Lee Shapiro’s story is one of those great Jersey tales — a local kid with a gift for music who ends up on the world stage, shaping the soundtrack of an era.

Born in 1953, Lee was a piano prodigy from the start. By the time he was a teenager, he wasn’t just playing other people’s songs — he was arranging, orchestrating, and leading his own big band. That early love for music, especially jazz and swing, gave him a strong foundation that would later carry him into pop history.

The turning point came in '73, when Lee was only 19. The Four Seasons were looking for a new keyboard player. Bob Gaudio, the original keyboardist and songwriter for the band, was stepping away from performing. Lee auditioned, armed with raw talent and a fearless energy. Frankie Valli was impressed, and just like that, this Jersey kid found himself as the new keyboardist and musical director for one of America’s most iconic groups.

It was a dream come true. Lee had actually seen The Four Seasons years earlier on The Ed Sullivan Show and thought to himself, “They’ve got a piano player. That could be me.” And suddenly, it was.

Joining Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the '70s meant stepping into a band that was ready for a reinvention. Rock and pop were changing fast, and the group needed a fresh sound to connect with younger audiences. Lee brought that spark. He wasn’t just playing keys — he was arranging, conducting, and helping shape the new sound of the Seasons.

His fingerprints are all over some of the band’s most beloved hits of the decade. From “Who Loves You.” or “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night).”

For seven years, Lee toured the world with Frankie Valli, playing to sold-out crowds, recording in top studios, and keeping the band’s sound tight as their musical director. He was living the dream.

But Lee’s story doesn’t end with the Four Seasons. In '81, he stepped off the road to focus on other creative ventures. He wrote songs with some of the industry’s best. He orchestrated for Barry Manilow’s Copacabana, The Musical in '91.

In the late '90s, Lee co-created the Rock ’n’ Roll Elmo doll for Fisher-Price. The toy became a runaway hit, selling millions and proving that Lee’s creativity extended far beyond the stage and the studio.

But music always called him back. In 2010, with Jersey Boys shining a fresh spotlight on the Four Seasons’ legacy, Lee put together a new project: The Hit Men. This was a supergroup made up of musicians who had actually played with some of the biggest names in music. Alongside former Four Seasons bandmates, Lee and The Hit Men performed the songs they had lived and breathed. Audiences loved it.

In 2014 Lee was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis but kept going. He performed for years after his diagnosis. Eventually, when performing became more difficult, he shifted into managing the band, ensuring that The Hit Men could keep bringing classic rock and pop to audiences across the country.

In 2018, Lee released a special project close to his heart — a solo piano tribute album called Lee Shapiro Plays the Greatest Hits of Frankie Valli. It was his way of revisiting the music that had shaped his life, this time in a more intimate, cocktail-style format.

Over the years, Lee and The Hit Men earned recognition from the music world too. In 2019, they received an award from the Musicians Hall of Fame in Nashville, and in 2020, Lee was nominated as a Legend Musician by the East Coast Music Hall of Fame.

Looking back, Lee Shapiro’s career feels like a tapestry woven from different threads of creativity — the Jersey boy with a big band, the young keyboardist who helped shape the sound of the Four Seasons, the songwriter and arranger who explored Broadway and commercials, the inventor who made kids smile with Elmo, and the bandleader who kept the music alive with The Hit Men.

Lee joins us as our special guest this week to recount his incredible story.

I'd love your feedback https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Robert “Kool” Bell is more than just a name in music history — he’s the steady heartbeat behind one of the most enduring funk, soul, and R&B bands of all time: Kool & The Gang.

Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Robert grew up in a musical household that would shape his destiny.

When the family moved to New Jersey, he and his brother Ronald Bell — later known as Khalis Bayyan — began experimenting with music as teenagers.

They first formed a jazz-influenced group called the Jazziacs in 1964, bringing together local friends who shared a love for tight grooves, horn-driven melodies, and improvisation.

As the '60s rolled into the ’70s, the Jazziacs evolved into Kool & The Gang — a name that reflected Robert’s cool, confident persona and the collective energy of the band.

Bell’s bass lines became the foundation of their sound: deep, rhythmic, and endlessly danceable. Their music didn’t fit neatly into one box — it was a fusion of jazz sophistication, funk grit, and R&B warmth. That genre-blending approach would prove to be their secret weapon in crossing musical and cultural boundaries.

Kool & The Gang’s early years were built on relentless gigging and honing their live performance skills. They became a powerhouse act on the club circuit before breaking into the mainstream with hits like “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging” in the early '70s.

Bell’s bass was front and centre, locking in with the drums to create the irresistible rhythms that would become the band’s trademark. By the late ’70s and early ’80s, Kool & The Gang had perfected their party anthem formula.

Songs like “Celebration,” “Get Down On It,” and “Ladies’ Night” became global smashes, cementing their place on dance floors around the world.

Robert “Kool” Bell wasn’t just the bandleader — he was its anchor. His leadership helped navigate the group through lineup changes, shifting musical trends, and the unpredictable turns of the industry.

While many bands faded after their initial burst of fame, Kool & The Gang adapted and thrived, appealing to multiple generations of fans. Their music found new life through sampling in hip-hop and R&B, exposing their grooves to entirely new audiences.

Recognition came in waves. Kool & The Gang earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

They’ve sold over 70 million albums worldwide, and their tracks have been featured in countless films, commercials, and TV shows. Through it all, Robert “Kool” Bell remained a visible and active figure, still performing live well into the 21st century.

Bell’s nickname “Kool” wasn’t just a stage name — it reflected his calm presence, stylish demeanor, and ability to keep the band grounded.

Off stage, he’s been involved in philanthropic work and entrepreneurial ventures, including a line of French wines inspired by his international travels. Yet, no matter the project, music has always been at the core of his life.

Today, Robert “Kool” Bell stands as a symbol of endurance in the music industry. From basement jam sessions in New Jersey to sold-out arenas around the globe, his journey is one of passion, persistence, and an unshakable groove.

Kool & The Gang’s catalogue continues to inspire — not just because of the songs themselves, but because of the spirit Bell infused into every note. His story is a reminder that true legends aren’t just made by hits; they’re made by the dedication to keep the music alive for decades.

For fans, Robert “Kool” Bell isn’t just the man who played the bass — he’s the reason Kool & The Gang has remained one of the most celebrated bands in funk, R&B, and soul history.

And as long as there’s a party to start, a dance floor to fill, or a crowd to move, you can bet that somewhere, Robert “Kool” Bell will still be laying down the groove.

I hope you'll enjoy our chat today with Robert 'Kool'Bell.

If you're a fan of classic rock, there's no escaping the unmistakable sound of Neal Schon, the legendary guitarist and founding member of Journey.

With a career spanning over five decades, Schon’s soaring guitar solos, emotional phrasing, and rock-solid riffs have helped define generations of music fans.

From his early days with Santana to global superstardom with Journey and beyond, Neal Schon remains one of the most respected and enduring figures in the world of rock and roll.

Born in Oklahoma and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Neal Schon was surrounded by music from day one. His father was a jazz saxophonist, his mother a singer — so it was no surprise when Neal picked up the guitar at just 10 years old. By the time he hit his teens, he was playing with the kind of precision and passion most guitarists spend decades trying to master.

At 15, Neal made rock history by joining ⁠Santana⁠, turning down an audition with Eric Clapton’s Derek and the Dominos to do so.

Neal’s work introduced him to the world and shaped his unique blend of Latin-infused rock, blues, and jazz.

In '73, Neal and keyboardist Gregg Rolie left Santana to form a new band — one that would later become the rock giant ⁠Journey.⁠

Originally intended as a jazz-fusion group, Journey’s early albums were adventurous and musically rich. Success came in '77 when Steve Perry joined the band. His soaring vocals paired perfectly with Neal's melodic guitar work, and Journey’s sound found its sweet spot: catchy, emotional, stadium-ready rock anthems.

Neal’s riffs and solos became the soundtrack of a generation. The album Escape alone went 9x Platinum and featured some of the band’s biggest hits — including that eternal anthem.

Of all the songs Neal has ever recorded, Don’t Stop Believin’ remains the crown jewel. It has become one of the most instantly recognisable songs in rock history. It took on a second life in the 2000s thanks to The Sopranos finale, Glee, and a million karaoke bars around the world.

Today, Don’t Stop Believin’ is the most downloaded digital song of the 20th century.

While Journey was (and is) Neal’s main gig, he’s never stopped exploring musically. In the mid-’80s, he formed bands with Sammy Hagar and later with John Waite and Journey’s Jonathan Cain.

Journey has seen its share of lineup changes, but Neal Schon has always been its heart and soul. Whether alongside Steve Perry, Steve Augeri, or Arnel Pineda, Neal’s guitar has anchored the band’s sound and kept fans coming back for more.

Journey released Freedom in 2022, their first album of all-new material in over a decade.

2023 marked Journey’s 50th anniversary, and Neal celebrated in style. The band embarked on their Freedom Tour, playing to sold-out arenas around the globe. Fans from every generation came out to hear the hits — and see Schon light up the stage with his signature Les Paul and fiery solos.

As of 2025, Neal Schon is still touring, still recording, and still pushing himself as a player. Whether he's performing Journey classics, exploring new musical territory, or collaborating with old friends, he remains a true rock icon.

With over 50 years in the industry, millions of records sold, and a legacy that spans generations, Neal Schon isn’t just part of rock history — he is rock history.

So next time you hear that soaring solo in Faithfully, that chugging riff in Any Way You Want It, or the unforgettable opening of Don’t Stop Believin’, tip your hat to Neal Schon — the guitar legend who made it all sing.

Few voices in rock history are as instantly recognizable as Allan Clarke, the co-founder and lead singer of the iconic British band The Hollies.

With a career that spans more than six decades, Allan’s soaring vocals, heartfelt delivery, and unforgettable harmonies have become synonymous with the golden age of classic rock and the British Invasion.

Known for timeless hits like He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress), and Bus Stop, Allan’s legacy as a rock legend is as vibrant today as it was in the 1960s.

He was born Harold Allan Clarke n Salford, England. As a child, Allan developed a passion for music, drawing inspiration from early rock ’n’ roll icons like Elvis, Buddy Holly, and Little Richard. His friendship with Graham Nash—who would later go on to fame with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young—proved to be the foundation for one of the most beloved bands of all time.

In 1962, Clarke and Nash formed The Hollies, a name inspired by their mutual admiration for Buddy Holly.

The band’s signature sound, marked by bright guitar riffs, tight vocal harmonies, and Allan’s powerful yet soulful voice, quickly captured the attention of the British music scene.

By '63, The Hollies were signed to the same label as The Beatles.

The Hollies scored their first major hit with Stay in '63, but it was songs like Bus Stop and Carrie Anne that cemented their status as hitmakers. Allan Clarke’s voice was the emotional core of The Hollies, effortlessly blending pop sensibilities with the raw energy of rock.

One of Allan’s most defining vocal performances came with the release of He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother in '69. Featuring a young Elton John on piano, the song became a global anthem of brotherhood and compassion.

In '72, The Hollies had another worldwide hit with Long Cool Woman , a track that still dominates classic rock radio playlists today.

While Allan's legacy is firmly rooted in his work with The Hollies, he also pursued a solo career, releasing several solo albums that blended rock, folk, and country influences.

Allan Clarke temporarily left The Hollies in '71 but returned in '73. His second departure in '99 marked what many assumed was the end of his career due to vocal health issues.

In 2019, he made a remarkable comeback with his album Resurgence. The project marked his first solo release in decades and proved that his voice still carried the same warmth and emotion that defined his early work.

Allan also collaborated with his old friend Graham Nash . His recent work bridges the gap between classic rock nostalgia and modern storytelling.

The Hollies, with Allan Clarke at the helm, have sold over 60 million records worldwide and remain one of the most successful groups to emerge from the '60s.

Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was a long-overdue recognition of their influence on generations of musicians and fans.

Today, Allan Clarke stands as a bridge between the early days of rock ‘n’ roll and the present.

His journey from the streets of Salford to international stardom with The Hollies is a testament to the enduring power of great music, determination, and collaboration. For classic rock fans, Allan Clarke’s voice is not just a sound — it’s a memory, an era, and a feeling rolled into one.

Whether you’re revisiting He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, grooving to Long Cool Woman, or discovering Clarke’s latest music, there’s no denying his place in the pantheon of classic rock legends.

Join us today as Allan Clarke shares stories of his rise to fame, his friendship with Graham Nash and what the music of The Hollies means to him.

If you’ve ever turned up the radio and belted out Footloose at the top of your lungs — or strutted around the house pretending you’re Maverick flying a fighter jet to Danger Zone — then you already know the magic of Kenny Loggins, the undisputed king of the ‘80s movie soundtrack and a bonafide soft rock legend.

But there’s way more to Kenny Loggins than just toe-tapping anthems and blockbuster film credits. His story is pure classic rock gold, filled with sun-soaked California beginnings, powerhouse collaborations, and an uncanny knack for writing hits that stand the test of time.

Born Kenneth Clark Loggins in Washington, Kenny grew up in the golden haze of Southern California’s music boom. While his friends were trying to score surfboards, young Kenny was writing songs in his bedroom and dreaming up hooks that would one day echo through stadiums.

He cut his teeth as a songwriter for hire, landing cuts with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

Kenny's story really kicks in when he teams up with ex-Poco and Buffalo Springfield member Jim Messina.

Enter Loggins & Messina, the folk-rock duo that ruled the early ‘70s with feel-good harmonies and radio-friendly hits.

These guys were the ultimate laid-back rock bros — they sold millions of records, filled arenas, and gave Kenny the confidence to step out on his own when the partnership ended in '76.

When he did go solo, he doubled down. He scored a huge hit with “Whenever I Call You ‘Friend’,” a dreamy duet with Stevie Nicks He co-write with Michael McDonald, “What a Fool Believes” — a song that scooped up the Grammy for Song of the Year in 1980.

Then came the era that made Kenny a household name: the Soundtrack King phase. First up, Caddyshack.

Next, Footloose — released in 1984, it shot straight to No. 1 and never left the pop culture dance floor.

But Kenny Loggins wasn’t done. Not even close. Two years later, the Top Gun soundtrack landed in his lap — and he strapped in for one of the most turbo-charged hits of his career: Danger Zone.

But here’s the thing — the Soundtrack King crown didn’t box Kenny in. He’s always been more than a hit machine.

Albums like High Adventure and Vox Humana show his softer, more introspective side. Songs like “Heart to Heart” and “This Is It” gave us smooth sax solos and heartfelt lyrics. Kenny could be funky, he could be breezy, he could make you want to dance — or just chill on the porch.

Through it all, Kenny stayed a collaborator at heart. He’s jammed with Michael McDonald, Steve Perry, Stevie Nicks.

He even dipped into children’s music with Return to Pooh Corner. He's done Christmas albums, live records and acoustic sets. His catalogue is a masterclass in versatility.

Today, Kenny Loggins is still out there, doing what he does best — playing sold-out shows for die-hard fans who never get tired of that big, warm, unmistakable voice.

His book Still Alright: A Memoir tells the stories behind Kenny's legendary five-decade career and shares behind the scenes tales.

The celebrated songwriter and chart-topping collaborator shares an entertaining perspective on his life and career as one of the most noteworthy musicians of the ‘70s and ’80s and addresses his personal challenges and obstacles of his life and work -- including two failed marriages, a difficult but motivating relationship with the older brother for which “Danny’s Song” is named, struggles with hisaddiction to benzodiazepines, and the revelations of turning seventy and looking back at everything that has shaped his music - as well as coming to terms with his rock-star persona and his true self.

I hope you enjoy Kenny Loggins' candid conversation with me during this episode.

To learn more about Kenny head ot his website: https://kennyloggins.com/

When you talk about iconic Australian singer-songwriters, it doesn’t take long before Richard Clapton’s name comes up.

For over five decades, Richard has been one of Australia’s true rock poets — the kind of artist whose songs become part of people’s lives, the soundtrack to long road trips, beach holidays, and nostalgic nights on the back deck with a cold beer in hand.

Born on Sydney’s north shore, Richard grew up like a lot of kids — dreaming of music that took him beyond suburbia.

In the late 60s and early 70s, Richard packed up and headed for Europe, guitar slung over his shoulder, busking in the streets and absorbing the counterculture that was blooming across the continent.

When he returned, Richard brought with him a suitcase full of songs and stories that reflected not just his travels but the changing face of Australia itself.

In '73, he released his debut single Last Train to Marseilles. But it was his '75 album Girls on the Avenue that really made people sit up and listen.

The title track turned Richard Clapton into a household name almost overnight.

Through the mid-to-late '70s, Richard released a string of albums that are now regarded as cornerstones of classic Australian rock music.

Richard carved out a loyal audience that followed him from smoky inner-city pubs to big festival stages. His songs were — and still are — snapshots of the Australian psyche: romantic but real, hopeful but tinged with a knowing sadness.

But Richard didn’t just write for himself. He became a sort of elder statesman for the Aussie rock scene, helping to mentor up-and-coming acts that would soon become legends themselves. Bands like INXS, Cold Chisel, and Mental As Anything all found a kindred spirit in Richard, whose lyrics and attitude proved you could write songs about Australian life that were poetic, gritty, and universal all at once.

He even produced INXS’s second album, helping shape the band’s early sound before they broke big internationally.

If you’ve ever seen Richard Clapton live, you’ll know that he’s the real deal. His voice — warm, slightly weathered, and instantly recognisable — carries the weight of decades on the road and in the studio. He has that easy rapport with an audience that only comes from years of standing on a stage, guitar in hand, telling stories through song.

For many Australians, his gigs are like a reunion with an old friend — everyone singing along to Girls on the Avenue or swaying to Deep Water as if no time has passed at all.

What makes Clapton’s story so compelling is that he never really chased fame for fame’s sake. He’s always seemed more interested in writing the next great song than chasing trends. And yet, he’s ended up as one of the true pillars of Australian rock, a fact recognised when he was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 1999.

Today, well into his seventies, Richard Clapton is still out there doing what he loves most — writing songs, recording new music, and hitting the road to play to crowds who still know every word. In recent years, he’s released new albums like Harlequin Nights and Music Is Love (1966–1970), a tribute to the songs and artists that shaped him, from Bob Dylan to Neil Young.

His autobiography, The Best Years of Our Lives, published in 2015, pulls back the curtain on decades of wild gigs, unforgettable characters, and the hard-won wisdom that comes from surviving the ups and downs of the music industry.

And yet, for all the tours, albums, and accolades, it’s the songs that matter most. Ask any fan what Richard Clapton means to them, and you’ll likely hear a story about summer days driving up the coast or seeing him live for the first time.

In an industry that’s constantly changing, Richard Clapton stands as a reminder that great music is timeless.

Singer-songwriter, rock poet, mentor, and living legend Richard Clapton joins us here to share his stoires.

Check the website for gigs near you.

Scottish pop-rock legend David Paton is one of the most quietly influential musicians of the past fifty years.

Born and raised in Edinburgh, David made his mark as the founder, lead singer, bassist, and chief songwriter for the 70s pop band Pilot — the group behind the timeless hits “Magic” and “January.”

These catchy, melodic tracks flew up the UK Singles Charts in 1974 and 1975, cementing Pilot’s place in the classic pop-rock hall of fame.

Pilot began when David, fresh from playing in local Scottish bands and even a short stint with the Bay City Rollers, teamed up with the late Billy Lyall, a fellow ex-Bay City Roller and brilliant keyboardist.

With guitarist Ian Bairnson and drummer Stuart Tosh, Pilot quickly gained attention for their crisp harmonies, soaring hooks, and the polish of producer Alan Parsons, who helped shape their signature studio sound.

At their peak, Pilot was more than a one-hit wonder.

Their debut album From the Album of the Same Name (1974) and the follow-up Second Flight (1975) gave pop fans not just “Magic” but the No.1 UK single “January,” a song that topped the charts for three weeks.

The band’s unique blend of soft rock, glam pop, and radio-friendly hooks made them stand out in a crowded 70s scene.

Though lineup changes and industry missteps led to Pilot’s split by 1977, their legacy has endured.

David Paton, the creative force behind the hits, went on to carve out an impressive career as a vocalist, bassist, and songwriter for other iconic acts.

He played a vital role in The Alan Parsons Project, lending his vocals and bass to albums like Tales of Mystery and Imagination and I Robot, and fronted the progressive rock band Camel, where his vocals on “Heroes” from The Single Factor still mesmerise fans today.

David’s talents didn’t stop there.

As a sought-after session musician, he played bass on Elton John’s hit “Nikita” and toured with Elton, worked alongside Kate Bush, Rick Wakeman, Jimmy Page, and even folk legends like Phil Cunningham and Dick Gaughan.

His solo work reflects his Scottish roots too — with hauntingly beautiful arrangements of traditional songs by Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.

Still writing, recording, and performing, David’s latest album, Communication (2024), shows that his knack for melody and emotional connection is as strong as ever.

His autobiography, Magic: The David Paton Story, gives fans an honest, often funny look behind the curtain — from Pilot’s dizzying success to the reality of life as an unsung rock hero.

If you love timeless pop hooks, Scottish rock history, and the real story behind a band that gave us one of the catchiest songs ever written, dive deeper into the world of David Paton and Pilot — and experience the Magic for yourself.

I know you'll enjoy the story of David Paton and relish the contribution he's made with his music.

Beeb Birtles was born Gerard Bertelkamp in 1948, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Beeb is a celebrated musician, singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

As a founding member of iconic bands such as Zoot, Mississippi, and the Little River Band, Birtles has left an indelible mark on the music industry, both in Australia and internationally.

His story is one of remarkable transition—from his Dutch heritage to becoming an influential figure in Australian rock.

Gerard Bertelkamp, better known by his stage name Beeb Birtles, was born into a Dutch family in post-war Amsterdam. His father was a skilled carpenter and building contractor, while his mother shared a love for music that would influence her son’s career.

In 1959, the Bertelkamp family embarked on a life-changing journey - emigrating to Australia. Settling in Adelaide, South Australia, the family embraced their new home, which provided fertile ground for young Gerard’s passion for music to flourish.

While attending high School in Adelaide, Beeb formed his first band, Times Unlimited. This group evolved into Down the Line, where he began honing his craft by covering popular English Mod songs.

In 1967, Birtles joined the influential band Zoot as the bassist and vocalist. Zoot gained popularity with its energetic performances and hits like a rock-infused version of The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby.”

Zoot’s success propelled Beeb into the limelight, but the band disbanded in '71, paving the way for new musical endeavours.

Beeb then formed the duo Frieze with fellow Zoot member (the late) Darryl Cotton, which marked another chapter in his early career.

In '72, Beeb joined the folk-rock group Mississippi, which later transformed into the Little River Band (LRB) in 1975.

As a founding member, Beeb played a pivotal role in crafting the band’s harmonious rock sound, contributing to their global success. Hits like “Reminiscing,” “Help Is on Its Way,” and “Lonesome Loser” cemented the band’s reputation as one of Australia’s greatest musical exports.

Beeb remained with the Little River Band until 1983, during which they sold millions of records worldwide.

After leaving LRB, Birtles collaborated with Graeham Goble, another LRB alum, to form the duo Birtles & Goble, releasing the album The Last Romance.

He later pursued solo projects, including the 2000 album Driven by Dreams. In 2002, Birtles reunited with former LRB members Glenn Shorrock and Graeham Goble to form Birtles Shorrock Goble, performing LRB classics alongside new material.

Beeb Birtles’ contributions to music have earned him widespread recognition. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his service to music and inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame in 2004 alongside his Little River Band colleagues.

He was also appointed a Member of the Order of Australia “for significant service to the performing arts as a singer, songwriter and musician”.

Despite his success in Australia and beyond, Beeb remains deeply connected to his Dutch roots. Today he resides in Nashville, USA where he continues to write and produce music.

He has written an autobiography called 'Everyday of My Life" and his passion for music hasn't waned at all.

Join us during this episode as Beeb shares the story of his incredible musical life through Zoot, Mississippi and the extraordinary Little River Band.

Chris Stein’s story starts in Brooklyn, where he was born in 1950 into a free-thinking, politically leftist household.

He wasn’t exactly a model student—he got expelled from high school and bounced around for a bit before enrolling at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. That’s where two of his lifelong passions really started to take shape: music and photography.

Chris was already playing guitar in garage bands, soaking up the British Invasion and psychedelic rock, but art school helped him discover an eye for capturing moments on film.

In the early '70s, Chris joined a band called the Stilettos. It was through that group that he met Debbie Harry.

The connection was immediate. Romantic, creative, everything.

When the Stilettos fell apart, Chris and Debbie stuck together and started what would become Blondie. They quickly became fixtures on the New York downtown scene where punk, art, and fashion were all bleeding into each other.

Chris began co-writing songs, shaping the band’s sound, and supporting Debbie’s electric presence as frontwoman. He was all about texture, mood, and space and could be sharp and punky but also knew when to strip things back.

Chris co-wrote some of Blondie’s biggest songs—“Heart of Glass,” “Dreaming,” “Rip Her to Shreds,” and “In the Flesh.” Chris was always ahead of the curve.

At the same time, he was constantly documenting everything with his camera. Chris was rarely without it, snapping candid photos of Debbie backstage and artists like Andy Warhol.

Chris and Debbie’s relationship was central to the whole Blondie story. They were partners in every sense—romantic, creative, and emotional. Chris has often called her his muse, and their chemistry fueled a lot of what made the band so compelling. But their life together wasn’t always easy.

In the early '80s, just as Blondie was hitting a commercial peak, Chris was diagnosed with a rare and serious autoimmune disease. It was debilitating and required years of treatment. Debbie dropped everything to care for him. The band fell apart. Fame took a back seat. And though they eventually ended their romantic relationship, their connection never really broke. They’ve stayed close ever since, continuing to collaborate and support each other through everything that followed.

After Blondie disbanded in '82, Chris stepped away from the spotlight for a while. He worked behind the scenes, producing music. He collaborated with artists like Iggy Pop and while Debbie launched a solo career, Chris helped to shape projects.

In the late '90s, Blondie got back together, and to everyone's surprise, they scored a huge hit with “Maria,” which went to number one in the UK. It was a real comeback moment, showing that the band still had something to say and an audience ready to hear it.

Since then, they’ve released several albums—No Exit, The Curse of Blondie, Panic of Girls, and Pollinator—and have toured the world to multiple generations of fans. Chris kept writing and producing, still the quiet engine driving things forward.

Health issues forced him to step away from touring in 2022, particularly heart-related problems that made life on the road difficult. But that didn’t stop him from continuing to contribute creatively. He’s still very much involved in the band’s work and continues to explore photography, with his images being shown in galleries and books. His visual work is finally getting the recognition it deserves, not just as Blondie ephemera, but as important cultural documentation.

Throughout it all, Chris Stein was never the loudest voice in the room, but always one of the most interesting. Whether with a guitar or a camera, he's been quietly shaping how we see and hear a pivotal moment in music and art history. His life has been messy and brilliant and uniquely his own.

In this episode Chris Stein shares stories from his life and points us to his latest book - his autobiography - 'Under A Rock'

His is a fascinating tale. I hope you enjoy it.

Former singer and actor Bobby Sherman has passed away at 81 years old.

In March, it was revealed Sherman was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer.

Born in Santa Monica and raised in Van Nuys, Sherman was a teen idol in the late ’60s and early ’70s. From 1968 to 1970, he starred in the ABC series “Here Come the Brides.”

He later appeared on episodes of “Honey West,” “The Partridge Family,” “The Mod Squad,” “Murder She Wrote,” “The Monkees,” and more.Sherman then left show business and became a paramedic.

He volunteered with the Los Angeles Police Department and instructed CPR and first aid classes. In the 1990s, he became a technical reserve officer with the LAPD, serving until 2017.

In 1999, he was honored as the LAPD’s Reserve Officer of the Year. He also served as a deputy sheriff with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and retired in 2010.

In 2011, Sherman and Brigitte founded the Brigitte & Bobby Sherman Children’s Foundation, which is a “Ghana-based center that provides local children with quality education and programs, along with meals for the entire community,” the foundation’s website explains.

RIP Bobby Sherman. You meant so much to so many.