Long Way to the Top

Shayne Brian
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Every song has a story. Every legend has a journey. Long Way to the Top is where those stories come alive — the raw, revealing, and often hilarious moments behind rock’s most enduring names. Hosted by Shayne Brian, this is the ultimate backstage pass into the minds of the artists who built the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping anthems and studio secrets to the reinventions that kept them alive across decades, each episode dives deep into the grit, the glory, and the genius that made these icons who they are. Featuring legendary guests including: Stewart Copeland (The Police) — on the art of rhythm, rebellion, and creating one of the most innovative bands in rock history. Leo Sayer — sharing stories from a five-decade career of global hits, resilience, and reinvention. Russell Morris — reflecting on The Real Thing and the timeless spirit of Australian music. Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool, Mondo Rock) — taking us through six decades of songs that shaped Aussie rock. Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet) — reliving the glamour, sound, and legacy of the 1980s New Romantic movement. Steve Kilbey (The Church) — exploring mysticism, creativity, and the making of Under the Milky Way. Whether you grew up spinning vinyl or streaming playlists, Long Way to the Top takes you deep into the world of the artists who defined generations — and are still climbing. Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. And head over to Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast, Keep on Rocking!

  1. Aug 5

    S4E17 - Go West's Peter Cox: The Story Behind The King of Wishful Thinking & 40 Years of Hit Songs

    Go West became one of the defining pop acts of the 1980s with timeless hits including We Close Our Eyes, Call Me, Don't Look Down and the global favourite The King of Wishful Thinking. In this episode of Long Way to the Top, Shayne Brian sits down with Peter Cox, the unmistakable voice of Go West, to discuss the band's incredible 40-year journey, the stories behind their biggest songs, and why their music continues to connect with audiences around the world. Peter reflects on Go West's rise during the golden age of MTV, the success of The King of Wishful Thinking after its appearance in Pretty Woman, and the band's enduring popularity. He also talks about returning to Australia after touring here with Nik Kershaw in 2024, and what fans can expect from the new Australian tour alongside Debbie Gibson. If you love classic 1980s music, behind-the-scenes stories, songwriting, and the artists who created the soundtrack to a generation, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In this episode: The origins of Go West The story behind We Close Our Eyes How The King of Wishful Thinking became a worldwide classic The impact of Pretty Woman Touring Australia with Nik Kershaw and now Debbie Gibson Life on the road after four decades Peter Cox's thoughts on legacy and longevity Shayne's Fast Five AUSTRALIAN TOUR AND TICKET INFORMATION Tour dates, venues, VIP packages and tickets:https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/go-west Official Ticketek ticket page:https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=GOWEST26 Debbie Gibson official website:https://debbiegibsonofficial.com/ Subscribe to Long Way to the Top for more in-depth conversations with the artists who created the songs, albums and unforgettable moments that shaped popular music. Visit:https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast   #GoWest #PeterCox #TheKingOfWishfulThinking #DebbieGibson #LongWayToTheTop #80sMusic #ClassicPop #WeCloseOurEyes #PrettyWoman #MusicPodcast #ShayneBrian #AustralianTour #RetroMusic #NewWave #PopMusic See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E17 - Go West's Peter Cox: The Story Behind The King of Wishful Thinking & 40 Years of Hit Songs

  2. Jul 29

    S4E16 - Debbie Gibson: Foolish Beat, Electric Youth and an Eternally Electric Career

    Debbie Gibson joins Shayne Brian on Long Way to the Top ahead of her long-awaited return to Australia as special guest on Go West’s 40th Anniversary Tour. Debbie became one of the defining pop artists of the late 1980s with an extraordinary run of hits including “Only in My Dreams,” “Shake Your Love,” “Out of the Blue,” “Foolish Beat,” “Electric Youth” and “Lost in Your Eyes.” At just 17, “Foolish Beat” made Debbie the youngest female artist to write, produce and perform a Billboard Hot 100 number-one single, a record she continues to hold. Every one of her US Top 20 singles was written solely by Debbie, establishing her as much more than a teenage pop star. She was a songwriter, musician and producer determined to maintain control of her own music. In this revealing conversation, Debbie takes us inside the writing and production of her biggest songs. She discusses the heartbreak behind “Foolish Beat,” the enduring emotional connection fans have with “Lost in Your Eyes,” and why the message of “Electric Youth” remains relevant decades later. Debbie also reflects on the pressures of achieving international fame as a teenager, fighting to be recognised as a serious songwriter, and the important role her mother played in protecting her creativity and career. The conversation explores her remarkable life beyond the original hits, including her extensive musical theatre career, starring roles in productions such as Les Misérables, Grease, Beauty and the Beast, Chicago and Cabaret, her return to the charts with “Girls Night Out,” and the release of her album The Body Remembers. Debbie also discusses her bestselling memoir, Eternally Electric, the meaning behind its title, and what she has learned from more than four decades of reinvention, resilience and making music on her own terms. Debbie Gibson returns to Australian stages for the first time since 1989, joining Go West for shows in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and Brisbane from 25 August to 4 September 2026. Audiences can expect a celebration of classic pop featuring Debbie’s greatest hits alongside Go West favourites including “We Close Our Eyes,” “Call Me” and “King of Wishful Thinking.” AUSTRALIAN TOUR AND TICKET INFORMATION Tour dates, venues, VIP packages and tickets:https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/go-west Official Ticketek ticket page:https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=GOWEST26 Debbie Gibson official website:https://debbiegibsonofficial.com/ Subscribe to Long Way to the Top for more in-depth conversations with the artists who created the songs, albums and unforgettable moments that shaped popular music. Visit:https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast #DebbieGibson #GoWest #ElectricYouth #FoolishBeat #LostInYourEyes #OnlyInMyDreams #EternallyElectric #GoWestTour #AustralianTour #80sMusic #80sPop #PopMusic #Songwriting #MusicInterview #LongWayToTheTop #ShayneBrian See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E16 - Debbie Gibson: Foolish Beat, Electric Youth and an Eternally Electric Career

  3. Jul 22

    S4E15 - Angry Anderson Announces Rose Tattoo’s Final Shows Ever

    Angry Anderson has made a massive announcement exclusively on Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian, confirming the final Rose Tattoo shows ever. After more than five decades of blood, sweat, beers and uncompromising rock ’n’ roll, one of Australia’s most influential bands is preparing to take its final bow. In this special episode, Angry Anderson reflects on the extraordinary Rose Tattoo journey, from the pubs of Sydney to international tours with ZZ Top and Aerosmith, and reveals why 2026 will mark the band’s final year on the road. Angry discusses the fans who have carried Rose Tattoo through every decade, the enduring power of songs including Bad Boy for Love, Rock ’n’ Roll Outlaw, Nice Boys, Scarred for Life and We Can’t Be Beaten, and the emotions behind saying goodbye to a band that has become part of the fabric of Australian rock music. The farewell concerts will also feature the return of legendary guitarist Rockin’ Rob Riley, joining Angry Anderson, Mick Arnold, Steve “Kingy” King and Paul DeMarco. Rob Riley will perform the landmark Scarred for Life album in its entirety with Rose Tattoo, along with more classics from the band’s celebrated catalogue. For one final time, Rose Tattoo are turning it up loud and celebrating more than 50 years of music, mateship, resilience and authentic Australian rock ’n’ roll. Rose Tattoo Final Australian Shows 2026 Friday, 18 SeptemberPrince Bandroom, Melbourne, VICFinal Victorian showWith Willie J’s 6V6’s and Hot Machine Sunday, 20 SeptemberThe Gov, Adelaide, SAFinal South Australian show and early Sunday performanceNo support Friday, 25 SeptemberFactory Theatre, Sydney, NSWWith Willie J’s 6V6’s and Hot Machine Saturday, 26 SeptemberThe Triffid, Brisbane, QLDFinal Brisbane showWith Willie J’s 6V6’s and Hot Machine The September dates and venues have been confirmed, with tickets now available through the official Rose Tattoo website. Tickets: https://www.rosetattoo.com.au/ Listen to the full conversation as Angry Anderson joins Shayne Brian on Long Way to the Top to announce the final Rose Tattoo shows and look back on the legacy of a true Australian rock ’n’ roll institution. Visit:https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast #RoseTattoo #AngryAnderson #LongWayToTheTop #AustralianRock #AussieRock #RockNRollOutlaw #ScarredForLife #WeCantBeBeaten #BadBoyForLove #NiceBoys #RoseTattooFarewellTour #FinalShows #FarewellTour #RockinRobRiley #AustralianMusic #ClassicRock #PubRock #HardRock #RockLegends #MusicPodcast #ShayneBrian #LiveMusicAustralia #AustralianRockHistory #RockInterview #RockMusicPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E15 - Angry Anderson Announces Rose Tattoo’s Final Shows Ever

  4. Jul 14

    S4E14 - Richard Burgman - Sunnyboys Reunion, 45th Anniversary Box Set & The Story Behind an Australian Rock Classic

    Forty-five years after changing the sound of Australian rock, Sunnyboys are back to celebrate one of the greatest debut albums in Australian music history. In this special episode of Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian, guitarist Richard Burgman reflects on the band's remarkable journey, the enduring legacy of Sunnyboys, and the release of the stunning 45th Anniversary 4LP vinyl box set. Packed with rare demos, live recordings, the original Phantom Records EP, exclusive interviews and previously unreleased material on vinyl, this collection tells the complete story of the band's unforgettable first year. Richard shares behind-the-scenes memories of recording classic songs including Happy Man, Alone With You, I Can't Talk To You and Tunnel of Love, while discussing the brilliance of songwriter Jeremy Oxley, the explosive Sydney music scene of the early 1980s, and why Sunnyboys continue to inspire generations of Australian musicians. The conversation also explores the band's highly anticipated one-off reunion performance in Brisbane, what fans can expect from the show, and why the music still resonates more than four decades later. Whether you've loved Sunnyboys since 1981 or you're discovering one of Australia's most influential guitar bands for the first time, this is a fascinating look inside the making of an Australian rock masterpiece. In this episode: The story behind the Sunnyboys 45th Anniversary 4LP vinyl box set Rare demos, live recordings and never-before-released material Richard Burgman's memories of Sunnyboys' rise to fame Jeremy Oxley's songwriting and lasting influence The making of Australian classics including Happy Man and Alone With You Behind the scenes of the upcoming Sunnyboys reunion show The band's legacy in Australian rock history Subscribe to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians and music legends who created, and continue to create, the soundtrack of our lives. Visit:https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast #Sunnyboys #RichardBurgman #JeremyOxley #AustralianRock #AustralianMusic #LongWayToTheTop #ShayneBrian #Vinyl #ClassicRock #MusicPodcast #HappyMan #AloneWithYou #WarnerMusic #RockHistory #AussieMusic See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E14 - Richard Burgman - Sunnyboys Reunion, 45th Anniversary Box Set & The Story Behind an Australian Rock Classic

  5. Jul 13

    S4E13 - Martin Kemp on the Birth of Spandau Ballet - The Early Years, True, Gold & the Blitz Club

    This is a special re-release of an interview I recorded with Martin Kemp from Spandau Ballet late last year. It was such a fascinating conversation that I knew it deserved to be heard again. Long before True, Gold, Only When You Leave, and Communication became worldwide hits, Spandau Ballet were at the centre of a cultural revolution that transformed music, fashion, and pop culture. In this in-depth conversation, Martin takes us back to the band's formative years, from the legendary Blitz Club in London's Soho to becoming one of the defining bands of the 1980s. The interview also celebrates the release of Everything Is Now – Vol. 1: 1978–1982, the definitive box set chronicling Spandau Ballet's groundbreaking early years. Martin shares stories about the band's rise from underground innovators to international superstars, the creative energy that fuelled their first recordings, and the friendships that helped shape one of Britain's most successful bands. In this episode you'll hear: The incredible story of how Spandau Ballet was born at London's legendary Blitz Club The making of the early classics including To Cut a Long Story Short, The Freeze, Chant No. 1, and Instinction Behind-the-scenes stories from the band's formative years How the New Romantic movement changed music and fashion forever Martin's reflections on the journey that led to timeless hits like True, Gold, and Communication Why Everything Is Now – Vol. 1: 1978–1982 is the ultimate collection for Spandau Ballet fans Whether you've been a fan since the New Romantic era or you're discovering Spandau Ballet for the first time, this conversation offers a unique look inside one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. Subscribe to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians, and industry legends who created, and continue to create, the soundtrack of our lives. Visit: https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast #MartinKemp #SpandauBallet #EverythingIsNow #True #Gold #NewRomantic #BlitzClub #80sMusic #ClassicPop #BritishMusic #LongWayToTheTop #ShayneBrian #MusicPodcast #ToCutALongStoryShort #Communication See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E13 - Martin Kemp on the Birth of Spandau Ballet - The Early Years, True, Gold & the Blitz Club

  6. Jul 4

    S4E12- Stan Bush: How to Write an 80s Rock Anthem That Lasts Forever

    Stan Bush, the iconic voice behind “The Touch” and “Dare” from The Transformers: The Movie, joins Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for a powerful conversation about Transformers, 80s rock, motivational music and how to write an anthem that lasts forever. Best known for his unforgettable songs from the 1986 Transformers movie soundtrack, Stan Bush has become one of the defining voices of melodic rock, classic 80s movie music and inspirational rock anthems. In this episode, Stan reflects on the lasting power of “The Touch,” the legacy of Optimus Prime and The Transformers: The Movie, and why these songs continue to inspire fans nearly 40 years later. With The Transformers: The Movie: The Soundtrack: The Reformatted Edition bringing new life to “The Touch” and “Dare,” Stan shares what it is like to revisit songs that have become part of pop culture history. He also talks about the secret to a great 80s rock song, the power of big choruses, heroic melodies, emotional lyrics and why the sound of the 80s still connects across generations. Beyond Transformers, Stan opens up about his latest album Born for Battle, a motivational rock album exploring faith, freedom, brotherhood, immigration, resilience and the belief that there is a reason for everything. From Bloodsport and Kickboxer to Transformers, Sailor Moon, video games and beyond, Stan Bush’s music has become the soundtrack to courage, hope and never giving up. Key moments in this episode: Stan Bush on the legacy of “The Touch” and “Dare” Why The Transformers: The Movie still means so much to fans How to write an 80s rock anthem that lasts forever The secret behind big choruses, heroic melodies and motivational rock Revisiting “The Touch” and “Dare” for The Transformers: The Movie: The Soundtrack: The Reformatted Edition The emotional connection between Stan Bush, Optimus Prime and Transformers fans The story behind Born for Battle How faith, freedom, brotherhood and purpose shape Stan’s songwriting Why 80s rock still connects with new generations Subscribe to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians and industry legends who created, and continue to create, the soundtrack of our lives. Visit https://facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast #StanBush #TheTouch #Dare #Transformers #TransformersTheMovie #Transformers1986 #OptimusPrime #80sRock #80sMusic #80sAnthem #RockAnthem #MelodicRock #MotivationalRock #BornForBattle #ClassicRock #MovieSoundtracks #SoundtrackMusic #LongWayToTheTop #ShayneBrian #NeverSurrender #FightToSurvive #TheTransformersMovieSoundtrack #ReformattedEdition See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E12- Stan Bush: How to Write an 80s Rock Anthem That Lasts Forever

  7. Jun 22

    S4E11 - John Brewster (The Angels) – The Real Story Behind “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again”

    In this exclusive interview on Long Way to the Top, Shayne chats with John Brewster, founding member and guitarist of The Angels, as the band celebrates 50 years of their iconic Australian rock anthem “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again.” From its origins as a deeply emotional song inspired by loss through to becoming one of the most recognisable singalongs in Australian music history, John shares the full story behind the track — including the real origin of the legendary crowd chant that fans still scream back at the band today. 📣 Where did the famous “No way, get…” chant actually come from?John reveals how it first stunned the band during a live show in the early ’80s — and how it spread across the country to become a defining moment in Aussie rock culture. We also dive into: The story behind writing and recording the song in 1976 How the track evolved into a live anthem What it means to the band 50 years on The legacy of Doc Neeson and the early Angels years Why the song still connects with new generations of fans 🎤 Plus, John talks about hitting the road again for the “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again… 50 Years On” National Tour, bringing one of Australia’s greatest rock bands back to stages across the country. Subscribe to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians and industry legends who created — and continue to create — the soundtrack of our lives. Visit facebook.com/thelongwaytothetoppodcast 📍 TOUR DATES: Tickets are available at https://theangels.auThe Angels are touring nationally across Australia in 2026, including: Fri June 4 – Coolangatta, QLD Fri June 5 – Caloundra West, QLD Sat June 6 – Beenleigh, QLD Fri June 12 – Hornsby, NSW Sat June 13 – Albion Park Rail, NSW Fri June 19 – Woden, ACT Sat June 20 – Albury, NSW 🎸 Fri July 3 – Launceston, TAS (Country Club Showroom) Sat July 4 – Hobart, TAS Fri July 10 – Belmont, NSW Sat July 11 – Revesby, NSW Fri July 17 – Fremantle, WA Sat July 18 – Perth, WA Fri July 31 – Caringbah, NSW Sat August 1 – Marrickville, NSW Fri August 7 – Shoal Bay, NSW Sat August 8 – Prestons, NSW Fri August 14 – Geelong, VIC Sat August 15 – Melbourne, VIC Fri August 28 – Kingsford, NSW Sat August 29 – Mona Vale, NSW Fri September 11 – Brisbane, QLD Sat September 12 – Capalaba, QLD Fri October 23 – Rozelle, NSW Sat October 24 – Rozelle, NSW Fri November 6 – Adelaide, SA 🎧 If you love classic Australian rock, The Angels, or iconic live music moments, this is a must-listen interview. #TheAngels #JohnBrewster #AmIEverGonnaSeeYourFaceAgain #AussieRock #ClassicHits #AustralianMusic #RockInterview #MusicPodcast #RockHistory #PubRock #MusicLegends #LiveMusicAustralia #ClassicRockFans #FaceAgain #AussieAnthem #CrowdChant #IconicSongs #MusicStories #Launceston #TasmaniaEvents #LiveInTassie #CountryClubLaunceston #AustralianTour #GigGuide #ShayneBrian #AfternoonsWithShayne #LAFM #longwaytothetop See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E11 - John Brewster (The Angels) – The Real Story Behind “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again”

  8. Jun 15

    S4E10 - Beeb Birtles: Zoot at 60, Little River Band & a Lifetime of Music & Faith

    Australian music legend Beeb Birtles joins Shayne Brian on Long Way to the Top for a fascinating deep dive into one of the most remarkable careers in Australian rock history. From the colourful pop explosion of Zoot to the international success of Little River Band, Beeb reflects on six decades in music, songwriting, fame, faith, and the ever-changing music industry. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Zoot, Beeb shares stories from the band's early days with Rick Springfield and Darryl Cotton, the origins of the band's iconic name, and the surprising connection to Doc Neeson. He also revisits the pre-Zoot era with Down the Line and their work as a backing band for John Farnham. The conversation explores Beeb's role in Little River Band, including writing the band's debut single Curiosity Killed the Cat, helping create timeless hits like Everyday of My Life, Home on Monday and Happy Anniversary, and witnessing Australian music conquer the world stage. Shayne and Beeb also discuss the rise of Yacht Rock, the pressures of fame, spirituality, Christian faith, and what continues to inspire creativity after more than sixty years in music. Whether you're a fan of classic Australian rock, Little River Band, Zoot, or the golden era of 70s music, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode: The story behind changing his name from Gerard Bertelkamp to Beeb Birtles Celebrating 60 years of Zoot The origins of the name "Zoot" and its connection to Doc Neeson Working in Down the Line as a backing band for John Farnham Memories of Rick Springfield and Darryl Cotton The groundbreaking success of Zoot's Eleanor Rigby The formation and early days of Little River Band Writing Little River Band's first single Curiosity Killed the Cat The stories behind the classic LRB songs. Breaking into the American market and global success Little River Band's place in Yacht Rock history Creativity, songwriting and solo work Faith, spirituality and life beyond fame The future of Australian music and preserving its legacy Subscribe to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian for in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians and industry legends who created — and continue to create — the soundtrack of our lives. Visit https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast #BeebBirtles #LittleRiverBand #Zoot #YachtRock #AustralianMusic #ClassicRock #RickSpringfield #JohnFarnham #LongWayToTheTop #ShayneBrian #MusicPodcast #AustralianRock #LRB #70sMusic #RockHistory #DocNeeson Image © Jackson Moon Photography. Taken at the German Club as part of the Adelaide Fringe Festival, February 22, 2019. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    S4E10 - Beeb Birtles: Zoot at 60, Little River Band & a Lifetime of Music & Faith
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About

Every song has a story. Every legend has a journey. Long Way to the Top is where those stories come alive — the raw, revealing, and often hilarious moments behind rock’s most enduring names. Hosted by Shayne Brian, this is the ultimate backstage pass into the minds of the artists who built the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping anthems and studio secrets to the reinventions that kept them alive across decades, each episode dives deep into the grit, the glory, and the genius that made these icons who they are. Featuring legendary guests including: Stewart Copeland (The Police) — on the art of rhythm, rebellion, and creating one of the most innovative bands in rock history. Leo Sayer — sharing stories from a five-decade career of global hits, resilience, and reinvention. Russell Morris — reflecting on The Real Thing and the timeless spirit of Australian music. Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool, Mondo Rock) — taking us through six decades of songs that shaped Aussie rock. Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet) — reliving the glamour, sound, and legacy of the 1980s New Romantic movement. Steve Kilbey (The Church) — exploring mysticism, creativity, and the making of Under the Milky Way. Whether you grew up spinning vinyl or streaming playlists, Long Way to the Top takes you deep into the world of the artists who defined generations — and are still climbing. Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. And head over to Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast, Keep on Rocking!

Information

  • Creator
    Shayne Brian
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    2026 © Bad Boys Media
  • Show Website
    Long Way to the Top

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