If rock 'n' roll ever had a true outlaw—equal parts velvet-voiced crooner and headline-grabbing hellraiser—it was P.J. Proby.

Born James Marcus Smith in 1938 in Houston, Texas, P.J. Proby has lived a life that most musicians could only dream of—or wouldn’t dare to.

With a vocal range that soared across genres and a personal life that veered toward the chaotic, PJ became a rock 'n' roll legend not just for his music, but for his sheer unpredictability.

Raised in a religious Southern family, PJ grew up listening to gospel choirs and traditional country music. His talent was apparent early on—he could mimic voices, pick up melodies by ear, and possessed a stage presence that drew attention.

He attended a military college where his rebellious streak began to bloom.

By the late '50s, PJ had made his way to LA where he worked as a songwriter and demo singer. It was here that his persona was born.

The name had been suggested by his songwriter friend, Sharon Sheeley—P.J. Proby was the name of her old boyfriend.

In the early '60s, PJ found success writing songs for artists like Elvis. He sounded so like Elvis that some of his demos were mistaken for The King.

PJ’s big break came in the UK when he was brought over by a television producer. It was a move that would change the trajectory of his career. With his jet-black hair, tight trousers, and smouldering charisma, PJ became an instant sensation.

His haunting, dramatic cover of "Hold Me" climbed the UK charts and established him as a vocal powerhouse.

But it wasn’t just his voice that got people talking—it was the way he wore his pants. In early performances, PJ’s skin-tight trousers famously split on stage. It sent the British press into a frenzy. The BBC banned him. Venues grew wary. But the controversy only fuelled his fame.

He was dubbed a bad boy, a provocateur, a rock rebel with no regard for propriety—and audiences loved him for it.

P.J. Proby was never one to stick in one lane. He jumped from rock and roll to pop, country, and even Broadway-style musical theatre.

One of his albums featured a little-known band called Led Zeppelin backing him in the studio.

Despite his raw talent and unique voice—PJ’s career was never a straight line. His fiery temper, love affairs, and on-and-off battles with alcohol and self-destruction kept him at the fringes of mainstream success.

He clashed with record labels. He alienated promoters. He became infamous for being difficult to work with—and yet utterly magnetic on stage.

Through the '70s and '80s, PJ dipped in and out of the public eye. He starred in Elvis: The Musical. He worked with producer Marc Almond, and toured Europe with rock revival shows.

All the while, the myth of P.J. Proby continued to grow. Was he a genius? A madman? A misunderstood star? Depending on who you asked, he was all three.

In the '90s and 2000s, PJ leaned into his status as a cult figure. He released new music, reissued his classic tracks, and embraced the adoration of die-hard fans.

Always the controversial figure, he didn’t shy away from the spotlight—even if it cast shadows. He was never the type to play by society’s rules.

Today, P.J. Proby remains a living legend, albeit a polarizing one. He’s part of that rare breed of musicians who lived the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle to its wildest extremes and survived to tell the tale.

With a career spanning over six decades, Proby has worked with the likes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Cilla Black, Marc Almond, and even Led Zeppelin. He’s played both packed stadiums and dingy pubs, belted ballads and growled blues. He’s been idolized, criticized, banned, adored, and everything in between.

From his humble roots in Houston to the swinging stages of London, from chart-topping hits to tabloid trainwrecks, P.J. Proby is a survivor. A rock ‘n’ roll original. A voice like velvet and a life like a tornado. He’s the embodiment of that old saying: never boring, always Proby.

If you’ve ever tuned into a classic rock radio station and felt the electric hum of Southern rock filling your soul, chances are you’ve brushed shoulders—musically speaking—with Rodney Justo.

Best known as the original lead singer of the legendary Atlanta Rhythm Section, Rodney’s voice is more than just a sonic signature of the American South—it’s the soundtrack to a generation.

But to understand the full breadth of his musical journey, you’ve got to go back to Tampa, Florida, where the boy who would become a Southern rock icon first discovered his voice.

Rodney Justo was born with rhythm in his veins. His father was a musician, and Tampa in the '50s and early '60s had a burgeoning music scene.

By the time he was a teenager, Rodney was performing professionally, fronting bands and making a name for himself as a gifted rock and soul singer.

In the mid-60s, Rodney’s voice caught the ear of Roy Orbison’s backing band, The Candymen. Rodney joined as lead vocalist, and it wasn’t long before they began carving out their own identity.

Touring constantly, performing alongside major acts, The Candymen were crucial in shaping Rodney's future.

In the early '70s, he and his bandmates decided it was time to forge their own path. The Atlanta Rhythm Section was born.

More than just a band, ARS was a musical collective, fusing rock, jazz, R&B, and pop into a smooth, sophisticated Southern sound that defied categorization.

Rodney Justo was the voice on their self-titled 72 debut album. His vocals were powerful and expressive helping to define the Atlanta Rhythm Section's unique tone.

Rodney left the band shortly after that first album—citing creative differences and a desire to focus on family.

He became an in-demand session vocalist and performer, lending his golden pipes to countless recording projects throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s. His ability to shift between genres—from blue-eyed soul to polished pop to hard-edged rock—made him a go-to voice in studios from Florida to L.A.

In the mid-90s, Rodney Justo returned to the Atlanta Rhythm Section. He stepped back into the spotlight once again performing hits like "So Into You," "Imaginary Lover," and "Spooky" live on stage.

Rodney Justo brought new energy to the ARS catalogue—even if he hadn’t originally recorded those songs. He made them his own, connecting with audiences across generations.

Rodney Justo is more than t a great rock vocalist. He’s a storyteller. He's filled with anecdotes, punchlines, and the kind of behind-the-scenes music lore that makes you lean in and listen. He’s got tales from the road with Roy Orbison, recording sessions with legends, and enough stories about Southern rock’s golden era to fill a memoir.

He brings humour, humility, and a deep love of the craft to every conversation. Today he tours with Atlanta Rhythm Section and his voice hasn’t lost any of its magic. There’s still that same smooth phrasing, that soul-deep delivery, and that sly smile you can hear even when he’s singing through the speakers. He continues to be a beloved figure in Southern rock circles, a revered elder statesman of American music, and a performer who gives his all every single night.

Rodney Justo may not be a household name in the same way as some of his peers, but among musicians, he’s a legend.

His influence runs deep—not just through Atlanta Rhythm Section, but through decades of rock, soul, and Southern music.

Rodney's journey is one of persistence, evolution, and soulful resilience. From teenage gigs in Tampa dive bars to singing for thousands on tour with ARS, from the slick sessions of Studio One to today’s digital world, Rodney Justo has remained a voice worth listening to—a true original in the ever-changing world of American rock music.

You're going to LOVE his story.

To find out more head to https://www.atlantarhythmsection.com/

and contact me with any feedback, comments or queries.

https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Before the name Angry Anderson was etched into the annals of Australian rock music history, before the explosive energy of Rose Tattoo dominated stages, and before the emotional hit single “Suddenly” melted hearts across the world, there was just a working-class kid from Melbourne with a lot of grit and one hell of a voice.

Born Gary Stephen Anderson in 1947, in Melbourne, Angry’s early years were shaped by a rough-and-tumble environment that would later fuel his gritty, growling vocal style and hard-edged lyrics.

Growing up in a tough household and navigating the chaos of suburban Australia during the 50s and 60s, Angry developed a rebellious spirit early on. He wasn’t just angry in name—it was an energy, a rawness, a defiance that became his brand.

Angry's first brush with the music world came in the late 60s when he joined the psychedelic band Peace Power and Purity, but it wasn’t long before he migrated toward something heavier, something louder, something that matched the fury he carried inside.

He soon found himself fronting the Buster Brown band—a raw, blues-rock outfit that blended searing guitar riffs with Angry’s sandpaper vocals.

Buster Brown became known in the Australian pub rock circuit, with Anderson's stage presence quickly earning him a reputation as a firecracker performer who gave everything on stage.

In 76, Angry joined a new band called Rose Tattoo. It was ferocious and unapologetically Aussie.

Rose Tattoo wasn’t just a rock band. They were a statement. With their bald heads, tattooed bodies, and denim-stained bravado, they embodied working-class rebellion, pub rock pride, and that dangerous edge of Aussie outlaw culture.

Their debut self-titled album in 78, featuring hits like “Bad Boy for Love” and “Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw,” exploded onto the Australian charts and gained attention in Europe.

Rose Tattoo were frequent support acts for AC/DC, and they earned massive respect from international bands like Guns N’ Roses, who cited them as a major influence.

But just when everyone thought they had Angry figured out—tattooed tough guy, snarling rock dog—he flipped the script. In 87, Angry released “Suddenly”, an emotional power ballad that no one saw coming. The song became a global phenomenon when it was used in Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan’s wedding episode on the soap Neighbours, watched by millions.

As the 90s rolled around, Angry became more than just a rock singer. He emerged as a tv personality. His charisma, honesty, and at times fiery opinions made him a household name in Australian media.

In 92, he showed off his acting chops in the post-apocalyptic classic Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome, starring alongside Mel Gibson and Tina Turner.

But Angry also channeled his influence into causes he cared about. He became a passionate youth advocate, speaking out against domestic violence and drug abuse, drawing on his own difficult upbringing to connect with vulnerable communities. He even flirted with politics—running as a Senate candidate in later years.

Despite countless lineup changes, personal tragedies—including the loss of many original Rose Tattoo members to cancer—and the ever-changing music landscape, Angry has kept the Rose Tattoo flame burning. He’s the longest-tenured member and has fronted the band through decades of Australian and international tours.

In recent years, Rose Tattoo have toured extensively across Australia and Europe, proving the band’s enduring legacy. Angry, now in his 70s, continues to perform with the same raw energy that made him a legend in the first place.

Angry Anderson isn’t just an Australian rock icon—he’s a survivor, a storyteller, and a symbol of the grit and soul that defines Australian hard rock.

Discover all that makes Angry Anderson tick in this compelling episode.

Reach out to me with comments or requests for future guests: https//:www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Welcome to this in-depth exploration of the life and career of Dave Mason, the legendary British guitarist and singer-songwriter. From his early days in Worcester, England, to co-founding the iconic band Traffic, and his extensive solo career, Dave's influence on rock music is undeniable.

🎶 Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born in Worcester, England, Dave Mason's passion for music ignited at a young age. As a self-taught guitarist, he began his musical journey in local bands like The Jaguars and The Hellions, where he crossed paths with drummer Jim Capaldi. These early collaborations laid the foundation for what would become a storied career in rock music.

🚦 Founding Traffic and Psychedelic Success

In 1967, Dave co-founded the rock band Traffic alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. The band's debut album, Mr. Fantasy, featured Mason's composition "Hole in My Shoe," which became a psychedelic anthem of the era. Despite the success, Mason's tenure with Traffic was marked by brief stints; he left the band after the first album, rejoined for their self-titled second album in 1968, and departed again shortly thereafter. His songwriting style, often distinct from the collaborative approach of his bandmates, contributed to these intermittent departures.

🎸 Session Work and Collaborations

Beyond Traffic, Dave's guitar prowess led him to collaborate with some of the most iconic artists of the time. Notably, he played 12-string acoustic guitar on Jimi Hendrix's rendition of "All Along the Watchtower" and contributed to the Rolling Stones' "Street Fighting Man." His session work extended to projects with George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, and Fleetwood Mac, showcasing his versatility across genres.

🎤 Solo Career and Chart Success

Embarking on a solo career in 1970, Mason released his debut album Alone Together, featuring the hit "Only You Know and I Know." The album's unique marble vinyl pressing became a collector's item. In 1977, he achieved significant success with the single "We Just Disagree," which reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Dave continued to release albums and tour extensively, solidifying his status as a solo artist.

🌟 Later Years and Continued Influence

In the 1990s, Dave briefly joined Fleetwood Mac, contributing to their 1995 album Time and participating in the subsequent tour. His enduring influence was recognized in 2004 when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a founding member of Traffic. Mason remained active in the music scene, releasing albums like 26 Letters 12 Notes in 2008 and Future's Past in 2014.

🩺 Recent Activities and Health

In recent years, Dave continued to perform, including his "Traffic Jam" tour, which revisited classic Traffic material. However, in 2024, he announced the cancellation of his tour due to a serious heart condition requiring immediate medical attention. Dave has expressed optimism about his recovery and plans to return to touring as soon as possible.

💖 Philanthropy and Legacy

Beyond his musical achievements, Dave is known for his philanthropic efforts. He supports music education for children through organizations like Little Kids Rock and co-founded Rock Our Vets, a charity aiding military veterans and families of fallen law enforcement officers.

🔗 Connect with Dave Mason:

• Official Website: davemasonmusic.com

• Rock Our Vets: rockourvets.org

• Little Kids Rock: littlekidsrock.org

📌 Don't Forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

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Join host Sandy Kaye to discover the story of Jay and the Americans

Long before arena tours and pop stardom, Sandy Yaguda—later known by his stage name Sandy Deanne—was just a Brooklyn kid with a dream, harmonizing with friends on the street corner.

As a founding member of Jay and the Americans, Sandy helped shape one of the most enduring vocal groups of the 60s, delivering classics like “This Magic Moment,” “Come a Little Bit Closer,” and the unforgettable “Cara Mia.”

But Sandy's journey wasn’t just about chart hits—it was about survival, reinvention, and ultimately reclaiming a name and legacy that defined an era.

In this episdoe we explore Sandy's life in rich detail—from his early days growing up in the working-class neighborhoods of Brooklyn, through the meteoric rise of Jay and the Americans, and into the turbulent times that followed their initial success.

Sandy was born in Brooklyn- a place where doo-wop was more than a sound—it was a way of life.

He grew up on street-corner harmony and fell in love with the layered vocals and emotional intensity of rhythm and blues. While still in high school, he formed a vocal group with classmates. Their mutual love for music brought them together in basements, school hallways, and street corners, practicing complex harmonies and dreaming of stardom.

Originally named The Harbor Lites, the group tried out different names and lead singers before settling into what would eventually become Jay and the Americans. But first, they needed a "Jay."

They found their original “Jay” in Jay Traynor, a smooth-voiced singer who helped bring the group’s early material to life. With Traynor on vocals, the group recorded their first hit, "She Cried," which soared to the Billboard Top 10 in 62. That success put them on the map, earning them opening gigs for heavyweights like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

Despite the breakthrough, Jay left the group soon after, disillusioned with the pressures of sudden fame. The band then discovered David Blatt, a charismatic young singer who would become the new “Jay”—and go on to be known as Jay Black. With Black’s commanding vocals, Jay and the Americans evolved from a promising doo-wop act into pop legends.

Jay and the Americans became regulars on TV everywhere.Their slick stage presence, powerful vocal blend, and boy-next-door charm made them one of the most beloved groups of the decade.

By the early 70s, musical tastes had shifted. Psychedelic rock, protest anthems, and heavier guitar-driven sounds began to dominate the charts.

Jay and the Americans, with their romantic, harmony-driven style, began to fade from the mainstream. The group disbanded in 73.

Jay Black went on performing solo under the name “Jay and the Americans,” believing he had the legal right to use it. Sandy focused on behind-the-scenes work in the music industry, producing and managing other acts. Still, the legacy of Jay and the Americans never left him.

In the early 2000s, Sandy Yaguda, along with Howie Kane and Marty Sanders, initiated a legal battle to reclaim the name “Jay and the Americans” and in a court ruling, the original members won the rights to the name.

They recruited a new lead singer, Jay Reincke, and the reformed Jay and the Americans began touring again.

Today, Sandy Yaguda continues to perform with Jay and the Americans to sold-out audiences across the U.S. proving that good music truly never fades.

Sandy Yaguda is the custodian of a golden sound.

This episode is a must-listen for fans of classic pop, 60s nostalgia, and anyone who’s ever wondered what happens after the hits stop coming—but the music never dies.

When people talk about the greatest guitarists of all time, names like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page often come up.

But in the world of acoustic fingerstyle guitar, few names resonate louder than Tommy Emmanuel.

Hailing from Australia, Tommy has spent his life redefining what one person and one guitar can do — creating soundscapes so full and expressive, you’d swear there’s a full band on stage. But it's just Tommy, his guitar, and a heart full of music.

Born in 1955 in NSW, Tommy was destined for a life in music. By the age of four, he was already strumming along on a homemade guitar, inspired by the country music on the family radio.

When he was just six, he and his older brother Phil were already performing professionally, touring rural Australia as part of the Emmanuel family band.

After the sudden death of their father in 66, the Emmanuel family relocated and Tommy’s passion for the guitar only deepened. He didn’t receive formal training. Instead, he learned by ear, copying the sounds he heard and developing a unique style shaped by necessity, emotion, and endless hours of practice.

If there’s one name Tommy Emmanuel reveres more than any other, it’s Chet Atkins. The legendary guitarist’s fingerpicking style — where melody, bass, and rhythm are played simultaneously — blew Tommy’s mind as a child. From the moment he heard Atkins’ music, Tommy knew he wanted to master the same technique.

Years later, not only did Tommy meet his hero, but the two became close friends and collaborators.

In one of the greatest honors a guitarist can receive, Chet Atkins named Tommy a Certified Guitar Player (CGP) — a title he gave to only a handful of musicians worldwide. Their 1996 collaboration, The Day Finger Pickers Took Over the World, showcased both artists’ brilliance and earned a GRAMMY nomination.

Though he played in bands during the 1980s — it was Tommy’s solo work that truly revealed his genius. Armed with a single acoustic guitar, Tommy became a one-man orchestra.

He played melody, bass, harmony, and percussion all at once, creating dynamic performances that are equal parts musical and theatrical.

From dazzling renditions of Classical Gas and Somewhere Over the Rainbow to heart-pounding originals, Tommy’s concerts are unforgettable.

Over the decades, Tommy has become not only a global guitar icon but also a tireless ambassador for fingerstyle playing. He’s released over 30 albums, toured relentlessly across six continents, and collaborated with legends including Mark Knopfler, Jason Isbell, Jake Shimabukuro, Molly Tuttle, John Knowles, and many others.

Tommy Emmanuel doesn’t just perform — he teaches, encourages, and uplifts. Many students admire his technique, but it’s his heart-led approach that sticks with them.

Tommy’s life hasn’t been without challenges. Like many who spend their lives on the road, he struggled with addiction earlier in his career. But he’s been open about those difficult years, crediting his recovery and ongoing sobriety to a mix of faith, family, and a renewed connection to the purpose behind his music.

His story is one of resilience, not just in music but in life. He’s spoken publicly about mindfulness, presence, and living with gratitude — all of which shine through in his playing.

Now in his late 60s, Tommy Emmanuel shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to tour internationally, sell out shows, release new music, and connect with fans of all ages. Whether he’s playing on a small club stage or headlining a major festival, Tommy pours everything into every note.

There’s a reason people call him a force of nature.

Join us in conversation to hear Tommy talk about his life, his stories and his music. To learn more head for his website here

To connect with me, jump onto my website.

I hope you enjoy this episode!

In this special deep-dive episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Gilbert O’Sullivan, the iconic Irish singer-songwriter who defined an era of melodic, thoughtful 1970s pop. From humble beginnings in Waterford, Ireland, and later Swindon, England, young Raymond O’Sullivan dreamed of creating music that was both emotionally honest and musically timeless. What he achieved went beyond even his wildest dreams.

We trace Gilbert’s transformation from a quiet, artistic boy into the global pop sensation known for timeless hits like “Alone Again (Naturally),” “Clair,” “Get Down,” and “Nothing Rhymed.” Along the way, he invented a persona all his own—complete with a schoolboy haircut, flat cap, and short pants—that helped him stand out in an industry dominated by glam rock, heavy metal, and psychedelic bands. His look was quirky, but his sound was grounded in elegant piano pop and biting lyricism.

He wasn’t chasing fads—he was creating his own lane.

We’ll look at how Gilbert’s early influences—from Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Fats Domino to the British Invasion bands like The Beatles and The Kinks—shaped his unique sound. You’ll hear the story behind his breakout moment, how he almost gave up before finding success, and why “Alone Again (Naturally)” became one of the most impactful and controversial pop ballads of the '70s.

We also dig into the often-overlooked second chapter of his career: the legal battles, the fight for artistic control, and his ongoing legacy as a fiercely independent songwriter who continues to tour and release new music decades after his biggest hits.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a 70s music aficionado, or just discovering Gilbert O’Sullivan for the first time, this episode is a heartfelt and eye-opening journey through one of pop music’s most compelling careers.

🧠 What You'll Learn in This Episode

• What Gilbert O’Sullivan was like as a child growing up in Ireland and England

• Why he adopted the “schoolboy” image and created the name “Gilbert”

• His early struggles in the music business—and what finally clicked

• The emotional depth and lyrical genius behind “Alone Again (Naturally)”

• How hits like “Clair” and “Get Down” dominated the charts

• The truth about his legal battle with his manager and the fight for artist rights

• How he stayed true to his songwriting vision, even when trends changed

• Why Gilbert’s music still resonates with fans around the world

If you loved this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps us reach other fans of classic pop and rock. Share this episode with a fellow 70s music lover or someone who’s never heard Gilbert’s story.

You can also tag us on socials with your favourite Gilbert O’Sullivan memory or song! And check Gilbert O'Sullivan's website https://www.gilbertosullivan.co.uk/ to learn more.

To contact me - head for my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Hope you enjoy the episode!

Little Anthony and the Imperials: A Doo-Wop Legend Who Still Shines Bright

In the golden age of American music, few voices soared as high—or cut as deep—as that of Little Anthony.

Born Jerome Gourdine in Brooklyn, Little Anthony became one of the most distinctive and emotional falsettos in soul, doo-wop, and classic pop music history.

As the lead singer of Little Anthony and the Imperials, his voice helped define an era, touching hearts with hits like “Tears on My Pillow,” “Goin’ Out of My Head,” and “Hurt So Bad.”

His music not only broke chart records but also broke barriers between genres, blending doo-wop harmonies, soul grooves, and pop sensibilities in a way that left a lasting mark on American R&B history.

Before the spotlight, Little Anthony grew up in a neighbourhood immersed in gospel and street-corner harmonies. Young Jerome began singing doo-wop as a teenager. He joined a vocal group called The Duponts, who released a single in 57.

His big break came when he joined The Chesters, a vocal group that would soon rename itself The Imperials.

With Jerome now taking center stage as “Little Anthony”—a nickname given by a legendary due to his youthful appearance and high-pitched voice—the group’s sound clicked immediately. His natural falsetto became their signature.

In 58, the group signed to a label. Their debut single, “Tears on My Pillow,” exploded on the charts. With its raw emotion, aching falsetto, and lush harmonies, the song became an anthem of teen heartache and a pillar of 1950s American pop.

From that point, Little Anthony and the Imperials embarked on a journey that would bring them lasting fame. They followed up with hits like “Shimmy Shimmy Ko-Ko Bop,” “I’m on the Outside (Looking In),” “Goin’ Out of My Head,” and “Hurt So Bad.”

It was Little Anthony's voice that made the group stand out during the changing tides of 60s music, when the British Invasion and Motown were reshaping the industry.

Songs like “Goin’ Out of My Head” became pop-soul classics, covered by countless artists across genres—from Frank Sinatra to The Lettermen.

Their sound matured in the 60s, becoming more orchestrated and polished. Working with producers like Teddy Randazzo, they crafted sophisticated, adult-oriented pop-soul that prefigured the lush soul ballads of later decades.

In 2009, Little Anthony and the Imperials were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction was presented by Smokey Robinson, who praised Anthony’s emotive voice and the group’s groundbreaking blend of genres.

Unlike many of his peers, Little Anthony has remained active well into his 80s, still taking to the stage with the same passion and charisma that made him a star in the 50s. Whether singing at doo-wop revival shows, soul festivals, or headlining his own concerts, Little Anthony still delights audiences wherever he goes.

His presence remains strong on platforms like PBS specials, oldies cruises, and classic soul tours, where fans young and old gather to hear the voice that made them fall in love with music in the first place.

Little Anthony’s music is more than a nostalgic reminder of the past—it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of vocal harmony, heartfelt songwriting, and soul-stirring performance. His contributions helped shape not only the sound of doo-wop but also the emotional core of American soul and pop. His hits continue to be rediscovered by younger audiences and sampled in modern tracks, proving the timeless appeal of his work.

As the frontman of one of the most influential vocal groups of all time, Little Anthony remains a legend—not just for his voice, but for his passion, resilience, and devotion to the music.

In this episode, we explore the life and career of Kenney Jones, the legendary drummer who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of British rock music during the '60s and '70s. From his early days with The Small Faces, through the raucous years with The Faces, to his tenure with The Who, Jones's rhythmic prowess and adaptability made him a sought-after musician in the evolving rock landscape.

Born in Whitechapel, London, Kenney Jones grew up immersed in the vibrant music scene of post-war Britain. Influenced by the burgeoning British Invasion, Jones was drawn to the energetic rhythms of bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, as well as the soulful sounds of American R&B. His early exposure to these genres laid the foundation for his distinctive drumming style, characterized by a blend of precision and flair.

In 65, Jones co-founded The Small Faces alongside Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, and Jimmy Winston. The band quickly became emblematic of the Mod movement, delivering hits like "Itchycoo Park," "Tin Soldier," and "All or Nothing." Their music, a fusion of psychedelic rock and soulful melodies, resonated with a generation seeking a fresh, dynamic sound.

Jones's drumming provided a solid backbone for the band's intricate arrangements. The Small Faces' influence extended beyond their music, impacting fashion and youth culture in '60s Britain.

The departure of Steve Marriott in '69 marked a turning point for the band. The remaining members—Jones, Lane, and keyboardist Ian McLagan—joined forces with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, both from the Jeff Beck Group, to form The Faces.

The Faces quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances and unpretentious style. Albums like "A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse" and "Ooh La La" captured their energetic spirit and musical prowess.

Rod Stewart's simultaneous solo career, particularly the success of "Every Picture Tells a Story" and the hit single "Maggie May," brought additional attention to The Faces. However, this dual focus eventually led to tensions within the group.

The Faces' blend of rock, soul, and blues, combined with their charismatic stage presence, earned them a devoted fan base. Tracks like "Stay with Me," "Cindy Incidentally," and "Ooh La La" became anthems of the era, showcasing the band's versatility and Jones's dynamic drumming.

Despite their success, internal tensions and the members' individual pursuits led to the band's dissolution in '75.

In '78, following the death of drummer Keith Moon, Jones was invited to join The Who. His tenure with the band included contributions to albums like Face Dances and It's Hard, as well as performances at significant events such as Live Aid in '85.

While his drumming style differed from Moon's, Jones brought a steady, reliable rhythm to the band's music during a period of transition. His professionalism and experience were invaluable assets to The Who during this time.

Beyond his musical endeavours, Jones authored an autobiography titled "Let the Good Times Roll: My Life in Small Faces, Faces, and The Who", providing an in-depth look at his life and career.

Kenney Jones's contributions to music have been recognised with inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of both The Small Faces and The Faces. His influence continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, ensuring his legacy endures in the annals of music history.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Kenney Jones, exploring his impact on British rock music and the enduring legacy of The Small Faces, The Faces, and The Who. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his story, this episode offers a comprehensive look at one of rock's most influential drummers.

#thesmallfaces #thefaces #thewho #britishinvasion

Mike Skill from The Romantics discusses the rise of '80s New Wave. Dive into his journey in the Detroit music scene.

The Romantics, a band synonymous with the vibrant energy of American rock and the catchy hooks of '80s new wave, havea story deeply rooted in the musical landscape of Detroit.

At the heart of this narrative is Mike Skill, the band's founding lead guitarist and a principal songwriter, whose journey before and during his time with The Romantics showcases a blend of influences, adaptability, and a passion for music thatcontinues to resonate with audiences today.​

Mike Skill grew up on the east side of Detroit, a city pulsating with musical innovation. The '60s brought the British Invasion,with bands like The Kinks, The Who, The Beatles, The Hollies, and The Rolling Stones capturing the imagination of young musicians worldwide.

Skill was no exception; he found himself captivated by the raw energy and melodic sensibilities of these British acts. This fascination wasn't just about the music—it was about the attitude, the style, and the revolutionary spirit that these bands embodied.

But Detroit had its own musical heartbeat. The city was a melting pot of sounds, from the soulful rhythms of Motown to the gritty garage rock of local bands. Influences like the MC5, the Stooges, and early Bob Seger were instrumental in shaping Skill's musical outlook. He absorbed the sincerity, irony, spontaneity, and volume that characterised Detroit's late '60s rock scene, blending it with the melodic hooks of theBritish bands he admired.​

By the mid-70s, Skill was ready to channel his influences into something original. In 1977, he joined forces with Wally Palmar, Rich Cole, and Jimmy Marinos to form The Romantics—a name befitting their debut on the day of love. Their mission was clear: to create music that was fresh yet familiar, blending the infectious energy of British pop with the raw power ofAmerican rock.​

Detroit's music scene was both a challenge and aninspiration. The city was teeming with talent, and standing out required not just skill but also a unique identity. The Romantics distinguished themselves with their short hair, tailored suits, and high-energy performances. They favoured concise, punchy songs that got straight to the point—a reflection of both their punk influences and the pop sensibilities of the British Invasion.

The Romantics' relentless gigging paid off and they recorded their self-titled debut album with British producer Pete Solley.

Released in 1980, this album marked the dawn of a new decade and introduced the world to "What I Like About You."​ With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, the song became a defining track of the era.

As the musical landscape shifted in the early '80s, the emergence of new wave brought synthesizers, polished production, and a more commercial sound to the forefront. The Romantics, rooted in garage rock and power pop, faced the challenge of evolving without losing their identity.​ Mike Skill's left the band after the 1980 release of "National Breakout."

The lineup change coincided with the band's subtle incorporation of new wave elements into their music. Their 83 album, "In Heat," showcased this evolution, with tracks like "Talking in Your Sleep" blending their signature rock energy with the melodic hooks and production sheen characteristic of new wave. The song became one of their biggest hits.

Despite lineup changes and the ebb and flow ofmusical trends, The Romantics have remained a constant presence in the rock scene. Mike Skill's return to the band in 2010 revitalised their live performances.

The story of The Romantics, with Mike Skill's journey at its core, is the embodiment of the timeless spirit of rock music—a blend of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.

Mike joins us today to share his story,

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