a lover of trip hop, or simply intrigued by the stories behind timeless music, this episode will captivate your imagination and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the magic that lies within "Glory Box."Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Madness 'One Step Beyond'

2024-09-0703:52

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we dive into the fascinating story behind the iconic song "One Step Beyond" by the band Madness. Join us as we explore the origins of this worldwide success and its deep roots in the British music scene.In the mid-1960s, Jamaican emigrants introduced a vibrant musical movement called Ska to the shores of Britain. This genre, derived from reggae, captured the hearts of many with its infectious rhythms and lively beats. However, it wasn't until nearly two decades later that Ska underwent a transformation.The white British youth embraced Ska and infused it with elements of Rock, resulting in a unique two-tone hybrid style. Known as Black & White, this fusion of genres became a powerful symbol, symbolized by the iconic colors of black and white, which were incorporated into the dress code of the subculture."One Step Beyond" was released by Madness in 1979 and quickly became a sensation. With its infectious energy, catchy hooks, and charismatic delivery, the song captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its distinctive blend of Ska and Rock elements, infused with the band's unique style and personality, made it an instant classic.Join us as we delve into the story behind the song, exploring the influences that shaped its creation, the cultural significance it carried, and the impact it had on the music industry.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Tears For Fears 'Everybody wants to rule the World'

2024-08-3105:311

Welcome to this episode of "Behind the Melody," where we delve into the captivating story behind the iconic song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears, released in 1985.Join us as we uncover the serendipitous origins and extraordinary journey of this timeless track. The tale begins in the picturesque city of Bath, located in the enchanting South West of England. Here, two young teenagers, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, crossed paths and embarked on a remarkable musical adventure.At the time, Roland Orzabal found himself amidst a profound spiritual quest. It was during this introspective period that fate intervened, leading him to encounter "The Primal Scream," a book penned by renowned American psychotherapist Arthur Janov. Janov's work revolved around a therapeutic approach that aimed to unleash the deep-seated childhood traumas through cries, screams, and primal expressions.Thus, the genesis of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was born from this shared pursuit of personal healing and growth. This transformative track would go on to capture the hearts of millions worldwide, resonating with its introspective lyrics and captivating melodies.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

U2 'One'

2024-08-2406:39

Welcome to the latest episode of "Behind the Song," where we uncover the stories behind some of the greatest tunes in music history. In this episode, we take a closer look at U2's hit song "One," and the winding road that led to its creation. In 1990, U2 was in Berlin, recording the beginnings of their album Achtung Baby. However, the initial recordings were a struggle. The atmosphere in the studio was tense, and producer Daniel Lanois was not satisfied with the progress. The band was stuck in a creative rut, unable to move forward. But then, Lanois had an idea. He suggested combining two different songs the band had been working on, creating a new, powerful track that would become "One." Bono's lyrics and vocals, paired with the band's instrumentation, came together to create a raw, emotional sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Join us as we delve into the story behind U2's "One," and explore the creative process that led to the creation of one of the greatest songs of all time.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Police 'Walking On The Moon'

2024-08-1705:54

In this podcast, we dive into the story behind one of The Police's most iconic songs, 'Walking On The Moon'. The tale starts with a chance encounter between Sting and a composer friend in Munich. After a day of work, the two decided to explore the local nightlife and hit up a few bars. It's during this excursion that Sting has an epiphany - the sensation of walking on the moon could be a powerful metaphor for the feeling of being in love. Back in London, the band begins working on the song and experimenting with various sounds and instruments, including a Moog synthesizer. Finally, the track is complete and released as the second single from their album 'Reggatta de Blanc'. Join us as we explore the creative process behind this timeless hit and the impact it had on the music industry.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Adele 'Rolling In The Deep'

2024-08-1005:49

The story of Adele's hit song "Rolling In The Deep" begins with the singer's childhood in North London, where she discovered her love of music at a young age. As a child, Adele was obsessed with the Spice Girls and would spend hours imitating them in front of her mirror. But as she grew older, Adele's musical tastes expanded, and she began to explore different genres and styles. She eventually found her own unique voice as a singer and songwriter, drawing inspiration from soul, blues, and classic rock. In this podcast, we'll delve into the story behind "Rolling In The Deep", one of Adele's most successful and beloved songs. We'll explore the song's origins, its musical and lyrical themes, and the creative process that went into making it a hit. Through interviews with experts and insiders, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the song's themes of heartbreak and betrayal, and how they reflect Adele's personal experiences and struggles. We'll also explore the song's production and arrangement, including its iconic opening riff and powerful vocal performance. Along the way, we'll learn more about Adele's life and career, from her early days as a young musician to her rise to fame as one of the most successful artists of her generation. Join us as we uncover the fascinating story behind "Rolling In The Deep", and discover the artistry and passion that have made Adele one of the most beloved musicians of our time.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Verve 'Bitter Sweet Symphony'

2024-08-0306:52

In this podcast, we'll explore the fascinating story behind one of the most iconic songs of the 90s, The Verve's "Bitter Sweet Symphony". The song's origins can be traced back to the early days of the band, when a young Richard Ashcroft formed The Verve with his high school friends in Wigan, in the north of England. Through interviews with experts and insiders, we'll learn about the band's early struggles and creative process, and how they eventually found their unique sound and style. We'll also explore the personal and artistic struggles that Ashcroft and the band faced over the years, including a period of heavy drug use and several breakups. Despite these challenges, The Verve continued to make music, eventually releasing their breakthrough album "Urban Hymns" in 1997. It was on this album that "Bitter Sweet Symphony" appeared, becoming an instant classic and a defining song of the era. In this podcast, we'll take a closer look at the song's lyrics and musical themes, as well as the creative process that went into making it. We'll also examine the legal controversy that surrounded the song's use of a sample from a Rolling Stones song, and how it affected the band's career and legacy. Through it all, we'll gain a deeper understanding of The Verve's artistry and vision, and how they created a song that continues to resonate with fans and listeners today. Join us as we uncover the story behind "Bitter Sweet Symphony", and discover the enduring power and influence of one of the greatest songs of the 90s.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Queen 'Bohemian Rhapsody'

2024-07-2708:28

Welcome to our podcast where we take you on a journey through the fascinating story behind one of the most iconic songs in rock music history: Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody." The genesis of this masterpiece dates back to the late 1960s when the band's enigmatic frontman, Freddie Mercury, began developing the song. He would often play different parts of the song on the piano, piecing it together over time. Interestingly, one of the early pieces that formed the basis of "Bohemian Rhapsody" was a tune he called "The Cowboy Song." But it wasn't until the mid-70s, after several years of experimentation and refinement, that the song was finally recorded and released as a single. And even then, it faced significant resistance from record executives and radio stations who were skeptical of its unconventional structure and length. However, despite the challenges, the song went on to become a massive hit and an enduring classic that has transcended generations. One of the reasons for the song's enduring popularity is the enigmatic lyrics that have inspired countless interpretations and debates. Some have suggested that the song is an allegory for Mercury's personal struggles with his sexuality, while others have seen it as a commentary on social and political issues of the time. Whatever the true meaning may be, one thing is certain: "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a masterpiece of rock music that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences to this day. Join us as we delve deeper into the story behind this iconic song and explore the many layers of its meaning and impact.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Amy Macdonald 'This Is The Life'

2024-07-2005:06

In this podcast, we dive into the story behind Amy MacDonald's hit song "This Is The Life". We follow the journey of a young girl from Scotland who found inspiration in music legends like David Bowie and Oasis. But it was a fateful evening when she accompanied her mother to a Travis concert that would change her life forever. From there, she began writing her own music and performing in local venues. One of her early songs caught the attention of a radio station, leading to her big break and the creation of "This Is The Life". Join us as we explore the inspiration and personal experiences that led to this beloved song, and how it became a defining moment in Amy MacDonald's career.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Robbie Williams ‘Angels'

2024-07-1306:50

It's the mid-90s, and Robbie Williams has just left Take That. His career is at a standstill, and he's in need of a break. So he heads to Dublin, one of the coolest cities in the world, for some much-needed R&R. One night, Robbie finds himself alone in a pub on George's Street. It's there that he has a chance encounter with a stranger who gives him a new perspective on life. But that's just the beginning of the story. Join us as we explore the story behind "Angels," a song that has touched the hearts of millions and become a timeless classic.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Talk Talk 'It's my Life'

2024-07-0605:09

The story of "It's My Life" is that of Mark Hollis, a complex character, genius perfectionist, and rebel, who refused to fit into the mold of the music industry. Hollis was born in 1955 in Tottenham and grew up in London. After studying child psychology, he turned to punk music, and by the early 1980s, he had become the frontman of the band Talk Talk. "It's My Life" was released in 1984 as the title track of the band's third album, and it marked a turning point in their sound. The song's driving synth riff and catchy melody were a departure from Talk Talk's earlier post-punk and new wave sound, and it helped to define the emerging synthpop genre. The song initially divided and confused music critics and the group's fans, but it proved highly influential on the emerging new wave and synthpop genres. The lyrics of "It's My Life" are defiant and introspective, reflecting Hollis's desire to break free from the constraints of the music industry and pursue his own creative vision. The song's chorus, "It's my life, don't you forget," became an anthem for individuality and self-expression. The track was produced by Tim Friese-Greene, who had also worked on Talk Talk's previous albums and would continue to collaborate with Hollis throughout his career. Despite the success of "It's My Life" and its subsequent chart performance in Europe, the song failed to make an impact in the United States, where it was overshadowed by the likes of Michael Jackson and Madonna. However, in the years since its release, "It's My Life" has become a cult classic and a staple of '80s pop playlists. It has been covered by a number of artists, including No Doubt, who had a hit with their version in 2003. In this episode of the podcast, we'll explore the origins and influences of "It's My Life," delve into the making of the song in the studio, and examine its impact on the music industry and popular culture. We'll also take a closer look at Mark Hollis and his legacy as a musician and innovator, and we'll explore the broader themes of individuality and self-expression that the song embodies. Join us for a deep dive into one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Deep Purple 'Smoke on the Water'

2024-06-2907:53

Welcome to the podcast where we dive deep into the stories behind some of the most iconic songs in music history. In this episode, we will be talking about the classic rock anthem "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple. It all started on December 4th, 1971, when the band was in Montreux, Switzerland, to record their album 'Machine Head'. They were using a mobile recording studio rented from the Rolling Stones, known as 'the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio'. Little did they know, that recording session would go down in history. As the band watched a Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention concert at the Montreux Casino, a fire broke out, destroying the entire venue. Deep Purple's lead guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, famously described the scene as "some stupid with a flare gun" causing "the place to burn". The band was staying across the lake and watched the entire scene unfold, including the fire department's attempt to put out the blaze, with the help of a water pump station on the lake. The incident left a lasting impression on the band, and they decided to turn it into a song. Deep Purple's vocalist, Ian Gillan, penned the lyrics, and the rest of the band worked together to create the signature riff. The song was aptly titled "Smoke on the Water" and would go on to become one of the most recognizable and celebrated rock songs of all time. Interestingly, the entertainment complex that was part of the Montreux Casino was referred to as "the gambling house" in the song lyrics. The band's experience in Montreux has become legendary, and the story behind "Smoke on the Water" has become a staple in rock history. Thanks for listening to this episode of our podcast, where we uncovered the fascinating story behind Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water".Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

David Bowie 'Let's Dance'

2024-06-2206:48

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.

#box-pro-ellipsis-17305786642929{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the songs.

The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the songs.