In this special episode of The Music Bridge, Neil McCormick is joined by British naturalist, broadcaster, and writer Chris Packham for a powerful conversation recorded live at the Royal Overseas House in London, as part of the Planetary Arts event “The World We Want – Art for Planet and Peace.”

Set against a backdrop of global urgency, the discussion explores how we communicate the reality of environmental change, the challenges of inspiring collective action, and the role creativity must play in shaping a better future. Packham speaks candidly about society’s tendency to react rather than prevent - reminding us that “we’re terrible at prevention but we’re really good at cure” - and calls for a more proactive, courageous approach to protecting the planet.

Drawing parallels with the civil rights movement in America, the conversation reflects on the historic power of protest music and questions why today’s cultural landscape lacks the same unifying voice. Together, McCormick and Packham examine how art and music can once again become catalysts for change and why young people hold the key to driving that transformation.

With urgency, honesty, and moments of provocation, “if you want to make change, sometimes you’ve got to make trouble,”  this episode sets the tone for a new era of The Music Bridge: one that connects culture, activism, and the collective imagination needed to build the world we want.

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- Buy Chris' new book, ‘Nature is the answer’: www.penguinrandomhouse.com

- Chris Packham Official Website: chrispackham.store/ 

IG: @chrisgpackham2  FB: Chris G Packham 

In Episode 5 of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, Neil McCormick sits down with Fela Kuti — legendary Nigerian musician, Afrobeat pioneer, and outspoken political activist — for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation about the role of music as both a mirror and a catalyst in times of struggle. Together, they explore how rhythm, message, and legacy can challenge injustice, awaken awareness, and foster hope in a fractured world.

Fela shares his philosophy of using music as a “bitter medicine” — a way to sweeten hard truths and reach hearts that might otherwise resist. He addresses the ongoing crisis of modern slavery and the irony of outsourcing Africa’s wealth to Europe rather than investing in its people. In a rare reflection on his personal journey, Fela speaks about the weight of his legacy, the life-saving role of his mother’s criticism, and the responsibility of being a voice for peace and love — not just within Africa, but across the world. As always, the big question looms: can music truly change the world for the better?

This episode is a powerful look at one artist’s unshakable belief in music as a force for truth, unity, and liberation.

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Stream or Buy Fela Kuti’s latest album: fela.store/latest-album
Fela Kuti Official Website: felakuti.com
IG: @felakuti
X: @felakuti
YT: @felakutiofficial

In Episode 4 of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, Neil McCormick is joined by Gary Kemp - songwriter, guitarist, and founding member of Spandau Ballet - for a candid and personal exploration of the intersection between art and conflict.

Reflecting on a formative trip to Belfast in 1981, Kemp recalls the powerful emotions surrounding the band’s decision to perform “Through the Barricades” in a city scarred by division. The conversation delves into the risks artists face when taking political stances, the inner conflict that often fuels meaningful songwriting, and the moral weight of creative expression in turbulent times. Kemp also grapples with the big question: can music truly change the world? This episode offers a compelling portrait of an artist navigating the fragile space between music, memory, and meaning.

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Stream or Buy ‘The Destination’: shop.garykemp.com

Gary Kemp Official Website: garykemp.com 

IG: @garyjkemp X: @garyjkemp YT: @garykempvevo

In Episode 3 of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, Neil McCormick is joined by Mike Scott - founder, frontman, and driving force behind The Waterboys - for a wide-ranging conversation on creativity, spirituality and the power of music to shift perception.

With over 80 musicians having passed through The Waterboys’ ever-evolving lineup, Scott reflects on the diplomacy of leadership, the challenges of staying true to a vision, the band’s new album 'Life, Death and Dennis Hopper', and the role of music as a vehicle to heighten spiritual awareness. Touching on his experience within the spiritual community of Findhorn, Scott redefines peace not as stillness but as focus - a sharpened lens through which both music and life become more meaningful and offers insights into how storytelling, sound, and symbolism converge in his latest work.

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Stream or Buy ‘Life, Death and Dennis Hopper’: Sunrecords.ink.to

Waterboy’s Official Website: mikescottwaterboys.com 

IG: @waterboysmusic
FB: The Waterboys & Mike Scott

In the second episode of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, acclaimed music journalist Neil McCormick sits down with Norwegian singer, songwriter, and producer AURORA for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation at the intersection of music and global impact.

From her early discovery that “music was the first thing I stumbled upon that made me understand… I can find meaning with life,” to her unfiltered insights on creativity, peace, and personal liberation, AURORA opens up like never before. She shares the raw truth behind her artistic process and questions whether music can truly change the world.

“We should be able to sit at a table and talk about things and find pleasure in it without everyone having to agree all the time,” she says - reminding us that diversity in thought is just as vital as harmony in sound.

This is more than music history - it’s a deep dive into how rhythm and rebellion can reshape the world.

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Sir Bob Geldof — Music as a Force for Change 

In the debut episode of Music, War & Peace, music journalist, broadcaster, and author Neil McCormick sits down with legendary Irish musician and activist Sir Bob Geldof for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation about the intersection of music and global impact.

From the explosive birth of Live Aid to its unprecedented influence on international consciousness, Bob reflects on the moments that sparked a global movement — and how music became a megaphone for the voiceless. Together, Neil and Bob explore the enduring power of song to challenge authority, spark empathy, and push for peace in a turbulent world.

This is more than music history — it's a look at how rhythm and rebellion can change the world.

Follow, subscribe, and tune in — new episodes every week.

🎙️ Music, War & Peace Podcast

Hosted by Neil McCormick | Presented by The Bridge

What if a song could end a war — or spark a revolution of hope? 

Welcome to our Music, War & Peace podcast, a powerful conversation series where renowned British music journalist Neil McCormick (The Daily Telegraph, U2 biographer) sits down with iconic artists to explore the heart behind their sound.

 In each episode, we dive deep into the stories behind the songs — from personal battles and global struggles to the moments where music becomes a weapon of truth, healing, and unity. Some stories will stir you; others inspire you, but all of them reveal the soul of the artist and the possibility of change through rhythm and melody.

At The Bridge, we believe music is more than entertainment. It’s a force. A movement. A path to peace.

 🎧 Discover how artists are using their voices to shift culture, challenge power, and build bridges between divided worlds.

 Because when words fail, music still speaks.

In this episode of our podcast, host Nathan Johnston sits down with London-based songwriter and artist Ella Clayton, whose debut album Murmurations has marked her as a rising star in the music world. Together, they explore the profound ways in which music connects us, acting as a powerful antidote to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Ella reflects on the unique ability of music to resonate across generations and cultures, sharing how songs can articulate emotions and truths that we might struggle to express ourselves. Tune in as they discuss the shifting landscape of the music industry and the enduring power of authentic, heartfelt artistry to foster understanding and bring people together in times of division.

Welcome to the What About Us Podcast 

Discussions with musicians and artists about the power of music and what we can do to help promote peace and build bridges between people in places of conflict.

In episode 1 of the WAU Podcast, host and musician Nathan Johnston is joined by Irish artist, Baz. They discuss the relationship between music and mental health, a recent fundraising show for Children of Palestine and the inspiration behind Baz’ songwriting. 

Join them as they explore the role of music in advocating for social justice and the impact of using art to drive progress in promoting peace.