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Warm Classic Rock Interviews with Famous Music Legends of the '60s '70s '80s - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Podcast Warm Classic Rock Interviews with Famous Music Legends of the '60s '70s '80s - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Sandy Kaye
A show that delves into the musical and personal lives of the greatest hitmakers of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, uncovering the stories and inspirations that shape...

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  • Mike Skill & The ROMANTICS– The Sound of ’80s New Wave
    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,#theromantics #musichistory #newwavemusic #80smusic  
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  • THE SPINNERS - Motown, Philly Soul and Jessie Peck
    The Spinners’ story is one of perseverance, evolution, and timeless music that continues to resonate with fans of Motown, Philly Soul, funk, and classic R&B. Their smooth harmonies, intricate vocal arrangements, and signature choreography have made them one of the most enduring groups in soul music history. From their early days in Detroit with Motown to their meteoric rise with Atlantic Records, The Spinners are true legends of the genre.Formed in the '50s in Michigan, The Spinners came together as a vocal group determined to make their mark in the burgeoning R&B scene. They found themselves signed to Motown Records in the '60s, a label that was home to acts like The Temptations, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye. But The Spinners never quite achieved the same success as their labelmates during their time there. They struggled to break through in a roster filled with some of the biggest names in soul music.Their fate changed in the early '70s when they made a decision that would define their career. Leaving Motown, the band joined Atlantic, under the guidance of producer Thom Bell. With Bell at the helm, The Spinners recorded a string of hits that defined an era. Songs like I’ll Be Around, Could It Be I’m Falling in Love, One of a Kind (Love Affair), Mighty Love, and Then Came You—their duet with Dionne Warwick—all became massive hits. Their run of success continued throughout the '70s, with classic tracks like Games People Play and Rubberband Man. The group became known not only for their vocal prowess but also for their stage presence. Their synchronized dance moves and sharp suits made them one of the most exciting live acts of the era.As time passed, The Spinners underwent several lineup changes. They continued to tour and perform, keeping their music fresh for new generations of fans. Even as the music industry evolved, The Spinners remained a staple of classic soul, their songs continuing to be played on R&B stations and featured in movies, commercials, and TV shows.Amidst the transitions, one of the most significant moments in the group’s more recent history was the inclusion of Jessie Peck. A longtime fan of The Spinners, Jessie grew up admiring them as a child, wishing one day to be a part of their act. Before joining the group, Jessie had already made a name for himself as a talented vocalist with a deep appreciation for classic R&B. His rich baritone and smooth delivery made him a natural fit for The Spinners’ sound, and when the opportunity arose for him to join the legendary group, it was a dream come true.Jessie’s arrival injected new energy into the group while maintaining the signature style that fans had come to love. He stepped into his role with the utmost respect for the foundation laid by those who came before him. His passion for the music, combined with his natural talent and stage presence, made him a seamless addition to the lineup.As a performer, Jessie embraced The Spinners’ commitment to delivering not just great music but an unforgettable show. The Spinners have always been about more than just singing—they’re entertainers in the truest sense, combining tight harmonies with choreographed moves that keep audiences engaged from the first note to the last.Even after decades in the industry, The Spinners continue to thrive, bringing their soulful sound to audiences around the world. Their influence can be heard in countless artists who followed in their footsteps, and their ability to bridge generations of music lovers is a testament to the timeless nature of their songs. Jessie Peck’s presence in the group is a reflection of their commitment to excellence, ensuring that The Spinners remain not just a nostalgic act but a living, breathing force in the world of soul, R&B, and classic funk.Jessie Peck joins us this week to share some amazing stories about The Spinners.#classichits #r&b #musiclegends
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  • KIM CARNES: The Voice, The Hits, The Legacy
    Kim Carnes never set out to be a pop star. In fact, if you asked her in the early days, she’d probably tell you she just wanted to write songs. But life had a way of nudging her toward the spotlight, and before she knew it, she was belting out hits that defined an era. Growing up in Los Angeles, Kim was the kind of kid who could lose herself in a song, spending hours at the piano, crafting melodies. She started as a songwriter, penning tunes for others long before the world ever heard her own husky, unmistakable voice. Her first real break came when she landed a songwriting contract in the late ‘60s. It wasn’t long before people started to notice that this young woman wasn’t just writing good songs—she had a voice that could make them unforgettable.In the ‘70s, Kim found herself working with some of the best. She teamed up with David Essex. Their friendship led to collaboration. She also became close with Kenny Rogers. Kim co-wrote Don’t Fall in Love with a Dreamer with her husband, Dave Ellingson, and when she and Kenny recorded it as a duet in 1980, magic happened. But it was Bette Davis Eyes that changed everything. The song was originally recorded by Jackie DeShannon in the mid-’70s. But when Kim got her hands on it, she and producer Val Garay transformed it into something completely new. The arrangement was stripped down, the synths were bold, and Kim’s raw, smoky vocals carried a haunting kind of power."When I first heard Jackie’s version, I loved it," Kim says. "But it was so different from what we ended up doing. The minute we started playing around with it, I knew we had something special. That intro, those drums, the way it just pulls you in—I still get chills when I hear it."When Bette Davis Eyes hit the airwaves in 1981, it was like a shockwave. It climbed the charts fast, sitting at No. 1 for nine weeks—longer than any other song that year. It wasn’t just a hit; it was THE hit. Even Bette Davis herself loved it, sending Kim flowers and thanking her for the song that made her a household name all over again. "Getting that letter from Bette Davis was surreal," Kim recalls. "She was so gracious, so kind. She told me she played the song at her parties, which just blew my mind."Kim could have ridden that wave forever, but she was never one to rest on past success. She kept writing, kept recording, and kept working with the people she admired. One of those people was Barbra Streisand."Barbra is a force," Kim says. "When we worked together on Make No Mistake, He’s Mine, I knew I had to bring my A-game. She has this presence—she knows exactly what she wants, and she’ll work until it’s perfect. And that’s why she’s Barbra Streisand."The song felt like a conversation between two women who knew exactly what heartbreak sounded like. Their voices blended in an unexpected way—Barbra’s controlled precision meeting Kim’s gravelly warmth—and the result was stunning.Through the ‘80s and into the ‘90s, Kim remained a force in the industry, both as a performer and a songwriter. She wrote for some of the biggest artists out there, proving again and again that she had a gift not just for melody, but for telling stories that stuck with people.Fast forward to today, and Kim is still making music, still revisiting the songs that made her who she is. In 2024, she released Bette Davis Eyes (Kim’s Version), a new take on her signature song. This wasn’t just a rehash—it was a love letter to the original, re-recorded with some of the same musicians who helped shape it the first time around. "I wanted to do it justice," Kim explains. "I wasn’t interested in just re-recording it for the sake of it. I wanted to feel that magic again."And the response? Incredible. Looking back, Kim Carnes' career wasn’t about chasing fame—it was about making music that mattered. Whether writing for others or stepping up to the microphone herself, she’s always been an artist first. And that’s exactly why, all these years later, we’re still listening.
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  • RIP Jesse Colin Young - The Youngbloods
    Jesse Colin Young, the legendary singer/songwriter known for his work with the Youngbloods as well as a prolific solo career, has died at the age of 83. Jesse leaves a unique mark on the intersecting worlds of folk, blues, jazz, country, and rock & roll. As the frontman of The Youngbloods, he immortalised the ideals of the Woodstock generation with “Get Together,” an international hit that called for peace and brotherhood during the turbulent 1960s. An acclaimed songwriter, singer, instrumentalist, producer, label owner, podcast host, and longtime social/environmental activist, he has established a permanent place in America’s musical landscape – while continuing to make modern music that’s every bit as vital as his work during the counterculture era.We will miss you and your music Jesse. This interview recorded shortly after the release of his latest solo effort.
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  • SKYHOOKS' Greg Macainsh on 50 Years since Living in the '70s - the Untold Story
    In the mid '70s Skyhooks basically gave the Australian music industry the enema it had been needing. For too long many Australian bands spent hours copying their UK/USA cousins and Australian content in songs was far and few between.Skyhooks were cheeky, brash and colourful: wearing makeup years before Kiss were even conceived. Songwriter Greg Macainsh composed many amazing tunes-many sprinkled with Melbourne place names and Australian themes and he put together the band that would change the musical history of the country. Greg Macainsh grew up in Melbourne, Australia. He was exposed to a diverse array of musical influences and his passion for music developed during his teenage years, leading him to pick up the bass guitar. In 66, while at high school, Macainsh formed his first band, Spare Parts, alongside drummer Imants "Freddie" Strauks.This initial foray into the world of music marked the beginning of a collaborative relationship that would prove pivotal in the years to come. The duo laid the groundwork for subsequent projects, including bands like Sound Pump, Reuben Tice, Claptrap, and Frame.In 73, Macainsh co-founded Skyhooks. Skyhooks quickly gained a cult following in Melbourne, captivating audiences with their theatrical performances and provocative lyrics that addressed themes such as drugs, sex, and the Australian gay scene. Their music was distinctly Australian, often referencing local places and culture. However, it wasn't until the addition of lead vocalist Graeme "Shirley" Strachan in 1974 that the band solidified its classic lineup and began its ascent to national prominence.The release of their debut album, "Living in the 70's," in 74 marked a turning point for Skyhooks and Australian rock music. Produced by Daddy Cool's Ross Wilson, the album showcased Macainsh's songwriting prowess. Despite six of its ten songs being banned by Australian commercial radio due to their controversial content, the album soared to the top of the charts, remaining at number one for 16 weeks and selling over 200,000 copies—a record-breaking achievement at the time.Skyhooks' success was further propelled by their dynamic performances on tv programs like ABC's "Countdown." The band's second album, "Ego Is Not a Dirty Word," released in 1975, continued their winning streak, topping the charts for 11 weeks and solidifying their status as Australian rock icons.Despite their monumental success, Skyhooks faced challenges, particularly in breaking into the international market. A 1976 tour of the United States yielded limited success, as American audiences struggled to connect with the band's uniquely Australian references and flamboyant style. Internal changes followed, with guitarist Red Symons departing in 1977 and lead vocalist Shirley Strachan leaving in 1978. These shifts marked the beginning of a transitional period for the band, leading to a decline in commercial success and culminating in their disbandment in 1980.Following the dissolution of Skyhooks, Greg Macainsh embarked on a diverse and fulfilling career. He earned a law degree, and applied his creative talents to various projects.  Macainsh also developed a passion for mountain biking and culinary arts, notably perfecting a kosher chicken stock.Skyhooks' impact on Australian music and culture is immeasurable. Their fearless exploration of taboo subjects and incorporation of Australian vernacular into their lyrics challenged the status quo and paved the way for future artists to express authentic narratives. In this episode we journey through Greg Macainsh's life. From his early days in Melbourne to the heights of fame with Skyhooks and his subsequent personal and professional endeavours, Greg story is one of creativity, resilience, and lasting impact. This episode is certain to resonate with music lovers, baby boomers, Australian music fans, Skyhooks enthusiasts, and aficionados of 70s music all over the world.#skyhooks #australianrockmusic #'70srock #hits
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About Warm Classic Rock Interviews with Famous Music Legends of the '60s '70s '80s - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

A show that delves into the musical and personal lives of the greatest hitmakers of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, uncovering the stories and inspirations that shaped their unforgettable tunes. Join host Sandy Kaye for this intimate multi award-winning, music interview podcast that celebrates the timeless songs we grew up with and the legendary artists behind them. Relive the soundtrack of your youth, uncover secrets, recall cherished memories, and immerse yourself in their lives, their stories and their music. This is an honest, fresh insight into some iconic musicians that defined generations.
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