The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the songs.

Embark on a captivating narrative as we unveil the untold story behind the iconic song 'Sing' by Travis, which took the music world by storm in 2001. Delve into the remarkable life of Francis Healy, born in 1973 and raised in the vibrant city of Glasgow, as he finds his musical calling amidst the classic rock tunes that shaped his early years.

At the tender age of thirteen, a gift of his first guitar becomes the catalyst for Francis to pen heartfelt melodies, influenced by the rock legends that echoed through the airwaves. Join us as we trace his journey from the bustling halls of the School of Fine Arts to the renowned local pub, Horseshoe, where fate intertwines with his future bandmates.

Witness the exhilarating overnight recording session that catapulted the band into international acclaim, propelling 'Sing' to win prestigious accolades in the new millennium. Discover the raw emotion and creativity that birthed this timeless anthem, forever etched in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.

Discover the riveting narrative behind the iconic track "Roxanne" by The Police in this episode. Journey back to 1978 when the band was yet to make their mark, performing in dingy bars and cramped venues across Europe. From their memorable stint at Amsterdam's Paradisio to a serendipitous encounter in the seedy streets of Pigalle, Paris, lead singer Sting's escapade through the city sparks the genesis of a timeless song.

Witness how a chance encounter with streetwalkers, inspired by the literary character Cyrano de Bergerac's tragic love story, led to the creation of "Roxanne," an eclectic fusion of rock, tango, and reggae. Despite its initial flop in the punk-centric scene of England, the track found an unexpected ally across the Atlantic in the form of Oedipus, the DJ of Boston's WBCN radio. His passionate promotion of the song on his punk rock show set the stage for The Police's meteoric rise to fame.

Join us as we unravel the improbable connection between a French literary heroine, an American DJ, and a Pigalle prostitute within the extraordinary journey of a chart-topping hit that defied all odds.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating tale behind the renowned track 'Every Time You Go Away.' Initially penned by Daryl Hall for the acclaimed duo Hall & Oates, the song remained relatively unnoticed until Paul Young decided to breathe new life into it.

Hailing from the vibrant town of Luton, just north of London, Paul Young's musical journey began as a bassist in various local bands. However, it was his distinctive vocal prowess that swiftly propelled him into the spotlight, earning him acclaim as a soul music virtuoso. His magnetic performances at university events left a trail of enamored fans, particularly among the young female attendees.

By the early 1980s, Young had established himself as one of England's foremost white soul singers, affectionately dubbed 'Blue Eye Soul,' after his successful rendition of a Marvin Gaye classic. Riding this wave, Young made the pivotal decision to reimagine 'Every Time You Go Away,' originally an overlooked gem buried within a Hall & Oates album from the dynamic Philadelphia duo.

Tune in to discover the fascinating narrative behind the renaissance of 'Every Time You Go Away' and how it became the defining milestone in Paul Young's illustrious career.

Join us in this captivating episode as we unravel the enthralling story behind the hit track "Here with Me" by the renowned artist Dido, released in 1999. Delve into the bohemian upbringing of Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O'Malley Armstrong, known as Dido, in North London, where her musical journey took root amidst an artistic household. From her early musical prowess to her collaboration with her brother Rollo, discover how a casual recording session transformed her life forever.

Tune in to witness the serendipitous turn of events as Rollo's pursuit of fresh talent leads to the discovery of the mesmerizing voice behind "Here with Me." Experience the highs and lows of the song's initial reception, its poignant resonance, and eventual resurgence through an unexpected TV series. Learn how this emotional masterpiece defied odds, captured hearts worldwide, and solidified Dido's place in the music industry.

Explore the intricacies of Dido's musical evolution, the impact of "Here with Me" on her debut album's meteoric success, and its enduring legacy in the hearts of millions. Don't miss this episode that celebrates the power of melancholic melodies and the journey of an artist who found her voice through life's bittersweet moments.

Join us on a musical journey as we uncover the radiant story behind the iconic hit "Mr. Blue Sky" by Electric Light Orchestra, released in 1977. This upbeat track strikes a perfect balance between its sunny lyrics and a classical-leaning arrangement, featuring a harmonious blend of violins, brass, electric instruments, along with some unconventional studio finds like a cowbell and a fire extinguisher.

From its Beatlesque intro, it's no surprise that the mastermind behind this masterpiece, Jeff Lynne, has often been dubbed the 'Fifth Beatle', given his close professional and personal ties to the Fab Four. This episode dives deep into the creative process and the inspirations that led to this timeless anthem.

Featured in the album "Out of the Blue," the persistent references to 'blue' in Jeff Lynne's discography find their roots in the Birmingham Blues football club, where the native son, Jeff Lynne, has long been a devoted supporter. Discover how this affiliation influenced the creation of this beloved track, which eventually became the club's official anthem.

Despite its initial slow rise to mainstream recognition, "Mr. Blue Sky" gained renewed prominence in 2017 as it opened the scene of the cult-favorite movie, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2." Moreover, basking in its infectious happiness and zest for life, this timeless classic secured its position as the 'happiest song of all time' in 2020.

Tune in to explore the fascinating tale behind this musical marvel, as we unravel the interwoven threads of joy, inspiration, and a deep-rooted love for both music and hometown pride.

Welcome to a special backstage pass episode where we unravel the remarkable journey of a song that revitalized the career of one of the most iconic Rock bands of all time. Join us as we delve into the creation of 'Beautiful Day' by U2, released in 2000.

In the wake of a tumultuous period marked by the disappointing response to their 1997 album 'Pop', the Irish rockers were under immense pressure from fans and their record label. They were in desperate need of a hit - and that's when 'Beautiful Day' came to the rescue!

Crafted within the walls of a studio, U2 collaborated with two of the most renowned producers of the time, Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, who played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of this legendary track.

Against all odds, it was during an early morning session that the magic truly transpired, transforming a mundane set of chords into a masterpiece. As the band members entered the studio, it became apparent that the long-awaited breakthrough had finally arrived, leaving Bono with the task of penning the lyrics that would match the brilliance of the composition.

Join us as we uncover the remarkable story behind the music, revealing the trials, triumphs, and inspirations that brought 'Beautiful Day' to life, reigniting the legacy of U2 for generations to come.

Join us in this episode as we unravel the captivating story behind the iconic track "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" by Scottish pop-rock legends, Simple Minds, released in 1984.

The narrative kicks off with the renowned Oscar-winning composer Keith Forsey, famed for his work on the musical soundtrack of the hit film Flash Dance. Amid his prolific engagement with film music in the early 80s, Forsey's song catches the attention for the movie The Breakfast Club.

Against a backdrop of rejections from the likes of Bryan Ferry and Billy Idol, who were unable to commit due to time constraints, Forsey persistently pursues Jim Kerr, the lead singer of Simple Minds, a Scottish band on the brink of international success.

However, Kerr's stance remains unwavering as he strictly adheres to singing only his own compositions, citing time constraints due to Simple Minds' ongoing studio commitments for their upcoming album.

Despite initial reluctance, fate had other plans. The film's resounding success at the box office propelled "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" to sell over six million copies, propelling Simple Minds into the forefront of the music industry. This American anthem with its unfinished lyrics transcended time, becoming a beloved hit cherished by generations worldwide.

Tune in to discover the remarkable journey of this unforgettable song and the unexpected twists that shaped its legacy.

Welcome to our podcast episode delving into the captivating story behind the iconic track "Wuthering Heights" by the visionary artist Kate Bush. Join us as we unravel the intriguing tale set amidst the untamed English moors.

In this episode, we uncover Kate Bush's musical upbringing within a family of musicians, her serendipitous encounter with David Gilmour, the renowned Pink Floyd guitarist, and the astonishing impact it had on her career.

As we explore her initial fears and eventual triumph, we delve into the pivotal moments that led to her signing with a record label, her bold move from her family farm to London, and the formation of her band.

Tune in to learn how a chance viewing of Emily Brontë's "Wuthering Heights" inspired Kate to meld her ethereal voice with a melody evoking the haunting winds of the moors. Discover how this mesmerizing composition catapulted Kate Bush to global stardom, earning her the endearing moniker "Pink Floyd's Prodigy."

Join us on this musical journey through the captivating narrative of "Wuthering Heights," encapsulating the essence of Kate Bush's remarkable ascent to legendary status in the world of pop music.

Join us in this episode as we uncover the captivating story behind the iconic track "Lady in Red" by the renowned artist Chris de Burgh. With a global album sales record exceeding 40 million, Chris de Burgh's journey from his international upbringing to his musical breakthrough is a tale of resilience and passion.

Born in Argentina to a diplomat father, Chris de Burgh's childhood traversed diverse landscapes, from Malta to Nigeria and Zaire. Settling in Ireland during his formative years, he discovered his musical talent while performing for guests at the family's transformed castle hotel.

Despite his initial pursuit of language studies at the esteemed Trinity College, Dublin, Chris eventually followed his heart into the world of music. Overcoming early challenges, his career gained momentum, marked by a significant milestone as the opening act for Supertramp's 1974 tour.

The turning point arrived in the 1980s when the European audience embraced his music, culminating in the release of the timeless ballad "Lady in Red" in 1986. Inspired by his first encounter with Diane, his future wife and mother of his children, the song immortalizes the essence of love and the ongoing commitment required to cherish one's partner.

Tune in to delve into the emotional journey behind this legendary song, exploring the highs and lows of Chris de Burgh's life and the enduring legacy of "Lady in Red" that continues to captivate audiences across generations.

Join us on an exhilarating journey into the heart of one of the most iconic guitar riffs in musical history. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating story behind the creation of 'Money for Nothing' by Dire Straits, released in 1985.

In the mid-80s, Dire Straits was a global sensation, yet struggled to gain traction in the USA. Enter MTV, the gateway to American success. Discover how the band's management received a pivotal piece of advice from the music channel, sparking an ingenious plan for their breakthrough.

As Mark Knopfler diligently studied MTV for days on end, a revelation struck him while observing ZZ Top's video on heavy rotation. Tune in to learn how Knopfler ingeniously harnessed the thick, rich sound of ZZ Top as the key to Dire Straits' American triumph.

Furthermore, the mysterious encounter between Knopfler and ZZ Top's guitarist, Billy Gibbons, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Gibbons remains tight-lipped about the secrets behind the distinctive guitar sound, leaving Knopfler to unravel the mystery on his own.

Tune in to discover the hidden stories and secrets that shaped this iconic track and propelled Dire Straits to the forefront of the American music scene.

Step into the captivating world of David Bowie as we unravel the extraordinary story behind one of his iconic tracks. In this episode, we delve into the ethereal realms of "Starman," released in 1972, by the kaleidoscopic artist who effortlessly embraced multiple identities.

Our exploration begins in the vibrant neighborhoods of South London during the 1950s, where David Robert Jones grew up envisioning himself as a baseball player and spent countless hours tuning in to the radio waves of the American forces stationed in England. It was through this medium that he discovered the pioneering sounds of Rock 'n' Roll, courtesy of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, and Bill Haley, igniting within him a burning desire to become David Bowie.

Fast forward to 1972, where Bowie, having experienced only a single hit in England, was already preparing his fifth album, the conceptual masterpiece titled "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars." Within this extraordinary musical voyage, "Starman" emerged as a celestial beacon, capturing the imagination of listeners worldwide.

Join us as we navigate the cosmic landscape of David Bowie's artistic evolution, immersing ourselves in the magical essence of "Starman." Uncover the inspirations, the creative process, and the impact this timeless track had on both Bowie's career and the world of music.

In this podcast, we'll explore the heartwarming story behind one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time, Chris Rea's "Driving Home For Christmas". The song's origins can be traced back to the late 1970s, when a young Chris Rea was just beginning his career in music.

Through interviews with Rea himself and other experts, we'll learn about the inspiration behind the song and the creative process that went into making it. We'll also explore Rea's personal connection to the lyrics, which were inspired by his own experiences of traveling home for the holidays to be with his family in Middlesbrough, more than 250 miles north of London.

As we delve deeper into the song's meaning and significance, we'll discover how it has become a cherished holiday tradition for millions of people around the world. We'll also examine the impact that "Driving Home For Christmas" has had on Rea's career and legacy, and how it continues to resonate with fans and listeners today.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Chris Rea or simply love the spirit of the holiday season, this podcast is a must-listen. Join us as we take a journey through the history and meaning of "Driving Home For Christmas", and discover why it has become one of the most enduring and beloved Christmas songs of all time.

In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the story behind the iconic track "Don't Stop the Dance" by Bryan Ferry, released in 1985. Join us as we explore the journey of an artist who has sold over 30 million records to date.

Born in Washington, a small town in northeast England, Bryan Ferry grew up amidst the gray and gloomy atmosphere of the post-war era. While his parents envisioned him becoming a lawyer, Ferry, like a moth drawn to a flame, developed an insatiable passion for music, particularly the sounds emanating from the United States.

Through the narrative of Bryan Ferry's musical upbringing, we unravel the inspirations and influences that shaped "Don't Stop the Dance." Join us as we explore the themes, the creative process, and the impact of this timeless track that continues to resonate with audiences across the globe.

Join us on this episode as we delve into the captivating story behind Queen's iconic track, "Somebody To Love," released in 1976. Discover why this particular song holds a special place in Freddie Mercury's heart, making it his personal favorite within the band's extensive repertoire.

During the mid-70s, Queen established themselves as a prominent force in the rock music scene. Their relentless touring schedule, consisting of sold-out concerts and recording sessions, propelled them to great success. However, amidst the whirlwind of their demanding careers, the band found moments to reflect and create new material.

For Freddie Mercury, the composition phase for a new album became an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery. Seated alone in front of his piano, he delved deep into the recesses of his soul. It was during this poignant moment that he experienced an overwhelming sense of loneliness, a feeling he longed to express through his music.

Explore the profound emotions and personal struggles that inspired the creation of "Somebody To Love." Join us as we uncover the raw vulnerability and sheer musical genius that merged to produce this timeless anthem. From the soul-searching lyrics to the soaring harmonies, this episode will immerse you in the captivating journey of a legendary artist.

In this festive episode, we unwrap the captivating story behind The Pogues' timeless Christmas classic, 'Fairytale of New York.' Born from the creative minds of a band deeply rooted in tradition, we explore the genesis of this anti-Christmas anthem. Was it an Elvis Costello challenge or a collective stroke of genius? Discover the journey from banjo-player Jem Finer's initial attempt at a sailor's Christmas tale to the transformative influence of cinematic romance and Ennio Morricone's melodies. Joined by producer Steve Lillywhite and vocalist Kirsty MacColl, the band overcame challenges to create a hit that would resonate globally. From the icy streets of New York during Thanksgiving week to the iconic video featuring Matt Dillon, we delve into the collaborative spirit that birthed a holiday classic. Join us on a musical journey through time and tradition as we unwrap the layers of 'Fairytale of New York.' Subscribe now for a festive exploration of this iconic track's origins, challenges, and enduring magic.

Join us for an exclusive backstage pass to the story behind one of the most revealing POP tracks of its time. In this episode, we delve into the soulful ballad 'You Know I'm No Good' by the legendary Amy Winehouse, released in 2006.

Amy Winehouse, known for her acclaimed jazz-infused debut album, collaborates with the hitmaker Mark Ronson, finding inspiration in the tumultuous love story with Blake Fielder. Amidst the tabloid frenzy fueled by their alcohol and drug-fueled escapades, Amy confronts her vices and flaws, unapologetically acknowledging her demons and the agony they bring.

In a candid and almost raw confession, Amy's words unravel the complexities of her romance, the struggle against her addictive impulses, and the accumulation of unspoken tensions that eventually led to the song's creation. Mark Ronson's nostalgic 60s soul-inspired production complements Amy's unique voice, solidifying her status as the 21st-century diva, with 'You Know I'm No Good' becoming a cherished collector's item in her repertoire.

Tune in to this episode as we uncover the deeply personal journey that birthed this iconic and intimate musical masterpiece.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating story behind one of Elton John's most iconic tracks - Crocodile Rock. Released in 1972, this timeless song became the first of many chart-topping hits for the legendary Sir Elton John in the United States.

Crocodile Rock stands out in Elton John's extensive discography with its irresistible fifties rock 'n' roll accents. But beyond its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, this song carries a profound message. It serves as a poignant musical allegory that explores the fleeting nature of youth and the inevitable passage of time.

Join us as we uncover the inspiration behind Crocodile Rock and how Elton John masterfully captures the essence of a man reflecting on his past. Through heartfelt lyrics and a dynamic sound, we witness the protagonist grappling with the aftermath of a broken relationship while reminiscing about the carefree days of his youth.

To achieve a perfect sound illusion, Elton John drew inspiration from the rock pioneers of his own childhood. We'll explore the musical influences that shaped this remarkable track and discuss its lasting impact on the world of popular music.

Tune in to this episode and immerse yourself in the enchanting tale of Crocodile Rock. Experience the joy and nostalgia it evokes while gaining a deeper appreciation for Elton John's artistry and his ability to create songs that transcend time.

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we take you behind the scenes of some iconic songs. Today, we have a backstage pass to the story behind "Say what you want" by Texas, a track that changed everything for the band back in 1997.

In this episode, we delve into the journey of Sharleen Spiteri, the lead singer of Texas, and how "Say what you want" became a pivotal moment in their career. Born in Bellshill, Scotland, Sharleen grew up in a household where music was always present. Her father, a sailor, would bring home stacks of records as a way to make up for his long absences. It was through these records that Sharleen discovered the captivating voices of Motown, the electrifying sound of Prince, the punk-infused energy of Blondie, and most notably, the influential music of The Clash, which left an indelible mark on her.

Join us as we explore the origins of "Say what you want," the challenges faced by Texas, and the impact of this song on their trajectory. From its heartfelt lyrics to its infectious melodies, this track resonated with millions of listeners worldwide. We'll uncover the inspiration behind the song, its recording process, and the emotions that it evoked within the band and their fans.

Tune in to this episode to discover the captivating story behind "Say what you want" and gain a deeper understanding of the song that propelled Texas to new heights.

Step into the intriguing world of Rock'n Roll's most notorious swindle as we delve into the captivating story behind the song "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, released in 1975. Join us as we uncover the chain of events that led to this audacious move and explore the impact it had on the music industry.

In the late 1960s, Fleetwood Mac stood tall as the epitome of British Blues greatness, capturing the hearts of millions. However, fame and excessive drug use left scars on the band, prompting them to take a much-needed hiatus. Little did they know, their manager, Clifford Adams, had other plans in store.

With an American tour already booked and tickets sold, Adams faced a daunting challenge. His solution? Persuading Mick Fleetwood, the iconic drummer and founding member of Fleetwood Mac, to perform the shows with a group of newly recruited musicians. The hope was to deceive the American audience and avoid detection.

In this episode, we uncover the audacity and cunning of Adams' plan, exploring the motivations behind it and the consequences it had for all involved. We delve into the rise of Stretch, the band created for the sole purpose of continuing Fleetwood Mac's tour, and examine the impact of this controversial move on the music industry as a whole.

Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, examining the twists and turns that shaped this unforgettable track. Discover the secrets, the betrayals, and the ultimate legacy left by this audacious chapter in Rock'n Roll history.

Welcome to this episode of "Behind the Melody," where we delve into the captivating story behind the iconic song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears, released in 1985.

Join us as we uncover the serendipitous origins and extraordinary journey of this timeless track. The tale begins in the picturesque city of Bath, located in the enchanting South West of England. Here, two young teenagers, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, crossed paths and embarked on a remarkable musical adventure.

At the time, Roland Orzabal found himself amidst a profound spiritual quest. It was during this introspective period that fate intervened, leading him to encounter "The Primal Scream," a book penned by renowned American psychotherapist Arthur Janov. Janov's work revolved around a therapeutic approach that aimed to unleash the deep-seated childhood traumas through cries, screams, and primal expressions.

Thus, the genesis of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was born from this shared pursuit of personal healing and growth. This transformative track would go on to capture the hearts of millions worldwide, resonating with its introspective lyrics and captivating melodies.