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

New York born, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, guitarist /singer- songwriter Ricky Byrd (inducted in 2015 with Joan Jett and The Blackhearts), has had a career in music, spanning more

Although best known for his time spent with The Blackhearts, Ricky has also recorded and played with Roger Daltrey, and toured with Ian Hunter and Southside Johnny. He has shared the stage with music royalty including Paul McCartney, Ringo, Alice Cooper,

While the lead guitarist is grateful for all his many musical achievements, Ricky often says one of his greatest gifts came about in 1987 when he started his journey in recovery. He’s

Ricky began combining music with recovery in 2012, when he co-wrote a song with his friend, Richie Supa. The two wound up writing what is now considered a recovery classic “Broken

Today, when he's not performing shows, he visits treatment

 Ricky has a new single out now – "Louanne" his first in many years that is unrelated to recovery .

Ricky says, “My last 2 records “Clean Getaway” and “Sobering Times” had lyrics that spoke to the issues of addiction and recovery. With this new batch of tunes that I’m releasing as singles, I was consciously staying away from that subject matter. 'Louanne' started with the riff and chords, as do most of the songs I write. Then I start to mumble words and fool with a melody. As I was going through the usual process I blurted out “Louanne.. if anybody 
could you can.” Then came the line“Why don’t you go on and get yourself right .. Louanne.” I knew at that point where I was headed! So I guess you can say lyrically Louanne is a song of 
encouragement for someone struggling with something, and the music is being driven by a nasty RnR riff.”

Ricky Byrd joins us this week as our special guest to share his amazing story.

Jamaican Reggae legend JIMMY CLIFF was born in 1948 as James Chambers and proved to be an accomplished performer at an early age.

At 14 he moved to Kingston and took the surname Cliff as a proclamation of the heights he imagined he would reach. In Kingston, Jimmy released the 1962 hit, Hurricane Hattie and numerous other recordings throughout the rest of the 1960s.

Jimmy Cliff moved to the UK in the late 60s and was bitterly disappointed with the racism he encountered there.

His song, Waterfall, won the Brazilian International Song Festival in 67 and in 68. He followed up Waterfall with the release of the protest song, Vietnam. In 1970, he enjoyed new success with his cover of the Cat Stevens song, Wild World.

Jimmy returned to Jamaica and left Island Records as they increasingly focused their attention on his protege, Bob Marley. It was at this time that Jimmy Cliff adopted the Muslim faith and the name, Na’im Bashir.

In 1972, Cliff starred in the film, The Harder They Come. The film and its soundtrack, comprised mainly of songs he wrote. Their instant popularity, along with his album Follow My Mind propelled Jimmy Cliff into stardom. For years he continued to release albums that were innovative and his songs always carried powerful messages.

His 1985 album Cliff Hanger won a Grammy Award and his cover of I Can See Clearly Now for the soundtrack to the film, Cool Runnings reached the Top 20 chart in the United States in 1993. Cliff continued his acting career in the films Club Paradise and Marked for Death.

In this week's episode, Jimmy Cliff discusses his journey as a

He discusses his relationship with Bob Marley and his role in

He also tells us about his latest album 'Refugees' which addresses one of his most personal causes.

Jimmy Cliff's success in the music industry, in his words, has been driven by his confidence in himself and his ability to follow his own path. He is absolutely inspirational to chat with. I'm sure you will find him a delight to listen to.

- "You can get it if you really want." - Jimmy Cliff

To learn more about Jimmy Cliff head to his website https://www.jimmycliff.com/

Jimmy Cliff continues to record music and tour the world.

Drummer SIMON KIRKE kept the beat for two of the '70s most popular bluesy hard rockers: Free and Bad Company.

Born in London, Simon developed an interest in music at a young age and joined a local band called the Maniacs to play drums and sing. He negotiated a deal with his parents after graduating high school, that if he couldn't make it as a drummer in a band within a two-year period, he would then start a college career. Just a few months before the self-imposed deadline, Kirke landed a gig with a group called the Black Cat Bones. He befriended the group's guitarist, Paul Kossoff, who convinced him to start a new band with singer Paul Rodgers and ex-John Mayall's Bluesbreakers bassist Andy Fraser.

This band became Free in 1968. The group would prove to be successful particularly on the strength of their classic 1970 release Fire and Water, and its anthemic hit single "All Right Now." However drugs and infighting began to dessimate the members' relationship and they broke up in 1973. Paul Kossoff passed away just three years later.

From the ashes of Free rose Bad Company. Simon and Paul Rodgers were joined by ex-King Crimson bassist Boz Burrell and ex-Mott the Hoople guitarist Mick Ralphs. The band became one of the first groups signed to Led Zeppelin's record label, Swan Song and their debut album, 1974's Bad Company, went on to become one of hard rock's all-time classics. Bad Company enjoyed several years of huge success before splitting up in 1982 (the group did reunite later in the decade without Rodgers, and again in the '90s when Rodgers rejoined). Simon Kirke has always been super busy. As well as his work with Bad Company, he guested on a long list of recordings by other artists including albums by Wilson Pickett, Jim Capaldi, Ringo Starr and Ron Wood, among countless others.He was often drumming live on tour with acts like Chuck Berry, Ray Charles, Bo Diddley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Ringo Starr & His All-Star Band.

In 2003, Simon went out on his very first solo tour and released his debut solo album. Since then there have been more solo albums, the latest of which is 2017's All Because of You.

Simon shares his incredible stories of success as well as his multiple personal and professional challenges with us this week.

For more information on Simon Kirke head to his website https://www.officialsimonkirke.com/

To get in touch with me with feedback, comments or suggestions for future guests - please contact me through the website https://www.abreathofrreshair.com.au

Formed as a jazz ensemble in the mid-'60s, Kool & the Gang became one of the most inspired and influential funk units during the '70s, and one of the most popular R&B groups of the '80s after their breakout hit "Celebration." Just as funky as James Brown or Parliament (and sampled almost as frequently), Kool & the Gang relied on their jazz backgrounds and long friendship to form a tightly knit group.

 Their 21 Top 40 hits display a huge range, from the tough funk of "Jungle Boogie," to the smooth instrumental soul of "Summer Madness," to the lively pop of "Joanna." They hit the Top Ten of the R&B chart with several albums that include the gold Wild and Peaceful in 1973, the all platinum Ladies' Night in 79, Celebrate in 80, Something Special in 81 and Emergency in 84.  

Since the '90s, Kool & The Gang have focused most on touring, but they've released several original albums during this time too - the latest of which is People Just Wanna Have Fun in 2023.

Our guest today is ROBERT 'KOOL' BELL who with his brother Ronald, founded the group. The boys grew up in Jersey City and picked up the music bug from their father, who was a professional boxer. The duo formed the Jazziacs in 1964 with several neighbourhood friends: they soon renamed themselves the Soul Town Band and began playing

After a mix-up with a club owner resulted in the group being billed Kool & the Flames, (and in order to not offend James Brown) they changed their name to Kool & the Gang and quickly became a success on the R&B charts.

It was with their 6th album, Wild and Peaceful that Kool & the Gang hit the big time. "Funky Stuff" became their first Top 40 hit at the end of 1973. Then both "Jungle Boogie" and "Hollywood Swinging" reached the

In 1979, the group added two new vocalists, Earl Toon Jr and former Jersey nightclub singer James J.T Taylor. Kool & the Gang also began

The group produced several more hits, including the single "Get Down on It." Between 1983 and 1985, the band had a pair of number two hits with "Joanna" and "Cherish.”

Kool & The Gang remained a going concern throughout the 2000s, teaming up with many younger artists. Fellow co-founders Ronald Bell and Dennis D.T Thomas both passed away in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The album "Perfect Union" was completed with both musicians and was released during the latter year. It was promoted with extensive touring, including performances in 2022 with the German Philharmonic Orchestra.

Just ahead of their 60thanniversary, Kool & the Gang quickly returned in 2023 with the album "People Just Wanna Have Fun" led by the single "Let's Party."

Kool & The Gang remain the most sampled group in the world. Their longevity is a testament to their talents and Robert ‘Kool’

For more information about Kool & The Gang head for their website https://www.koolandthegang.com/

Please feel free to send me your comments, feedback or any suggestions for future interviews you'd like to hear. You can reach me through the website https://abreathoffreshair.com.au/

I hope you enjoy this episode.

English singer-songwriter, NIK KERSHAW was a 1980s teen idol; he spent 62 weeks on the UK Singles Chart in 1984-5 and beat every other solo artist at the time. He appeared at Live Aid in 1985, and penned a number of hits for other artists, including a UK number one single in 1991 for Chesney Hawkes "The One and Only”.

Nik played guitar and sang in a number of underground bands from 76 before deciding on a career as a songwriter. However, he ended up performing his own songs rather than giving them to others, and signed a record deal in 1983, which spawned a debut single, "I Won't Let The Sun Go Down On Me", which just missed out on the UK Top 40. At the beginning of 1984, he made his breakthrough when "Wouldn't It Be Good", which reached Number 4 in the UK charts. He enjoyed three more Top 20 hits from debut album Human Racing, including the title track and a successful re-issue of his debut single, which ultimately proved his biggest hit as a performer when it got to Number 2 in the UK.

Nik won multiple awards and attracted admirers for his writing such as Elton John & Eric Clapton. He also gained a huge teenage fanbase; a phenomenon Nik says was extremely difficult to manage.

When he released the single "The Riddle", fans and journalists were sent into overdrive, as everyone tried to figure out what the meaning was behind the strange set of circumstances and clues which Nik had put in the verses and chorus. (It later turned out that it was all hastily created nonsense). 

In 1985 Nik was among a huge lineup of performers at Live Aid at Wembley Stadium. He tells us that performing there was one of the scariest days of his life. 

Soon after, Nik retired from recording music in favour of his original career path as a songwriter. His prowess as a songwriter served him well in 1991 when his song The One And Only, appeared on the soundtrack to the Brittish movie Buddy's Song and in the American film "Doc Hollywood", and provided a UK Number 1 single for the star of the film, Chesney Hawkes (son of the Tremeloes' Chip Hawkes). In 1993 The Hollies had a minor hit with another of his songs, The Woman I Love.

1999 saw the release of the Britpop-styled 15 Minutes; later on a collection of acoustic-led songs and 'EI8HT', a commercial MOR pop album. Nik released Oxymoron, in 2020 and is currently in the process of releasing a series of EPs, Songs from a Shelf. 

Nik Kershaw joins me this week as our special guest. As always it's a warm, friendly chat during which surprising things often come up.

For more information visit Nik Kershaw's official site at http://www.nikkershaw.net

Always happy to hear your comments and feedback too!

I hope you enjoy this episode with Nik Kershaw!

Soft rock singer/songwriter, guitarist, pianist and producer KENNY LOGGINS had a consistent string of hits in the '70s, '80s and '90s. After playing in several bands in the late '60s and honing his songwriting chops as a staff songwriter, Kenny rose to prominence with Loggins & Messina, a duo with fellow singer/songwriter Jim Messina. The two were together from 72 to 76, and released a string of successful albums.

Kenny's first solo album was released in '77, and included the hit

He was born in 1948, and the family moved to California when he was in his teens. Kenny initially turned to music as a way of compensating for his extreme shyness, and in the process discovered that he was a talented guitarist and had a voice. At the end of the decade, Kenny joined a band called Gator Creek and they were signed to a label. The group recorded one self-titled album, which was issued in 1970 and

Kenny Loggins was proficient on the guitar and piano, but it was his songwriting that enabled him to make his first lasting impression on

Next came "House at Pooh Corner." Kenny's success brought him to the

The pair broke up in 1976, and Kenny retained a strong following in the years immediately after. He went on to solo stardom with million-selling albums and he kept writing hit after hit after hit in the cheerful, sensitive style he had developed.

Kenny Loggins joins us this week to share the increible highs and lows of his musical journey. He also tells us about playing pickleball, venturing out on his e-bike with his new wife and his on-going search for the world's ( or at least Los Angeles') best donut. He also fills us in with details about his new book "Still Alright." You can pick up a copy from all good bookstores and online.

I hope you enjoy our chat. If you'd like to know more about Kenny please jump onto his website https://kennyloggins.com/

In the heart of the ‘Swinging Sixties’, a British rock band called Savoy Brown was born and almost immediately began to make a profound impact with their pioneering blues-rock sound. Energetic Blues has always been Savoy Brown’s calling card. 

 In fact, Blues Rock became the catch-all phrase in the late 1960s to describe the band’s music along with that of contemporaries including Cream, Fleetwood Mac, and Jimi Hendrix. 

 Even though the band was plagued with a constantly changing line-up, the group’s guiding hand from the outset in 1966 was held by its founder, the late Kim Simmonds. 

Unfortunately, Savoy Brown never reached the same level of commercial success as their contemporaries but despite this, they were a huge influence on the blues-rock genre, which led to their long-standing legacy in the industry. 

The band’s discography is a testament to their enduring influence. Albums like "Shake Down," "Blue Matter," and "Street Corner Talking" showcased the band's exceptional song writing and instrumentals. Through the 60s, 70s and 80’s songs such as “I’m Tired”, “Train to Nowhere”, “Tell Mama” and “Lay Back In The Arms Of Someone” became Hot 100 entries. 

Savoy Brown has always toured relentlessly, making it one of the longest running blues rock bands in existence.

They also provided other groups opportunity. Kiss opened the bill on a Savoy Brown national tour as did ZZ Top, The Doobie Brothers and many, many more acts. Former members, having cut their teeth under Simmonds’ leadership, have gone on to complete their careers with other bands. Among others, these include singer Dave Walker with Fleetwood Mac and Black Sabbath, Bill Bruford with King Crimson and Andy Pyle with the Kinks.

Savoy Brown helped spawn the 1968 UK Blues Rock boom and later opened the eyes of many 1970s American teenagers to their own home territory blues artists.

Today, more than 50 years later, Savoy Brown remains a formidable, progressive Blues Rock force. 

As the band continues today without its leader, Kim Simmonds, who passed away late last year, it is led by my special guests – bassist PAT DESALVO and drummer GARNET GRIMM. Both have been in the line-up for more than 10 years. 

I hope you enjoy the amazing story that is SAVOY BROWN’s musical journey.

To learn more about the band head to their website https://savoybrown.com/biography

Don't hesitate to get in touch with me if you'd like to comment, provide feedback or suggest a future guest for the show. You can reach me through my website https://abreathoffreshair.com.au/

Steve Katz and Blood, Sweat & Tears (BS&T) are synonymous with the golden era of American rock and jazz fusion. This iconic band, known for its genre-blending music, was founded by Steve Katz and went on

Steve Katz was born in New York City and displayed a passion for music from a young age. His journey in the music world gained momentum in the early ‘60s when he joined The Even Dozen Jug Band, a folk collective. Later, he co-founded the influential rock band The Blues Project. In

As a founding member, guitarist, and songwriter, Steve played

Steve Katz joins us this week to talk about his rock n roll life, his

It’s truly a fascinating story. I hope you enjoy it.

For more information about Steve Katz head for his website https://stevekatzmusic.wordpress.com/

If you'd like to contact me with feedback, comments or suggestions for future guests please feel free to reach out through my website https://abreathoffreshair.com.au/ I'd love to hear from you!

In the vibrant music scene of New Orleans during the 1960s, a

Bassist George Porter Jr. joined forces with Art Neville(keyboards), Joseph "Zigaboo" Modeliste (drums), and Leo Nocentelli (guitar) to create The Meters.

The name itself hinted at their precision and rhythm.

Despite not achieving mainstream commercial success, their impact on the music scene was undeniable. The Meters' music was more than just notes and beats; it was a source of inspiration for generations to come. Their rhythmic grooves became the foundation for hip-hop, with countless artists sampling their tracks. This influence solidified their legacy as pioneers of the funk genre. After the band's initial disbandment, George Porter Jr. pursued a solo career, showcasing his exceptional bass skills.

The Meters experienced various reunions over the years, with special performances and tours celebrating their musical legacy. Their enduring popularity spoke volumes about their lasting impact. In 2018,

Their journey from New Orleans to the global music stage left an indelible mark on the industry. Their legacy continues to live on through their timeless music and the artists they've inspired, solidifying their status as true legends of funk.

Please join me this week as George Porter Jr shares his experiences and musical life with the legendary Meters.

To learn more about George Porter Jr head to his website http://www.georgeporterjr.com/

To send me a message and to check out some of my back episodes go to my website https://abreathoffreshair.com.au/

Dave Warner is an iconic Australian musician, songwriter, and author. He gained popularity in the late 1970s with his band, Dave Warner from the Suburbs, and became known for his unique blend of punk and pub rock.

Hailing from Perth in Western Australia, Dave formed Australia’s first punk band PUS back in the early 1970s. By the time The Sex Pistols had formed, Dave had already moved on to a new phase of music and social commentary which he dubbed Suburban Rock.

Dave formed The Suburbs in 1977. The group developed a huge underground following, which led to Dave signing with Australia’s Mushroom Records in 1978. His first album, Mugs Game, went gold within a month of release. Dave’s second album, Free Kicks, was

Several albums later, Dave Warner retired from writing and performing music full-time, turning instead to writing plays, novels and screenplays.

Once nominated by Bob Dylan as his favourite Australian

He is the author of twelve novels, including the winner of the 1996 West Australian Premier’s Award for Fiction CITY OF LIGHT, and the 2016 Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction 'BEFORE IT BREAKS', and six other non-fiction titles.

Dave has written for feature film, stage, television, radio and newspapers. His first feature movie starred Kylie Minogue and Molly Ringwald was sold

Dave’s television credits include the INXS telemovie plus regular episodes of mainstream Australian primetime dramas.

This week on A Breath of Fresh Air, Dave Warner discusses his music career and the challenges of being pigeonholed into a specific genre. He shares his desire to create truly original music and his inspiration taken from figures like rocker, Lou Reed and American author, Thomas Pynchon.

If you'd like to learn more about Dave Warner check out his website: https://davewarner.com.au/

You can also head to my website for more information about Dave.

Don't forget if you'd like to request a future guest for A Breath of Fresh Air, just drop me a line through my website https://abreathoffreshair.com.au/

I hope you enjoy this episode.