The A to Z of Wartime Song

In this episode of the A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on Vesta Tilley's 1907 hit "Jolly Good Luck to the Girl Who Loves a Soldier".  Along the way they discuss the life of Vesta Tilley, the use of Music Hall in recruitment for Kitchener's Army in WWI and highlight a number of the trailblazing male impersonators and th...

In this episode, hosts Tom Carradine and Lili Redman delve into the emotional and historical significance of the wartime song 'I'll Be Seeing You.' They explore its origins, the songwriters behind it and its impact during World War II. Their conversation highlights various interpretations and recordings of the song, emphasizing its universal themes of love, loss and hope. Through their musical ana...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the significance of wartime songs, focusing on "The Handsome Territorial".  They delve into the life of the songwriters Jimmy Kennedy and Michael Carr, the evolution of the Hokey Cockey and the controversies surrounding it's origins.  They look at the other popular dance crazes of the 1940s, analyze the music and lyrics of "The Handsome Territ...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the significance of wartime songs, focusing on 'Good Night Children, Everywhere' and the legacy of Vera Lynn.  They discuss her early career, her contribution to entertaining the troops in WW2 and her rise to become the "forces sweetheart".  Along the way their conversion delves into the experiences of child evacuees, an analysis of the song a...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on 'The Further It Is From Tipperary, The Closer It Is To Berlin' from WW1.  They discuss the song's inspiration in 'It's a Long Way to Tipperary', the life of the songwriter Jack Judge and the controversies surrounding song credit.  The conversation also touches on the rise of Tin Pan Alley, the pro...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on 'Everything Stops for Tea.' They discuss the cultural significance of tea during wartime, the life of Jack Buchanan and the impact of rationing on society. The conversation also delves into various musical versions and performances, highlighting the importance of these songs in lifting spirits dur...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on the song 'The Deepest Shelter in Town.' They discuss the impact of music during World War II, the life of performer Florence Desmond and the role of entertainers in boosting morale. The conversation delves into personal anecdotes about their experiences on the London cabaret scene, the Blitz and i...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on their cultural significance during World War I and II. They discuss the podcast's concept, the song 'Adolf', and the lives of notable figures like Annette Mills and Arthur Askey. The conversation delves into the role of variety shows, the impact of propaganda songs, and the legacy of entertainers...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on "Bless 'Em All" and its significance during World War II. They discuss the WWI origins of the song, its evolution through various artists and the role of ENSA in providing entertainment to troops. The conversation highlights George Formby's impact on wartime music and the various versions of 'Bles...

In this episode, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the rich history of wartime songs, focusing on 'Coming in on a Wing and a Prayer.' They pay tribute to John Paddy Hemingway, discuss the impact of the musician strike during WWII, and delve into the cultural significance of these songs. The conversation highlights personal stories, the diversity within the RAF, and the legacy of wartime music,...

Welcome to the A to Z of Wartime Song.  Let Lili and Tom take you on a journey through the songs that helped people laugh, cry and carry on during the dark days of the wartime. Each episode they'll explore a different wartime song, unpacking its story, who sang it, and why it resonates with us and hopefully you today. Expect fascinating history, toe-tapping melodies and plenty of gossip along the...