A Breath of Fresh Air - warm, classic, rock interviews with musical legends from the 60s, 70s, 80s

Spencer Davis was a British rock musician and bandleader who became a major figure in the 1960s British Invasion, most notably as the founder of The Spencer Davis Group.

Born in Swansea, Wales, Davis began his musical journey at a young age, inspired by American blues, jazz, and skiffle music. After moving to Birmingham to attend university, Davis immersed himself in the city's burgeoning music scene, forming the Rhythm and Blues Quartet in 1963, which quickly evolved into The Spencer Davis Group.

The band’s classic lineup—featuring Spencer Davis on guitar and vocals, Steve Winwood on keyboards and vocals, Muff Winwood on bass, and Pete York on drums—created a distinctive blend of R&B, blues, and rock. With Steve Winwood’s soulful voice at the forefront, the band quickly found success with chart-topping hits like "Keep On Running," "Somebody Help Me," "Gimme Some Lovin'," and "I'm a Man." These tracks became iconic anthems of the era, solidifying their place in British rock history.

The Spencer Davis Group was known for its energetic performances and blues-driven sound, and their influence extended across the Atlantic, helping to shape the sound of the British Invasion in the U.S. Davis's keen eye for talent was evident in his discovery of Steve Winwood, whose vocals and keyboard skills were integral to the group's success. While Steve Winwood's presence made the band famous, Davis was the guiding force, handling the management and direction of the group.

When Winwood left in 1967 to form Traffic, The Spencer Davis Group underwent changes but continued to release music. Though the post-Winwood years didn't achieve the same level of success, Davis remained an active and passionate musician. He relocated to the U.S. in the late 1970s and became involved in various music projects, including collaborations with other musicians and solo work. He also became an advocate for preserving the legacy of 1960s rock music.

Spencer Davis’s contributions to rock extended beyond just his band’s success. He played a crucial role in bringing American blues and R&B influences into the British mainstream, helping shape the direction of rock music in the 1960s. His ability to bridge these genres created a lasting impact on both sides of the Atlantic.

Davis continued performing well into his later years, touring and reuniting with various iterations of The Spencer Davis Group. His career, spanning over six decades, is a testament to his enduring passion for music. Spencer Davis passed away in 2020 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians.

His influence on rock music, particularly the fusion of blues and rock, remains a cornerstone of his legacy. As the leader of one of the British Invasion’s most iconic bands, Spencer Davis helped to define the sound of an era, and his contributions to music continue to resonate today.

This week we're joined by Spencer's friend and bandmate, Ed Tree who is a highly respected American guitarist, producer, and songwriter known for his versatile work across genres like rock, Americana, country, and blues.

He gained widespread recognition for his collaboration with British rock icon Spencer Davis, performing as Davis’s guitarist and musical partner for many years. Tree’s exceptional guitar skills and keen musical sensibilities made him an integral part of Davis’s live performances, adding depth to the iconic sound of The Spencer Davis Group in its later iterations.

Beyond his work with Spencer, Ed Tree has enjoyed a rich career as a session musician, playing with renowned artists such as Rita Coolidge, Juice Newton, and Al Stewart. He has also produced numerous albums, further solidifying his reputation in the music industry. As a songwriter, Tree has contributed to a wide array of projects, showcasing his talent for crafting songs that resonate across multiple genres.

Ed honours his friend Spencer by sharing his story with us.

Coco Montoya is a celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, recognized for his passionate performances and mastery of the blues genre.

Born in Santa Monica, California, Montoya began his musical journey as a drummer, and his career took a pivotal turn when he met the legendary Albert Collins in the 1970s.

Albert Collins became his mentor, teaching him the fundamentals of the blues and urging him to transition to guitar. Coco Montoya's left-handed, upside-down playing style and emotional phrasing became his signature, blending fiery intensity with heartfelt soul.

In the 1980s, Montoya joined John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, a band that had launched the careers of iconic guitarists like Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Mick Taylor.

During his decade with John Mayall, Coco Montoya refined his craft, gaining widespread recognition as a formidable blues guitarist. His work with the Bluesbreakers helped solidify his reputation and set the stage for his solo career.

Coco Montoya's solo debut, Gotta Mind to Travel (1995), marked the beginning of a string of successful albums that showcased his gritty, emotive guitar playing and powerful vocals. Notable releases include Ya Think I'd Know Better (1996), Suspicion (2000), and Hard Truth (2017). His music, rooted in traditional blues but with a contemporary edge, earned critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.

Touring extensively, CocoMontoya is known for his dynamic live performances, where his combination of technical prowess and raw emotion leave audiences spellbound.

His contributions to the blues genre have earned him awards and accolades, including the Blues Music Award for Best New Blues Artist in 1996.

Montoya remains a vital force in the modern blues scene, with his playing often compared to legends like Albert Collins and B.B. King, ensuring his enduring influence on future generations of blues musicians.

Coco Montoya joins us this week to share his story. For more information about him, check out his website https://www.cocomontoyaband.com/ and don't forget, if you'd like to request a guest, send me a message through my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Charlie Musselwhite and Elvin Bishop, two towering legends in the blues world, have carved their places in music history through decades of innovation, collaboration, and a shared love for the blues. Both emerged from the heart of Chicago’s thriving 1960s blues scene, though they took distinct paths that would eventually lead to an unforgettable partnership.

Musselwhite, born in Kosciusko, Mississippi, and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, grew up surrounded by the rich musical traditions of Delta blues, country, and gospel. Moving to Chicago in the early 1960s, he quickly became part of the city's electric blues explosion, playing alongside legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf.

His 1967 debut album, Stand Back! Here Comes Charley Musselwhite’s Southside Band, was a groundbreaking success, blending traditional blues with elements of jazz, rock, and country, and establishing him as one of the foremost harmonica players in the world.

Over the years, Musselwhite's deep, soulful harmonica playing and gritty, heartfelt vocals earned him multiple Grammy Awards and Blues Music Awards, solidifying his place as a key figure in the preservation and progression of blues music.

Elvin Bishop, born in California and raised in Oklahoma, brought his own unique style to the blues. Influenced by the sounds of country and rhythm and blues, Bishop’s guitar playing drew from his Southern roots, blending blues with rock and country in a way that was both electrifying and soulful. After moving to Chicago to attend the University of Chicago, Bishop found himself immersed in the local blues scene, joining forces with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in the early 1960s.

His time with the band was pivotal, as they helped pioneer the fusion of blues and rock, which would soon come to define much of the music of that era.

Bishop’s solo career took off in the 1970s, highlighted by the massive hit “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” (1976), which remains a classic of the rock and blues genres. Over the course of his career, Bishop has released more than 20 albums, receiving critical acclaim for his fiery guitar work, playful lyrics, and his seamless blending of blues, boogie-woogie, country, and rock.

The collaboration between Musselwhite and Bishop brought together two titans of blues who shared a deep respect for the genre’s traditions while continuously pushing its boundaries.

The pair had crossed paths many times throughout their careers, but their formal collaboration came to full fruition with the release of their album 100 Years of Blues (2020). The album, steeped in the authenticity of their combined experience, features raw, unfiltered blues with a modern twist.

Their chemistry, honed over years of friendship and mutual admiration, shines through on every track, with Musselwhite’s masterful harmonica complementing Bishop’s electrifying guitar riffs and distinctive vocals.

Together, Charlie Musselwhite and Elvin Bishop represent a unique blend of two blues journeys that began in the same place but evolved along different paths. Whether playing in a stripped-down duo format or backed by a full band, their collaboration embodies the timelessness of the blues while showcasing the creative innovation that has kept the genre alive and thriving for over half a century.

Today, they continue to perform and record, keeping their sound fresh, vital, and deeply rooted in the authentic blues tradition, ensuring that their legacy will influence future generations of musicians and fans alike.

The Allman Brothers Band, established in 1969 in Georgia, stands as a cornerstone of Southern rock and American music history. Founded by brothers Duane and Gregg Allman, along with Dickey Betts, Butch Trucks, Berry Oakley, and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson, the band was instrumental in blending rock, blues, jazz, and country music into a genre-defining sound. Their innovative use of dual lead guitars and extended improvisational jams set them apart, creating a live experience that was both powerful and deeply emotional.

Tragically, Duane Allman’s death in a motorcycle accident in 1971 was a devastating blow, but the band soldiered on, with guitarist Dickey Betts stepping up as a leading creative force. The subsequent album, Eat a Peach (1972), featured both live and studio tracks.

Throughout the 70s, the Allman Brothers Band produced a series of critically acclaimed albums, intertwining guitar lines earned them a massive following. However, the late 70s brought internal tensions, substance abuse issues, and the death of bassist Berry Oakley, leading to several breakups and reunions.

The band experienced a resurgence in the late 80s and 90s and officially disbanded in 2014.

During this time Gregg Allman shared a complex and evolving relationship with his son, Devon. Born in 1972 Devon grew up largely separated from his famous father due to Gregg's demanding career and his battle with substance abuse. Despite this distance, Devon was profoundly influenced by his father’s music and the legacy of the Allman Brothers Band.

As Devon grew, he pursued his own path in music, forming the band Honeytribe and later joining the Royal Southern Brotherhood. Despite their time apart, music became a bridge between father and son. Gregg and Devon reconnected and shared the stage at various times.

Following Gregg’s death in 2017, Devon continued to carry the torch of Southern rock through The Allman Betts Band, a group he formed with Duane Betts, son of Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts.

The Allman Betts Band re-captures the spirit of the Allman Brothers and the chemistry between Devon and Duane is palpable.

Their collaboration is not just a continuation of their family legacies but a creative partnership that has revitalised the Southern rock genre for the modern era.

For more on Devon Allman head for https://devonallmanproject.com/

Burton Cummings' voice has been rated among the finest in rock music. Today he continues at the top of his game as performer, singer, songwriter, poet and recording artist.

As lead singer and songwriter for Canada’s original rock ‘n’ roll superstars, The Guess Who, Burton scored an unprecedented string of international hit singles and albums including “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” “Laughing,” “No Time,” “Share the Land,” “No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature,” “Clap for the Wolfman”, “Albert Flasher” and others, all written or co-written by Burton. By 1970, The Guess Who had sold more records than the entire Canadian music industry combined before breaking up in 1975.

The group achieved a long list of firsts including first Canadian group to reach #1 on Billboard charts -- holding that spot for three weeks - and first to earn a platinum album for U.S. sales of more than one million copies. Rolling Stone magazine hailed The Guess Who as “one of rock’s most consistently fascinating maverick bands” with a succession of songs “that has few equals among contemporary North American groups.” Dick Clark described the group as rock innovators and ambassadors of Canadian music.

Beginning his career as a solo artist in 1976, Burton continued his winning streak with a gold record for his solo debut single “Stand Tall,” produced by legendary hitmaker Richard Perry who numbered among his clients Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon and Ringo Starr. The choice of producer was evidence of Burton’s star power in the music industry. He followed his inaugural solo success with more than a dozen hit singles and albums including “I’m Scared,” “My Own Way to Rock,” “I Will Play a Rhapsody,” “Timeless Love,” “Break It to Them Gently,” “Dream of a Child,” and “You Saved My Soul.”

Sold-out tours across Canada and the United States solidified Burton’s stature as a top entertainer. He starred in several highly rated television specials and, between 1977 and 1980, earned five Juno Awards for Best Male Vocalist and Best Album, serving as host of the annual Juno gala a record four times. Burton’s 1978 album Dream of a Child became the first quadruple platinum-selling album by a Canadian artist.

Through the ‘80s and ‘90s, Burton continued to tour and joined Beatles drummer Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band. In 1980, a starring role in the feature film Melanie with Miami Vice star Don Johnson earned Burton a Genie Award for Best Original Song.

He also launched his acclaimed Up Close and Alone solo concert series. A live album of the same name followed.

The success of Lenny Kravitz’ cover of “American Woman” in the hit feature film Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me brought renewed attention to the original Guess Who. The group reunited in 1999 for the closing ceremonies of the Pan-American Games with a television audience numbering in the tens of millions. Several high-profile North American tours followed.

As the VOICE of all the classic Guess Who hit songs, Burton has toured with his long-time band, for the past twenty-three years across North America as well as joining Randy Bachman onstage as Bachman Cummings, performing his songs from the original The Guess Who, Bachman-Turner Overdrive and Burton’s solo career.

Described as Canadian rock ‘n’ roll royalty, a national treasure, and a living legend, for Burton Cummings there has always been one constant: he remains true to himself and his own way to rock… and continuing to perform the songs the way they were originally conceived by the artist who sang and wrote/co-wrote them.

Burton joins us this week to share his musical story and lets us know about his other passion - writing poetry.

For more information head to his website burtoncummings.com

Born in New York City and raised in the Caribbean as Richard Gerstein - Richard T. Bear boasts a career that spans more than 40 years, one that led to a string of acclaimed solo albums and collaborations with a number of influential icons, including Al Kooper, Stephen Stills, former Rascals Gene Cornish and Dino Danelli, Kiss, Pat Benatar and many more. He has shared stages with artists such as Dave Mason, Mick Fleetwood, the Doobie Brothers, Richie Havens and Odetta. T. Bear penned "Love and Pain," a track found on Take Me Home, one of Cher's most successful albums and also tallied several hits on his own, including the single "Sunshine Hotel" from his debut album Red, Hot and Blue. He has appeared on a number of recordings including CSN's Southern Cross, Billy Squier's Tale of the Tape and The Blues Brothers Soundtrack album.

After taking some time to focus on his own sobriety, T. Bear became an early activist helping others with addiction. His self-imposed hiatus lasted nearly three decades, and now T Bear is back with two striking new releases, Fresh Bear Tracks and The Way of the World, his first studio albums in 25+ years.

Richard is a distinctive singer and talented keyboard

His latest album, The Way of The World, was written and recorded as the world emerged from the pandemic. It boasts a stunning set of 13 original songs. Musically, it's a stirring melodic mix of blues, rock n roll, Americana, and roots.

T. Bear's first album spawned the single “Sunshine Hotel.” A remix of the song climbed to #4 on the world dance charts before becoming the dance staple that it remains today. Richard has appeared on numerous recordings by iconic artists including Crosby, Stills and Nash's Southern Cross, The Blues Brothers Soundtrack, Richie Havens Mixed Bag II, Kiss members Gene Simmons and Peter Criss' solo ventures, as well as Toby Beau’s hit single My Angel Baby.

As a soloist T Bear found his initial inspiration in the sounds of the British Invasion. At age 13 he was writing his own songs.  An early break came when he was working at Manny’s Music in New York City when Hot Tuna’s Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady stopped in and hear him improvising on piano. They were impressed enough to ask him to sit in with them during a Hot Tuna show at the famed Fillmore East. He worked for a time as Carly Simon’s road manager and opened shows for the likes of Jeff Beck and Richie Havens before moving to Los Angeles. 

In 1983, he took a lengthy hiatus from making music to get his personal life in order before returning to action in 2017. Fast forward to the present and T Bear is so excited about the new album.  As he puts it, “Making The Way of the World was like getting a new pair of glasses. I see everything more clearly and in focus around me. These are songs that made me think and dream. It’s an oasis for the mind.”

Meet Richard T Bear this week as he unravels his incredible story of survival and comeback against all odds.

I hope you really enjoy this episode.

UB40, a reggae band from Birmingham, UK, emerged in the late 70s from humble beginnings, with members scraping by on unemployment benefits. The band's original lineup consisted of friends from Moseley School of Art and local schools: Robin and Ali Campbell, Earl Falconer, Brian Travers, Jimmy Brown, Norman Hassan, and later, Michael Virtue and Astro. They named themselves after the unemployment benefit form "UB40" and quickly became known for their left-wing political stance, aligning themselves with causes like Rock Against Racism and anti-National Front protests.

In 1980, UB40's debut single "King b/w Food For Thought" reached the UK Top 5, setting the stage for their success. Their first album, Signing Off (1980), was a blend of reggae, dub, and politically charged lyrics, reaching No. 2 in the UK and staying in the charts for 72 weeks. By 1981, their second album, Present Arms, solidified their reputation, with the hit single "One In Ten" becoming an anthem for the unemployed and a protest against the UK government's policies.

UB40's third album, UB44 (1982), marked a transition, but it was Labour of Love (1983) that truly catapulted them to international fame. This album of reggae covers, including the iconic "Red Red Wine," became their first UK No. 1 album and produced their first US No. 1 single. This success established UB40 as reggae ambassadors, introducing reggae to new audiences worldwide.

Throughout the 1980s, UB40 continued to release successful albums, including Geffery Morgan (1984), Rat In The Kitchen (1986), and UB40 (1988). Their collaborations with Chrissie Hynde on "I Got You Babe" and "Breakfast In Bed" were also hits.

The late 80s and early 90s saw the band achieve global success with Labour Of Love II and Promises and Lies, the latter featuring "Can’t Help Falling In Love," which became another US No. 1 hit.

In the mid-90s, the band took a break, with members pursuing solo projects. However, they returned with Guns In The Ghetto and Labour Of Love III , continuing to tour extensively. Their influence and success were underscored by their contribution to the England rugby team's 2003 World Cup campaign with "Swing Low" and the Grammy-nominated Who You Fighting For (2005), which featured politically charged songs and love ballads.

In 2008, Ali Campbell left the band to pursue a solo career, replaced by his brother Duncan Campbell. The band continued to release albums and tour, with TwentyFourSeven receiving critical acclaim. Despite Astro's departure in 2013, UB40 continued to tour successfully, playing sold-out shows across the UK, Europe, and beyond.

UB40's enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend reggae with socially conscious lyrics, making them one of the most influential reggae bands in history. Their journey from Birmingham's working-class roots to global stardom is a testament to their talent, resilience, and commitment to their music and message.

To celebrate their 45th anniversary, the band has just released the album UB45.

Joining us this week to share the story of their rise to international fame is original member, drummer Jimmy Brown.

For more head to their website https://ub40.global/

Has Gerry Beckley retired? Does he still sing with America? Who influenced the band America? All these questions answered this week.

Gerry Beckley is a singer/songwriter best known as a founding member of the classic soft rock outfit America. Alongside bandmates Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek, Gerry first gained recognition for hits like 1971's "Horse with No Name," 1972's "Ventura Highway," 1975's "Sister Golden Hair," and others. Though he and Dewey have continued to perform as America until recenlty, Gery has also recorded under his own name since the mid '90s, releasing such mellow, well-crafted albums as 2022's Aurora and 2024's self -titled album Gerry Beckley.

Gerry was born in Texas in 1952. He grew up as the son of an American air force officer and a British mother. Interested in music from a young age, he began playing piano at age three and later added guitar. By the time he was ten, Gerry was a promising musician playing in the surf rock band the Vanguards. He had also come under the influence of The Beatles and other British Invasion-era bands as a result of spending his summer vacations in England.

In 1967, Gerry moved with his family to London after his father took over as commander at the United States Air Force base. It was while attending High School that he befriended classmates Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek. The three quickly formed a band and began performing at a local all-ages club, playing covers by bands like Crosby, Stills and Nash, Neil Young and others.

The trio eventually caught the attention of a local promoter and producer, who recorded them and helped them get a record deal. In 1971, they released the single, "A Horse with No Name." A hit the world over, the single propelled the band to early success.

With America, Gerry Beckley enjoyed decades of popularity, releasing over 20 albums, touring globally, and penning numerous songs that helped to define both the soft rock and adult contemporary radio formats.

Gerry Beckley began to release successful solo material in 1995 with Van Go Gan. The album featured Gerry backed by a bevy of longtime friends and collaborators, including Dewey Bunnell, trumpeter Mark Isham, the Eagles' Timonthy B. Schmit and others. That album was followed by a remix album.

Away from America, Gerry next delivered 2000's LIke A Brother- a collaboration with Chicago singer/keyboardist Robert Lamm and the Beach Boys' Carl WIlson who died from lung cancer after completing the album in 1998. The record featured a mix of originals from each member of the band , as well as a cover of Harry Wilson's "Without You"

In 2006, Beckley returned with his third solo album, Horizontal Fall. The compilation album Happy Hour was released in 2009.

SInce then many solos albums have followed.

Gerry has recently married and moved to Sydney Australia where he spends six months of the year. He has resigned from touring with America to concentrate on furthering his solo career.

His latest self titled solo album is being touted as his best ever. Gerry plays the bulk of the instruments but gets help from a core group of players that includes former Chicago bassist Jason Scheff, guitarist Steve Fekete, drummers Brian Young and Ryland Steen along with backing vocalists Jeff Larson and Brian Eichenberger. Nick Lane and Matt Combs, also longtime musical fellow travelers, arranged horn and string parts, respectively. It's a collection of 12 original tunes featuring the singles "Red and Blue" and "Well Worn Shoes."

Gerry Beckley joins us this week to walk us through his incredible career.

For more information head to https://www.gerrybeckley.com/

Where is TIm Finn today? What's the relationship between Tim Finn and Neil Finn? Who did Tim FInn replace in Fleetwood Mac?

Answers to all of these questions and more:

Tim Finn is renowned for his work with Split Enz, Crowded House, and as a solo artist. His musical journey began in New Zealand, where he developed a passion for music at a young age, inspired by the Beatles and other rock legends. Finn's early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of creativity and a drive to innovate within the music scene.

In 1972, Tim Finn co-founded Split Enz with Phil Judd. The band's early days were characterised by their eclectic and theatrical style, which combined elements of art rock, progressive rock, and new wave. Split Enz quickly gained a reputation for their eccentric performances and unique sound, setting them apart in the music industry. Their breakthrough came with the release of "True Colours" in 1980, featuring the hit single "I Got You." This song catapulted them to international fame, topping charts in Australia and New Zealand and gaining significant airplay worldwide.

Split Enz continued to enjoy success with several albums that included hits like "One Step Ahead" and "Six Months in a Leaky Boat." Tim Finn's vocals and innovative songwriting were central to the band's success, helping to establish Split Enz as pioneers in the New Zealand music scene.

In the mid-80s, Tim joined his brother Neil Finn in Crowded House. He initially contributed to the band's second album which featured tracks like "Into Temptation" and "I Feel Possessed." Tim's involvement added depth to the band's sound, blending his creative prowess with Neil's to produce a series of compelling and emotionally resonant songs. Although his tenure with Crowded House was brief, it was marked by a creative synergy that significantly influenced the band's music.

Tim's solo career began in earnest with the release of "Escapade" in 1983. The album was a commercial success, featuring hits like "Fraction Too Much Friction." His solo work allowed him to explore different musical styles and lyrical themes and subsequent albums continued to highlight his innovative approach to music and songwriting.

In addition to his solo albums, Tim Finn released "The View Is Worth The Climb" in 2011. His solo work has been characterised by a blend of pop, rock, and folk influences, reflecting his diverse musical background and enduring creative spirit.

Tim Finn's collaborative efforts have also been a significant part of his career. He has worked with a range of artists, including Phil Manzanera, https://manzanera.com/new/Eddie Rayner, and Bic Runga. These collaborations have allowed him to explore different musical landscapes and experiment with new sounds, enriching his already diverse body of work.

The Finn Brothers project, a collaboration with his brother Neil, resulted in the release of two acclaimed albums. These showcased the brothers' close musical relationship and their ability to create deeply personal and resonant songs. Tracks like "Only Talking Sense" and "Won't Give In" highlighted their unique chemistry and songwriting prowess.

Throughout his career, Tim Finn has been recognised for his melodic craftsmanship and lyrical depth. His contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as part of iconic bands like Split Enz and Crowded House, have left an indelible mark on the industry. Finn's ability to blend introspective lyrics with diverse musical styles has inspired generations of musicians and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

For more about Tim Finn head to https://finnmanz.com/ or his facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TimFinnOfficial/

I hope you enjoy Tim Finn's story.

Remember Hugh Cornwell who fronted English band, the Stranglers? Wanna know what he's up to today? Tune in to find out!

Best known as frontman of the Stranglers, one of the most long-lived and internationally popular bands from the original wave of British punk, Hugh Cornwell is also enjoying a successful solo career, that began with his debut solo album, Nosferatu in 1979 and continues long after he left the group in 1990.

Born in 1949 and brought up in North London, Hugh began making music in high school, where he played in a band with Richard Thompson (later of Fairport Convention).

After graduating from Bristol University with a B.Sc. in biochemistry, he moved to Sweden to do postgrad research. There he formed the band called Johnny Sox, which would later become the Stranglers.

The band, initially idenitfied with the grittiness of punk rock, but became much more ironic and cerebral than most of its contemporaries. They went on to greatly expand their sound, morphing into new wave and later, relatively mainstream pop.

The Stranglers are best remembered for their smooth ballad "Golden Brown."

Hugh Cornwell released his debut solo album in 1979. The follow-up album, Wolf arrived nine years later and in 1990, feeling the band had artistically worn itself out, Hugh left the Stranglers.

After that, he grew ever more prolific, issuing two solo albums in the '90s and four in the 2000s, along with several live and compilation albums - one a collaborative effort in 1992 with songwriter, Roger Cook.  He also worked with Irish poet John W. Sexton.

Hugh wrote five books, including two novels.

His band often featured as a stripped-back power trio and Hugh's solo music remains heavily influenced by blues and rock n roll. It is always characterised by his erudite and sardonic lyrics.

More recently, in 2016 Hugh collaborated with legendary punk poet John Cooper Clarke on an album entitled 'This Time It's Personal' He released his ninth album, Monster in 2018 and has just put out his tenth solo album, Moments of Madness.

Hugh Cornwelll has also been an actor, appearing in a number of stage productions and television series.

He currebtly hosts a podcast dedicated to his love of film, called Mr Demille FM, http://mrdemillefm.com/

He's also a massive cricket fan.  

I hope you enjoy our chat. Don't forget, if there's someone you'd like to hear interviewed, just send me a message through the website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au