Long Way to the Top

Shayne Brian
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  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

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. S4E7 - Casey Barnes

    4d ago

    S4E7 - Casey Barnes

    Australian country rock star Casey Barnes joins Shayne Brian on Long Way to the Top for an in-depth conversation about his brand-new album Made For This, his powerful duet with Pete Murray called Time To Burn, and the incredible journey that has made him one of the biggest names in Australian country music. In this exclusive interview, Casey opens up about the personal stories behind the new album, the themes of resilience, perseverance and vulnerability woven throughout the record, and how songs like Made For This, Rough Around The Edges and Still In The Fight reflect where he is in both life and career. Shayne also dives into Casey’s rise from the Queensland pub circuit to national success, his chart-topping albums, Golden Guitar recognition, international touring, and becoming the voice behind the NRL on Nine anthem Made For This. This episode also explores: The making of the new album Made For This Working with producers Michael Paynter, Michael DeLorenzis, Andy Skib and Mitch Thompson Casey’s first collaboration with Pete Murray The evolution of Australian country rock Songwriting, storytelling and balancing arena-ready anthems with emotional honesty Touring plans and what fans can expect next If you love Australian country music, country rock, heartfelt songwriting and deep-dive artist interviews, this episode is for you. To find out more about the upcoming album and tour or to purchase Casey's new merch, head to - https://www.caseybarnes.com.au/ Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    20 min
  2. S4E6 - Kim Wilde

    May 23

    S4E6 - Kim Wilde

    The queen of 80s pop is back — and this is one of the most revealing interviews Kim Wilde has done in years. In this special episode of Long Way to the Top, Shayne Brian sits down with global pop icon Kim Wilde ahead of her 2026 Australian Closer Tour for an in-depth conversation about fame, reinvention, music, creativity, and surviving one of the most defining decades in pop culture history. From the explosive success of Kids In America to massive worldwide hits like You Keep Me Hangin’ On, Cambodia, You Came, View From A Bridge, Chequered Love and If I Can’t Have You, Kim opens up about the songs that shaped a generation — and the moments behind them that fans rarely hear about. Image used for the podcast tile courtesy of Expressions 1977Check them out here - https://www.instagram.com/expressions1977/ This is not your typical rock interview. Shayne dives deep into: The real story behind Kids In America Growing up in a famous musical family The pressures of being one of the biggest female stars of the 1980s The darker emotional themes hidden inside her music Why Cambodia still resonates decades later Stepping away from fame and reinventing herself Winning a Gold Medal at the Chelsea Flower Show The changing music industry Legacy, identity, creativity and longevity Plus Kim reflects on: Touring Australia through the decades What it feels like performing these songs today The enduring power of 80s music culture And the surprising song she never gets tired of singing live And of course… Shayne finishes the interview with his legendary Fast Five Questions. If you love: Classic rock podcasts 80s pop culture New wave music Deep dive artist interviews Stories behind iconic songs Music documentaries and nostalgiathen this episode is essential listening. 🎟️ KIM WILDE – CLOSER TOUR 2026 AUSTRALIA Wednesday 18 November – Perth – Astor Theatre Friday 20 November – Brisbane – The Tivoli Saturday 21 November – Melbourne – Palais Theatre Sunday 22 November – Geelong – Costa Hall Tuesday 24 November – Adelaide – The Gov Friday 27 November – Newcastle – Civic Theatre Saturday 28 November – Sydney – Enmore Theatre Sunday 29 November – Canberra – Canberra Theatre Tickets and tour information: David Roy Williams Tours Metropolis Touring 🎧 Listen now to Long Way to the Top with Shayne Brian on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio and all major podcast platforms. Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    21 min
  3. S4E5 - Tim Finn - Forever Split Enz

    Apr 26

    S4E5 - Tim Finn - Forever Split Enz

    In this episode of Long Way to the Top, host Shayne Brian sits down with legendary New Zealand singer-songwriter Tim Finn for a deep dive into one of the most influential careers in Australasian rock history. From the art-school origins and global breakthrough of Split Enz, to his pivotal role in Crowded House, and a celebrated solo career including the iconic Escapade album, Tim Finn shares the stories behind the songs that defined generations. With the highly anticipated Split Enz reunion tour and his upcoming A Finn Night Out shows, this interview explores the full spectrum of Finn’s journey — including his early creative influences, the pressures of success, the dynamics of working with brother Neil Finn, and the evolution of his songwriting across decades. Expect rare insights into classic tracks like I Hope I Never, Fraction Too Much Friction, and Dirty Creature, along with candid reflections on artistic risk, reinvention, and the legacy of one of the region’s most enduring musical figures. Long Way to the Top is known for uncovering the real stories behind the music — the struggles, the breakthroughs, and the defining moments that shape legendary careers. 🎙️ If you’re a fan of classic rock, Australian and New Zealand music history, or long-form artist interviews, this is essential listening. To see Tim Finn on his Finn Night Out Tour Saturday, July 4thAnita’s Theatre, Thirroul NSW Saturday, August 29thEnmore Theatre, Sydney NSW Get tickets here - https://www.empiretouring.com.au/ And for Split Enz In Concert visit -  https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=UMBFIJUD26 Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
  4. S4E4 - Blue Water Giants (Josh Phillips, Mel Gaynor & Neil Taylor)

    Apr 6

    S4E4 - Blue Water Giants (Josh Phillips, Mel Gaynor & Neil Taylor)

    What happens when legendary musicians from Procol Harum, Tears for Fears, Robbie Williams and Simple Minds come together to form a brand new band? Welcome to Blue Water Giants — a true rock supergroup made up of some of the most respected players in music. In this exclusive episode of Long Way to the Top, Shayne Brian sits down with: Josh Phillips (Procol Harum) Neil Taylor (Tears for Fears, Robbie Williams) Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds, Robert Palmer) Together, they’ve performed with icons like Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and The Who — and now they’re creating brand new music as Blue Water Giants. 🎧 Presave their brand new single Dangerously In Love dropping at the end of April here: 👉 https://slinky.to/DangerouslyInLove This conversation also comes via a special connection through Ian Grant and the Think Loud for Parkinson’s Project, shining a light on both the music and the mission behind the scenes. 🎤 In this interview, we dive into: The formation of Blue Water Giants Their brand new songs and musical direction Behind-the-scenes stories from their legendary careers Life inside bands like Procol Harum and Simple Minds Touring with global superstars like Robbie Williams and Robert Palmer The difference between session work and being in a band What it takes to stay relevant in rock music today Plus — Shayne’s Quick Fire Round brings out some unexpected (and hilarious) moments from the band. This is not just another interview — this is a deep dive into the musicians behind the music, their legacy, and what happens when decades of experience collide to create something new. If you love classic rock, rock supergroups, music history, and behind-the-scenes artist stories, this is a must-watch. Follow Blue Water Giants on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluewatergiants/ Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast  #BlueWaterGiants #DangerouslyInLove #ClassicRock #LongWayToTheTop #RockInterview #MusicPodcast #ProcolHarum #SimpleMinds #TearsForFears #RobertPalmer #RockLegends #ThinkLoudForParkinsons See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    50 min
  5. S4E3 - Andrew Farriss - Beyond INXS

    Mar 28

    S4E3 - Andrew Farriss - Beyond INXS

    INXS sold over 75 million records worldwide, boasting an impressive catalogue of hits that include ten Australian Top 10 singles and seven US Top 10 singles. The band’s accolades include three Grammy nominations, a BRIT Award for Best International Group, five MTV Music Awards, and seven ARIA Awards, with induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2001. This year INXS is nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But behind the stadium tours, the global hits, and the unmistakable sound was a songwriter..a composer...a producer...a musical architect. Today, we’re stepping beyond the arena lights and into the next chapter. A chapter of country music, Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry plus a new single called Mending Fences This is Andrew Farriss – Beyond INXS. To buy/listen to Andrew Farriss's new single visit https://andrewfarriss.com/music/ Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    42 min
  6. S4E2 - Lloyd Cole (& the Commotions)

    Mar 17

    S4E2 - Lloyd Cole (& the Commotions)

    As the frontman of Lloyd Cole and the Commotions, Lloyd burst onto the scene in the mid-80s with a sound that blended jangly guitar pop with deeply intelligent, often cinematic lyricism. Songs like Rattlesnakes, Perfect Skin, and Lost Weekend didn’t just stand out on radio… they painted pictures. They made you lean in. They made you think. But Lloyd Cole was never interested in standing still. From Glasgow to New York, from band life to a fiercely independent solo career, he’s continued to evolve, releasing music on his own terms, exploring everything from stripped-back acoustic records to more experimental, electronic textures. Now, he’s heading back to Australia, bringing that incredible catalogue with him, along with the stories, the perspective, and the songs that have stood the test of time.Enjoy Long Way to the Top with Lloyd Cole.  For all the concert details visit - https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/lloydcole Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    22 min
  7. S4E1 - Phil Campbell (Motörhead, The Bastard Sons)

    Mar 15

    S4E1 - Phil Campbell (Motörhead, The Bastard Sons)

    Welcome to Season 4 of Long Way to the Top, the podcast where we dive deep into the stories behind rock’s biggest names, their defining moments, and the road that brought them here. I’m kicking off this year with a bang. Maybe a little later than planned, but with some incredible guests on the way. Andrew Farriss, Tim Finn, members of Spandau Ballet, and we’ll also be revisiting some interviews from the vault that either never made it into Season 3 or are simply too good not to hear again. I wanted to start Season 4 with an interview that is very relevant today given the sad news of the passing of Phil Campbell, a guitarist whose riffs and firepower helped define one of the loudest and most influential bands in heavy music. For more than 30 years, Phil Campbell stood shoulder to shoulder with Lemmy in Motörhead, helping shape the band’s unmistakable sound on albums like Orgasmatron, Bastards and Inferno. Together they toured the globe relentlessly, building one of the most powerful legacies in rock until Lemmy’s passing in 2015 brought that incredible chapter to a close. But Phil didn’t hang up the guitar. Instead, he carried that same raw spirit into a new chapter with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, a band that just happens to feature his own sons alongside him on stage.Enjoy this chat with Phil Campbell from Motörhead. Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    S3E13 - Dave Graney

    Enjoy this quick little chat with Dave Graney as he finishes up his Coral Snakes tour.  It is the Soft and Sexy Sound of the King of Cool this week. Hit plus or follow to subscribe to the podcast. Check out our socials - https://www.facebook.com/TheLongWayToTheTopPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    9 min
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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
    75
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    2026 © Bad Boys Media
  • Show Website
    Long Way to the Top

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