VRP Rocks - Classic Rock Interviews

Legendary drummer Carmine Appice reveals all about the new blues heavy album from Cactus - which features an incredible array of guest musicians! Ranging from Joe Bonamassa to Dee Snider, Pat Travers to Ted Nugent, artists were jumping over each other to play on this new record. Plus, Carmine reveals lifts the lid on future work, including an AI pop singer and Rod Stewart tribute act! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary drummer Carmine Appice takes listeners on an enthralling journey through his iconic music career. With over 60 years in the industry, Carmine shares insights into the 5 favourite albums that he has played on, which is no mean feat given he's contributed to hundreds of records over his career. He tells stories about working with renowned artists such as Jeff Beck, Rod Stewart and John Sykes. This interview uncovers fascinating details about the making of huge hits, unforgettable albums and memorable bands, offering an unmissable glimpse into the world of rock and roll history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of VRP Rocks, guitarist Tino Troy, co-founder of seminal rock band Praying Mantis, takes us on an incredible journey through the band's 50 year history. From their humble beginnings in the '70s to becoming part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement, Tino shares captivating stories about their iconic releases, including "Time Tells No Lies" featuring the anthem "Children of the Earth" through to their latest album Defiance which was released on April 19th. Discover the rich legacy of Praying Mantis, including their encounters with bands like Iron Maiden and the bittersweet tale of a hit song that fell into the hands of Ritchie Blackmore, their success in Japan and the issues with management which stopped the rapid rise. Join us for an inside look at the band's incredible evolution and ongoing impact on the rock music scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of VRP Rocks, drummer Michael Cartellone, known for his work with Lynyrd Skynyrd and Damn Yankees, shares captivating insights into his artistic journey and musical career. We talk about the influence Ron Nevison had on his career, working on a Freddie Mercury track, touring with ZZ Top, being the "unknown" member of a supergroup and reminiscences of his time with John Wetton and Eddie Jobson, this episode promises an engaging blend of art, music history, and timeless classics. We also delve into his artistic career, from his iconic music-themed paintings featuring the original members of Lynyrd Skynyrd and Ringo Starr's perspective during the Beatles' last live performance, to his upcoming art exhibition "Bella Italia," filled with rich Sicilian ancestry, Cartellone's stories are both inspiring and profound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays guest is a guitarist making a BIG name for herself in the world of rock! Nita Strauss has been the guitarist in Alice Cooper's band for a number of years but has successfully released a number of solo records, became the first female to have her own signature guitar series with Ibanez, earned her very own Superbowl ring and was named by Guitar World as number 1 on their list of female guitar players you should know. Nita is joined in the interview by her fiancé Josh, who is also her manager and the drummer in her band! Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary rock vocalist, LOU GRAMM, joins me for this open, honest and insightful interview spanning his career! He talks about the crash which led to him joining Foreigner, the quick success and backlash they received, why he had to leave Foreigner and why he feels his solo career was tanked. He talks candidly about his relationship with ex bandmate Mick Jones and about how things stand with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination. He also talks about his new album to be released later in 2024, why this year is his last year for touring and about the great work he's doing with the Lou Gramm Foundation! Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary bassist Leland Sklar takes us behind the scenes of iconic albums and collaborations with music legends. From his work on Phil Collins' chart-topping "No Jacket Required" to his enduring partnership with James Taylor, Leland shares captivating stories of the music industry's highs and lows. Delve into Sklar's profound insights on the impact of negative press, the unpredictability of industry success, and the enduring influence of timeless music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a special bonus episode of VRP Rocks, iconic rock vocalist, Joe Lynn Turner, answers your questions! We delve into his time with Yngwie and Deep Purple, we hear stories of being thrown out of a bar with Johnny Rotten, how he first met Ritchie Blackmore, why he felt it was the right time to reveal his alopecia and how becoming a father again has changed him. He also talks about future plans with perhaps a surprising twist ahead! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 In this exclusive episode of VRP Rocks, iconic rock legend Joe Lynn Turner takes centre stage, sharing insights and personal anecdotes in a candid discussion. Delving deep into his illustrious career, Turner highlights his all-time favourite albums, including Rainbow and his solo albums, supergroup collaborations and more. The rock maestro also reveals behind-the-scenes stories from the people involved in making these records! This episode offers a mesmerizing journey through the career of a music icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 This is a fascinating and brutally honest interview with a man who hasn't done too many interviews over the years, and it shows! Frankie Sullivan, guitarist and founding member of Survivor sets the record straight telling his version of events from the Survivor story! It's a truly intriguing chat that takes many twists and turns throughout. Prepare to be engaged! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 Rik Emmett joins me to answer YOUR questions! you'll hear about on-stage accidents, his famous white V guitar, the US Festival, the best band he saw live and much more! Plus he tells us about his new compilation album Diamonds too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 This weeks guest is the legendary musician and songwriter, Russ Ballard! Discover the enthralling backstory of Russ Ballard's musical journey, from his worldwide hit "Hold Your Head Up" with Argent to his solo career, years working with Roger Daltrey, the stories behind his anthems, such as "Since You've Been Gone" and "I Surrender" by Rainbow, "God Gave Rock and Roll to You," which gained attention through KISS and Ace Frehley's 70's hit with "New York Groove." He also speaks honestly and openly about his battle with depression and how it shaped his songwriting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270  In this episode of VRP Rocks, iconic drummer Nigel Glockler, known for his legendary work with the band Saxon, shares captivating insights into the band's journey. Telling stories from tours with Ozzy Osbourne, Motorhead and Motley Crue, legal battles over their name, why he quit the band in 1987 and what lured him back, to their latest triumphs with the release of their 24th studio album, "Hell, Fire, and Damnation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 - the 24/7 online classic rock station unlike any other classic rock radio! Playing deep cuts and forgotten bands, give it a try, you won't regret it! This week legendary bass player and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Jack Casady, joins Paul to talk about his life in music. The Jefferson Airplane / Hot Tuna star talks about how he and Jorma Kaukonen met, joining the Airplane, working with Jimi Hendrix on one his most iconic songs, Voodoo Chile, Woodstock and the Rock Hall Induction! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this insightful interview Eddie Ojeda opens up on many hot topics from his career, including his thoughts on Dee Snider's prominent role in the PMRC hearing, how his guitar sparked jealousy amongst his bandmates, how they "creates a monster" in recruiting Dee into Twisted Sister and much more. If you enjoyed this episode please check out Episode 98 and Episode 111 which features extended interviews with Eddie's former Twisted Sister bandmates Dee Snider and Jay Jay French! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Foghat legend Roger Earl joins VRP Rocks again, this time to talk about the bands new hit album Sonic Mojo! The groups first studio record for 7 years, it's topped the Billboard Blues chart and is pulling in rave reviews... so Paul got Roger back to speak about all about it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Stephenson sits down with rock and roll hall of famer, Bev Bevan, for an exclusive and in-depth chat about the Bev's 5 Favourite Albums that he worked on. Bevan, a true rock legend, shares insights into his illustrious career, spanning from his time with The Move, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), Black Sabbath and now Quill. Get ready for an insider's look at the making of the albums, the highs and lows of touring, and the impact of their music on fans around the world. Experience the excitement as Bevan reminisces about the challenges and triumphs during his time on the road, from driving long distances across America to the unforgettable performances at legendary venues. Hear captivating stories about ELO's stage set with a spaceship and the inspiration behind their chart-topping hit "Mr. Blue Sky." As Bev Bevan opens up about his musical journey, he also provides a glimpse into Quill, his current group, and their latest album "Midland Beats," along with exciting plans for the future, including more tours. Discover how you can stay connected with Quill's upcoming shows and events as Bevan shares his passion for their music. Join the conversation and explore the world of classic rock with VRP Rocks as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Bev Bevan and his remarkable contribution to the music industry. Don't miss this extraordinary episode, packed with iconic names, beloved songs, and unforgettable rock and roll memories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rock legend Ace Frehley sits down with Paul Stephenson, sharing insights into his latest album "10,000 Volts" and delving into his storied career as a member of the iconic band KISS! Get ready to rock as Ace discusses his collaboration with renowned musician Steve Brown, the evolution of his music, and the inspiration behind some of his new songs. Listen in as Ace reflects on his time with Kiss, sharing anecdotes about his relationships with fellow band members Paul, Gene and Peter, as well as his transformation into a solo artist and the creation of his groundbreaking solo record in '78. Plus, don't miss out on Ace's engaging stories about his experiences touring in Australia and Japan, from memorable concerts to adventurous escapades. It really is the cliché of s*x, drugs and rock and roll! From his journey to sobriety to his current band lineup and beyond, Ace Frehley holds nothing back in this captivating interview. Join us on VRP Rocks as we dive into the world of rock and roll with Ace Frehley, and discover the electrifying energy behind "10,000 Volts" and the enduring legacy of Kiss. Tune in to VRP Rocks now for an exclusive backstage pass into the life and music of Ace Frehley, and get ready to experience the power of rock like never before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jay Jay French joins me for an in-depth conversation about Twisted Sister's tumultuous journey in the music industry. From the band's early struggles to acclaim and the challenges along the way, Jay Jay French's candid revelations provide a fascinating insight into the world of rock and roll. Delve into Twisted Sister's rise to stardom and inner turmoil as they conquered the music scene with iconic albums like "Stay Hungry" and "Can't Stop Rock and Roll." Jay Jay French recounts the band's relentless pursuit of success, recounting key moments such as meeting Atlantic Records' Doug Morris and their groundbreaking success on MTV with hits like "We're Not Gonna Take It" and "I Wanna Rock." Experience the gripping accounts of resilience and survival as Jay Jay French shares personal challenges, including the loss of his mother, financial hardships, bankruptcy, and the groundbreaking resurgence of Twisted Sister. Uncover the band's remarkable comeback, including headlining major festivals and releasing the beloved Christmas album "A Twisted Christmas." This engaging episode also explores Jay Jay French's entrepreneurial journey, his battle with health issues, and his transformative experiences in the music industry. Dive into discussions on business insights, talent, and dedication, as he shares his wisdom in his new book, "Twisted Business: Lessons from My Life in Rock and Roll." Unearth the captivating stories behind Twisted Sister's resilience and rise to fame and explore the profound impact of their music on the world. Join the conversation as Jay Jay French discusses Twisted Sister's enduring legacy, their 40th-anniversary celebrations, their new album, and his podcast "JJ French Connection" showcasing insights from record company presidents and industry professionals. Tune in to VRP Rocks as Jay Jay French's engaging anecdotes, resilience, and unparalleled dedication inspire and captivate audiences, delivering an unforgettable journey through the highs and lows of a rock and roll icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VRP Rocks pays a heartfelt tribute to the iconic rock stars we lost in 2023. Join Paul and a line-up of esteemed guests including Joe Bonamassa, Peter Frampton, John Illsley (Dire Straits), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Rod Argent (Argent/The Zombies), Simon Phillips, Malcolm Bruce and guitarist Rich Williams (Kansas) as they share personal stories and reminisce about the celebrated careers of some of the rock legends who sadly passed away last year. It's always a hard show to put together, remembering just how many legends we've lost in such a short space of time, but at the same time it's great to be able to pay tribute to the likes of Jeff Beck, Tina Turner, David Crosby, Gary Rossington, Bernie Marsden and others, who left us in the last 12 months. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow VRP Rocks on your preferred podcast app and on YouTube for exclusive content and captivating interviews. With a wealth of fascinating conversations from rock legends like Stewart Copeland, Steve Vai, and more, VRP Rocks is your ultimate destination for enriching classic rock experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Malcolm Bruce, son of Cream bassist Jack Bruce, joins us for an in-depth discussion about the legendary rock band's impact and the new acoustic tribute album "Heavenly Cream." Delve into the fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflections on the making of the album, featuring performances from renowned artists like Paul Rodgers, Ginger Baker, Joe Bonamassa and Malcolm Bruce himself. Malcolm takes you on a journey through Cream's storied history, exploring the band’s musical journey. Get insights into the iconic band's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the complex dynamics within the group, sharing personal anecdotes and reflections on the band's legacy. Discover how “Heavenly Cream” came to be, with Malcolm revealing the origins of the project, the collaborative selection process, and the emotional significance of the album following the passing of significant contributors. Uncover the rare creative process behind the tribute album and the organic inclusion of well-known Cream songs, alongside moving collaborations with respected musicians. Dive into the unique recording process, featuring sessions with Joe Bonamassa, Bernie Marsden, and Paul Rodgers, at iconic the Abbey Road Studios. Learn about the personal connections that shaped the album, as Malcolm shares the influence of Cream on his life and the historical context behind the record. The conversation also delves into the deeper themes and messages within the album, as Malcolm shares his aspirations for creating music of substance in an industry often dominated by "cookie-cutter" mentality. Plus, hear about Malcolm's new solo record "Fake Humans and Real Dolls," set for release in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary songwriter and producer Desmond Child spills all the juiciest details from his career including working with Kiss, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper and more! He shares the quirky backstories and surprising inspirations behind timeless classics such as "Living on a Prayer", "I Was Made for Loving You", "Dude Looks Like a Lady", "I Hate Myself for Loving You" and many more. It's a fascinating look behind the curtain of a man whose records have sold half a billion copies worldwide! To find out more, check out Desmond's new book 'Living On A Prayer, Big Songs, Big Life' which is available now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul is joined by the legendary drummer Simon Phillips, known for his work with classic rock icons like Judas Priest, Toto, The Who, Jeff Beck, and many more. Simon shares captivating stories from his illustrious career, including his experiences as a session musician, his work with different bands, and the challenges he faced along the way. Join us as Simon Phillips takes us on a journey through his remarkable musical odyssey, from his early jazz background to his foray into the world of rock and roll. He provides fascinating insights into his work with Pete Townshend, Jeff Beck, and The Who, shedding light on the unique dynamics of each collaboration. Simon also delves into his decision to join Toto and shares the challenges he encountered as a touring musician. Get ready for an engaging and insightful conversation with a true music maestro as Simon Phillips opens up about the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of his career. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a music enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to VRP Rocks to catch all these incredible stories and more. Don't miss out on exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and the best of classic rock. Stay tuned for future episodes and join us as we celebrate the timeless allure of rock music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Side 2 episode, Paul sits down with Stewart Copeland, the renowned drummer and co-founder of The Police, to discuss the release of his new book, "Stewart Copeland's Police Diaries." The book provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the formative years of The Police, chronicling their journey from struggling musicians to conquering superstars. Get ready to hear Stewart Copeland share captivating stories from The Police's early days, including details about how he recruited Sting, and the pivotal moment when Andy Summers joined the group. Delve into the world of punk rock as Stewart describes the band's interactions with other iconic groups like The Clash and their experiences at the Roxy Club during the punk movement's genesis. Through this riveting interview, listeners will gain insight into the challenges, successes, and enduring passion that shaped The Police's journey to international stardom. Discover the untold stories, struggles, and triumphs that paved the way for the iconic band's rise to fame. Tune in to this episode of VRP Rocks and immerse yourself in the enthralling narrative of one of the most influential bands in music history, as told by the legendary Stewart Copeland. And if you want to hear more from Stewart Copeland, check out the extended interview Paul did with him back on Episode 72 of VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time in VRP Rocks history, this episode is out on location! WinterStorm Festival 2023, held in the small west coast town of Troon in Scotland, attracted an unbelievable array of classic rock bands to the three day spectacular and Paul was there to soak up the atmosphere and mingle. Headliners included Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth and Graham Bonnet as well as many other classic acts like Dutch prog group Focus, original Iron Maiden singer Paul Di'Anno, Tyketto, former Rainbow singer Doogie White, UK rock radio favourites FM and Tyketto. Paul catches up with a number of acts backstage, including some of the newer bands making a name for themselves, as well as few of the gig-goers to get their take on the weekend and festivities. Hopefully this gives you a nice feel for what the 3 day event was all about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Known for his impressive work with bands like Dokken, Warlock and Doro, Jon Levin takes us on a journey through his musical career, sharing insights, stories, and his passion for creating authentic music. From a young age, Jon showed his musical talent by playing various instruments but it was the guitar that captivated him and ignited his passion for rock music. Inspired by guitar gods like Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, Jon honed his skills and pushed himself to excel. Later on, he discovered the guitar mastery of Eddie Van Halen, with "Unchained" becoming his favorite Van Halen track. But it wasn't all smooth sailing for Jon. As he opens up about his challenges with reading comprehension, we gain a deeper understanding of the determination and resilience that define a true rock performer. Jon also shares his experiences collaborating with renowned artists such as Doro Pesch and her band, revealing his pride in Warlock's album and the impact they had on the metal scene. In a surprising turn of events, Jon reveals that he pursued a career in law during the grunge movement. However, music never truly left his soul. Even while in law school, he would occasionally strum his guitar, but it wasn't until he received a life-changing call from Jeff Pilson that his music career reignited. Discussing his time with Dokken, Jon shares the exhilarating story of how he joined the band. Reluctant at first, it was ultimately his father who convinced him to take the leap. Jon's talent shone through as he played two blazing guitar solos for Dokken without even hearing the tracks beforehand, proving that he had the chops to fill the shoes left by other guitarists. Throughout the episode, Jon shows immense admiration for Ed Van Halen, praising his brilliance and recounting a brief encounter with the guitar virtuoso when their bands shared a stage. He also takes us back to his early years, recalling the moment he made the pivotal decision to drop out of college against his parents' wishes and fully commit to a career in music. As we dive into the band's latest album, "Heaven Comes Down," Jon talks about the circumstances they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unable to collaborate in person, the band relied on correspondence to create the record. Jon discusses his struggle with programming drums but overcame the challenge with the help of a friend, Tommy Henriksen. With the downtime, Jon began recording demos and found that writing in the early hours of the morning worked best. Jon explains how the album came together, with him sending Don demos and the lead singer improvising lyrics and melodies on the spot. Some songs were collaborations, while others had already been written, allowing the band to adapt and create despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic. Throughout the episode, Jon's passion for genuine music shines through, as he shares his thoughts on creating without ripping off or forcing ideas. He explains that on "Heaven Comes Down," they managed to accomplish this organically, creating a record filled with raw emotion and strong musicality. Don delves deeper into the creative process and discusses the band's approach to balancing new music with their iconic hits. They explore how the band's sound resonates with a modern audience and discuss the challenges and successes they encountered during the recording process. Looking ahead, Jon Levin reveals exciting plans for the future, with more music videos in the works and a tour scheduled for 2024, potentially including stops in Europe and Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays very special guest, is Mike Derosier, the renowned drummer of the iconic band Heart. Mike Derosier, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, shares his fascinating experiences from his time with Heart, from the 1970s to the early 1980s, contributing his incredible drumming skills to multiple platinum-selling albums. Listen in as Mike talks about his early days with Heart, joining the band, and recording under tight time constraints. Discover how the band honed their sound through electrifying live performances, playing residencies and sharing the stage with iconic bands like The Who, Rolling Stones, Bee Gees, and Rod Stewart. As the conversation unfolds, Mike discusses the changing landscape of the music industry and reflects on the influence of platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Not only does Mike reminisce about his time with Heart, but he also talks about his journey after leaving the band. He shares insights into his collaboration with Orion the Hunter, working with fellow musicians Barry Goudreau and Brad Delp from Boston and Richard Marx. Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes his love for playing classic rock and the importance of representing the songs properly. He discusses the creative process within a rock band, the significance of establishing agreements and roles, as well as his favorite songs to drum, like "Barracuda" and "Mistral Wind." Don't miss this unforgettable episode of VRP Rocks with special guest Mike Derosier, where the magic and nostalgia of classic rock come to life. Tune in, crank up the volume, and get ready to rock out! If you're a fan of Heart, check out episode 21 of VRP Rocks to hear another version of events from the band, with an exclusive interview with Heart's original bass player, Steve Fossen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rudy Sarzo—an iconic figure in the world of rock music—opens up about his fascinating journey, from his early days playing in club bands with his brother to his professional career with renowned bands like Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Blue Oyster Cult, and Dio. An insightful and multifaceted individual, Sarzo takes us on an intriguing exploration that spans from music to quantum physics, belief systems, AI, myths, and consciousness. Paul and Rudy engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the power of human consciousness and its potential to influence our reality. Drawing connections between quantum physics and belief systems, they touch on topics such as the manifestation of thoughts, the influence of collective consciousness on a virtual reality matrix, and the interplay of energy and frequency waves in shaping our experiences. This intellectually stimulating dialogue takes a captivating turn as Rudy shares his insights on the Beatles' new single, reflecting on the cultural impact of music and its role in driving societal shifts and activism. He also discusses his thoughts on the intersection of technology and music production, sparking a conversation about the consciousness of artificial intelligence and the timeless simplicity of the Beatles' music. Amidst this rich array of topics, Rudy delves into his personal journey, revealing how his genealogy and DNA exploration has influenced his health choices and sense of identity. He candidly shares how the music of the Beatles transcended social and cultural boundaries, instilling a sense of unity and hope during turbulent times, both in the United States and in his own life as a Cuban political refugee. As the conversation seamlessly transitions to Rudy Sarzo's music career, listeners are treated to insightful anecdotes about his pivotal roles in bands such as Quiet Riot and Whitesnake. From his initial hesitation to join Quiet Riot to the band's MTV-friendly focus and their groundbreaking success with "Metal Health," Rudy provides an intimate look at his experiences and creative contributions within these influential musical collectives. Rudy also opens up about his deep connection with fellow musicians and shares touching stories about his time with the late Randy Rhoads, emphasizing the profound impact of musical integrity and the enduring legacy of beloved artists. From the mystical allure of Loch Ness to the pioneering spirit of the British invasion, this episode of VRP Rocks captivates audiences with a rare blend of intellectual discourse, personal reflection, and rock 'n' roll nostalgia. As Paul and Rudy wrap up their conversation, listeners are left with a renewed appreciation for the multifaceted nature of music and the pervasive influence of consciousness on our lives. Join us in this thought-provoking exploration of music, quantum physics, and the human experience, and don't forget to subscribe to the VRP Rocks podcast for more engaging content. Let's rock on together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary drummer Vinny Appice, known for his iconic work with Black Sabbath and Dio, has had an incredible career that spans decades and includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in rock. In this episode, Vinny shares exclusive stories and insights about his time working with John Lennon, recalling playing with the legendary musician on his last ever live show when Vinny was just 16 years old. Vinny's anecdotes will transport you back to those magical moments, as he reminisces about Lennon's fondness for him and the hilarious incident involving Vinny's mum, John Lennon and a lasagne pan! But that's not all! Vinny takes us behind the scenes of his journey, from quitting high school after hanging out with John Lennon to being a last-minute replacement for Bill Ward in Black Sabbath. He shares the nerve-wracking experience of auditioning for the band and the progression of their shows as the new drummer, shedding light on the dynamics and tensions within the group. We also delve into Vinny's collaboration with Ronnie James Dio, as he discusses their creative process, the making of Dio's iconic album "Holy Diver," and the formation of the band Last in Line after Ronnie's passing. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! If you're a rock music aficionado, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Join VRP Rocks as we dive deep into the world of Vinny Appice, exploring his fascinating career, remarkable collaborations, and iconic songs that have shaped the heavy metal genre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's special interview is with Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg! In this episode, Adrian, renowned for his work with bands like Vandenberg and Whitesnake shares captivating stories from his early struggles in Holland to his time in Whitesnake, including encounters with legends like Jimmy Page, Brian May, AC/DC, and David Coverdale. You'll hear what it was like to join Whitesnake just before they exploded in North America with their self-titled 1987 album, how he was asked to provide the solo for the huge hit 'Here I Go Again' and all about the accident that prevented him from recording the follow up album 'Slip of the Tongue'. It's another episode packed with fascinating stories and insightful discussions. Don't forget to subscribe to VRP Rocks on your favorite podcast app and tune in every Monday for new episodes featuring the biggest names in classic rock! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Side 2 episode of VRP Rocks, host Paul Stephenson sits down with blues rock guitar legend, Joe Bonamassa, for a quick chat about his new album Blues Deluxe Vol.2 and tour. Joe reflects on the first Blues Deluxe album and the inspiration behind this latest release, Vol 2. With his melodic guitar playing and rich vocals, Joe talks about his growth as a musician and singer over the past 20 years. Join us as we dive into the song selection process and the creation of two original tracks on the album. Plus, discover the importance of physical copies and the unique merchandise available on Joe's website. Don't miss this opportunity to get a sneak peek into the mind of a true blues virtuoso. Subscribe now to VRP Rocks for more episodes featuring big name guests every Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VRP Rocks takes listeners on a musical journey through the fascinating career of guitar player Doug Aldrich. From his early influences and auditions with iconic bands like Kiss to his time working alongside legends Ronnie James Dio and David Coverdale, Doug shares intriguing stories and valuable insights. The conversation delves into his early years with Lion and Hurricane, where their success in Japan propelled them to new heights. The difficult decision of choosing between Dio and Whitesnake leads to a discussion on the repercussions of those choices and the challenges that came with them. Doug also opens up about his current venture with The Dead Daisies, revealing exciting plans for big tours and the groups new Best Of album release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for as we dive into the world of one of the most influential bands in rock history, The Yardbirds! In this special edition of "My 5 Favorites," we sit down with the legendary Jim McCarty, drummer and founding member of The Yardbirds, as he takes us on a journey through his personal selection of the band's best songs. In the first part of the episode, Jim McCarty talks about the band's breakthrough hit, "For Your Love." Discover the story behind this iconic track and how it helped put The Yardbirds on the map in the UK and the US. Moving on to the second song, Jim shares insights into the unique guitar sound and how Jeff Beck's influence shaped the band's psychedelic feel. Learn about the studio experimentation and the decision to swap the sitar for a fuzz box, giving birth to a distinctive and memorable riff. Finally, Jim gives us a glimpse into the recruitment of Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page as Eric Clapton didn't fit in with the group's new vision and direction. Join us as we explore these fascinating stories and more, delving into the music that defined an era and continues to inspire generations of rock fans. Tune in now to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of The Yardbirds through the eyes of Jim McCarty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VRP sits down with the legendary guitarist Martin Barre, former member of Jethro Tull, to discuss his remarkable journey and the highs and lows of his career. Martin Barre's success didn't come easily, and he openly shares the challenges he faced after getting his foot in the door. Despite feeling like he was on his own, Barre remained loyal to his band and appreciated the hard work they put in. He takes us back to the golden age of rock in the 1970s, where albums like "Passion Play," "War Child," "Minstrel in the Gallery," and "Songs from the Wood" reigned supreme. Barre delves into the groundbreaking album "Aqualung", as well as the unique challenges faced during the creation of "Under Wraps." Alongside VRP, Martin Barre discusses his split from Jethro Tull and how he persevered through the difficult times. Known for his honest, humble nature, and immense talent, Barre shares anecdotes from his disastrous audition to sharing a stage with Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. The honest dialogue explores the setbacks, doubts, and ultimate triumphs experienced during the process. Don't miss out on the captivating journey of Martin Barre, as he candidly shares his stories and insights on VRP Rocks. Tune in now to immerse yourself in this riveting episode. Don't forget you can watch some clips from this interview with Martin, as well as hundreds of other guests, on the VRP Rocks YouTube channel! Check it out now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the milestone 100th episode of VRP Rocks, where we bring you exclusive interviews with the biggest names in rock music. In this special episode, Paul plays you his exclusive new interview with the one and only Peter Frampton. Join us as we celebrate this momentous occasion and thank our incredible listeners for their unwavering support over the years. We give a special shoutout to those devoted fans who have been with us since day one. Your love and enthusiasm for VRP have made it all possible. We also extend our gratitude to our colleagues at the Pantheon Podcast Network for their partnership and support in making our podcast a success. But the star of this episode is none other than the iconic Peter Frampton. With a career spanning over 50 years, Peter has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. He shares insights into his latest project, collaborating with the legendary Dolly Parton on her Rockstar album. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Peter takes us on a journey through his early days with the Small Faces, his friendship with George Harrison, and his work with David Bowie. We dive into his signature sound, his health battles, and so much more. Thank you again for joining us on this incredible journey through rock music history. Stay tuned for more episodes of VRP Rocks, where the legends of rock come alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a special treat for guitar enthusiasts as we sit down with the legendary Uli Jon Roth! Known for his incredible talent and iconic contributions to bands like the Scorpions, Uli shares his journey with the guitar and how he honed his craft. From his early years to his dedication and practice, Uli reveals the secrets behind his exceptional playing ability. But that's not all! We also delve into the technical side of Uli's sound. Fans of the early Scorpions albums will be thrilled to hear him discuss the effects and distortion techniques he used to achieve that signature tone on records like "Virgin Killer" and "In Trance". Join us as Uli takes us back in time to the height of his career with the Scorpions, particularly their iconic live album, "Tokyo Tapes". Hear him reminisce about the significance of that visit to Japan and how it marked the culmination of their journey as a band to that stage. Get exclusive insights into the decision he made to leave the Scorpions and pursue his artistic vision with Electric Sun. And speaking of life after the Scorpions... Uli opens up about his relationship with his former bandmates and the friendship that has endured beyond their time together. Find out if there is any chance of a full tour reunion with the Scorpions, a question hotly hoped for by eager fans. And don't miss out on Uli's revelation about an intriguing offer he received from another prominent band in 1975. Learn which band approached him and why he ultimately turned down the opportunity. The stories and insights from Uli Jon Roth himself are not to be missed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul sits down again with John Illsley, renowned member of the legendary band Dire Straits. As part of the new series "My Five Favourite," John takes us on a journey through his most beloved songs from the bands back catalogue. Join us as we dive deep into the stories, meanings, and creative processes behind these classic tracks. John shares stories from the songs, such as being transported back to the gritty and vibrant West End in 1976, the beginning of his lasting friendship with Mark Knopfler, how it felt when David Knopfler had to leave the band, how putting down long songs in one take in the studio was tough and much more In addition, John talks about their collaboration with Tina Turner on "Private Dancer," and about his own solo work which is seeing great levels of success. Throughout the interview, John and Paul engage in thought-provoking discussions about the songwriting process and the enduring legacy of Dire Straits' music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dee Snider needs no introduction. With huge success in the 80s, his career seemed unstoppable. Dee takes us through his career, recounting some incredible and hair-raising moments from his time in Twisted Sister From being the target of bottle-throwing crowds to the intense energy of iconic festivals like Reading and Donnington, he has seen it all. Through his candid storytelling, you'll learn how he turned challenging situations into unforgettable performances that left audiences in awe. You'll hear stories about metal legend Lemmy, how he felt ostracised from his bandmates right from the moment he joined, how he wrote the groups biggest album in just 45 minutes and much more. Plus he details how, as the music scene started to change, so did his fortunes. He found himself at a crossroads, facing financial struggles unlike any he had experienced before. It was a humbling experience for the rock star, as he realized that his ego had prevented him from accepting that his career was over. Broke and with a family to support, Snider hit rock bottom. He found himself working a desk job and even lying about his identity. It was a wake-up call, forcing him to reassess his life and priorities. Snider credits his wife for not putting up with his rock star behaviour and for pushing him to start over. This experience taught him to be appreciative and respectful, a lesson that would shape his future endeavours. But Snider's talents extend far beyond music. Not only does he possess the gift of songwriting, demonstrated by the iconic hits of Twisted Sister, but he is also an accomplished writer. He shares stories of his writing process as his novels, screenplays, musicals, and songs all draw inspiration from his vast repertoire of ideas. In addition to his captivating interview, the episode also delves into Snider's latest venture, his book "Frats." Based on true events, this intense and dark novel draws inspiration from high school fraternities with a twist. Don't miss out on this incredible episode of the VRP Rocks! Subscribe now to the podcast and explore our previous episodes, which feature interviews with over 25 Rock and Roll Hall of Famers. And don't forget to join our growing community of rock fans on the VRP Rocks YouTube channel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This man has played with the best of the best! Voted Number 1 session drummer in the world by Modern Drummer Magazine 5 times and 3 times by Drum Magazine - not to mention appearing on Rolling Stone Magazines list of the 100 Greatest drummers of all time! He's played and recorded with McCartney & Ringo, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Tony Iommi, Meat Loaf, John Fogerty, John Mellencamp, Dave Grohl, The Smashing Pumpkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, BB King, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Seger, Bob Dylan, Sting... and many many more - too many to mention! Kenny Aronoff has been at the top of the business for for over 40 years and shares some wonderful stories from his extensive career with Paul in this in depth interview. Hear about his friendship with Rush's Neil Peart, the intense working environment - fight or fight - which led to the worldwide number 1 hit "Jack & Diane", how he became one of the leading session drummers in the world, his time with Fogerty, Smashing Pumpkins and Tony Iommi and the special special night honouring the Beatles famous first US TV appearance where he got to hang out and work with Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. It's all in this action packed episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul sits down with the legendary lead singer and guitarist of Status Quo, Francis Rossi! Join us as we delve into the incredible journey of one of the most iconic rock bands in the history of the UK Charts. With a staggering 60 Top 40 singles, including an impressive 22 that soared into the Top 10, and an astonishing 25 Top 10 albums, Status Quo's impact is undeniable. Tune in as we uncover the secrets behind their breakout hit, 'Pictures of Matchstick Men,' and explore the audacious decision to self-produce their albums, a move that set them on a path of creative independence from an early stage. Discover the stories that unfold, being 'too loud for one studio' and the monumental moment they rocked the Live Aid stage, opening the event which left an indelible mark on music history. But that's not all – we dive deep into the man behind the music. Francis Rossi opens up about his thoughts on the 'three-chord wonder' label, the candid reflections on the band's attempt to crack the American market, and how it took some convincing to get the band to finally record the powerful anthem 'In the Army Now.' Join us as we unravel the tales, triumphs, and tunes that have shaped the legacy of Status Quo and continue to resonate with generations of rock enthusiasts. Don't miss this captivating conversation with a rock legend on VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to VRP Rocks, where today we dive deep into a legendary moment of rock history! In this episode, titled "Live Aid: Musicians Remember," we are joined by 3 musicians who played the Wembley show as they take us on a journey back to the iconic concert for Live Aid in 1985. Our guests share their personal memories of being part of Live Aid, the groundbreaking fundraising initiative organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure in response to the famine crisis in Ethiopia. Join us as we unpack the triumphs and tribulations of Live Aid, and uncover the backstage stories that made this global concert an unforgettable moment in rock history. Remember to connect with VRP Rocks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and on the new social media app Threads as well as the YouTube channel! If you enjoy listening to VRP Rocks, please leave us a 5-star review on your preferred podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 - the 24/7 online classic rock station unlike any other classic rock radio! Playing deep cuts and forgotten bands, give it a try, you won't regret it! We have an exclusive interview with the legendary guitarist and composer, STEVE VAI! Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating journey of this musical icon, from his early days working with Frank Zappa to his groundbreaking solo career, his time with Dave Lee Roth, Whitesnake and Graham Bonnet. Get ready to be inspired by the stories behind the music and the evolution of a true guitar virtuoso. With the release of his solo record, a masterpiece titled "Passion and Warfare," Steve Vai cemented his name as one of the most innovative guitarists of his generation. The album showcased his unmatched technical prowess, intricate compositions, and captivating melodies. His talent and dedication paid off as he garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase that would follow him throughout his career. In this insightful interview, Steve Vai reflects on his humble beginnings, his time spent touring the world, and the evolution of his musicality. From sharing the stage with Frank Zappa to crafting his iconic guitar design with Ibanez, Steve takes us behind the scenes and gives us a glimpse into the life of a true rock legend. So, tune in and join us as we delve into the world of Steve Vai, a name synonymous with innovation, passion, and the timeless spirit of rock and roll. Get ready to rock out with VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a special bonus episode of the VRP Rocks, where we take look at the life and legend of the one and only Jimi Hendrix. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through time, as legendary musicians such as Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, Mark Farner from Grand Funk Railroad, Dave Mason, Albert Bouchard of Blue Oyster Cult, Mark Stein from Vanilla Fudge, and Roger Earl of Foghat reveal their personal stories and experiences of the incomparable guitar legend, Jimi Hendrix. From auditioning for his band to playing on some of his biggest hits, sharing star struck moments to touring across the US with him, these rock icons offer a unique perspective on the genius of Hendrix, shedding light on his unparalleled guitar skills and the enigmatic persona that captivated millions. Tune in to "Hendrix Experienced" and get ready to be transported back to the golden era of rock 'n' roll, as these musical legends regale us with tales of friendship, creativity, and the indelible mark that Jimi Hendrix left on the world of music. Whether you're a die-hard Hendrix fan or simply intrigued by the stories behind the scenes, this bonus episode is a must-listen for all music enthusiasts. Let the rock 'n' roll legends guide you through the untold tales of Jimi Hendrix like never before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Episode 94, we have a treat in store for you as we sit down with the incredible Tony Carey, keyboard extraordinaire! We explore his career which of course includes his time with Ritchie Blackmore in Rainbow and the invaluable contributions he made to their iconic album Rainbow Rising! But that's not all. We also dive deeper into Tony Carey's career, his remarkable solo journey, delivering Billboard hits like "A Fine, Fine Day" and exploring different genres, from rock to electronic music with Planet P Project. We hear about his incredible success in Europe, Japan and beyond and some of the legends he's worked with over the many years. You'll hear all these stories and more as Tony shares his insights, memories, and personal anecdotes from his 50+ year career in the music business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we delve into the remarkable career of Guy Pratt, a true virtuoso of the bass guitar. From his iconic collaborations with Pink Floyd, joining the group after Roger Waters left, to his work with renowned artists like Madonna, Bryan Ferry, Gary Moore, Echo and the Bunnymen, Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart and Kirsty MacColl, Guy's bass lines have shaped the sound of music for decades. In this episode, we explore Guy Pratt's journey, from his early days as a session musician to his pivotal role in Pink Floyd following Roger Waters' departure. Discover the stories behind the scenes, the unforgettable moments on stage, and the magic that Guy Pratt brings to every musical endeavour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's big interview show we are delving back into the past to play you some more brilliant clips from the archive! This week we hear from 2 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, a Canadian star, a Brit whose band found fame in the US, an American drummer whose career goes back to the 60s and a British prog rock guitarist! We hear stories about being sued by the British Prime Minister, recording a breakthrough album overseen by a Beatle, the early days of a Hall of Fame group, dealing with the departure of a bands lead singer despite huge success and much more! Sit back and get ready to enjoy these great rock stories! All these clips are taken from episodes 38 to 43 - please scroll back and give the full interviews a listen, you won't be disappointed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode we uncover the remarkable stories behind legendary rock vocalist, Graham Bonnet's career! We kick off by revisiting his early days, including his UK smash hit with The Marbles, working with the Bee Gees and the pivotal moments that set the stage for his rise to stardom. We then delve into the momentous chapter when Bonnet joined forces with the legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore in Rainbow. Discover the secrets behind this iconic collaboration and the infamous tale of Graham cutting his hair—an incident that has become the stuff of rock 'n' roll legend. As the conversation unfolds, we pull back the curtain and reveal the true reasons behind Bonnet's departure from the band. Explore the challenges, the clashes, and the defining moments that ultimately shaped his career trajectory. Of course, we can't forget the electrifying era of Alcatrazz, where Graham Bonnet united with guitar virtuosos Yngwie Malmsteen and Steve Vai. Prepare to be enthralled as we explore the magic they created together, the crazy incident that led to Yngwie leaving and the lasting impact their music had on the rock landscape. But the journey doesn't end there. Join us as we delve into the present and discover the latest projects and new music from Graham Bonnet himself. Gain an exclusive insight into his creative process and what lies ahead for this legendary rock singer. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious music enthusiast, this episode of VRP Rocks is a must-listen. Prepare to be captivated as we unravel the untold stories, the highs and lows, and the enduring legacy of Graham Bonnet—one of rock's most extraordinary voices. Tune in now and join us on this exhilarating expedition through the extraordinary career of Graham Bonnet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 2007 The Police began their HUGE reunion tour! On todays show we hear Stewart Copeland talk about that landmark set of shows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Such sad news has broken this evening about the sad passing of the legend that is Tina Turner! Her music has enthralled fans around the world since the 60s with a string of absolute classics, such as River Deep Mountain High, Nutbush City Limits, Proud Mary, What's Love Got To Do With It, Goldeneye, Private Dancer, Simply the Best and many many more! I interviewed Tina's former musical director last year, Alan Clarke from the band Dire Straits. In this short clip, Alan pays tribute to Tina Turner, talking about what she is like as a person, what she was like to work with and he shares a wonderful story from their time in Memphis. Rest in peace Anna Mae Bullock, the Queen of Rock & Roll! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Paul speaks with the incredibly talented guitarist, Joel Hoekstra, known for his work with bands like Whitesnake and Night Ranger. Joel shares his experiences from last year's "Farewell" Whitesnake tour, how he landed the gig with Whitesnake and what it is really like working closely with the iconic frontman, David Coverdale. We also explore the pivotal role played by Survivor's Jim Peterik in Joel's breakthrough, and the incredible opportunities that followed. From his time with Night Ranger to filling in at the last minute for Foreigner, Joel's versatility as a guitarist shines through as he shares the challenges and rewards of these experiences. But that's not all! Joel takes us on a journey through his solo projects, including his latest record with Joel Hoekstra's 13, where he discusses the creative process and collaborations that shaped the album. We also touch upon his recent work with Revolution Saints, showcasing the unique elements that make this project stand out. Tune in to VRP Rocks as we celebrate the brilliant Joel Hoekstra, a true rock maestro whose talent and passion continue to shape the landscape of rock music today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays guest is the former guitarist and principal songwriter for Hanoi Rocks, Andy McCoy! In this interview we talk about the re-release of his great solo record 21st Century Rocks, the remastering of the classic Hanoi album Oriental Beat, his current relationship with former lead singer Michael Monroe, his time working with Iggy Pop and the new music he's working on with daughter Sofia Zida! Andy is outspoken, as you'd expect, and you may not agree with some of his opinions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the world of rock with an exclusive interview featuring the legendary drummer, Corky Laing. Get ready to be enthralled as Corky shares a treasure trove of incredible stories from his time in Mountain alongside Leslie West, his collaborations with iconic figures like Jack Bruce, Ian Hunter, and Mick Ronson, and unforgettable encounters with the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Keith Moon, John Lennon, and many other rock luminaries. Join us for a riveting conversation that takes you behind the scenes of rock history. Get ready to rock and roll! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Paul speaks with one of the greatest guitarists of the rock and metal scene, Mr Scary himself, GEORGE LYNCH! His unique playing style and iconic sound were a key part of the success of Dokken and Lynch Mob. We talk about his highlights from the 80s, chances of a Dokken reunion and his current relationship with Don, creating Lynch Mob, their planned new album for later this year, his work building custom guitars and about his upcoming release with Stryper lead singer Michael Sweet! Sweet & Lynch are back with their third album together, Heart & Sacrifice, set for release on May 19th - PRE-ORDER IT NOW! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rockers Alcatrazz are back with their 3rd new album in 3 years. I'm joined by their lead singer, former Rainbow frontman who's also sung for Yngwie and Michael Schenker, Doogie White! You'll hear all about the groups new release 'Take No Prisoners', his time with Ritchie Blackmore in Rainbow, a what-could-have-been moment with Tony Iommi and about who his first musical love was. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Great Rock Stories Vol5, we've compiled some of the best short stories and insights from interviews with legendary rock stars, including Jorma Kaukonen, Stephen Pearcy, Steve Lukather, Jeff Pilson, Doogie White, and Paul Carrack. These interviews were originally featured in episodes 32 to 37 from June and July 2021, and in this special episode, we've distilled the best moments into a single, action-packed show. You'll hear hilarious and heartwarming stories from the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jorma Kaukonen, the electrifying Stephen Pearcy from RATT, the iconic Steve Lukather from Toto, the legendary Jeff Pilson from Dokken, the phenomenal Doogie White from Rainbow, and the incomparable Paul Carrack. Whether you're a die-hard classic rock fan or just looking for some great stories from rock and roll's most iconic stars, this episode of the VRP Rocks has something for everyone. Tune in now to hear these incredible interviews and get your daily dose of rock and roll history! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1975 Ritchie Blackmore left Deep Purple. With me to talk more about this period is Nate from the Deep Purple Podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this episode of the VRP Rocks, with a fantastic interview with Francis Dunnery, the founding member and former lead vocalist of the British progressive rock band, It Bites. In this interview, Francis shares with us his journey from a working class estate to playing on stage with the likes of Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant! It's a fascinating chat with stories about Ozzy Osbourne, Genesis, Steve Hackett, The Pogues, being arrested, having hits, what he would have done differently and about his new music which is planned for 2023! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1979, Supertramp released their multi-million selling, award winning album, "Breakfast in America". On today's episode you'll hear from Supertramp's John Helliwell, about how the band reacted to this crazy level of success! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s interview is with another Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, the 4th in the last 2 months! Todays guest describes himself as a keeper of the faith, the faith of rock and roll that is! With more than 40 years in the business he’s played and toured with the likes of Roger Daltrey, Ian Hunter, Paul McCartney, Alice Cooper, Bruce Springsteen, Steven Van Zandt, Joe Walsh, Graham Nash, Elvis Costello, Ringo Starr and most famously, and with whom he was inducted into the rock hall, as part of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts! He’s a guitarist of great distinction, Ricky Byrd! Ricky is back with new music, glam rock infused music leaning heavily on the music that influenced him growing up, so of course we’ll talk about that plus his time with Roger Daltrey, working with one of his heroes Mott the Hoople's Ian Hunter, a fantastic story about Paul McCartney and a £20 note, working with Joan Jett and his incredible memories of the Rock Hall induction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Farner was the lead singer of brilliant hard rocking, fun loving, classic American heavy band, Grand Funk Railroad! In my fun interview with him we talk about those early days with their pioneering heavy sound, why they were TOO GOOD to continue touring with led Zeppelin, stories behind their big hits like "I'm Your Captain" and "We're An American Band", why he wanted the group to remain a trio, his friendship with Jimi Hendrix, working with Ringo Starr and much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the 30th anniversary of Big Country's The Buffalo Skinners approaching, I put YOUR QUESTIONS to Big Country guitarist Bruce Watson! Hear about the lead up to this record, recording without Mark Brzezicki, inspiration behind some of the songs, why the UK and US versions differ, why a certain title-track was left off, the energy around the live shows on this tour and much more! If you commented on the album or sent a question, listen out for your name, 21 different people get a mention! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sad Cafe broke big in the 70s with the number 3 hit in the UK 'Every Day Hurts'. Their album Facades went top 10 in 1980 and they had a couple of hits that landed on the Billboard chart in the US too! Joining me today is Sad Cafe bass player Des Tong to relive stories from the band, being a child musician, Gladys Knight, playing house-parties with celebs in attendance and the exciting plans for Sad Cafe in 2023! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long Cool Memories! Legendary singer, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Allan Clarke of The Hollies, reflects on his life and long career in music! This weeks extended interview includes stories about his friendship since the age of 6 with Graham Nash and the devastation he felt when Graham left the band, the VERY early days of The Hollies, working on songs with The Beatles, his hits including 'Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress', and how he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He also tells the stories of how his family's battles with cancer changed their lives, how he felt he was unable to ever sing again and a funny story about a trip to Las Vegas to see Elvis Presley! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas are a legendary group with a total of 9 gold albums, 1 platinum album, 3 multi-platinum albums and a platinum live album too. They've had a million selling single and have appeared on the US Billboard charts for over 200 weeks! They're a name everyone in classic rock knows thanks to albums like "Leftoverture" and "Point of Know Return" and big hits like "Dust in the Wind" and "Carry on Wayward Son". My guest today is the bands guitarist, RICH WILLIAMS, a founding member of the group. He talks about his career in depth from the beginnings, the hits right through to the newly announced 50th Anniversary tour! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1964 The Beatles performed live on the Ed Sullivan Show... and the world changed forever! Joining me on today's short episode of THIS DAY ROCKS, to dive deeper into this culture shattering event, is host of Rock N Roll Archaeology and CEO of Pantheon Podcast Network, Christian Swain! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weeks guest is another Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a member of two huge bands, whose career spans more than 50 years... from The Zombies and Argent, Mr Rod Argent! The Zombies were part of the British Invasion of America in the 60's scoring big hits with the songs "She's Not There" and "Time of The Season" as well as being remembered for the timeless album "Odessey and Oracle". With the band Argent, they scored the worldwide smash hit "Hold Your Head Up" and the big album "All Together Now". The Zombies are back with a new album for 2023 "Different Game" and a tour crossing the UK, Europe and America. In this fun interview Rod shares stories from his career, what it was like to work with The Who on their anthem "Who Are You" and about the mishap which led tot he brilliant cover art for the new album! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1972, Neil Young released his seminal album, Harvest! It became the biggest selling album of the year in America and contained his number 1 single 'Heart of Gold'. With me to tell a fascinating story from the mixing of the record is Pantheon Podcast Co-Founder, Peter Ferioli! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sex Pistols were one of the most controversial music acts of all time. They spat at, swore at and ripped up the establishment causing a moral outcry in the UK. Today I'm joined by founding member Glen Matlock to reflect on the sad passing of Vivienne Westwood, talk about the Sex Pistols, those crazy early days, leaving the band, the awkwardness of the reunion, his unhappiness at last years TV show, his famous one-off gig with Sid Vicious, working with The Faces and Ronnie Wood, Blondie, Midge Ure and his new album Consequences Coming. It's a fascinating chat with a man who's worked with so many incredible artists from the world of music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We heard the sad news yesterday that one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Jeff Beck, had sadly passed away. Unfortunately I never got the chance to interview Jeff but I have spoken with some of his former bandmates; Jim McCarty from the Yardbirds and Carmine Appice from Beck Bogert Appice. In this short episode I'll play out clips from those interviews where they talk about their time with Jeff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we hear from a musician whose band has released 70+ albums, holds 3 Guinness World Records and their last album has had over 1 million streams on Spotify alone... and they're taking the fight to Spotify for fairer royalty payments! Mark Christopher Lee from The Pocket Gods has come up with loads of creative ways to highlight the poor pay that musicians receive from the streaming giants and on this episode we explore £1m Vinyl records, an album with 1000 songs on and the worlds longest song! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where were you when...? Many moments in history evoke this famous phrase and one on this day in 1980 is certainly one of them. John Lennon was shot dead outside his apartment in New York. With me to talk about his personal account of where he was when he first heard this news is Phil Aston from Now Spinning Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays show is John 'The Ox' Entwistle themed. The Ox was of course the bass player with the Who through their thunderous years, one of the greatest bass players of all time. For today’s episode I interviewed his best friend and musical partner for many years after John left the Who, Steve Luongo. In fact they were so close that when Entwistle died in 2002, Johns family asked Steve to read the eulogy at his funeral. Steve has helped to produce and curate a new album of Johns material which is called John Entwistle, Rarities Oxhumed, Volume 1. As well as his time with The Ox, Steve Luongo has an impressive CV having worked with legends like Leslie West, Ann Wilson of Heart, Eddie Money, Cream's Jack Bruce, Todd Rundgren and more and we hear some great stories of his time with Cheap Tricks Robin Zander, Brian Johnson and Cliff Williams from ACDC and a brilliant story of his brief, very brief, time with Ritchie Blackmore. It's definitely a fabulous interview! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1971, a fire at a casino in Switzerland inspired one of classic rocks greats greatest songs - Deep Purple's 'Smoke on the Water'. With me to talk about the events that day at the Montreux Casino is Mac B from the Ugly American Werewolf in London podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1979 Pink Floyd released the mega selling double concept album The Wall! Containing legendary songs like Comfortably Numb and Another Brick in the Wall (part II) it became another huge success for the band! With me to talk about the record is Philip Waters from Pink Floyd Collectors!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Cregan has over 50 Gold and Platinum discs to his name, 3 ASCAP awards for outstanding song writing, was Rod Stewarts right hand man for decades and played that iconic solo on the number 1 hit "Come Up And See Me, Make Me Smile" from Steve Harley and the Cockney Rebel! He's worked with so many legends of the music world so it was a pleasure to sit down and chat about his career on this weeks show. I will also give you my Top 5 Rod Stewart solo songs on this episode too!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1991 we said goodbye to one of the most iconic figures in rock, Freddie Mercury! The Queen frontman's funeral took place on this day at a West London Crematorium. With me to talk about his memories of Freddie and the legacy he left behind is Phil Aston from Now Spinning Magazine! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Give a Little Bit, Breakfast in America, The Logical Song, Take The Long Way Home, Dreamer - the list of instantly recognisable Supertramp hits is long! I'm delighted to be joined today by a man who was part of the band from their breakthrough with the Crime of the Century album, through the major successes of the 70s and 80s and has been a part of the group in it's various forms ever since. John Helliwell provides that unmistakable saxophone sound to the band, a sound so built into the success of the group and he joins me to talk about his time with the band, the major hits and albums and about his new record 'Don't Ever Leave Me'. To find out more about John's new album search for John Helliwell on challengerecords.com or johnhelliwell.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode of Side 2 features an interview with the lead singer of 80s favourites T'Pau, Carol Decker!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, November 12th, we pay tribute to a 2-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee (should be 3-time argues my guest!) Turning 77 years old today is Neil Young! I'm joined by Pantheon Podcast co-founder Peter Ferioli who will convince you that Neil Young is greater than your favourite artist! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sad news has just reached me about the passing of Nazareth legend Dan McCafferty. I wanted to record a quick episode to remember him and play out a short clip of an interview I did with his lifelong friend and bandmate Pete Agnew where he talks about Dan.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is Volume 4 of Great Rock Stories from VRP Rocks and you'll hear some great stories told by some great rock stars!  We've got 2 Woodstock veterans on the show plus a man who wrote of the biggest movie songs of all time. There's stories about the Sunset strip of the 80's, how one of the iconic classic rock songs was born and how an incredibly unlikely re-union came to pass! 6 rock stars tell Great Rock Stories! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They were labelled the 'bad boys of rock' after a stint in jail, they broke through the LA blues scene in the 60s and played at the legendary Woodstock Festival - of course I'm talking about Canned Heat! The band went on to achieve huge success around the world with legendary songs like Going Up The Country, Let's Work Together and On The Road Again. My guest today is Fito de la Parra who joined the band in 1967 and he tells some brilliant stories from his 55 year career with the band. How he joined the group after arriving from Mexico, stories behind the big hits, how he signed up to make no money and of course about that very special festival! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1973, The Who released Quadrophenia in the UK! This resounding rock opera remains the groups joint highest charting album in America. With me to talk about this record today is Martin Popoff! Martin Popoff is the author of 115 rock books (see martinpopoff.com for more) and creator of his own podcast here on Pantheon called 'History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff.' - Check out his work! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I am the God of Hellfire and I bring you... Arthur Brown!!!"  Ok, I'm not the God of Hellfire, but he sure as heck is! Arthur Brown is my guest on this weeks big interview show, the man who scored a worldwide hit in 1968 with the anthem, 'Fire'! He's dazzled and bewitched fans for decades with elaborate stage shows, a hat of fire, face paint and much more - and now, in the year he turned 80 years old, is back with more new music! Just months after releasing 'Long Long Road', he returns with the spooktacular 'Monsters Ball'! The guests he's got involved on the record is seriously impressive, including Deep Purple's Ian Paice, The Stooges James Williamson, Vanilla Fudge's Carmine Appice and Mark Stein, Hawkwind's Nik Turner and Alan Davey and many more!  Arthur joins me to talk about this spooky new record which features a cover of the Syd Barrett written Pink Floyd song 'Lucifer Sam' and a new version of his hit 'Fire'. We also talk about that incredible song, his crazy stage shows, his friendship with Jimi Hendrix which saw them almost form a band together, his new documentary and so much more! This is one not to miss!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I Live Too Fast To Die Young" may be the name of his new album but it's also a line that could sum up Michael Monroe! The former Hanoi Rocks lead singer is an icon in Finland, he and his band credited as being pioneers of the hair metal movement, have been lauded by legendary icons such as Guns n Roses and the Foo Fighters and in 1985 Sounds magazine even ranked them the second best band in the world! But despite the adulation, they never achieved the commercial success they deserved. In this interview Michael discusses his time in Hanoi, the death of drummer Razzle which tore the bands bright future apart, and about how old wounds are heeling with his former bandmate. He also talks about the brilliant new documentary being made about his life, his new aforementioned solo album, this summer touring with Guns n Roses and Alice Cooper, his friendship with 'Little' Steven van Zandt and Stiv Bators, finally getting to remaster an old Hanoi album and the re-release of Demolition 23. It's an extensive interview with Michael both bright, engaging and incredibly open and honest about what he's been through.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weeks episode is another Side 2 – because it features the return of a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee back to VRP, someone I first interviewed in May 2021, someone part of one of the biggest bands of the late 60s and early 70s – I'm talking about the wonderful Doug 'Cosmo' Clifford from Creedence Clearwater Revival!  I wanted to get him back on to talk about previously unreleased music from the 70s that he made with former Derek and the Domino's man Bobby Whitlock, which he is now putting out called 'California Gold'. Plus I wanted to get the lowdown on the new Netflix release 'Travellin' Band', a brilliant live performance from CCR at London's Royal Albert Hall with some great documentary footage included from their tour across Europe! And of course I wanted to hear some more classic Creedence stories too!     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2 years ago today the world lost one of rocks greatest guitarists - EDDIE VAN HALEN! On today's episode of THIS DAY ROCKS we hear memories of Eddie from his good friend, Ratt frontman STEPEHN PEARCY and former Black Sabbath lead singer TONY MARTIN. If you want to hear a longer episode which I released less than 48 hours after Eddie passed away then please check out the special Vintage Rock Pod Tribute Show from October 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is the second anniversary of the launch of Vintage Rock Pod! Episode 1, featuring an interview with Rock n Roll Hall of Famer, Kenney Jones, was released on October 5th, 2020! In this short episode I thought I'd play out a couple of fun short clips that never made the episodes, mostly for good reason! Here's to a more years and more great guests in the future! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barry Goudreau is a founding member of the rock band BOSTON, playing with them on their first two iconic multi-platinum selling albums! In this open interview he talks about the early days before making it big, the impact that 'More Than a Feeling' had, touring with the likes of Black Sabbath and the circumstances surrounding his firing from the band. We also talk about his work with Brad Delp and his sad passing, plus his new band Barry Goudreau's Engine Room.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's big interview show see's the return of one of my favourite guests, legendary Vanilla Fudge drummer, CARMINE APPICE! The Fudge are releasing a new record called Vanilla Zeppelin, an album of Led Zeppelin songs re-imagined in a way that only Carmine and the boys can do. We dive deep into the history of this new recording, hear more from the 60's when Vanilla Fudge took Led Zeppelin on their first US Tour, the bands friendship and more. Plus, I have the difficult task of whittling the enormous Zeppelin catalogue down to a Top 5, picking my personal favourite Zeppelin songs. To hear more incredible stories from Carmine Appice's career, which includes working with Rod Stewart and Jeff Beck, being fired from the tour with Ozzy Osbourne by a vindictive Sharon, the huge anthem that made Vanilla Fudge a household name, and more about John Bonham and Led Zeppelin then check out EPISODE 43 of Vintage Rock Pod - it's a cracker! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is the incredible KEVIN GODLEY!! Kevin's career spans such a wide course, as part of Hotlegs he had a number 2 hit in the UK and then along with Lol Creme, Graham Gouldman and Eric Stewart formed 10CC who went on to score 5 top 10 albums in the UK, 3 number 1 singles and 8 other top 10 hits too! He and Lol Creme then left to form Godley and Creme and scored a couple more top 10 singles before switching their attention permanently to making music videos. As video producers they worked with U2, Paul McCartney, INXS, Status Quo, Elton John, The Police, ASIA and so many others! This is a fascinating chat with a very talented man! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in 1983 we got to see the actual faces of the band KISS! Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Eric Carr and Vinnie Vincent appeared on MTV without their trademark make-up to promote their new album Lick It Up! With me to talk all about this momentous event in Kisstory is Tom and Zeus from Shout It Out Loudcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

STEWART COPELAND, rightly regarded as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time, joins me on this episode to talk all about his career with The Police, their struggles to start with, the dynamics between him and Sting and what caused the friction, how the studio and song writing process evolved as the success built, the band's split at the height of their fame, their subsequent re-union tour almost 30 years later and what the relationship is like between the members today.  We also dive into Stewarts most recent work too, re-imagining The Police songs using an orchestra - and Stings reaction to this - a project about Italian witches involving Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders and of course about the recent Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert that Stewart performed at, at London's Wembley Stadium. It's a fascinating conversation with Stewart pulling no punches, his charismatic personality on show at all times.  The Police were one of the biggest bands in the world in the 70's and 80's, the 3 members of the group, Stewart, Sting and Andy Summers, achieved incredible success during their short time together with 5 platinum selling albums between 1978 and 1983, 5 number 1 singles in the UK, multiple Grammy Award wins and ultimately induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in their first year of eligibility.  Also on the episode you'll hear my Top 5 songs from the Police and your thoughts on last week's Top 5 Pat Travers songs.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todays guest is PAT TRAVERS, a Canadian guitar legend whose career has spanned almost half a century! From travelling to the UK to make his name, having a surprise hit, touring with Ritchie Blackmore right through to his new album 'The Art of Time Travel' we get into it all!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the biggest selling songs of 1982 hit the number 1 spot in the UK 40 years ago today! The classic Eye of the Tiger by Survivor was written especially for Rocky III, and on this episode you'll hear from former Survivor member JIM PETERIK how it all happened, starting with a voicemail from Sylvester Stallone! Hear the full interview with Jim Peterik on Episode 27 of VRP Rocks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest today has worked with some real legends over the years and has stories to tell about Rod Stewart, Jimi Hendrix and Grace Slick!    Pete Sears came through the British music scene in the 60's and played on Rod's first 4 studio albums (including the platinum selling 'Every Picture Tells A Story' and worldwide number 1 single 'Maggie May') and then became an ever present member of Jefferson Starship during their first incarnation (1974-1984). He worked with Hot Tuna for the best part of a decade too. He's back with a new album playing with Steamhammer, a band he first worked with in 1969! It's a great interview not to be missed!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices