'60s '70s '80s - Warm, Candid, Classic Rock Interviews with Music Legends - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Ever wondered what Rick Wakeman is best known for? What David Bowie songs he played on? Or what he's up to today? Tune in now to find out answers to these questions and lots more ....

Rick Wakeman is a pioneering English keyboardist, composer, and producer celebrated for his virtuosity and innovation in progressive rock and beyond.

Born in London, Rick showed prodigious talent from an early age, studying piano and honing his craft at the Royal College of Music. His career began as a sought-after session musician, working with icons like David Bowie—creating the unforgettable piano part for "Life on Mars?"—and Cat Stevens, where his contributions to hits like "Morning Has Broken" showcased his melodic brilliance.

In 1971, Rick joined the progressive rock band Yes, bringing a new dimension to their sound with his mastery of keyboards and synthesizers. His work on albums like Fragile, Close to the Edge, and the ambitious Tales from Topographic Oceans are heralded as some of the finest in the genre.

His use of cutting-edge equipment and his larger-than-life stage persona, often featuring capes and elaborate setups, became trademarks of the band’s success during the '70s.

Parallel to his tenure with Yes, Rick launched a groundbreaking solo career. His debut album, The Six Wives of Henry VIII, was a daring instrumental concept piece blending rock, classical, and historical themes. This was followed by Journey to the Centre of the Earth, a symphonic rock masterpiece recorded with a full orchestra and choir, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, which featured lavish live performances on ice.

Rick’s career has been marked by constant reinvention. After leaving and rejoining Yes multiple times, he expanded his repertoire with a diverse array of solo projects, film and TV scores, and collaborations with artists like Black Sabbath, Lou Reed, and Elton John. His music transcends genres, blending rock, classical, jazz, and even comedic elements, reflecting his eclectic influences and creative restlessness.

Beyond music, Rick has become a beloved figure in the entertainment world, known for his sharp wit and engaging personality. He has appeared on television shows, hosted radio programs, and written books, further endearing himself to fans worldwide.

Despite health challenges, including heart issues and a diabetes diagnosis, Wakeman remains an active performer, continuing to tour and record new material.

Rick Wakeman’s contributions to music are vast and enduring, influencing countless musicians and redefining what keyboards can achieve in rock. From his seminal work with Yes to his genre-defying solo projects, Wakeman’s career is a testament to innovation, passion, and the boundless possibilities of music.

Discover who wrote most of the Rascals songs. Find out what ex lead singer and founder Felix Cavaliere is doing now and learn all about one of the greatest bands of the '60s.

Felix Cavaliere is a celebrated musician, songwriter, and vocalist, widely regarded as a pioneer of blue-eyed soul.

Born in Pelham, New York, Cavaliere was introduced to music at an early age, taking classical piano lessons under his mother’s encouragement. While initially drawn to classical music, he soon discovered his passion for rhythm and blues, inspired by legends like Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye.

Cavaliere pursued pre-med studies at Syracuse University but found himself increasingly immersed in music, forming his first band, The Escorts, while still in college. His decision to follow his musical aspirations led him to New York City's thriving music scene in the early 1960s.

In 1965, Cavaliere co-founded The Rascals (originally called The Young Rascals) with Eddie Brigati, Gene Cornish, and Dino Danelli. The group became synonymous with the era's evolving rock and soul movement, producing a string of iconic hits that combined soulful melodies with socially conscious lyrics.

Cavaliere's distinctive voice and masterful Hammond organ playing defined hits like "Good Lovin'," which topped the charts in 1966, followed by enduring classics like "Groovin'," "A Beautiful Morning," and "People Got to Be Free." The latter, inspired by the civil rights movement, became an anthem for unity and social justice.

As the principal songwriter for The Rascals, Felix played a crucial role in shaping the band's innovative sound, which bridged the gap between rock and R&B. The Rascals enjoyed commercial success, releasing six gold albums and earning a devoted following. However, internal tensions and changing musical landscapes led to the band's breakup in the early 1970s.

After The Rascals disbanded, Cavaliere embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

His solo work, including tracks like "Only a Lonely Heart Sees," reflected his evolving artistry, blending soulful ballads with pop-rock influences. Felix also collaborated with numerous artists, including Todd Rundgren and Steve Cropper, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and respected musician.

In 1997, Cavaliere and his fellow Rascals were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their place in music history.

The band reunited in 2013 for a critically acclaimed multimedia concert series, Once Upon a Dream, produced by Steven Van Zandt. The reunion celebrated their groundbreaking legacy and brought their music to a new generation of fans.

Beyond his achievements with The Rascals, Cavaliere remains an active performer and advocate for music education. He continues to tour, sharing his timeless songs with audiences worldwide. Cavaliere's influence on rock and soul endures, with his groundbreaking contributions inspiring countless artists and fans.

Today Felix Cavaliere calls Nashville home base, where he is constantly collaborating and writing new material. He’s also finishing his memoir and has an active tour schedule with Felix Cavaliere's Rascals.

To learn more about Felix and his music, head for his website

To request a guest to be interviewed on the show, head to my website and send me a message.

A show that delves into the musical and personal lives of the greatest hitmakers of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, uncovering the stories and inspirations that shaped some of the most unforgettable tunes of our generation.

Join host Sandy Kaye for this intimate multi award-winning, music interview podcast that celebrates the timeless songs we grew up with and the legendary artists behind them.

Relive the soundtrack of your youth, uncover secrets, recall cherished memories, and immerse yourself in their lives, their stories and their music.

This is an honest, fresh insight into some or rock's most iconic musicians that have defined generations.

From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, ROSS WILSON is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists.

From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose number one anthem Eagle Rock and debut album “Daddy Who?” smashed all previous sales records in Australia an astounding 50 years ago in 1971, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits ‘Cool World’, ‘State of The Heart’, ‘Chemistry’, ‘No Time’, and ‘Come Said The Boy’ and into the 21st century as a solo performer, Ross has never been out of the limelight.

In fact, Ross Wilson is probably the only person in Australian rock music who can’t make a comeback simply because he’s never been away. With a career that spans well over 50 years, Ross remains one of this country’s most respected and most beloved artists. From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock, as a solo artist, a songwriter or producer of the legendary Skyhooks and Jo Jo Zep, Ross’s success has continued unabated.

He fronted Daddy Cool and exploded out of the '70s playing rootsy '50s sounds. He then formed Mondo Rock who surfed the contemporary scene with chart topping singles & albums from the mid '70s to the late '80s.

As a solo performer and major songwriter he continued to achieve success and make his mark during the '90s & beyond with many of his songs being recorded by artists as diverse as Jimmy Barnes, John Farnham, Troy Cassar-Daley, Keke (Spain), Renee Geyer, Christine Anu, Duane Jarvis (US), Elkie Brooks (UK) even The Wiggles!

His latest release in 2023, an EP called 'She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time' is a modern day tragicomedy in the blues genre.

Ross Wilson joins us this week to fill us in on the entirety of his musical career. He's had an amazing ride and is as entertaining in interview as he is on stage. A must listen.

To learn more about Ross Wilson head for his website www.rosswilson.com.au

If you'd like to get in touch with me with a comment, feedback or a suggestion for a future guest for the show, please feel free to contact me through my website www.abreathofreshair.com.au

I hope you enjoy this week's episode.

Anyone who knows The Go-Go's knows they got the beat.

But in the recent television documentary about them, fans also learn the true story of how they got it, lost it, and found it again. The film shows where The Go-Gos are today: making new music together for the first time in 20 something years.

We catch up with drummer, Gina Schock and listen, mesmerized as she tells her incredible story.

Gina Schock, born Regina Ann Schock in Baltimore, Maryland, is celebrated as the powerhouse drummer of The Go-Go's, one of the most influential all-female rock bands in history.

Raised in a working-class neighbourhood, Gina discovered her passion for drumming as a teenager, teaching herself the craft and dreaming of a life in music. Her ambition led her to move to Los Angeles in the late 1970s, where she joined The Go-Go’s in 1979, just as the band began making waves in the punk scene.

The Go-Go’s were pioneers, becoming the first all-women band to achieve mainstream success while writing their own music and playing their own instruments.

Gina’s hard-hitting, high-energy drumming became a key element of the band’s signature sound, driving hits like We Got the Beat, Vacation, and Our Lips Are Sealed. The band’s debut album, Beauty and the Beat (1981), topped the Billboard 200 for six weeks, establishing The Go-Go’s as trailblazers in both pop and rock music.

Despite their success, the band faced challenges, including grueling tours and internal tensions, leading to their initial breakup in 1985. During this time, Gina underwent heart surgery for a congenital defect, a personal challenge that underscored her resilience.

Post-Go-Go’s, she pursued songwriting and producing, contributing to projects for stars like Miley Cyrus (Breakout) and Selena Gomez. She also ventured into acting and photography, showcasing her multifaceted creativity.

The Go-Go’s reunited several times over the years, maintaining their legacy through tours, new music, and a Broadway musical, Head Over Heels, which featured their songs.

Their enduring influence was cemented when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, a milestone highlighting their groundbreaking achievements.

Beyond music, Gina is also known for her vivacious personality, humour, and advocacy for women in the arts. She remains an inspiring figure, balancing her love for music with personal passions like photography and sharing her life story to empower future generations of musicians.

Gina Schock joins us this week to provide an insight into her amazing world. If you'd like to know what songs she wrote, how she got her start, what life has been like for her over the years ... then you've come to the right place.

I'm certain you'll enjoy hearing Gina Schock tell her story.

Iva Davies was born and raised in regional Australia, where his early exposure to music set the stage for his remarkable career. Trained as a classical musician, he excelled as an oboist. However, the allure of rock music and the emerging punk and new wave scenes in the 70s inspired him to shift gears.

Influenced by artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and Brian Eno, Iva began exploring electronic and experimental sounds, which would later define Icehouse’s unique style.

In 1977, Davies formed Flowers with bassist Keith Welsh, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in Australian music. Originally a covers band, Flowers soon began incorporating original material. Their raw energy and Iva’s charismatic stage presence quickly made them a favourite in Sydney’s pub rock circuit.

The release of their debut album, Icehouse, in 1980, was a game-changer. Featuring tracks like "We Can Get Together" and "Can't Help Myself," the album showcased a blend of new wave, punk, and synth-driven rock. Its success led to an international record deal but a legal conflict over the name Flowers prompted the band to rebrand as Icehouse.

As Icehouse, the group became a vehicle for Iva’s creative vision. Their 1982 album, Primitive Man, marked a major turning point. The album included the upbeat "Great Southern Land," a song that became an unofficial Australian anthem.

The next album, Sidewalk (1984), showcased Davies’ maturing songwriting and reflected his growing interest in themes of isolation and urban life. Though less commercially successful than its predecessor, it set the stage for the band’s magnum opus, Man of Colours (1987).

Man of Colours was Icehouse's most commercially successful album, cementing their place as global stars. Tracks like "Electric Blue," co-written with John Oates of Hall & Oates dominated international charts. The album resonated with fans worldwide. In Australia, Man of Colours became the highest-selling album of 1987 and earned multiple ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year.

Iva's passion for technology and experimentation was evident throughout Icehouse's career. He embraced cutting-edge digital synthesizers and recording techniques, creating a sound that was both innovative and timeless. In addition to his work with Icehouse, Iva composed scores for films like Razorback (1984) and collaborated with the Sydney Dance Company on Boxes (1985) and Berlin (1995), blending classical and modern musical elements.

Despite lineup changes and shifts in the music industry, Icehouse remained a beloved act. In the 1990s, the band released Code Blue (1990) and Big Wheel (1993), which explored deeper and more personal themes. Although these albums didn’t match the commercial heights of earlier works, they reinforced Davies’ reputation as a versatile and introspective artist.

By the 2000s, Icehouse focused on live performances, reconnecting with fans through nostalgia-fueled tours. Davies also reworked classic tracks for the 2011 album Icehouse: White Heat 30 Hits, which celebrated the band’s enduring legacy.

Iva Davies and Icehouse have left an indelible mark on Australian music and beyond. Great Southern Land is regularly cited as one of Australia’s greatest songs, and Icehouse’s albums continue to influence generations of musicians. Davies’ fusion of classical training, electronic innovation, and rock sensibility has made him one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring musical talents.

Today Icehouse remains active, with Iva at the helm, performing to loyal audiences and to new fans. The band are celebrated as pioneers of Australian music and continue to bridge the gap between the past and the future of rock and electronic sounds.

Catch Icehouse when they headline the RED HOT SUMMER TOUR starting January 2025. Supported by several other notable Australian bands in Noiseworks, Wolfmother, Eskimo Joe, Baby Aniamls, Killing Heidi and Bachelor Girl - this is sure to be an incredible outdoor music festival.

Mike Brewer, who partnered with Tom Shipley in the folk-rock duo Brewer & Shipley beginning in the late ’60s - best known for their 1971 hit single, “One Toke Over the Line,” has died.

The news of his passing at age 80 at his home in Missouri, was announced by Shipley. The latter had visited “my friend of 65 years and musical partner for over 60” three days earlier at a hospital in Branson.

By the mid-’60s, Brewer had relocated to Los Angeles and formed a band with Tom Mastin, Billy Mundi (later of the Mothers of Invention) and Jim Fielder (who became an original member of Blood, Sweat and Tears).

When Brewer became a staff song writer for A&M Records’ music publishing company, he reunited with Shipley and they began writing songs together. The pair recorded a debut album for A&M but ultimately moved back to the midwest, settling in Kansas City, Missouri.

Mike Brewer was born in 1944, in Oklahoma City, Okla. While in high school, he played in a rock ‘n’ roll band with Jesse Ed Davis, a native American who went on to perform with such stars as Taj Mahal, Eric Clapton and John Lennon, among many others. After graduating, he traveled the folk circuit performing in coffee houses. Though he met Shipley in 1964, they didn’t become musical partners until 1968.

They were soon signed to Kama Sutra Records in New York and their second album for the label, 1970’s Tarkio, featured “One Toke Over the Line,” written a few years earlier, as its lead-off track.

During this interview Mike Brewer tells us all about his life and that famous track.

Liberty DeVitto has long been recognised as one of the most influential drummers in rock history, renowned for his explosive energy, innovative rhythms, and deep connection to the music.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was captivated by drumming at an early age, inspired by legends like Ringo Starr, Dino Danelli, and Keith Moon.

Raised in a vibrant, music-loving family, DeVitto honed his craft by playing along to records and developing his signature style—a mix of finesse, power, and an uncanny ability to elevate a song's emotional impact.

DeVitto's career reached new heights when he joined Billy Joel's band in 1974, a partnership that spanned over three decades.

As Joel’s drummer, DeVitto was the driving force behind countless hits, including "Piano Man," "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant," and "My Life." His intuitive understanding of Joel’s songwriting allowed him to craft drum parts that became as iconic as the melodies themselves.

Albums like The Stranger, 52nd Street, and Glass Houses showcased his ability to balance technical brilliance with raw emotion, solidifying his place in music history.

Beyond Billy Joel, DeVitto has collaborated with a wide range of iconic artists, including Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon, and Karen Carpenter, displaying his versatility and adaptability across genres. He has also performed on numerous studio sessions, further contributing to his impressive discography.

In addition to his illustrious career as a sideman, DeVitto formed The Slim Kings, a band that combines classic rock influences with a fresh, modern sound. The Slim Kings have released several critically acclaimed tracks, earning a loyal following for their authentic and energetic performances. He also has The Lords of 52nd St which is the original band behind Billy Joel - a band that has sold more than 150 million records and helped establish Billy Joel’s formidable sound.

In recent years, DeVitto has shared his incredible journey through his memoir, Liberty: Life, Billy, and the Pursuit of Happiness. The book provides an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at his life on and off the stage, detailing his childhood in Brooklyn, his experiences with Billy Joel, and his personal struggles and triumphs. It’s a testament to his resilience and passion for music.

DeVitto continues to be an active presence in the music industry, performing live, recording new music, and mentoring aspiring musicians.

His latest project is recording with Studio D’Lux - a supergroup led by keyboardist-vocalist Doug Kistner (Trans-Siberian Orchestra/Blood Sweat & Tears/John Waite). Liberty Devitto is joined by guitarist Jon Herington (Steely Dan), New Brunswick singer Glen Burtnik (Styx), Asbury Park singer Reagan Richards (Williams Honor), bassist Malcolm Gold (Sheryl Crow) and saxophonist Tom Timko (Gloria Estefan).  

Liberty remains a vocal advocate for drummers, regularly appearing at drum clinics and industry events to inspire the next generation of percussionists.

With a career that spans decades and a legacy that continues to grow, Liberty DeVitto is more than a drummer—he is a cornerstone of modern music, whose beats will echo for generations to come.

Liberty joins us this week to share what continues to be an amazing ride through the music industry. A ride he has dedicated his entire life to.

Wondering what ever happened to Don Walker and Cold Chisel? Or maybe what songs Don wrote for the band and what his solo stuff is like?

Check this out ...

Don Walker, hailed as one of Australia's finest songwriters, has built an enduring legacy through his work with Cold Chisel, his solo career, and his literary pursuits.

Born in Ayr, Queensland, in 1951, Don spent his formative years on a sugarcane farm, an environment that shaped his deep appreciation for storytelling and the Australian landscape.

Despite excelling academically and earning a physics degree from the University of Queensland, music remained his true calling. He began writing songs in his teenage years, influenced by country, blues, and the emerging rock 'n' roll sounds of the 1960s.

In 1973, while living in Adelaide, Don co-founded Cold Chisel with Ian Moss, Phil Small, Steve Prestwich, and Jimmy Barnes. As the band's principal songwriter and keyboardist, Don crafted songs that resonated with the Australian experience, blending gritty realism with poetic lyricism.

Cold Chisel's music, powered by Don's writing, captured the struggles, triumphs, and heartbreaks of ordinary lives. Tracks like Khe Sanh, a tale of a Vietnam veteran's post-war alienation, and Flame Trees, a nostalgic reflection on love and small-town life, became Australian anthems.

Cold Chisel rose to prominence in the late '70s and early '80s, releasing landmark albums such as East and Circus Animals. Don's songwriting was praised for its depth and sophistication, setting the band apart in the Australian rock scene.

Despite their massive success, internal tensions led to the band's breakup in 1983. Their farewell concert, The Last Stand, cemented their place in Australian music history.

After Cold Chisel's breakup, Don turned his focus to solo projects. He formed the Catfish, releasing the album Unlimited Address in 89, which showcased his ability to blend rock, blues, and jazz influences.

He later pursued a solo career under his own name, releasing We're All Gunna Die (1995), Cutting Back (2006), and Hully Gully (2013). These albums highlighted his distinctive narrative voice and ability to explore the darker corners of human experience with wit and insight.

Beyond music, Don ventured into literature, publishing Shots in 2009, a memoir that offered a vivid and unflinching look at his life and career. The book was praised for its raw honesty and lyrical prose, further cementing his reputation as a master storyteller.

Cold Chisel reunited several times, releasing new music and touring to the delight of their loyal fan base. Don's role in the band remained central, as he continued to pen songs that connected with audiences across generations.

His collaborations with other artists, including Slim Dusty, Troy Cassar-Daley, and Tex Perkins, underscored his influence on Australian music.

Don Walker's career spans decades of creative output, from iconic anthems to introspective solo works and literary achievements. His ability to capture the essence of Australian life through his art has made him a cultural icon and a revered figure in the nation's musical and storytelling traditions.

Don joins us this week to share his incredible story.

If you have a comment, query or suggestion for a future guest, please get in touch with me through my website

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Do you remember Cream? Of course you do.

They were the first supergroup of the '60s.

Ginger Baker, Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce made some amazing music in just under three years.

Today, musician Malcolm Bruce, the son of Jack has dedicated himself to preserving the musical legacy of his father who was one of rock’s most influential figures.

Jack Bruce was a trailblazing bassist, vocalist, and songwriter, best known as a founding member of Cream, alongside guitar legend Eric Clapton and the fiercely innovative drummer Ginger Baker.

Cream, formed in 1966. They were at the forefront of a musical revolution that defined the '60s. Blending blues, rock, and psychedelic styles, Cream pioneered a sound that would shape the future of rock music. With hits like "Sunshine of Your Love," "White Room," and "Badge," their music was groundbreaking, pushing the boundaries of improvisation and power trio dynamics.

The mid-1960s marked a fertile period for music, with the British Invasion introducing bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who to global audiences. Cream carved a unique niche, fusing blues roots with virtuoso instrumental prowess and delivering intense live performances.

Jack Bruce was at the heart of the band’s success, contributing intricate basslines, soulful vocals, and timeless compositions. His collaborative work with lyricist Pete Brown produced some of Cream's most enduring songs.

Though the band’s lifespan was brief—they disbanded in 1968 due to creative tensions—their impact was monumental, cementing them as one of the first supergroups and one of the greatest bands in rock history.

A young Malcolm Bruce grew up surrounded by music, deeply influenced by his father’s genius and the rich legacy of Cream. A multi-instrumentalist proficient in guitar, piano, and bass, Malcolm has since forged his own path as a solo artist while honouring his father's contributions.

Malcolm is also a key figure in the "Music of Cream" project, a touring tribute band featuring Kofi Baker (son of Ginger Baker) and Will Johns (Eric Clapton’s nephew). Together, they celebrate Cream's groundbreaking music with live performances that recreate the band’s electrifying energy, introducing its legacy to new generations.

Beyond his work with the "Music of Cream," Malcolm Bruce is deeply committed to preserving Jack Bruce’s catalogue and sharing his father’s artistry with the world. He has worked on remastering projects, archival releases, and curated performances to highlight the depth of Jack Bruce’s solo career, which extended far beyond Cream.

Through his dedication, Malcolm ensures that the innovations of his father—and the era-defining work of Cream—continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Today, Malcolm joins us to share his experiences and tell us why it's so important to advocate for his father’s legacy.

If you know Cream's music - or if you're wanting to discover it - you're going to love this episode.

Please let me know your thoughts. You can always reach me through my website