VRP Rocks - Classic Rock Interviews

For the first time in VRP Rocks history, this episode is out on location! WinterStorm Festival 2023, held in the small west coast town of Troon in Scotland, attracted an unbelievable array of classic rock bands to the three day spectacular and Paul was there to soak up the atmosphere and mingle. Headliners included Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth and Graham Bonnet as well as many other classic acts like Dutch prog group Focus, original Iron Maiden singer Paul Di'Anno, Tyketto, former Rainbow singer Doogie White, UK rock radio favourites FM and Tyketto. Paul catches up with a number of acts backstage, including some of the newer bands making a name for themselves, as well as few of the gig-goers to get their take on the weekend and festivities. Hopefully this gives you a nice feel for what the 3 day event was all about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Known for his impressive work with bands like Dokken, Warlock and Doro, Jon Levin takes us on a journey through his musical career, sharing insights, stories, and his passion for creating authentic music. From a young age, Jon showed his musical talent by playing various instruments but it was the guitar that captivated him and ignited his passion for rock music. Inspired by guitar gods like Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, Jon honed his skills and pushed himself to excel. Later on, he discovered the guitar mastery of Eddie Van Halen, with "Unchained" becoming his favorite Van Halen track. But it wasn't all smooth sailing for Jon. As he opens up about his challenges with reading comprehension, we gain a deeper understanding of the determination and resilience that define a true rock performer. Jon also shares his experiences collaborating with renowned artists such as Doro Pesch and her band, revealing his pride in Warlock's album and the impact they had on the metal scene. In a surprising turn of events, Jon reveals that he pursued a career in law during the grunge movement. However, music never truly left his soul. Even while in law school, he would occasionally strum his guitar, but it wasn't until he received a life-changing call from Jeff Pilson that his music career reignited. Discussing his time with Dokken, Jon shares the exhilarating story of how he joined the band. Reluctant at first, it was ultimately his father who convinced him to take the leap. Jon's talent shone through as he played two blazing guitar solos for Dokken without even hearing the tracks beforehand, proving that he had the chops to fill the shoes left by other guitarists. Throughout the episode, Jon shows immense admiration for Ed Van Halen, praising his brilliance and recounting a brief encounter with the guitar virtuoso when their bands shared a stage. He also takes us back to his early years, recalling the moment he made the pivotal decision to drop out of college against his parents' wishes and fully commit to a career in music. As we dive into the band's latest album, "Heaven Comes Down," Jon talks about the circumstances they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unable to collaborate in person, the band relied on correspondence to create the record. Jon discusses his struggle with programming drums but overcame the challenge with the help of a friend, Tommy Henriksen. With the downtime, Jon began recording demos and found that writing in the early hours of the morning worked best. Jon explains how the album came together, with him sending Don demos and the lead singer improvising lyrics and melodies on the spot. Some songs were collaborations, while others had already been written, allowing the band to adapt and create despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic. Throughout the episode, Jon's passion for genuine music shines through, as he shares his thoughts on creating without ripping off or forcing ideas. He explains that on "Heaven Comes Down," they managed to accomplish this organically, creating a record filled with raw emotion and strong musicality. Don delves deeper into the creative process and discusses the band's approach to balancing new music with their iconic hits. They explore how the band's sound resonates with a modern audience and discuss the challenges and successes they encountered during the recording process. Looking ahead, Jon Levin reveals exciting plans for the future, with more music videos in the works and a tour scheduled for 2024, potentially including stops in Europe and Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays very special guest, is Mike Derosier, the renowned drummer of the iconic band Heart. Mike Derosier, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, shares his fascinating experiences from his time with Heart, from the 1970s to the early 1980s, contributing his incredible drumming skills to multiple platinum-selling albums. Listen in as Mike talks about his early days with Heart, joining the band, and recording under tight time constraints. Discover how the band honed their sound through electrifying live performances, playing residencies and sharing the stage with iconic bands like The Who, Rolling Stones, Bee Gees, and Rod Stewart. As the conversation unfolds, Mike discusses the changing landscape of the music industry and reflects on the influence of platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Not only does Mike reminisce about his time with Heart, but he also talks about his journey after leaving the band. He shares insights into his collaboration with Orion the Hunter, working with fellow musicians Barry Goudreau and Brad Delp from Boston and Richard Marx. Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes his love for playing classic rock and the importance of representing the songs properly. He discusses the creative process within a rock band, the significance of establishing agreements and roles, as well as his favorite songs to drum, like "Barracuda" and "Mistral Wind." Don't miss this unforgettable episode of VRP Rocks with special guest Mike Derosier, where the magic and nostalgia of classic rock come to life. Tune in, crank up the volume, and get ready to rock out! If you're a fan of Heart, check out episode 21 of VRP Rocks to hear another version of events from the band, with an exclusive interview with Heart's original bass player, Steve Fossen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rudy Sarzo—an iconic figure in the world of rock music—opens up about his fascinating journey, from his early days playing in club bands with his brother to his professional career with renowned bands like Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Blue Oyster Cult, and Dio. An insightful and multifaceted individual, Sarzo takes us on an intriguing exploration that spans from music to quantum physics, belief systems, AI, myths, and consciousness. Paul and Rudy engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the power of human consciousness and its potential to influence our reality. Drawing connections between quantum physics and belief systems, they touch on topics such as the manifestation of thoughts, the influence of collective consciousness on a virtual reality matrix, and the interplay of energy and frequency waves in shaping our experiences. This intellectually stimulating dialogue takes a captivating turn as Rudy shares his insights on the Beatles' new single, reflecting on the cultural impact of music and its role in driving societal shifts and activism. He also discusses his thoughts on the intersection of technology and music production, sparking a conversation about the consciousness of artificial intelligence and the timeless simplicity of the Beatles' music. Amidst this rich array of topics, Rudy delves into his personal journey, revealing how his genealogy and DNA exploration has influenced his health choices and sense of identity. He candidly shares how the music of the Beatles transcended social and cultural boundaries, instilling a sense of unity and hope during turbulent times, both in the United States and in his own life as a Cuban political refugee. As the conversation seamlessly transitions to Rudy Sarzo's music career, listeners are treated to insightful anecdotes about his pivotal roles in bands such as Quiet Riot and Whitesnake. From his initial hesitation to join Quiet Riot to the band's MTV-friendly focus and their groundbreaking success with "Metal Health," Rudy provides an intimate look at his experiences and creative contributions within these influential musical collectives. Rudy also opens up about his deep connection with fellow musicians and shares touching stories about his time with the late Randy Rhoads, emphasizing the profound impact of musical integrity and the enduring legacy of beloved artists. From the mystical allure of Loch Ness to the pioneering spirit of the British invasion, this episode of VRP Rocks captivates audiences with a rare blend of intellectual discourse, personal reflection, and rock 'n' roll nostalgia. As Paul and Rudy wrap up their conversation, listeners are left with a renewed appreciation for the multifaceted nature of music and the pervasive influence of consciousness on our lives. Join us in this thought-provoking exploration of music, quantum physics, and the human experience, and don't forget to subscribe to the VRP Rocks podcast for more engaging content. Let's rock on together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary drummer Vinny Appice, known for his iconic work with Black Sabbath and Dio, has had an incredible career that spans decades and includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in rock. In this episode, Vinny shares exclusive stories and insights about his time working with John Lennon, recalling playing with the legendary musician on his last ever live show when Vinny was just 16 years old. Vinny's anecdotes will transport you back to those magical moments, as he reminisces about Lennon's fondness for him and the hilarious incident involving Vinny's mum, John Lennon and a lasagne pan! But that's not all! Vinny takes us behind the scenes of his journey, from quitting high school after hanging out with John Lennon to being a last-minute replacement for Bill Ward in Black Sabbath. He shares the nerve-wracking experience of auditioning for the band and the progression of their shows as the new drummer, shedding light on the dynamics and tensions within the group. We also delve into Vinny's collaboration with Ronnie James Dio, as he discusses their creative process, the making of Dio's iconic album "Holy Diver," and the formation of the band Last in Line after Ronnie's passing. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! If you're a rock music aficionado, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Join VRP Rocks as we dive deep into the world of Vinny Appice, exploring his fascinating career, remarkable collaborations, and iconic songs that have shaped the heavy metal genre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's special interview is with Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg! In this episode, Adrian, renowned for his work with bands like Vandenberg and Whitesnake shares captivating stories from his early struggles in Holland to his time in Whitesnake, including encounters with legends like Jimmy Page, Brian May, AC/DC, and David Coverdale. You'll hear what it was like to join Whitesnake just before they exploded in North America with their self-titled 1987 album, how he was asked to provide the solo for the huge hit 'Here I Go Again' and all about the accident that prevented him from recording the follow up album 'Slip of the Tongue'. It's another episode packed with fascinating stories and insightful discussions. Don't forget to subscribe to VRP Rocks on your favorite podcast app and tune in every Monday for new episodes featuring the biggest names in classic rock! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Side 2 episode of VRP Rocks, host Paul Stephenson sits down with blues rock guitar legend, Joe Bonamassa, for a quick chat about his new album Blues Deluxe Vol.2 and tour. Joe reflects on the first Blues Deluxe album and the inspiration behind this latest release, Vol 2. With his melodic guitar playing and rich vocals, Joe talks about his growth as a musician and singer over the past 20 years. Join us as we dive into the song selection process and the creation of two original tracks on the album. Plus, discover the importance of physical copies and the unique merchandise available on Joe's website. Don't miss this opportunity to get a sneak peek into the mind of a true blues virtuoso. Subscribe now to VRP Rocks for more episodes featuring big name guests every Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VRP Rocks takes listeners on a musical journey through the fascinating career of guitar player Doug Aldrich. From his early influences and auditions with iconic bands like Kiss to his time working alongside legends Ronnie James Dio and David Coverdale, Doug shares intriguing stories and valuable insights. The conversation delves into his early years with Lion and Hurricane, where their success in Japan propelled them to new heights. The difficult decision of choosing between Dio and Whitesnake leads to a discussion on the repercussions of those choices and the challenges that came with them. Doug also opens up about his current venture with The Dead Daisies, revealing exciting plans for big tours and the groups new Best Of album release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for as we dive into the world of one of the most influential bands in rock history, The Yardbirds! In this special edition of "My 5 Favorites," we sit down with the legendary Jim McCarty, drummer and founding member of The Yardbirds, as he takes us on a journey through his personal selection of the band's best songs. In the first part of the episode, Jim McCarty talks about the band's breakthrough hit, "For Your Love." Discover the story behind this iconic track and how it helped put The Yardbirds on the map in the UK and the US. Moving on to the second song, Jim shares insights into the unique guitar sound and how Jeff Beck's influence shaped the band's psychedelic feel. Learn about the studio experimentation and the decision to swap the sitar for a fuzz box, giving birth to a distinctive and memorable riff. Finally, Jim gives us a glimpse into the recruitment of Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page as Eric Clapton didn't fit in with the group's new vision and direction. Join us as we explore these fascinating stories and more, delving into the music that defined an era and continues to inspire generations of rock fans. Tune in now to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of The Yardbirds through the eyes of Jim McCarty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VRP sits down with the legendary guitarist Martin Barre, former member of Jethro Tull, to discuss his remarkable journey and the highs and lows of his career. Martin Barre's success didn't come easily, and he openly shares the challenges he faced after getting his foot in the door. Despite feeling like he was on his own, Barre remained loyal to his band and appreciated the hard work they put in. He takes us back to the golden age of rock in the 1970s, where albums like "Passion Play," "War Child," "Minstrel in the Gallery," and "Songs from the Wood" reigned supreme. Barre delves into the groundbreaking album "Aqualung", as well as the unique challenges faced during the creation of "Under Wraps." Alongside VRP, Martin Barre discusses his split from Jethro Tull and how he persevered through the difficult times. Known for his honest, humble nature, and immense talent, Barre shares anecdotes from his disastrous audition to sharing a stage with Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. The honest dialogue explores the setbacks, doubts, and ultimate triumphs experienced during the process. Don't miss out on the captivating journey of Martin Barre, as he candidly shares his stories and insights on VRP Rocks. Tune in now to immerse yourself in this riveting episode. Don't forget you can watch some clips from this interview with Martin, as well as hundreds of other guests, on the VRP Rocks YouTube channel! Check it out now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the milestone 100th episode of VRP Rocks, where we bring you exclusive interviews with the biggest names in rock music. In this special episode, Paul plays you his exclusive new interview with the one and only Peter Frampton. Join us as we celebrate this momentous occasion and thank our incredible listeners for their unwavering support over the years. We give a special shoutout to those devoted fans who have been with us since day one. Your love and enthusiasm for VRP have made it all possible. We also extend our gratitude to our colleagues at the Pantheon Podcast Network for their partnership and support in making our podcast a success. But the star of this episode is none other than the iconic Peter Frampton. With a career spanning over 50 years, Peter has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. He shares insights into his latest project, collaborating with the legendary Dolly Parton on her Rockstar album. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Peter takes us on a journey through his early days with the Small Faces, his friendship with George Harrison, and his work with David Bowie. We dive into his signature sound, his health battles, and so much more. Thank you again for joining us on this incredible journey through rock music history. Stay tuned for more episodes of VRP Rocks, where the legends of rock come alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a special treat for guitar enthusiasts as we sit down with the legendary Uli Jon Roth! Known for his incredible talent and iconic contributions to bands like the Scorpions, Uli shares his journey with the guitar and how he honed his craft. From his early years to his dedication and practice, Uli reveals the secrets behind his exceptional playing ability. But that's not all! We also delve into the technical side of Uli's sound. Fans of the early Scorpions albums will be thrilled to hear him discuss the effects and distortion techniques he used to achieve that signature tone on records like "Virgin Killer" and "In Trance". Join us as Uli takes us back in time to the height of his career with the Scorpions, particularly their iconic live album, "Tokyo Tapes". Hear him reminisce about the significance of that visit to Japan and how it marked the culmination of their journey as a band to that stage. Get exclusive insights into the decision he made to leave the Scorpions and pursue his artistic vision with Electric Sun. And speaking of life after the Scorpions... Uli opens up about his relationship with his former bandmates and the friendship that has endured beyond their time together. Find out if there is any chance of a full tour reunion with the Scorpions, a question hotly hoped for by eager fans. And don't miss out on Uli's revelation about an intriguing offer he received from another prominent band in 1975. Learn which band approached him and why he ultimately turned down the opportunity. The stories and insights from Uli Jon Roth himself are not to be missed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul sits down again with John Illsley, renowned member of the legendary band Dire Straits. As part of the new series "My Five Favourite," John takes us on a journey through his most beloved songs from the bands back catalogue. Join us as we dive deep into the stories, meanings, and creative processes behind these classic tracks. John shares stories from the songs, such as being transported back to the gritty and vibrant West End in 1976, the beginning of his lasting friendship with Mark Knopfler, how it felt when David Knopfler had to leave the band, how putting down long songs in one take in the studio was tough and much more In addition, John talks about their collaboration with Tina Turner on "Private Dancer," and about his own solo work which is seeing great levels of success. Throughout the interview, John and Paul engage in thought-provoking discussions about the songwriting process and the enduring legacy of Dire Straits' music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dee Snider needs no introduction. With huge success in the 80s, his career seemed unstoppable. Dee takes us through his career, recounting some incredible and hair-raising moments from his time in Twisted Sister From being the target of bottle-throwing crowds to the intense energy of iconic festivals like Reading and Donnington, he has seen it all. Through his candid storytelling, you'll learn how he turned challenging situations into unforgettable performances that left audiences in awe. You'll hear stories about metal legend Lemmy, how he felt ostracised from his bandmates right from the moment he joined, how he wrote the groups biggest album in just 45 minutes and much more. Plus he details how, as the music scene started to change, so did his fortunes. He found himself at a crossroads, facing financial struggles unlike any he had experienced before. It was a humbling experience for the rock star, as he realized that his ego had prevented him from accepting that his career was over. Broke and with a family to support, Snider hit rock bottom. He found himself working a desk job and even lying about his identity. It was a wake-up call, forcing him to reassess his life and priorities. Snider credits his wife for not putting up with his rock star behaviour and for pushing him to start over. This experience taught him to be appreciative and respectful, a lesson that would shape his future endeavours. But Snider's talents extend far beyond music. Not only does he possess the gift of songwriting, demonstrated by the iconic hits of Twisted Sister, but he is also an accomplished writer. He shares stories of his writing process as his novels, screenplays, musicals, and songs all draw inspiration from his vast repertoire of ideas. In addition to his captivating interview, the episode also delves into Snider's latest venture, his book "Frats." Based on true events, this intense and dark novel draws inspiration from high school fraternities with a twist. Don't miss out on this incredible episode of the VRP Rocks! Subscribe now to the podcast and explore our previous episodes, which feature interviews with over 25 Rock and Roll Hall of Famers. And don't forget to join our growing community of rock fans on the VRP Rocks YouTube channel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This man has played with the best of the best! Voted Number 1 session drummer in the world by Modern Drummer Magazine 5 times and 3 times by Drum Magazine - not to mention appearing on Rolling Stone Magazines list of the 100 Greatest drummers of all time! He's played and recorded with McCartney & Ringo, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Tony Iommi, Meat Loaf, John Fogerty, John Mellencamp, Dave Grohl, The Smashing Pumpkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, BB King, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Seger, Bob Dylan, Sting... and many many more - too many to mention! Kenny Aronoff has been at the top of the business for for over 40 years and shares some wonderful stories from his extensive career with Paul in this in depth interview. Hear about his friendship with Rush's Neil Peart, the intense working environment - fight or fight - which led to the worldwide number 1 hit "Jack & Diane", how he became one of the leading session drummers in the world, his time with Fogerty, Smashing Pumpkins and Tony Iommi and the special special night honouring the Beatles famous first US TV appearance where he got to hang out and work with Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. It's all in this action packed episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul sits down with the legendary lead singer and guitarist of Status Quo, Francis Rossi! Join us as we delve into the incredible journey of one of the most iconic rock bands in the history of the UK Charts. With a staggering 60 Top 40 singles, including an impressive 22 that soared into the Top 10, and an astonishing 25 Top 10 albums, Status Quo's impact is undeniable. Tune in as we uncover the secrets behind their breakout hit, 'Pictures of Matchstick Men,' and explore the audacious decision to self-produce their albums, a move that set them on a path of creative independence from an early stage. Discover the stories that unfold, being 'too loud for one studio' and the monumental moment they rocked the Live Aid stage, opening the event which left an indelible mark on music history. But that's not all – we dive deep into the man behind the music. Francis Rossi opens up about his thoughts on the 'three-chord wonder' label, the candid reflections on the band's attempt to crack the American market, and how it took some convincing to get the band to finally record the powerful anthem 'In the Army Now.' Join us as we unravel the tales, triumphs, and tunes that have shaped the legacy of Status Quo and continue to resonate with generations of rock enthusiasts. Don't miss this captivating conversation with a rock legend on VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to VRP Rocks, where today we dive deep into a legendary moment of rock history! In this episode, titled "Live Aid: Musicians Remember," we are joined by 3 musicians who played the Wembley show as they take us on a journey back to the iconic concert for Live Aid in 1985. Our guests share their personal memories of being part of Live Aid, the groundbreaking fundraising initiative organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure in response to the famine crisis in Ethiopia. Join us as we unpack the triumphs and tribulations of Live Aid, and uncover the backstage stories that made this global concert an unforgettable moment in rock history. Remember to connect with VRP Rocks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and on the new social media app Threads as well as the YouTube channel! If you enjoy listening to VRP Rocks, please leave us a 5-star review on your preferred podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have an exclusive interview with the legendary guitarist and composer, STEVE VAI! Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating journey of this musical icon, from his early days working with Frank Zappa to his groundbreaking solo career, his time with Dave Lee Roth, Whitesnake and Graham Bonnet. Get ready to be inspired by the stories behind the music and the evolution of a true guitar virtuoso. With the release of his solo record, a masterpiece titled "Passion and Warfare," Steve Vai cemented his name as one of the most innovative guitarists of his generation. The album showcased his unmatched technical prowess, intricate compositions, and captivating melodies. His talent and dedication paid off as he garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase that would follow him throughout his career. In this insightful interview, Steve Vai reflects on his humble beginnings, his time spent touring the world, and the evolution of his musicality. From sharing the stage with Frank Zappa to crafting his iconic guitar design with Ibanez, Steve takes us behind the scenes and gives us a glimpse into the life of a true rock legend. So, tune in and join us as we delve into the world of Steve Vai, a name synonymous with innovation, passion, and the timeless spirit of rock and roll. Get ready to rock out with VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a special bonus episode of the VRP Rocks, where we take look at the life and legend of the one and only Jimi Hendrix. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through time, as legendary musicians such as Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, Mark Farner from Grand Funk Railroad, Dave Mason, Albert Bouchard of Blue Oyster Cult, Mark Stein from Vanilla Fudge, and Roger Earl of Foghat reveal their personal stories and experiences of the incomparable guitar legend, Jimi Hendrix. From auditioning for his band to playing on some of his biggest hits, sharing star struck moments to touring across the US with him, these rock icons offer a unique perspective on the genius of Hendrix, shedding light on his unparalleled guitar skills and the enigmatic persona that captivated millions. Tune in to "Hendrix Experienced" and get ready to be transported back to the golden era of rock 'n' roll, as these musical legends regale us with tales of friendship, creativity, and the indelible mark that Jimi Hendrix left on the world of music. Whether you're a die-hard Hendrix fan or simply intrigued by the stories behind the scenes, this bonus episode is a must-listen for all music enthusiasts. Let the rock 'n' roll legends guide you through the untold tales of Jimi Hendrix like never before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Episode 94, we have a treat in store for you as we sit down with the incredible Tony Carey, keyboard extraordinaire! We explore his career which of course includes his time with Ritchie Blackmore in Rainbow and the invaluable contributions he made to their iconic album Rainbow Rising! But that's not all. We also dive deeper into Tony Carey's career, his remarkable solo journey, delivering Billboard hits like "A Fine, Fine Day" and exploring different genres, from rock to electronic music with Planet P Project. We hear about his incredible success in Europe, Japan and beyond and some of the legends he's worked with over the many years. You'll hear all these stories and more as Tony shares his insights, memories, and personal anecdotes from his 50+ year career in the music business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices