The Backstage Pass: Song Stories

The story of Adele's hit song "Rolling In The Deep" begins with the singer's childhood in North London, where she discovered her love of music at a young age. As a child, Adele was obsessed with the Spice Girls and would spend hours imitating them in front of her mirror. But as she grew older, Adele's musical tastes expanded, and she began to explore different genres and styles. She eventually fou...

In 1973, Elton John released his hit song "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." Co-written with his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, the lyrics, written by Taupin, contain autobiographical elements, referring to his childhood on a farm in Lincolnshire.  Recorded at Château d'Hérouville in France, where Elton had previously recorded albums, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" features Elton's signature piano so...

In this festive episode, we unwrap the captivating story behind The Pogues' timeless Christmas classic, 'Fairytale of New York.' Born from the creative minds of a band deeply rooted in tradition, we explore the genesis of this anti-Christmas anthem. Was it an Elvis Costello challenge or a collective stroke of genius? Discover the journey from banjo-player Jem Finer's initial attempt at a sailor's...

In this podcast, we'll explore the heartwarming story behind one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time, Chris Rea's "Driving Home For Christmas". The song's origins can be traced back to the late 1970s, when a young Chris Rea was just beginning his career in music. Through interviews with Rea himself and other experts, we'll learn about the inspiration behind the song and the creative pr...

Welcome to our podcast, where we'll explore the fascinating story behind one of Coldplay's biggest hits, "Paradise". In 2010, the popular music competition show X-Factor approached the band with a special request - they needed a song to accompany the winner of their upcoming seventh season. This unexpected request would change the game for Coldplay, leading to the creation of one of their most ico...

Step into the captivating world of rock 'n roll history with our latest podcast episode, as we delve deep into the enigmatic title that has become a timeless classic. Join us as we explore the compelling story behind "Angie" by The Rolling Stones, released in 1973. In the early '70s, the Rolling Stones found themselves at a crossroads. With inspiration waning, personal troubles mounting, and vario...

Join us in this captivating episode as we unravel the enthralling story behind the hit track "Here with Me" by the renowned artist Dido, released in 1999. Delve into the bohemian upbringing of Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O'Malley Armstrong, known as Dido, in North London, where her musical journey took root amidst an artistic household. From her early musical prowess to her collaboration with her...

Join us on a captivating journey into the life of Alan Parsons, the mastermind behind the iconic song 'Eye in the Sky' by The Alan Parsons Project. Delve into the fascinating world of music production as we explore Parsons' early passion for sound engineering and his pivotal role in shaping some of the most legendary albums in history. From his humble beginnings as a young musician in London, to h...

In this episode of 'Behind the Hits,' we delve into the captivating story behind Tasmin Archer's iconic track, 'Sleeping Satellite,' released in 1992. Join us as we uncover the journey of a talented English artist who rose from the shadows of backing vocals to create a song that echoed a powerful critique of human nature. Tasmin Archer's musical journey began as a chorus member of the group Dignit...

The inspiration for this song is found in the memoirs of one of the greatest British actors of all time: David Niven.  David Niven was known for his phlegmatic and elegant demeanor, but in his autobiography, "The Moon's a Balloon," he revealed a different side to his personality. It was this side that caught the attention of Genesis, and inspired their hit song "Mama." The song's haunting lyrics a...

One of the most interesting parts of Roger Hodgson's early life was his father's departure and the guitar he left behind. Despite his shyness and introverted nature, Roger found solace and comfort in the instrument and spent countless hours teaching himself how to play. As he grew older, Roger's passion for music only intensified, and he began writing his own songs and experimenting with different...

Adele's hit song "Someone Like You" is a heart-wrenching ballad that has become a staple of breakup playlists around the world. But what inspired this emotional masterpiece? The story begins in 2008, when a young Adele is in a relationship with a British photographer who is ten years her senior. She believes he is the love of her life, but their relationship eventually fizzles out and they go thei...

Discover the riveting narrative behind the iconic track "Roxanne" by The Police in this episode. Journey back to 1978 when the band was yet to make their mark, performing in dingy bars and cramped venues across Europe. From their memorable stint at Amsterdam's Paradisio to a serendipitous encounter in the seedy streets of Pigalle, Paris, lead singer Sting's escapade through the city sparks the gen...

Welcome to the podcast where we uncover the stories behind the songs that have captured our hearts and left a lasting impression on us. In this episode, we delve into the making of Phil Collins' timeless hit, 'I Wish it Would Rain Down'. This song is the result of a unique collaboration between two musical titans - Phil Collins and his lifelong friend, Eric Clapton. The two have a rich history of...

In this episode, we explore the story behind Prefab Sprout's hit song "Cars and Girls" released in 1988. The song was written by the band's frontman, Paddy McAloon, a renowned musical genius known for his smooth melodies and silky lyrics.  McAloon's songwriting skills are evident in "Cars and Girls," a song that features one of rock's biggest stars, Bruce Springsteen himself. McAloon's lyrics offe...

Welcome to the podcast that tells the story behind the iconic song 'Sultans of Swing' by Dire Straits. In 1977, a young Mark Knopfler was a struggling English journalist with a passion for rock and guitar. He decided to take a leap of faith and leave his job to form a band with his brother David, his brother's roommate, and a friend of the roommate. The four young musicians were sharing a cramped...

Step into the captivating world behind Tears For Fears' 1989 hit 'Woman In Chains.' In 1985, the duo found inspiration in a jazz trio's enchanting performance, leading to a powerful anthem rooted in feminist ideals. Discover how Roland Orzabal's literary exploration fueled the creation of a song urging women to reclaim their pivotal role in shaping a better future. The story unfolds with a chance...

Join us for an exclusive backstage pass to the story behind one of the most revealing POP tracks of its time. In this episode, we delve into the soulful ballad 'You Know I'm No Good' by the legendary Amy Winehouse, released in 2006. Amy Winehouse, known for her acclaimed jazz-infused debut album, collaborates with the hitmaker Mark Ronson, finding inspiration in the tumultuous love story with Blak...

Step into the captivating world of David Bowie as we unravel the extraordinary story behind one of his iconic tracks. In this episode, we delve into the ethereal realms of "Starman," released in 1972, by the kaleidoscopic artist who effortlessly embraced multiple identities. Our exploration begins in the vibrant neighborhoods of South London during the 1950s, where David Robert Jones grew up envis...

In this episode, we delve into the captivating tale behind the renowned track 'Every Time You Go Away.' Initially penned by Daryl Hall for the acclaimed duo Hall & Oates, the song remained relatively unnoticed until Paul Young decided to breathe new life into it. Hailing from the vibrant town of Luton, just north of London, Paul Young's musical journey began as a bassist in various local bands...

In the early 80s, Queen's fame was already well established, but the band wanted to break into the US market, where they weren't as popular as in the UK. So, they decided to make a music video for their song "I Want to Break Free" to be shown on MTV. The video, directed by David Mallet, was inspired by the British soap opera "Coronation Street" and featured the members of the band dressed in drag,...

Join us as we delve into the heart-rending story behind one of Elton John's most iconic compositions, "Song For A Guy." Released in 1978, this instrumental masterpiece holds a poignant narrative that resonates with audiences to this day. After a two-year hiatus, Elton John finds himself at a creative crossroads, facing the daunting task of crafting music without his long-time collaborator, Bernie...

Join us in this episode as we unravel the captivating story behind the iconic track "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" by Scottish pop-rock legends, Simple Minds, released in 1984. The narrative kicks off with the renowned Oscar-winning composer Keith Forsey, famed for his work on the musical soundtrack of the hit film Flash Dance. Amid his prolific engagement with film music in the early 80s, Forsey's...

Join us on a riveting journey through the captivating tale behind the timeless classic, Breakfast in America, by Supertramp, released in 1979. Composed by the visionary Roger Hodgson during the prime of his youth, the song chronicles his longing for the sun-soaked shores of California and the carefree American youth culture, while his heart remained entrenched in the mists of his native England. A...

Welcome to another episode of 'The Backstage Pass,' where we peel back the curtain to reveal the captivating stories behind the greatest songs in music history. Today, we take center stage with The Police's 1979 hit 'Message In The Bottle.' Journey with us to 1976 London, where Sting and Stewart Copeland laid the foundation for The Police, driven by the success of 'Roxanne.' As the trio embarked o...