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

Sandy Kaye
  • 4.6 (25)
  • 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. Blood Sweat & Tears - an Inside Look with Founder Steve Katz

    1d ago

    Blood Sweat & Tears - an Inside Look with Founder Steve Katz

    Steve Katz is known as a founding member of Blood, Sweat & Tears as well as a guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer and author. Steve shares incredible stories from a career that spans more than six decades, taking listeners inside the birth of folk-rock, the Greenwich Village music scene, the formation of Blood, Sweat & Tears, Woodstock, Monterey Pop and beyond. Steve recalls his early days studying under folk and blues legends Dave Van Ronk and Reverend Gary Davis, spending time with Mississippi John Hurt, and joining Danny Kalb's influential band The Blues Project. He describes the excitement of discovering electric music in the mid-1960s and how that experience eventually led him to help create one of the most innovative bands of the era. The conversation explores the formation of Blood, Sweat & Tears with Al Kooper, the decision to incorporate a horn section, and the band's meteoric rise following the arrival of vocalist David Clayton-Thomas. Steve discusses the enormous success of hits including "Spinning Wheel," "You've Made Me So Very Happy," and "And When I Die," as well as the Grammy-winning album that made the band international stars. Listeners will also hear fascinating stories about performing at Monterey Pop Festival, the realities of Woodstock, sharing food backstage with Jimi Hendrix, meeting Otis Redding, and navigating the political pressures that resulted in Blood, Sweat & Tears undertaking a controversial State Department tour of Eastern Europe during the Nixon era. Steve also opens up about leaving Blood, Sweat & Tears, producing Lou Reed, working with Beatles producer George Martin, his years in the record business, discovering new artists, passing on U2, and why he remains grateful for every twist and turn in his extraordinary career. The episode also highlights Steve's memoir, Blood, Sweat and My Rock 'n' Roll Years, and his continuing work as a musician and creative artist. A fascinating listen for music fans of all generations.

    52 min
  2. Tony Burrows: The Voice Behind so many '70s Hits

    Jun 10

    Tony Burrows: The Voice Behind so many '70s Hits

    Did you know that one singer secretly voiced some of the biggest pop hits of the 1970s — all at the same time? Most people have no idea who he was. In this fascinating episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Sandy Kaye chats with legendary British session singer Tony Burrows, the man behind an astonishing string of international hits including Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes), My Baby Loves Lovin', Gimme Dat Ding, United We Stand and many more. Tony reveals the incredible story behind his unique career as one of Britain’s most in-demand studio vocalists during the golden age of pop music. While audiences believed these were all separate bands, Tony was often the lead voice behind them all — a situation so unusual that at one point he famously appeared multiple times on Top of the Pops performing with different “groups” on the same show. In this warm and revealing conversation, Tony shares how he deliberately chose life as a studio singer over the pressures of touring and fame, allowing him to become one of the music industry’s best-kept secrets. He explains why he never wanted to tour with Edison Lighthouse, how he negotiated royalties that still pay today, and why he believes TikTok has helped introduce Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) to a whole new generation of listeners. Tony also opens up about: Recording the smash hit Gimme Dat Ding in just two takes Why United We Stand still resonates so strongly today Touring with The Beatles during the height of Beatlemania Singing backing vocals for Elton John, Rod Stewart and Cliff Richard His contribution to Elton’s iconic Tiny Dancer The bizarre moment the BBC reportedly banned him from appearing on television The real story behind Edison Lighthouse and the many studio “bands” of the era Why he became more famous in America than in his native UK There are wonderful behind-the-scenes stories throughout this interview, including Tony’s memories of working nonstop in London recording studios, travelling anonymously on the Tube while his songs dominated radio stations worldwide, and the surreal experience of hearing modern audiences rediscover his music decades later through social media. Despite being connected to an extraordinary catalogue of timeless hits, Tony remains remarkably humble and funny throughout the conversation, reflecting on a career that helped shape the sound of classic pop music. If you love '60s and '70s music, studio session stories, classic pop craftsmanship and discovering the hidden figures behind famous songs, this episode is an absolute treat. Listen now to hear the remarkable untold story of the voice behind some of the biggest hits of a generation.

    52 min
  3. The Beach Boys' Al Jardine Al Jardine Reflects on The Band, Brian Wilson and the Music That Changed the World

    Jun 3

    The Beach Boys' Al Jardine Al Jardine Reflects on The Band, Brian Wilson and the Music That Changed the World

    Al Jardine is perhaps one of few artists who can say they helped create an entirely new sound that changed popular music forever. In this warm and revealing conversation, the founding member of The Beach Boys looks back on the extraordinary journey that took a group of California teenagers from local surf culture to global music immortality. As Al prepares to tour Australia celebrating the 60th anniversary of the landmark album Pet Sounds, he shares deeply personal memories of growing up alongside Brian Wilson, Carl Wilson and Dennis Wilson. Long before worldwide fame, Al and Brian were football teammates and college friends with a shared love of music, particularly folk, doo-wop and intricate vocal harmonies. Al reveals that the original musical vision for the band wasn’t surf music at all. But Dennis Wilson’s passion for surfing changed everything. What followed was one of the most remarkable runs in music history. From “Surfin’ USA” and “California Girls” to “Good Vibrations,” and “Help Me Rhonda,” The Beach Boys became synonymous with youth, freedom and the California dream. It was Brian Wilson’s musical genius that sat at the centre of it all. According to Al, Brian could hear complete arrangements in his head, using the band members as instruments to bring his musical ideas to life. The conversation also explores the personal sacrifices and difficult decisions that shaped Al’s life. Al speaks fondly about songs that remain central to every live show, including “God Only Knows,” “Sloop John B” and “Good Vibrations.” He also shares how his son Matt Jardine now performs alongside him, helping recreate the famously difficult Beach Boys harmonies for modern audiences. There are emotional moments too, particularly when discussing Brian Wilson’s legacy and passing. Al describes Brian simply as “pure genius,” reflecting on the creative obsession that drove him to constantly compose, arrange and innovate. He credits Brian with pushing the boundaries of pop music while still creating songs filled with emotion and soul. Despite decades of touring, Al remains energised by performing live. He says younger generations are increasingly discovering The Beach Boys’ music, proving these songs continue to resonate far beyond the era in which they were created. He also continues writing new material himself, drawing inspiration from his lifelong love of folk music and unfinished songs still waiting to be completed. This interview is not only a celebration of The Beach Boys’ extraordinary catalogue, but also a tribute to friendship, creativity and the enduring power of timeless music. More than sixty years after those first harmonies were sung, Al Jardine remains deeply connected to the songs — and the spirit — that helped define generations. Join Sandy Kaye for a fascinating and deeply personal conversation with Al Jardine — founding member of The Beach Boys and one of the voices behind some of the most beloved songs in music history. In this episode, Al discusses: How The Beach Boys originally planned to become a folk music groupDennis Wilson’s role in introducing surfing culture into the band’s musicThe creation of classics Brian Wilson’s extraordinary musical genius and perfectionismThe emotional legacy of Pet Sounds and Brian Wilson’s later workTouring Australia with the Pet Sounds BandNew songs and unreleased material Al is still working on today This episode is packed with warmth, humour, nostalgia and incredible behind-the-scenes stories from one of the architects of the California sound. This is a warm, funny and emotional interview with one of rock music’s true legends — packed with incredible stories and insights from the soundtrack of our lives.

    52 min
  4. Grand Funk Railroad's Mark Farmer on The Loco-Motion and Rock History

    May 27

    Grand Funk Railroad's Mark Farmer on The Loco-Motion and Rock History

    This week, one of classic rock’s most recognisable voices — singer, guitarist and songwriter Mark Farner, founding member of Grand Funk Railroad. With more than 30 million records sold worldwide, 16 gold and platinum albums and a string of massive hits including “I’m Your Captain,” “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “The Loco-Motion” and “We’re An American Band,” Grand Funk Railroad became one of the biggest rock acts of the '70s. But in this deeply personal conversation, Mark reveals there’s far more to his story than stadiums and success. Mark opens up about his childhood in Michigan and the devastating loss of his father when he was just nine years old. He shares how his family’s Sunday gospel gatherings, filled with bluegrass music, harmonies and love, became the foundation for both his spirituality and his future career in music. He also talks about his Cherokee ancestry on his mother’s side and the powerful influence spirituality had within the family from an early age. You'll hear the extraordinary story of how a young Mark experienced what he describes as a life-changing spiritual moment while watching evangelist Billy Graham on television — a moment that would shape the message and direction of his music for decades to come. Surprisingly, music wasn’t Mark’s first dream. He had originally planned on a future in football until injuries forced him off the field. That setback led his mother to rent him a guitar and arrange lessons, unknowingly setting him on the path that would eventually change rock history. Mark takes us through the early Michigan band scene, including his time with Terry Knight and the Pack alongside future Grand Funk drummer Don Brewer. He explains how the frustrations of struggling bands, freezing road trips and failed tours eventually led to the formation of Grand Funk Railroad with bassist Mel Schacher. One of the highlights is Mark’s vivid recollection of the band’s breakthrough appearance at the Atlanta Pop Festival, where three unknown musicians from Flint, Michigan stunned a crowd of 185,000 people and instantly realised their lives had changed forever. Mark also reflects on the unique musical identity of Grand Funk Railroad, explaining how the band’s roots were grounded more in soulful R&B than traditional blues or heavy metal. He discusses wanting audiences to dance, feel joy and experience connection through the music. The conversation dives deeply into the creation of the band’s most iconic songs. Mark reveals the remarkable spiritual experience that inspired “I’m Your Captain,” describing how the song arrived almost fully formed during a semi-conscious moment in the middle of the night after praying for music that could truly reach people’s hearts. He also shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories about recording “The Loco-Motion,” including how producer Todd Rundgren spontaneously decided the band should record the song after hearing them casually singing it outside the studio. Throughout the interview, Mark speaks passionately about the emotional connection between musicians, instruments and songwriting. He explains how specific guitars and keyboards inspired entire songs and albums, including E Pluribus Funk and “Mean Mistreater.” Mark also discusses: The pressures and excitement of massive success in the '70sGrand Funk Railroad being labelled “the loudest band in the world”The unexpected breakup of the band in 1976His Christian music careerCharity work Family life, marriage and staying grounded despite fameWhy spreading love and positivity remains his greatest missionWarm, funny, spiritual and refreshingly honest, Mark Farner proves himself to be far more than simply a rock star. This is an uplifting conversation about resilience, creativity, faith and the enduring power of music to bring people together. If you love classic rock history, candid artist interviews and the stories behind timeless songs, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

    52 min
  5. Sam the Sham – The Wild Story Behind Wooly Bully and a '60s Rock Phenomenon

    May 20

    Sam the Sham – The Wild Story Behind Wooly Bully and a '60s Rock Phenomenon

    In this episode, we dive into the colourful, high-energy world of Domingo Samudio, better known as Sam the Sham, the unforgettable frontman of Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs. With his trademark turban, cape, and mischievous grin, Sam didn’t just perform music—he created a spectacle that helped define the fun, rebellious spirit of 1960s rock and roll. We explore Sam’s early life in Texas, where his rich cultural influences helped shape a sound that fused rhythm and blues, garage rock, and Tex-Mex flair. From humble beginnings playing small clubs to forming the Pharaohs, Sam’s journey is one of persistence, personality, and pure musical instinct. Of course, no conversation about Sam the Sham is complete without his global smash hit Wooly Bully—a track that became one of the biggest-selling singles of 1965. With its infectious groove and playful lyrics, the song captured the carefree spirit of a generation and remains a party favourite to this day. We take a closer look at how that iconic track came together and why it still resonates decades later. We also revisit the success of Little Red Riding Hood, another standout hit that proved Sam was far more than a one-hit wonder. With its cheeky storytelling and catchy hook, it cemented his place in pop culture history and showcased his ability to blend novelty with genuine musical craftsmanship. As musical tastes shifted in the late 1960s, Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs faced the same challenges as many artists of the era. We explore the changing landscape of rock music, the impact of lineup changes, and how Sam navigated a rapidly evolving industry. You’ll also hear about Sam’s decision to step away from the spotlight in the 1970s, choosing a quieter, more spiritual path rather than chasing ongoing fame. It’s a fascinating turn that adds depth to the story of a man who once lit up stages around the world. This episode celebrates the legacy of a true original—an artist who brought humour, theatre, and unforgettable music to millions. Whether you remember dancing to Wooly Bully or are discovering Sam the Sham for the first time, this is a story that captures the magic of a golden era in music. Tune in and rediscover the sound, the style, and the spirit of one of the most unique voices of the '60s.

    52 min
  6. Remembering Dennis Locorriere :The Voice of Dr. Hook Dead At 76

    May 18

    Remembering Dennis Locorriere :The Voice of Dr. Hook Dead At 76

    The music world has lost one of its most distinctive voices with the passing of Dennis Locorriere, the longtime frontman of Dr. Hook, who died aged 76 following a battle with kidney disease. The voice behind some of the most loved soft rock and country-pop hits of the 1970s has fallen silent. In this special tribute episode, we remember the life, music and remarkable legacy of Dennis Locorriere — the unmistakable lead singer of Dr. Hook. Best known for timeless classics including Sharing the Night Together, When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman, Sylvia’s Mother and Only Sixteen, Dennis brought warmth, humour, heartache and soul to every performance. His rich, emotional voice helped make Dr. Hook one of the most successful bands of the 1970s, earning more than 60 gold and platinum records and chart success across the world. But there was far more to Dennis than the hits. Born in New Jersey, he joined Dr. Hook in the late 1960s and quickly became the band’s musical centrepiece, helping transform them from quirky storytellers into international superstars. Alongside the legendary eyepatch-wearing Ray Sawyer, Dennis balanced humour with vulnerability in songs that connected deeply with audiences everywhere. Australia held a particularly special place in Dennis’s heart. Dr. Hook enjoyed enormous success here, scoring multiple hits and building a loyal fanbase that followed him right through his later touring years. Even after the original band dissolved, Dennis continued performing Dr. Hook songs to packed theatres around the world, keeping the music alive for generations of fans. In this episode, we reflect on Dennis’s extraordinary career, the enduring appeal of Dr. Hook’s music, and the songs that became part of the soundtrack to so many lives. We’ll revisit the stories behind the hits, the humour and humanity that defined the band, and the unique voice that made Dennis Locorriere unforgettable. This is a celebration of a man whose music made us laugh, cry, sing along and remember. Rest easy, Dennis — and thanks for sharing the night together with all of us.

    52 min
  7. Dire Straits' John Illsley on Mark Knopfler, Fame & Walking Away at the Top

    May 13

    Dire Straits' John Illsley on Mark Knopfler, Fame & Walking Away at the Top

    Today, Sandy sits down with John Illsley, founding member and bassist of Dire Straits, for an intimate and revealing conversation about the extraordinary journey behind one of the most iconic bands in rock history. John takes us right back to the beginning, sharing the story of how a modest council flat in South London became the unlikely birthplace of Dire Straits. It was there that a chance encounter with Mark Knopfler—via his brother David—sparked a musical partnership that would go on to change their lives forever. What followed was a series of coincidences that feel almost like fate, from forming the band to recording their first demo tape. He recalls the pivotal moment when that demo, featuring Sultans of Swing, landed in the hands of influential radio DJ Charlie Gillett and was played on air—setting off a chain reaction that saw record companies clamouring to sign them almost overnight. It was the breakthrough that launched Dire Straits onto the global stage. From there, John reflects on the band’s meteoric rise through the late 1970s and 1980s, as they became one of the biggest acts in the world. With timeless hits like Money for Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, Tunnel of Love and Brothers in Arms, Dire Straits created a sound that continues to resonate across generations. John shares insights into the creative process, the importance of band chemistry, and the unique musical connection he shared with Mark Knopfler. But alongside the success came the realities of life on the road. John speaks candidly about the pressures of global touring, the physical and emotional toll it took, and the moment the band realised it was time to step away. Despite playing to millions and reaching extraordinary heights, they made the difficult decision to walk away after their final tour in the early 1990s—preserving both their legacy and their relationships. The conversation also explores John’s life beyond Dire Straits. He talks about his autobiography My Life in Dire Straits, a deeply personal reflection on the band’s journey, as well as his eighth solo album Eight, created during lockdown in collaboration with his son. It’s a project that highlights not only his enduring creativity but also the importance of family and connection. John also opens up about his passion for painting, his ongoing work as a musician, and his perspective on ageing, resilience and purpose. Having faced significant health challenges, including a long battle with leukaemia, he reflects on life with gratitude and a renewed sense of balance. Warm, thoughtful and often quietly humorous, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of a musician whose work helped define a generation—and who continues to evolve, create and inspire. If you'd like, I can also tailor a slightly shorter version for podcast apps that cut off descriptions early, or add a stronger hook in the first two lines to boost click-through.

    52 min
  8. Joe Camilleri: The Black Sorrows, Jo Jo Zep & 60 Years in Music

    May 6

    Joe Camilleri: The Black Sorrows, Jo Jo Zep & 60 Years in Music

    Joe Camilleri is one of the most influential and enduring figures in Australian music, and in this episode he shares the remarkable story behind a career that has spanned more than six decades. From his early life as a migrant child growing up in Melbourne to becoming the driving force behind Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons and The Black Sorrows, Joe’s journey is filled with passion, persistence and reinvention. In this conversation, Joe reflects on leaving school at a young age, working tough jobs, and finding his identity through music. He talks about teaching himself to play, learning by ear, and the formative years performing hundreds of gigs with bands like The Kingbees. As his musical interests evolved, Joe embraced the saxophone and began shaping a sound that blended blues, rock, jazz and soul. He opens up about the rise of Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons, the challenges of recording and finding success, and the intense pressures that came with fame. When the momentum slowed, Joe faced a difficult period that ultimately led him to rethink his path and start again. That reinvention came with The Black Sorrows, a band that would go on to define a new chapter in his career. With the support of Elvis Costello and a creative partnership with Nick Smith, Joe found renewed success and international recognition through a string of hit songs. Today, Joe continues to tour and create, driven by a deep love of music and a desire to keep evolving. This episode offers a candid and inspiring look at the life of an artist who has truly lived through the highs and lows of the industry and emerged with a story worth telling.

    52 min
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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

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