Gord Deppe, founding member, lead singer and songwriter of the legendary Canadian band, The Spoons, joins us today to share some great insights into his musical journey, his career and the tracks that have shaped his life. From iconic 80s hits like "Nova Heart" and "Romantic Traffic" to his recent gigs with A Flock of Seagulls, Gord's got stories that'll make you feel all the feels! We’ll dive into how his early days in Burlington, Ontario, set the stage for a career that’s defined by creativity and an unwavering artistic commitment to not dwelling on the past and a refusal to be boxed in. Plus, he's got some surprising picks for the songs that resonate with him, proving that even rock legends have a few unexpected favorites. So grab your headphones, settle in and enjoy our conversation with Gord Deppe!

Supporting Episode Resources

Episode Playlists

Apple Music

https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/treasure-island-discs-episode-playlist-gord-deppe/pl.u-JPAZLZ2sWRoDPN

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7AxkUtBdOnl1mTYgWkg0Bb?si=b13ee4a209da498d

Link to Gord's Book

SpoonFed- My Life with The Spoons

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1897453434?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

Credits

Intro Music written and performed by Jeff Moffatt

Instagram: @therealjeffmoffatt

https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/jeff-moffatt/1563362236

This podcast is presented by Astraltune

Takeaways:

• Gord Deppe shared how the Spoons defined the sound of the 1980s in Canada, creating timeless hits that still resonate today.
• He discusses the importance of finding a personal safe space for creativity, revealing how it influences his songwriting process.
• Gord emphasizes the organic nature of his songwriting, where music often comes before lyrics, creating a unique artistic flow.
• The conversation reveals that even successful artists like Gord grapple with self-doubt and the pressures of the music industry.
• Deppe's anecdote about shaking hands with George Martin highlights the serendipitous moments that shape an artist's journey.
• He reflects on the evolution of music tastes and the importance of authenticity in songwriting, especially in today's rapidly changing music scene.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• the Spoons
• A Flock of Seagulls
• AIR Studios
• George Martin
• Roxy Music
• Duran Duran
• Queen
• The Prodigy
• Marilyn Manson
• The Verve
• Stone Roses
• Main Skin
• Wet Leg