'60s '70s '80s - Warm, Candid, Classic Rock Interviews with Music Legends - A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Sandy Kaye
  • 4.6 (26)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Iconic artists? Music Legends? Sandy Kaye interviews them all on A Breath of Fresh Air - a multi award-winning podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the artists you love. Through compelling conversations, we gain a rare, behind-the-scenes and intimate look at the personal stories and inspirations that fueled the music that shaped entire generations. Explore the lives, struggles, and creative journeys of these legends and relive the timeless hits that defined the soundtrack of our youth. It's all about Their Lives. Their Stories. Their Music. https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

  1. 5d ago

    How Cheap Trick Became Rock Legends Completely By Accident

    Cheap Trick have been one of rock's most distinctive and enduring bands for more than five decades, creating timeless classics including I Want You To Want Me, Surrender, Dream Police and Ain't That a Shame. But behind the arena anthems lies a story filled with determination, disappointment, innovation and more than a few extraordinary twists of fate. In this fascinating episode, founding bassist Tom Petersson takes Sandy back to where it all began in Rockford, Illinois, explaining how the arrival of The Beatles and the British Invasion inspired a generation of teenagers to pick up instruments and dream of something bigger. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a lifelong career, although success proved far more elusive than anyone expected. Tom reveals how Cheap Trick emerged from a succession of earlier bands including Fuse and Sick Man of Europe, sharing the excitement of landing an early record deal before watching it disappear almost as quickly. Rather than giving up, the band returned to the clubs, determined to create music on their own terms instead of chasing radio trends or record company expectations. One of the highlights of this conversation is the remarkable story behind Tom's invention of the revolutionary 12-string bass guitar. Frustrated by the limitations of a traditional bass, he worked with Hamer Guitars to create an entirely new instrument capable of producing the huge orchestral sound that would become a defining feature of Cheap Trick's recordings. Nearly fifty years later, it remains one of rock music's most recognisable and influential innovations. Tom also shares the surprising origins of the band's name, explains why they deliberately refused to become another Top 40 cover band, and recalls opening for legendary acts including Kiss and Queen while slowly building a fiercely loyal following. Along the way, he recounts memorable encounters with Frank Zappa, David Bowie and George Martin, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes during one of rock's most creative eras. Perhaps the most astonishing revelation is how Cheap Trick's biggest breakthrough almost never happened. After three studio albums failed to find commercial success in America, a live recording made for Japanese television unexpectedly exploded in popularity. The resulting At Budokan album became an international phenomenon, while I Want You To Want Me—a song the band had actually stopped performing live —became the hit that finally launched them into rock superstardom. Tom speaks openly about the relentless touring schedule that saw Cheap Trick perform almost 300 shows a year while recording two albums annually, the burnout that led to his temporary departure from the band, and the chance reunion that brought him back just in time for another hugely successful chapter in the group's history. The conversation also explores Tom's passion for unusual guitars, the truth behind one of rock's enduring myths, the band's commitment to changing its set list every night, and the touching story behind Rocky's Speech, the musical project he created to help his autistic son develop language skills. Warm, funny and refreshingly honest, Tom Petersson reflects on a remarkable career built not by following trends, but by trusting instinct, embracing originality and never compromising the music Cheap Trick wanted to make. It's an inspiring conversation with one of rock's genuine innovators and a rare opportunity to hear the stories behind one of the world's most beloved bands—from someone who lived every moment. If you enjoy hearing the real stories behind the soundtrack of our lives, don't forget to follow A Breath of Fresh Air so you never miss another conversation with the legendary artists who created the music that continues to inspire generations.

    How Cheap Trick Became Rock Legends Completely By Accident

  2. Sep 2

    The Zombies Were World Famous... So Why Was Colin Blunstone Broke?

    Few voices are as instantly recognisable as Colin Blunstone's. As the lead singer of The Zombies, he helped define the sound of the British Invasion with timeless classics including She's Not There, Tell Her No, Time of the Season and the landmark album Odessey and Oracle. More than six decades later, Colin continues to tour the world, record new music and perform with the same unmistakable voice that first captivated audiences in the 1960s. In this episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Colin shares the extraordinary story behind one of rock's most influential bands. He explains how The Zombies came together through little more than chance, why Rod Argent almost remained the band's lead singer, and how She's Not There became a worldwide hit despite a chaotic recording session. Colin reflects on the realities of life during the British Invasion, revealing why hit records didn't necessarily mean financial success and how the original band ultimately dissolved while still enjoying international acclaim. The conversation also explores Colin's remarkable solo career, including his brief period recording as Neil MacArthur, the success of Say You Don't Mind, his years with Elton John's Rocket Records, working alongside Alan Parsons and Dave Stewart, and the unexpected legal battle that temporarily stalled his career. Colin opens up about returning to live performance after more than twenty years away, the reunion with Rod Argent that led to the rebirth of The Zombies, and the band's emotional induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Along the way, Colin discusses maintaining his voice into his eighties, the discipline required to continue performing at the highest level, overcoming self-doubt despite decades of success, and why he still believes nobody in the music industry truly knows what tomorrow will bring. If you love classic rock, the British Invasion, timeless songwriting and honest conversations with legendary artists, this episode offers a rare opportunity to hear the remarkable story behind one of music's most distinctive voices. And ... if you're in any of these cities make sure you go see The Zombies live! Sep 2 Somerville TheatreSomerville (Boston), MA The Fixx, Colin Blunstone, and Peter Asher Sep 4 Count Basie Center for the ArtsRed Bank, NJ Sep 5The ParamountHuntington (Long Island), NY Sep 6 United TheatreWesterly, RI Sep 8 Tupelo Music Hall Derry, NHT Sep 10 Adler Hall New York Society for Ethical Culture New York Sep 11 Keswick Theatre Glenside (Philadelphia), PA Sep 12 Warner TheatreWashington, DC Sep 13 he Kent StageKent, OH Sep 15 Uptown TheaterMinneapolis, MN Sep 17 Genesee Theatre Waukegan (Chicago), IL Sep 18 The Ludlow GarageCincinnati, OH Sep 19 Barrymore Theatre Madison, WI Sep 21 DeVos Performance HallGrand Rapids, MI Sep 23 Brown County Music Center Nashville Sep 26 College Street Music Hall New Haven, CT Sep 27 Santander Performing Arts Center Reading, PA Sep 29 RIT Performing Arts CenterRochester, NYT Sep 30 Troy Savings Bank Music HallTroy, NY

    The Zombies Were World Famous... So Why Was Colin Blunstone Broke?

  3. Sep 1 ·  Bonus

    Aussie Rock Icon Angry Anderson Fighting for Life

    Australian Rock legend Angry Anderson has been hospitalised after suffering a cardiac arrest in Brussels. Rose Tattoo released a statement some three weeks after their frontman, legally Gary Anderson, 79, was hospitalised, forcing the band to cancel the European leg of what was to be their final tour. Anderson is currently receiving treatment and care in ICU, though his condition is unknown. Rose Tattoo were scheduled to return to Australia this month to perform several farewell gigs across Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane. Angry Anderson rose to fame as a rock star in the late 1970s and 1980s, moving from the Australian-pub scene to mainstream success. Rose Tattoo’s debut album and hit single Bad Boy for Love received widespread national recognition. Their next album, Assault and Battery, topped the UK heavy metal charts, catapulting them to international stardom. Outside his music career, Anderson received a Member of the Order of Australia in 1993 for his work in youth advocacy. As we all pray that Angry recovers, I thought you may like to revisit our chat here.

    Aussie Rock Icon Angry Anderson Fighting for Life

  4. Aug 26

    Steppenwolf's John Kay: From War Refugee to Rock Legend

    Before stadium tours, platinum albums and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognition, John Kay was simply a young refugee searching for a better life. Music became his escape, his identity and ultimately the vehicle that carried him from the hardships of post-war Europe to the front of one of the most influential rock bands of all time. In this episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, host Sandy Kaye welcomes the legendary singer, songwriter and founding member of Steppenwolf for a deeply personal conversation about the remarkable life behind one of rock's most recognisable voices. Born in East Prussia during the closing months of World War II, John spent his earliest years amid conflict and uncertainty. His family fled advancing Soviet forces before eventually escaping communist East Germany and building a new life in Canada. Those formative experiences shaped his resilience, independence and determination long before music entered the picture. John recalls discovering rock and roll as a teenager and finding inspiration in the blues, folk and early rock artists who would influence his own distinctive style. He shares how those early musical ambitions led to the formation of Steppenwolf in Los Angeles, where the band quickly became one of the defining acts of the late 1960s with its raw sound, powerful songwriting and unforgettable performances. The conversation explores the creation of timeless classics including "Born to Be Wild," "Magic Carpet Ride," "Rock Me," "The Pusher" and "Monster," songs that helped shape the soundtrack of a generation. John reflects on how "Born to Be Wild" became forever linked with the landmark film Easy Rider, transforming it into a global anthem of freedom, adventure and rebellion. He also explains how the famous lyric "heavy metal thunder" unexpectedly became part of rock music history, helping to popularise a phrase that would define an entire genre. Beyond the music, John offers thoughtful insights into songwriting, creativity and the realities of life in one of the world's biggest rock bands. He discusses the pressures of fame, the changing music industry and why staying true to his artistic principles has always been more important than chasing commercial success. John also speaks passionately about his lifelong commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental causes, revealing another side of the man behind the music. His dedication to protecting the natural world has remained just as important as his musical legacy, demonstrating that his influence extends well beyond the recording studio and concert stage. This conversation is more than a look back at Steppenwolf's extraordinary career. It's the story of perseverance, reinvention and the enduring power of music to transcend borders, generations and cultures. Whether you've been a fan since the 1960s or you're discovering Steppenwolf for the first time, John's remarkable journey is every bit as compelling as the songs that made him famous. If you enjoy hearing the stories behind the artists who created the soundtrack of our lives, subscribe to A Breath of Fresh Air for more in-depth conversations with the legendary musicians who continue to inspire audiences around the world.

    Steppenwolf's John Kay: From War Refugee to Rock Legend

  5. Aug 19

    Little River Band's Derek Pellicci with the Story Behind the Hits

    Few Australian bands have enjoyed the extraordinary international success of Little River Band, and few people are better placed to tell that story than original drummer Derek Pellicci. In this warm, candid and deeply insightful conversation, Derek looks back on an incredible career that began with a young boy standing in a crowd watching The Beatles during their unforgettable '64 visit to Melbourne. That single moment changed the course of his life forever, inspiring him to become a drummer and setting him on a path that would eventually take him to stages all over the world. Derek shares his fascinating journey through Melbourne's thriving music scene of the late 60s and early 70s, performing with bands likeThe Music Express, The Plum and The Ash before receiving the phone call that would change everything. When Beeb Birtles invited him to audition for Mississippi, Derek found himself joining a group whose remarkable vocal harmonies would soon evolve into one of Australia's greatest recording acts. He recalls the transformation of Mississippi into Little River Band, the arrival of Glenn Shorrock, the vision of legendary manager Glenn Wheatley and the chance roadside moment that inspired the band's iconic name. The conversation explores LRB's groundbreaking assault on America, where they became the first Australian band to achieve sustained commercial success across the US. Derek explains how the band built its audience one city at a time long before MTV existed, touring relentlessly and opening for some of the biggest names in rock including Fleetwood Mac, Santana, Heart, Linda Ronstadt, Steve Miller Band and The Doobie Brothers. Those years of constant travel, endless overnight bus rides and unforgettable performances eventually led to thirteen US Top 40 hits and established Little River Band as Australia's biggest musical export of the era. Derek also offers remarkable behind-the-scenes stories about the making of some of the band's best-loved songs, including Reminiscing, Cool Change, Lonesome Loser and It's A Long Way There. One of the highlights of this episode is Derek's vivid recollection of working with legendary Beatles producer Sir George Martin. For a musician whose career began because of The Beatles, collaborating with Martin was a full-circle moment. Derek explains the invaluable lessons Martin taught the band about simplicity, arrangement, discipline and always serving the song before serving the musician. The conversation then turns to Derek's life after Little River Band. Moving to Los Angeles opened the door to songwriting, and he reflects honestly on why he wishes he had begun writing much earlier in his career. His lifelong love of literature eventually found its way into his lyrics, leading to a new creative chapter that has become every bit as fulfilling as performing on stage. Today Derek is once again breaking new ground with his album Welcome to the Human Race. He speaks openly about using artificial intelligence as part of his songwriting and production process, why he believes creativity still belongs to the artist rather than the technology, and why audiences should judge music by what they hear rather than how it was created. His thoughtful perspective on AI provides one of the most fascinating discussions you'll hear about where music may be heading in the years ahead. Derek also reflects on friendship, success, the realities of life on the road, the tensions that inevitably arise inside successful bands, and why he has no desire to chase the past through endless reunion tours. Whether you've loved Little River Band since the '70s or you're discovering their music for the very first time, this episode offers a rare opportunity to hear one of Australia's most respected musicians tell his story with warmth, humour and remarkable honesty. It's an inspiring conversation about following your passion embracing change and proving that creativity never has an expiry date.

    Little River Band's Derek Pellicci with the Story Behind the Hits

  6. Aug 12

    Savoy Brown: The Band That Changed Blues Rock Forever

    Long before blues rock became a global phenomenon, Savoy Brown was helping define the genre. Founded in London in 1965 by legendary guitarist Kim Simmonds, the band became one of the most respected names to emerge from the British blues explosion, earning a devoted following through relentless touring, exceptional musicianship and an unwavering commitment to authentic blues music. In this episode, Pat DeSalvo and drummer Garnet Grimm share the remarkable story behind Savoy Brown's rise from the vibrant London club scene to becoming one of America's favourite live blues rock bands. The two reflect on the early influences that shaped his playing, the explosion of British blues alongside bands including Fleetwood Mac, Cream and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, and the determination that kept Savoy Brown recording and touring for almost six decades. Pat explains why the blues has remained timeless, discusses the band's ever-changing lineup, and reveals how Savoy Brown became a proving ground for musicians who would later enjoy success with other iconic bands, including Foghat. He also talks about songwriting, life on the road, recording classic albums such as Blue Matter, Looking In, Street Corner Talking and Hellbound Train, and why authenticity has always mattered more than commercial success. More than a history lesson, this is an intimate conversation with two of the true pioneers of British blues. Pat and Garnett reflect on the highs and challenges of an extraordinary career, the friendships forged through music, and the enduring appeal of the blues in an ever-changing musical landscape. Whether you've followed Savoy Brown since the '60s or are discovering the band for the very first time, this episode offers a fascinating insight into one of the most influential yet often underappreciated groups in blues rock history. If you enjoy interviews with classic rock legends, blues musicians and the artists behind the soundtrack of our lives, be sure to subscribe to A Breath of Fresh Air with Sandy Kaye for more exclusive conversations with the musicians who changed popular music forever. Topics covered in this episode include: The formation of Savoy Brown in London in 1965Kim Simmonds' early musical influencesThe British blues boom and its lasting impactTouring America and building an international audienceClassic Savoy Brown albums and defining songsThe musicians who passed through Savoy Brown, including future members of FoghatWhy the blues continues to inspire audiences worldwideSongwriting, recording and life on the roadKim Simmonds' lasting legacy in blues and classic rock Follow A Breath of Fresh Air for more interviews with music legends from the worlds of classic rock, blues, folk, pop and beyond.

    Savoy Brown: The Band That Changed Blues Rock Forever

  7. Aug 6

    The Damned's Rat Scabies: Inside the Birth of British Punk and 50 Years of Chaos

    Before punk rock exploded into the mainstream, there was The Damned. They were the first UK punk band to release a single, the first to release an album, and among the first to take the raw energy of the London punk scene to audiences around the world. At the heart of that revolution was founding drummer Rat Scabies, one of the most colourful, talented and unconventional personalities in rock music. In this fascinating episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Sandy Kaye sits down with Rat Scabies for a candid and often hilarious conversation that goes far beyond the music. From the very beginning, Sandy can't resist asking the question that millions of people have wondered for decades: where on earth did the name "Rat Scabies" come from? His answer is every bit as entertaining as you might expect and sets the tone for an interview filled with humour, honesty and unforgettable stories. Rat takes us back to London's mid-'70s, when punk wasn't yet a movement but a handful of young musicians determined to tear up the rule book. He recalls how The Damned came together, the excitement surrounding the band's earliest rehearsals, and the extraordinary feeling of being part of something completely new. He shares his memories of recording "New Rose," now recognised as the first British punk single, and explains how the band quickly established itself as one of the most exciting live acts of the era. The conversation explores what life was really like inside the early punk scene, separating myth from reality while revealing the friendships, rivalries and creative energy that fuelled one of the most important musical revolutions of the twentieth century. Rat reflects on performing alongside many of the biggest names in punk, the unpredictable nature of those early tours and the unique chemistry that helped make The Damned one of the genre's most enduring bands. Throughout the interview, Rat discusses his distinctive drumming style, his approach to performance and why humour has always played such an important role in both his personality and his career. He also reflects on the many changes The Damned have experienced over nearly five decades, including line-up changes, reunions and the band's remarkable ability to remain relevant while continuing to attract new generations of fans. The conversation also ventures beyond music as Rat talks about his lifelong curiosity, his fascination with history and the paranormal, and the many unusual adventures that have occupied him away from the stage. It's a revealing look at a musician whose interests extend far beyond rock and roll and whose inquisitive mind has led him down some remarkable paths. Whether you've followed The Damned since the very beginning or you're discovering them for the first time, this episode offers an intimate portrait of one of punk's true pioneers. Rat Scabies proves to be thoughtful, witty, refreshingly self-aware and full of stories that capture both the chaos and creativity of an era that transformed popular music forever. If you enjoy hearing the real stories behind legendary artists, be sure to follow A Breath of Fresh Air so you never miss an episode. You'll find in-depth conversations with many of the musicians who created the soundtrack of our lives, sharing the memories, challenges and triumphs that shaped music history.

    The Damned's Rat Scabies: Inside the Birth of British Punk and 50 Years of Chaos

  8. Jul 29

    Louie Shelton: The Guitarist Behind Hundreds of Hit Songs You've Loved for 60 Years

    Few musicians have influenced popular music as profoundly as Louie Shelton, yet millions of people know his guitar long before they know his name. In this episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Louie opens the studio door on one of the greatest periods in recording history. Growing up in Arkansas, Louie discovered the guitar as a young boy, met Elvis Presley while still at junior high school and later became friends with fellow Arkansan Glen Campbell before heading west to Los Angeles with one ambition—to become a top session guitarist. He explains why becoming a studio musician was the ultimate dream and how years of relentless work finally earned him a place among the legendary Wrecking Crew. Louie reveals how one inspired guitar hook changed everything. Asked to come up with something memorable for a new television project called The Monkees, he created the famous opening riff to Last Train to Clarksville, launching a career that would see producers across Los Angeles competing for his talents. He shares extraordinary stories from sessions with The Jackson 5, Motown, Boz Scaggs, Neil Diamond, The Carpenters, Lionel Richie, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and dozens more, explaining how many classic recordings were built before the artists even stepped into the studio. You'll hear what made the Motown rhythm section so unique, why Michael Jackson immediately stood out as an 11-year-old vocalist and how session musicians created some of the most recognisable guitar parts in music history. Louie also reflects on working with Elvis Presley, Karen Carpenter, Tiny Tim and countless stars whose careers he watched unfold, while offering thoughtful observations on fame, celebrity and why so many legendary artists struggled with the pressures that accompanied enormous success. The conversation also explores Louie's transition from session guitarist to acclaimed producer, producing Seals & Crofts' Summer Breeze and Diamond Girl, launching England Dan & John Ford Coley, and producing Art Garfunkel's platinum-selling Fate For Breakfast. Finally, Louie reflects on why he believes the music of the '60s and 70s continues to resonate with audiences around the world and explains why, despite an extraordinary career spanning more than six decades, he still picks up the guitar every day. This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of the true architects of popular music—a man whose guitar playing became part of the soundtrack of generations.

    Louie Shelton: The Guitarist Behind Hundreds of Hit Songs You've Loved for 60 Years
See All (252)

Trailer

4.6
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Iconic artists? Music Legends? Sandy Kaye interviews them all on A Breath of Fresh Air - a multi award-winning podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the artists you love. Through compelling conversations, we gain a rare, behind-the-scenes and intimate look at the personal stories and inspirations that fueled the music that shaped entire generations. Explore the lives, struggles, and creative journeys of these legends and relive the timeless hits that defined the soundtrack of our youth. It's all about Their Lives. Their Stories. Their Music. https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

Information

You Might Also Like