Jackson Browne began making music in the 1960s. He played a big part in the Laurel Canyon Californian music scene of the 70s with the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt and The Byrds all recording his songs. His solo albums and songs continue to provide the soundtrack to our lives from his eponymous 1972 debut to his 2021 release, Downhill From Everywhere. In this special programme Ricky Ross explores Jackson Browne’s songbook and the stories behind his classic songs as well as the deeper cuts and discovers why they resonate with so many people. Jackson describes working with Stephen Stills, Lowell George from Little Feat, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Gregg Allman and record producer Jon Landau.

Anne Dudley, composer, musician and arranger, shares the stories from her incredible career. Anne’s made a huge contribution to some of the biggest pop records and soundtracks of the past 40 years.

As well as a founding member of Art of Noise, Anne’s string arrangements and keyboard playing can be heard on hits by ABC, Dollar, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, A-ha, Electronic, Wham!, George Michael, Will Young and Lloyd Cole & The Commotions. Art of Noise with Duane Eddy’s remake of ‘Peter Gunn’ earned them a Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance and Anne has been credited with reinventing the pop career of Tom Jones when he was invited to appear on their version of Prince’s Kiss.

Anne Dudley shares the stories of some of these classic recordings and composing soundtracks for Buster, Jeeves And Wooster, Poldark and The Full Monty which picked up an Oscar for Best Comedy Score.

Del Amitri released 6 albums from the mid 80's through to the early 2000's, their single 'Roll to Me' was a Top 10 seller in the Billboard Hot 100 and their music is still much loved today. Justin Currie, the band’s lead singer and songwriter spends time in conversation with Ricky Ross talking about his career, from writing songs of infidelity to the perfect radio song. From the difficulty in creatively writing during the Covid-19 lockdown to his love of Hank Williams songs, Justin also remembers that moment when he found out they’d made it to their first Top of the Pops appearance.

The stories behind his songs and recording career that spans over 50 years. Loudon reveals the personal themes and experiences that have inspired his song-writing process.

Ricky Ross is in conversation with American-Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright. Son of Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, Rufus discusses his relationship with his dad, coping with the loss of his mother, and how his young daughter chose the title of his new album 'Unfollow The Rules'. Ricky Ross talks to Rufus about his love of opera, the joy of pop music, and his rekindled love for his home city, Montreal.

Lloyd Cole shares the stories from his early days with his band, The Commotions, in Glasgow, relocating to America to record his debut solo album in New York and now making music in his home studio in Massachusetts.

Lloyd re-examines songs from across his 40 year career including Perfect Skin, Are You Ready To Be Heartbroken? Forest Fire, Brand New Friend, No Blue Skies and Like Lovers Do.

Singer, songwriter and record producer Nick Lowe shares stories behind his songs and describes working with Johnny Cash, Elvis Costello, The Damned, Rockpile and Brinsley Schwarz.

Paul Carrack shares stories behind his 40 plus years of music-making, from his 1974 single 'How Long' with Ace, to touring with Roxy Music, and replacing Jools Holland in Squeeze.

Squeeze's Chris Difford shares stories behind some of the most enduring songs, released by one of the country's best-loved bands.

Del Bryant, son of American country songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, shares stories of his parents' songs plus memories of growing up surrounded by music.