Join us as we chart Prince's formative years in Minneapolis, Minnesota with biographer Matt Thorne.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

We discuss his family background, how he came to be named Prince, his early bands & songwriting (he wrote his first song at the age of 7).

Prince's early influences remained pretty consistent throughout his life & included Larry Graham, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, George Clinton, Sly Stone, the Jacksons, Tower of Power, Miles Davis, Carlos Santana, Joni Mitchell, Rufus and Chaka Khan.

Some of the early gigs Prince attended included James Brown, Joni Mitchell & Todd Rundgren leading to the formation of his first band Grand Central.

Prince's remarkable work ethic was there from the start & this leads to his eventual signing to Warner Brothers Records in 1977, then one of the largest contracts for a new artist in history.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pulp Part 1 - Nick Banks joined Pulp in 1986 after seeing an ad outside Sheffield Leadmill & as a fan of the local band already decided to audition, making his live debut at the Adelphi Hotel in Hull shortly after.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Following Jarvis Cocker's decision to relocate to London in 1988, Nick follows suit & Pulp begin to focus more on gigs in the capital. The Separations album is recorded the following year but doesn't come out until 1992.

Island Records eventually become interested & the His n Hers album begins to take shape. A John Peel Session follows 13 years after Pulp's first & Jarvis Cocker borrows £5000 off his Grandma to facilitate the release of the Babies single.

Geoff Travis comes to the rescue amid wrangling with the band's label & the His n Hers album is recorded at Britannia Row Studios in Islington, North London.

A Top of the Pops debut follows & gigs with Blur & Supergrass come shortly after as well as a memorable Christmas gig at the Theatre Royal.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join writer John Niven to have a chat about Bob Dylan & the Band & the time they spent in Woodstock.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

John talks us through his idea for a fictional book set when the Band were living in Big Pink & recording with Dylan in the basement downstairs. We discuss how Dylan & the various members of The Band came to be in Woodstock, how the Basement Tapes recordings came about, Bob Dylan's prolific songwriting in Woodstock, the lifestyle The Band were living in the relative anonymity of Woodstock & the surrounding area.

We also talk about the new material Dylan wrote which is covered by others before he has even cut any of them himself (This Wheel's On Fire by Julie Driscoll, Too Much Of Nothing by Peter, Paul & Mary, Tears of Rage by Ian & Sylvia, The Mighty Quinn - a number one single for Manfred Mann, a few tracks by The Byrds & Fairport Convention).

We mention some of John's favourite tracks from the eventual release of the Basement Tapes in 1975 & the various bootlegs available over the years, plus the original bootleg release The Great White Wonder.

How the Band's songwriting improved suddenly & exponentially, signing with Capitol for their debut album Music From Big Pink (a deal broker by Dylan manager Albert Grossman), the impact the area ultimately had on their writing both for Dylan & The Band. We give our take on Bob Dylan's painting which ends up as the cover artwork for the first Band album & then we move onto the influence The Band subsequently have on music - the birth of the Americana genre & alt.country plus more.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join writer John Niven to have a chat about Bob Dylan & the Band & the time they spent in Woodstock.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

John talks us through his idea for a fictional book set when the Band were living in Big Pink & recording with Dylan in the basement downstairs. We discuss how Dylan & the various members of The Band came to be in Woodstock, how the Basement Tapes recordings came about, Bob Dylan's prolific songwriting in Woodstock, the lifestyle The Band were living in the relative anonymity of Woodstock & the surrounding area.

We also talk about the new material Dylan wrote which is covered by others before he has even cut any of them himself (This Wheel's On Fire by Julie Driscoll, Too Much Of Nothing by Peter, Paul & Mary, Tears of Rage by Ian & Sylvia, The Mighty Quinn - a number one single for Manfred Mann, a few tracks by The Byrds & Fairport Convention).

We mention some of John's favourite tracks from the eventual release of the Basement Tapes in 1975 & the various bootlegs available over the years, plus the original bootleg release The Great White Wonder.

How the Band's songwriting improved suddenly & exponentially, signing with Capitol for their debut album Music From Big Pink (a deal broker by Dylan manager Albert Grossman), the impact the area ultimately had on their writing both for Dylan & The Band. We give our take on Bob Dylan's painting which ends up as the cover artwork for the first Band album & then we move onto the influence The Band subsequently have on music - the birth of the Americana genre & alt.country plus more.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thurston Moore returns for the 2nd part of our chat.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Bumping into Joey Ramone on the way to CBGBs for the first time, Wayne County, meeting Lee Ranaldo at a gig, being introduced to Kim Gordon via a mutual friend, the downtown art world including Jean-Michel Basquiat, his early band The Coachmen, even Madonna gets a mention. We also detail the formation of Sonic Youth & how he came up with the iconic band name.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome Thurston Moore formerly of Sonic Youth to Music Maps.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

We talk about his childhood in Connecticut, some of the early records he including Iron Butterly, Abbey Road, Led Zeppelin & Black Sabbath, Buying the Rolling Stones - Their Satanic Majesties Request, the influence of his Dad, seeing an early Patti Smith gig in Westbury, CT & later sending off for her Hey Joe 7” single. Sending money to Richard Hell, driving to 2nd hand bookstores with Tom Verlaine & the first mention of Tom's published poetry, finishing with his first trip to Max’s Kansas City to see the Cramps & Suicide. Part 2 next week.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer & musician Willy Vlautin (Richmond Fontaine, The Delines) joins us to talk about his new book The Horse on Faber & Faber.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

We also go deep on his formative years in Reno, Nevada, his love for the Pacific Northwest - specifically Portland, Oregon. We talk about his early influences including Green on Red, The Long Ryders & the Cowpunk bands, The Jam, The Pogues, Bruce Springsteen & Australian songwriter Paul Kelly. Writers that had an influence including John Steinbeck, Barry Gifford, Larry Brown & Raymond Carver. We touch briefly on movies & end up discussing Mad Max: Fury Road & Andrew Haigh's All Of Us Strangers & more.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us on our first trip to the mighty music city of Sheffield as Martyn Ware guides us through growing up in the city.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Meeting Phil Oakey at school, his formative early bands, the influence of science fiction on his work, he & Phil's shared love of Marvel & DC comics, seeing Star Wars on opening day at the Sheffield Gaumont, seeing Roxy Music at Sheffield University in 1972, coming up with the name the Human League, recording the demo that became Being Boiled, signing with Virgin Records, touring with Siouxsie & the Banshees & Iggy Pop, debut album Reproduction, their first headline tour, the early gig David Bowie attended, the quick follow up 2nd album Travelogue & it's Malcolm Garrett designed cover, the bands first TV appearance courtesy of Tony Wilson, his ultimate departure from the band & more.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Norris talks us through the birth of Acid House at clubs such as Shoom, Future & Heaven.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

We also talk about the Jack the Tab album, his time as a member of The Grid, their unexpected chart success, Alan McGee's brief tenure as manager, his early trips to Ibiza & collaborations with Andy Mackay and Phil Mazanera from Roxy Music, Robert Fripp from King Crimson, Brian Eno, PP Arnold, Sun Ra, Johnny Marr & surf guitar king Dick Dale.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acclaimed music writer Tom Doyle is our guide this week as we take a deep dive into the formative years & early career of Kate Bush.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

From her upbringing on East Wickham Farm near Welling, her early songwriting, learning to play piano, David Gilmour's involvement in her early career, the visual aspect of her work, her early gigs with the KT Bush Band, cutting Wuthering Heights in 1 take, her huge early success with The Kick Inside album, the less successful follow up Lionheart & the 1979 Tour of Life.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us & take a stroll down the Kings Road with writer Max Decharne as our guide.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Our first stop is the Angry Young Men of 1956, before moving on to the Swinging Londoners of 1966 & finally the punks of 1976. With mentions along the way for Mozart, the Beatles, John Osborne, Henry VIII, Rolling Stones, James Bond, Sex Pistols, The Clash, Charles II, Mary Quant, Andrew Loog Oldham, Vivienne Westwood & many more.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us on our first trip to The Hacienda in Manchester as we talk to DJ Paulette about her early days & first DJ gigs, her influences, launching the iconic Flesh night at the Hacienda (Manchester's first gay club night), Manchester nightlife of the 80's & 90's, the 'it's queer up north' tagline, the birth of the LBGTQ scene in Manchester & much more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us to take a deep dive into the little known history of Joy Division right here on our home turf in Walthamstow, East London. Find out from a first hand source how the band came to play 2 gigs here in 1979 - how it came about, how many people were there, what happened & more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Joy Division's first trip to London had been in late 1978 when they played the Hope & Anchor in Islington just after Christmas, at that gig they met some punks from Walthamstow & later come to play 2 shows at the now demolished youth centre on Markhouse Road. About a week later the now iconic bridge photo was taken of Joy Division by Kevin Cummins.

Following their debut release the Factory Sample, on March 30th 1979 Joy Division play their first gig in E17, after which the band stayed at a house on The Crescent here in Walthamstow lying on mattresses in the living room.

Hear about some recently uncovered photos from this stay in E17 as well as the conjecture over whether the band stayed or not as they entered Strawberry Studios in Stockport the very next day to begin recording the Unknown Pleasures album with Martin Hannett.

We will tell you about some of the mysteries surrounding the 2nd gig as the date is officially unknown & little remains in terms of advertising, promotion, setlist or bootleg recordings.

Also hear about how Ian Curtis's legendary Mac featured in several iconic photos ended up in a charity shop here in Walthamstow.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Penderyn Prize winning writer Michael Cragg to discuss all things pop in the 90's & 2000's.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us to hear about Paul Hanley's time in The Fall from joining the band age 16 & being thrown in at the deep end with a gig at the Electric Ballroom in March of 1980.

Paul recorded two legendary singles Totally Wired & How I Wrote Elastic Man at his first recording session later in 1980 & they come out on Rough Trade. The legendary Slates EP comes next followed by the famous trip to Iceland which results in the 'Hip Priest' track which also featured in the Jonathan Demme film The Silence of the Lambs.

Karl Burns returns to The Fall & the band proceed with 2 drummers & both appear on the classic Hex Enduction Hour album which follows.

Lineup changes continue as Marc Riley departs & Brix Smith comes in & the Perverted by Language album follows in 1983 - we also discuss the myth of Motown Records interest in the Fall - did this happen or not?

The Fall move to the Beggar's Banquet label in 1984 & 'The Wonderful & Frightening World of The Fall' album follows later that year - however relationships within the band sour & Paul leaves following an incident in Brighton where the bands gear is stolen. His final performance with The Fall was on The Old Grey Whistle Test.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Suzi Ronson gives us a first hand account of the Ziggy Stardust years she spent with David Bowie from creating the iconic Ziggy haircut & costumes, the early days at Haddon Hall in Beckenham, hearing Starman for the first time, touring America with the Spiders, the UK tours leading up to the final performance at the Hammersmith Odeon in 1973.

We start in 1971 when Suzi cuts David Bowie’s Mums hair in a salon in Beckenham, shortly after she first sees David Bowie walking down Beckenham High Street wearing a dress. 

Suzi meets Angie Bowie shortly after & visits their home Haddon Hall & cut David Bowie’s hair into the iconic Ziggy Stardust style on that very night. She meet future husband Mick Ronson around this time. 

The Hunk Dory album comes out & soon after David also debuts the Ziggy Stardust character at a gig at the Toby Jug in Tolworth. Shortly after Angie & David invite Suzi to come & work for them full time.

The Ziggy Stardust tour goes all over the country & Bowie somehow finds time to produce Transformers for Lou Reed. 

The Ziggy character is a sensation in the USA & also travels to Japan before the Aladdin Sane album comes out in April of 1973. The final leg of the tour is over more than 50 dates across the UK before the famous final show at Hammersmith Odeon. 

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second part of our chat with Miki Berenyi from Lush - from the release of the debut album Spooky, the Lolopoloza tour of the US, second album Split, the commercial success of the Lovelife album & the Single Girl & Ladykillers singles, 4AD, the end of the band in 1996 & the reunion in 2016.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Miki Berenyi joins us to talk about her upbringing & early life in Willesden Green, meeting Emma Anderson & the other members of Lush, making their fanzine Alphabet Soup, their first band the Baby Machines, changing the name to Lush, the first Lush gig at the Camden Falcon, signing with 4AD & more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week acclaimed writer John Robb takes us up north to put our first pin in our Music Map in the iconic city of Manchester. We detail the bands formation & early years, first gigs around the country, the release of Sally Cinnamon, their live debut in Manchester at the International 1, almost signing with Rough Trade, recording Elephant Stone with Peter Hook, the first national tour in 1989, the debut album & its gradual rise to meteoric status, the famous Blackpool Empress Ballroom gig & more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us to celebrate the life & career of Karen Carpenter. Biographer Lucy O'Brien takes us on our first trip to the USA to chat all things Karen from her early years first in New Haven, Connecticut & then after the Carpenter family relocated to Downey, California.

The Carpenters sign to A&M Records in 1969 by Herb Alpert shortly after forming - by 1970 they are already releasing their first singles. They go on to great success throughout the following years.

Karen had various struggles throughout her life & passed away in 1983, her only solo album was releases posthumously.

Following her death her brother Richard Carpenter largely vanished from public view, but her legacy was kept alive via a 1987 Todd Haynes documentary, a tribute album in the 90s plus Sonic Youth covering Superstar & writing their own tribute in their track Tunic.

Help us put another pin in our Music Map in the LA suburb of Downey, California.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as and Penderyn Prize winning author Daniel Rachel to take a deep dive into the formation of the Two Tone record label in Coventry - starting with the beginnings of the label, moving onto the early years of Jerry Dammers, The Specials & Madness meeting at the Hope & Anchor in Islington, the Two Tone Top of the Pops Episode, the Two Much Too Young EP hitting number 1, the famous Two Tone Tour of 1979 & more.

Help us to put the first pin in our Music Map of the world in the Motor City of Coventry.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing Music Maps - the Rock n Roll Book Club Podcast, each episode we use a place as a jumping off point for a conversation about music - anywhere from the obvious to the obscure.

Join us as we build our Music Map of the world.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Produced by Tim Benton & Simon Cardwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we take a deep dive into the Scottish post-punk scene, Postcard Records & C81 as we explore the history of cult band Josef K. 

Josef K met at Firrhill High School in Edinburgh & music brought them together with punk quickly becoming a key influence following the iconic The Clash gig at Edinburgh Playhouse in May of 1977. 

Another band which become a key influence were Subway Sect who joined The Clash on that bill. 

They soon develop their distinctive sound with 2 rhythm guitars & no lead. A few gigs with future label mates Orange Juice follow but The Go-Betweens sign to Postcard Records before Josef K eventually become their 3rd signing. 

A couple of legendary gigs follow in Glasgow & Edinburgh with Orange Juice & The Go-Betweens tagged with ‘The Sound of Young Scotland’. 

Their time with Postcard is relatively short-lived & once Aztec Camera sign to the label, Josef K are left as something of an afterthought. 

Support slots with Magazine, Bauhaus, The Cure, Teardrop Explodes, Echo & the Bunnymen follow & the band’s debut album Sorry For Laughing is recorded in 1981 but ultimately is not released. 

Josef K the the unusual decision to re-record their debut album. Shortly followings its eventual release the band abruptly break up. For a band with such a brief history they have lingered in the consciousness & had significant influence since. 

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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We welcome Jah Wobble to tell us about his time with PiL (Public Image Limited).

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

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We start with how he joined the band, touch upon his youth with John Lydon, who came up with the name of the band & the brief early involvement of Richard Branson. We hear about how Keith Levene & Jim Walker joined the band (and Jim's departure later) as well as signing with Virgin Records shortly after. Jah describes the chaotic finances of the band & the key part photographer Dennis Morris played in the story.

We hear about how the innovative PiL band logo came to be & the arrival of the debut album First Issue arrives in late 1978 followed by the novel idea of playing gigs on Christmas Day & Boxing Day at the Rainbow Theatre in Finsbury Park.

Jah explains how PiL songs nearly always start with the baseline & build from there & how this played into the Metal Box album which follows in November 1979 & how the famous metal container cover came about. We hear a couple of unusual stories including Chris Blackwell's brief involvement & the prospect to sign with Island Records in the US along with a meeting with Martin Scorsese to discuss the soundtrack for Raging Bull.

Factory Records gets a mention as a label which may have been a better fit for the band in hindsight - we also hear about the bands first US tour in early 1980 - Jah tells us how the audiences compared to back at home as well as how this tour ultimately became his last appearances with the band as he left upon returning to London.

All this & more - if you like this episode please leave us a review or star rating on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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Biographer Lesley-Ann Jones joins us to talk about Paul McCartney's time in Scotland living on High Park Farm near Campbeltown.

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We talk about his decision to buy this property in a remote part of Scotland, his & John Lennon's links (or lack of) to Scotland, Linda's role in Paul & his family spending more time there & the privacy it subsequently afforded them. We move onto discuss some of the key songs written at the farm over the years including Heart of the Country, The Lovely Linda & That Would Be Something as well as some that were recorded there in Paul's home studio such as Back To The Egg & McCartney II. We discuss the impact of Linda McCartney's photos taken at the farm which later appeared on the cover of Ram & the inner sleeve of McCartney I. Moving on we really dig into the writing, recording, release, video shoot & more for Mull of Kintyre - how Paul came to meet & work with the Campbeltown Pipe Band, the huge success of the song in the UK, its comparable lack of success in the US, the various videos & TV appearance which followed & how the song fit upon its release in 1977, the year of punk.

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Carrying on our chat with Tim Booth we continue on the early years of James with the recording of their first demo, signing to Factory Records & making their debut release with the Jimone EP in November 1983.

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From there Tim tells us about meeting The Smiths & playing with them at the Hacienda & subsequently touring Ireland with them & later joining the Meat Is Murder Tour in 1985.

James are touring with Johnny Marr across the USA in the autumn & Tim tells us how this came about.

We also hear about leaving Factory Records in 1985 & ending up on Sire Records - debut album Stutter is produced by Lenny Kaye. The follow up Strip Mine doesn't appear until 18 months after it was recorded & we hear about that what let do these delays.

We also get to ask Tim about the famous Anti Clause 28 gig with the Stone Roses at the International, signing to Rough Trade in 1989 & releasing the Gold Mother album which leads to the huge success of Come Home & Sit Down.

Tim talks us through writing, releasing & re-recording Sit Down. We talk about a few of the bands bib gigs from this era including the G Mex & the roof of the Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester as well as Alton Towers in 1990 in front of 30,000 fans.

The Seven album also comes out in 1990 & we touch on that & then hear about how the band met & worked with Brian Eno We move onto this year's Yummy album - the bands first number 1 in the UK Chart & talk through some upcoming festival appearances throughout 2024.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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Tim Booth joins us this week to talk about his new book 'When I Died For The First Time' out now on Constable (imprint of Little Brown).

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We talk about his writing influences from Doris Lessing & Patti Smith to Frank Herbert & then how his experiences in James influenced his writing. We also talk in depth about James latest UK number 1 album Yummy as well as their recent appearance at Glastonbury 2024 & their other appearances they have coming up over the summer & an autumn USA tour with Johnny Marr.

Moving onto James we start with Tim meeting the band at Manchester University Student's Union, joining initially as a dancer but graduating to lead singer within 4-5 months. Tim talks us through some of the bands early gigs including the first gig in Blackburn along with early appearances at the Hacienda & the International inManchester. We find out how they came up with the name James & signing to Factory Records & Tony Wilson - with more to come in part 2.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

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Helen O'Hara joins us as we talk through her early career from getting a knock on the door to play with Kevin Archer's The Blue Ox Babes to later joining Dexys Midnight Runners.

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We talk about being renamed Helen O'Hara by Kevin Rowland & joining Dexys as one of the Emerald Express shortly after & Helen's difficult decision to join the band & turn down an offer to join the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra. recording for the first time with the band at AIR Studios in London with producers Clive Langer & Alan Winstanley.

Helen's first gig with Dexys comes at Exhibition Park in Newcastle for a Radio 1 show, where the band also unveiled their new look. Soon after the band recorded & released the Too-Rye-Ay album which spawned the number 1 single Come On Eileen - Helen explains the importance of the Top Of The Pops appearances in breaking the song.

The Bridge Tour follows in 1982 & the Jackie Wilson Said single follows & again becomes a hit. Join us for all this and more.

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

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This week we make our first visit to Birmingham to trace the history & early years of Dexys Midnight Runners

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We find out how Kevin Rowland & Kevin Archer formed the band, the strict rules for membership, how the various members came to join.

Writer Nige Tassell, talks us through some of the stories, myths & legends from his new book Searching For Dexys Midnight Runners - published by Nine Eight Books.

We start with early punk band project The Killjoys, how they jump to the soul inflected sound of Dexys, how it went against the grain at the time, the various venues the band played around Birmingham including gigs with Joy Division & UB40.

Nige tells us about the brief possibility of Van Morrison coming in to produce the debut album Searching For The Young Soul Rebels - how the record was made, the heist that ensued after the recording with the master tapes.

Bernie Rhodes brief involvement before the first single Dance Stance is released - signing to EMI after his departure. The huge success of Geno which followed & took the band to number 1 in the charts - how the label didn't want it as a single.

We then detail how the bands fragment quickly leading to 5 members of this original lineup leaving at once to form The Bureau.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

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Part 2 of our chat with Prince biographer Matt Thorne picks up where we left off with the release of his debut album For You in 1977 on Warner Bros.

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We find out about Prince's fast way of working in the studio along with his decision to produce, sing & play most of his records himself.

Prince put a full time band together following the release of his debut album & heads out on his first proper tour since singing to Warners.

His second album titled simply Prince follows in 1979 & spawns 3 hit singles (‘I Wanna Be Your Lover’, ‘I Feel for You’ and ‘Sexy Dancer’) - I Wanna Be Your Lover sells over a million copies in the US but remarkably fails to crack the top 10 in the chart.

A strange appearance on Dick Clark's American Bandstand follows & Prince's 'I Feel For You' becomes a huge hit for Chaka Khan.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

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Join us to take a deep dive into the life & career of LBGTQ icon Dusty Springfield - starting with her early life first in West Hampstead in London & then briefly in High Wycombe, Dusty attended a convent school but reinvented herself after leaving school into the glamorous blonde icon she became famous as.

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When our guest biographer Lucy O'Brien first wrote about Dusty in the late 1980s little was known about her but her legend has grown exponentially since - we talk about her interest in Hollywood film stars & what might have triggered her transformation from the shy & slightly plain Mary O'Brien to the larger than life Dusty Springfield.

Dusty joined singing act the Lana Sisters in 1959 & they sign to Fontana - a year later she leaves to join The Springfields with her brother Tom Springfield. The band achieve success with hits in the UK & unusually for the time, the US.

Sun Records boss Shelby Singleton was among the first to identify her R&B potential & brought The Springfields to Nashville to record, but not long after a show at the London Palladium in late 1963 Dusty leaves the band.

Within a month her first solo release 'I Only Want To Be With You' reaches number 4 in the charts - her debut album A Girl Called Dusty follows in 1964. A track from the album 'You Don't Own Me' was recently used as the intro music for Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour - we talk about why we think it may have been used.

Dusty helped introduce Motown to the UK & attended the first UK tour & championed the label - we also talk about the influence of her key collaborators Bacharach & David, Goffin & King, Ivor Raymonde & more.

She was the foremost female of the British Invasion of 1964 & scored a huge hit with 'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me' in 1966 & a Dusty Springfield track became a Northern Soul classic under the name Patti Austin but remained unreleased until the 1970s.

By 1968 the hits weren't coming as easily as before which leads Dusty to turn to America to reinvent her sound.

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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Steve Wynn joins us to tell us all about his time with the Dream Syndicate, the formation of the band & the Paisley Underground scene. Steve's new book is out now on Jawbone Press & his latest record Make It Right is out on Fire Records.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

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The Dream Syndicate formed in 1981 with Kendra Smith, Karl Precoda & Dennis Duck joining Steve in the band. Steve briefly had another band with Sid Griffin who later formed the Long Ryders but chose to concentrate on what became the Dream Syndicate.

The band comes together remarkably quickly with a demo, first show & a band name all within 3 weeks of forming - their debut EP followed shortly after & sold out its initial pressings immediately.

The scene that builds becomes known as the Paisley Underground & also includes The Bangs (later The Bangles), Salvation Army (later The Three O'Clock) & Rain Parade. Other bands including Green On Red & The Long Ryders are described by Steve as 'Paisley Adjacent'.

The band sign with LA label Slash Records & release their debut album The Days of Wine & Roses in 1982 which is an instant success.

The Dream Syndicate's first national tour follows & features a stop at the 9.30 Club in Washington D.C. & the legendary Maxwells in Hoboken & a missed show at the Danceteria in New York. Prince (allegedly) attended the bands show at First Avenue in Minneapolis.

Kendra Smith leaves the band shortly after the tour & with that the first phase of the Dream Syndicate comes to an end.

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell

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Featuring exclusive clips from Jah Wobble, Stewart Lee, Caroline Catz & Richard Norris sharing their memories of the Scala Cinema - documentary makers Jane Giles & Ali Catterall join us to share the history of the cinema from its original Soho location & its 2nd home in Kings Cross in London.

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The first cinema was built on the site of the Scala Theatre which featured extensively in The Beatles' feature film debut A Hard Days Night in 1964. This original Soho location opened as a cinema in 1976 originally known as The Other Cinema, becoming the Scala in the summer of 1978.

The cinema soon gained a reputation for its eclectic programming & diverse clientele. The Scala also put on gigs including Throbbing Gristle, Spandau Ballet,

The Slits, A Certain Ratio, Durutti Column & New Order.

The Scala relocated to Kings Cross in 1981 but the new location had a musical history of its own having played host to gigs from Hawkwind, Soft Machine, Flamin’ Groovies, Mott the Hoople, Status Quo, Viv Stanshall, Lou Reed (the cover for Transformer was taken here) & Iggy & The Stooges (the Raw Power cover was also taken at the Scala at their only UK gig).

At the new location the Scala's legendary all nighters soon became infamous & were attend by the likes of Ian Curtis, Shane McGowan & more.

The Scala closed its doors in 1993 in the wake of the lease for the building reaching an end & a controversial screening of A Clockwork Orange.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

You can watch the Scala documentary on BFI Player: https://player.bfi.org.uk

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell

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Clem Cattini tells us about the birth of British rock & roll - Clem has played on over 40 number 1 singles, including Shakin’ All Over by Johnny Kidd & The Pirates & of course Telstar with his band the Tornados, the first British band to top the charts in America. 

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We start in late 1959 when Clem leaves Larry Parnes represented backing band The Beat Boys & subsequently ends up as a member of Johnny Kidd & The Pirates. In early 1960 they hit the top spot with the iconic 'Shakin' All Over'.

Despite this success the band played some less than salubrious gigs which we hear all about - as well as the origin of Johnny Kidd's famous eye patch & how he came to leave The Pirates.

Not long after Clem auditions for Joe Meek at his legendary studio at 304 Holloway Road, subsequently joining The Tornados - we hear all about the goings on at Joe's studio, his time with Billy Fury & how the Tornados later came to make the legendary Telstar - becoming the first British band to top the US charts in late 1962.

Clem also became friends with The Beatles as they crossed paths on the concert circuit of the early 1960s & tells us about his many encounters with the Fab Four.

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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Bella Union label founder Simon Raymonde joins us this week to talk us through his time with the Cocteau Twins.

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Simon joined the band in 1983 having met Robin Guthrie & Elizabeth Fraser a couple of years prior while working at Beggars Banquet record shop in South Kensington. The first album he is involved with is 1984's self produced Treasure - although Brian Eno & Daniel Landis were briefly discussed as possible producers.

Find out about Cocteau Twin's unique way of working in the studio - going in with nothing prepared or written in advance - as well as how they created their unique sound.

A collaboration with legendary Harold Budd follows along with various EPs but the band turn down the chance to record the soundtrack to David Lynch's Blue Velvet.

Around this time the band move into an industrial unit in North Acton & this newfound creative freedom leads to the Blue Bell Knoll album which comes out on 4AD in 1988. But not long after Cocteau Twins relocate to what becomes their September Sound studio in Richmond (rented from Pete Townshend).

Not long after the classic Heaven Or Las Vegas album is recorded, coming out in 1990 & achieving the timeless sound the band had been striving for.

Prince samples '50-50 Clown' from the album not long after & was reported to be a fan of the band but the band leave 4AD not long after the tour ends at the Aladdin Casino in Las Vegas.

Signing with Fontana shortly after & the Four-Calendar Cafe album follows in 1993 along with their final album Milk & Kisses in 1996 - the band tour extensively & play festivals at Roskilde & Lollapalooza but their final gig comes at the Phoenix Festival in the summer of 1996.

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Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell

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The 1989 album is 10 years old on October 27th 2014 - so we thought we'd take a deep dive into the story behind this iconic record.

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It is extremely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

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Joining us is writer Caroline Sullivan - her book 'Taylor Swift Era by Era' is out now on Michael O'Mara publishing - On her previous album Red, Taylor Swift had started to move into more of a pop direction & for her 5th album she decides to dive into the world of pop - what led her to this change of direction? Was it a gradual process? How did her fans & record label react?

Shortly before making 1989, Taylor Swift bought her house in Rhode Island - previously been owned by Standard Oil fortune heiress & socialite Rebekah Harkness & also relocates full time to New York City. This change of scenery leads to album opener 'Welcome To New York' which takes an 80s synth pop inflected sound which ends up running through the entire album.

The album features 7 songs produced by pop producers Max Martin & Shellback, as well as Ryan Tedder, British songwriter Imogen Heap but also marks one of the first contributions from Jack Antonoff who subsequently becomes a key collaborator on later releases.

1989 & lead single Shake It Off are announced via a livestream atop the Empire State Building in August of 2014 & Shake It Off becomes her biggest hit to date, spending 8 weeks at the top of the chart, shifting over 10 million units.

The album spawns 7 hit singles including a further 2 number 1s (Blank Space & Bad Blood) & crosses over in a way prior releases hadn't - going onto sell over 14 million copies.

The 1989 World Tour makes over $250m worldwide across 85 dates & becomes known for its many guest appearances including Mick Jagger, Joan Baez, The Weeknd, HAIM, Ed Sheeran, Lorde & dozens more.

Taylor Swift becomes the first woman to win 2 Grammy Awards with this album b ut also withholds her music from streaming services including Spotify & Apple Music & writes a strongly worded article in the Wall Street Journal making the case for music being paid for & not free.

Ryan Adams releases his version of the entire 1989 album in the autumn of 2015 & Bad Blood is re-released featuring Kendrick Lamar. Taylor also writes a song for Rihanna & Calvin Harris under the name Nils Sjöberg.

All this & more - join us to hear all about it.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell

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Join us as we present our first live episode - recorded at one of our live events here in Walthamstow, East London - talking all things Britpop & the 90's with Miranda Sawyer & Sian Pattenden.

Including Suede, Blur, Elastica, Sleeper, Pulp, Oasis, The Verve, Robbie Williams, Tricky, Glastonbury & a lot more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

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Hosted by Sian Pattenden

Recorded by Rob Donnelly-Jackson

Recorded at the Walthamstow Trades Hall

Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell & Rob Donnelly-Jackson

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Kathy Valentine joins us to talk about her career, her new book, her time with The Go-Go's, her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & more.

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Kathy Valentine grew up in Austin, Texas but also spent time in London as a teenager via family connections. On one such visit she saw Suzi Quattro on Top of the Pops & decided to form a punk band back in Austin.

Kathy's first band The Violators also featured Carla Olsen (who later collaborated with Gene Clark, Bob Dylan, Mick Taylor, Percy Sledge, Ry Cooder & more) & in August 1980 they drove to LA in pursuit of their dream. Once in LA they become The Textones & release two singles, one of which is an unreleased Tom Petty track.

A chance meeting at the end of 1980 leads to Kathy leaving the band to join The Go-Go's with Belinda Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin, Charlotte Caffey & Gina Schock.

Her first gig was on New Years Eve of 1980 at the Whiskey a Go Go.

The band sign with IRS in April of 1981 & fly to New York the next day to begin work on what becomes the Beauty & The Beat album with producer Richard Gottehrer (Blondie, Dr. Feelgood, Richard Hell). 'Our Lips Are Sealed' becomes the first single co-written by Specials frontman Terry Hall. The track breaks through despite resistance from radio & within the industry.

The Go-Go's open for the Rolling Stones & The Police in the coming months as well as an appearance on Saturday Night Live alongside Eddie Murphy. The album reaches number 1 & becomes one of the most successful debut albums of all time & is still the only album to reach top top spot entirely written & performed by an all female band.

Second album Vacation follows in 1982 with a title track written by Kathy & leads to an appearance on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. The band are playing larger venues including a date with David Bowie on the Serious Moonlight Tour.

The final Go-Go's album Talk Show is made in England with producer Martin Rushent & founder member Jane Wiedlin leaves the band not long after the supporting tour.

The Go-Go's were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 & the band will be playing in 2025 including the Cruel World Festival in Pasadena, California.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

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Join us on a trip to Zanzibar by way of India & Feltham as we trace the early years of Freddie Mercury.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar in 1946 as Farrokh Bulsara but was later sent to school in India - attending a strict boarding school.

Freddie's first band was in India but when the Bulsara family relocated to Feltham in South East London he found himself in the midst of Swinging London.

He met future bandmate Tim Staffell at Isleworth College & later met future Queen guitarist Brian May who was in a band called Smile. Roger Taylor also came in but Freddie didn't officially join until later.

After bouncing around various bands in the London area & also a stint in Liverpool, Freddie eventually names the band Queen & also designs their iconic logo. Their first gig takes place at Truro City Hall in the Summer of 1970 & the rest is history.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing DETOURS - occasionally we come across something which does not fit directly into our Music Map but we think our listeners will like anyway - this week we are joined by James Brown, founder of Loaded Magazine, NME features editor (at age 22), fanzine creator & originator of the GQ Man of The Year.

Changing the landscape of the publishing world with Loaded - the magazine achieved instant stratospheric success & at its peak counted among its contributors Irvine Welsh, Vic Reeves & Howard Marks.

We talk about the 90s & adventures with Oasis, the Beastie Boys, Sampdoria FC & more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jakko Jakszyk joins us to take us on a tour through his wide ranging career encompassing his current role as singer of King Crimson, stints in The Lodge, Level 42, solo albums on Stiff Records & Chiswick Records, working with Tom Robinson, remix work for the likes of Emerson Lake & Palmer, Jethro Tull & Yes. Briefly being a member of The Kinks, a sideline in comedy, a brief interaction with Michael Jackson, Robert Fripp's dealings with Kanye West, initially joining The 21st Century Schizoid Band & then ultimately King Crimson themselves & more.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are joined by ex The Fall drummer Simon Wolstencroft AKA Funky Si - after meeting Ian Brown & John Squire at Altrincham Grammar School he & John follow The Clash around the UK travelling to gigs as far away as Bristol & London. In addition to a huge interest in The Sex Pistols & The Clash, other bands they follows as teens included The Slits, The Ramones, Siouxsie & The Banshees & the 2 Tone movement. 

Simon, Ian Brown & John Squire along with Pete Garner & Andy Couzens they form punk band The Patrol while attending South Trafford College.

In 1980 Simon meets Johnny Marr & along with fellow future Smiths member Andy Rourke they become Freak Party - the band ultimately fizzle out as they are unable to find a suitable singer. It is during this time Johnny Marr comes up with the name Funky Si.

A couple of months later Simon is contacted by Johnny Marr & asked to join his new band The Smiths - ultimately Simon decides against it as he doesn't like Morrissey. Although he did play on their first ever recording in Ancoats.

Simon later works with Ian Brown again during his post-Stone Roses solo career - co-writing Golden Gaze on Ian's second solo album Golden Greats, appearing on Top Of The Pops & playing a final gig at Alexandra Palace.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

Join us to discuss the music book of 2024 & one of the best music books of all time - Street Level Superstar - A Year With Lawrence has swept the board in the end of 2024 charts. Sunday Times writer Will Hodgkinson spends a year with Lawrence from Felt.

Our starting point is the West Midlands suburb of Water Orton - Television, Subway Sect & T-Rex proving formative influences of Lawrence's earlier years.

Eventually he forms Felt & they achieve a degree of success with their debut 7", Index. The band achieve a degree of success with 10 albums across a 10 year period including a stint on Creation Records.

However their success was limited by the many rules Lawrence enforced upon the band including a specific type of plectrum only, rectangular guitar cases only, specific clothing & others.

Lawrence's next project in the early 90s was Denim - while seemingly on the cusp following a tour with Pulp in 1996 the band did not achieve the success Lawrence long craved. His complete lack of compromise at some points of his life more of a hindrance.

The books is not a typical music biography & is more a character study & an examination of Lawrence's eccentric life. Will spends a year in Lawrence's company as they travel to Waltham Cross, Chelsfield, Welling, Beckenham & Temple Fortune.

We cannot describe how engaging this book is & really could not recommend it any higher.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tiffany Murray grew up at Rockfield Studios after her Mum was appointed chef - she tells us about meeting Black Sabbath & Ozzy Osbourne, David Bowie, Queen, Iggy Pop, Motorhead, Simple Minds, The Teardrop Explodes, Echo & The Bunnymen, Adam & The Ants, Siouxsie Sioux, Lemmy's parents, Showaddywaddy, Rush, Bauhaus & more.

One memorable moment came when she heard Freddie Mercury rehearsing Bohemian Rhapsody on a piano. As a child she snuck in to watch them practice. 

She later heard them recording Bohemian Rhapsody & even played a game of rounders with Freddie Mercury. Killer Queen could even by about Tiffany’s Mum. 

Black Sabbath also visited & were the loudest band Tiffany had heard, followed closely by Motorhead who came not long after. 

David Bowie & Iggy Pop visit Rockfield to record the Soldier album while Simple Minds are in the other studio simultaneously. 

By the early 80’s Tiffany’s time at Rockfield is coming to an end but she does get to interact with Bauhaus, The Cure, Julian Cope & The Teardrop Explodes, Echo & the Bunnymen & the beginning of a new scene. 

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us on our first trip to Seattle for part 1 of our conversation with Steve Turner from Mudhoney - Steve's book Mudride is out now on Omnibus Press.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

Steve grew up in the Seattle of the 1970s & his first access to punk rock comes via the pages of Skateboarder magazine which leads to picking up his first guitar during senior year of High School.

While still at school Steve meets future bandmates Mark Arm & Stone Gossard (later of Pearl Jam) & he & Mark form Mr. Epp & The Calculations.

The Seattle Scene begins at the Metropolis Club & the band splinters into two, Steve & Mark then start a new band which becomes Green River with Stone Goassard joining. Others floating around the city include Duff McKagan (future Guns n' Roses) & Kris Novoselic (future Nirvana).

A key gig follows with Sonic Youth & local legends The U Men at the Gorilla Gardens which becomes the new centre of the Seattle scene & the band sign with Homestead Records shortly after.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On May 31st 1993 Alan McGee walked into King Tut's War War Hut in Glasgow & stumbled upon Oasis - immediately after the gig he rang Creation Records Press Officer Johnny Hopkins to enthuse about his new discovery - the calls were repeated every hour throughout the night. Johnny joins us this week for the first part of our conversation about the beginnings of Oasis & the making of their debut album Definitely Maybe.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

The day after King Tut's, Alan McGee arrives back at Creation HQ in Hackney with the famous Union Jack demo tape - Bring It On Down being the first track Johnny & the Creation staff heard.

Within a week Liam, Noel & Bonehead come into Creation & are sharp & funny - impressing everyone. Shortly after they sign with Creation in the UK & Sony worldwide.

The first thing many people hear is the Columbia white label 12" which appears towards the end of 1993 & is instantly played on Radio 1.

Also in late 1993 Oasis decamp to Monnow Valley Studios with original producer Dave Batchelor, however the results are deemed unsatisfactory & Noel Gallagher & Mark Coyle take over production duties for further sessions at Sawmills Studios, but again the recordings fail to capture the sound everyone is hearing at Oasis gigs.

Owen Morris has a go at mixing the record & nails it - producing the sound you hear on the finished album.

The first London gig takes place at the Water Rats in Kings Cross in January of 1994 & features the first known performance of debut single Supersonic, which comes out on April 11th.

This landmark gig is followed by a legendary trip to Amsterdam which is where we end Part 1 of our Definitely Maybe 30th Anniversary episode - part 2 will follow next week.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Music Maps, Johnny Hopkins, former head of press and publicist for Oasis at Creation Records, shares his journey into the music industry, his early obsession with music, and the pivotal moments that led to Oasis's rise.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

From his beginnings in Hull to his eventual role at Creation, Johnny recounts the excitement of discovering Oasis and the whirlwind of events that followed their signing. He reflects on the band's unique personality, their impact on the music scene, and the challenges faced during their early days.

This conversation delves into the early days of Oasis, exploring their rise from obscurity to fame, the challenges faced during the recording of their debut album 'Definitely Maybe', and the pivotal moments that shaped their career. Key themes include the importance of live performance energy, the strategic decisions made in promoting the band, and the role of media in crafting their image. The discussion also highlights memorable anecdotes from their journey, including a legendary trip to Amsterdam and the impact of their first single 'Supersonic'.

This conversation delves into the evolution of Oasis, exploring their connection to acid house music, the influence of the dance music scene, and the challenges of navigating the music press and tabloid culture. It highlights the band's unprecedented success with their debut album, Definitely Maybe, and the cultural shift they represented in the music landscape, particularly in relation to football culture and the American market. In this conversation, Johnny Hopkins reflects on the journey of Oasis, detailing their experiences in America, the challenges they faced, and the dynamics within the band.

He discusses Noel Gallagher's prolific songwriting during a pivotal period, the rivalry with Blur, and the significance of headlining major venues. The conversation concludes with recommendations for music and reflections on the band's legacy.

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we are joined by Pulp drummer Nick Banks to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Different Class.

It starts with Jarvis Cocker bringing in a rough cassette of a new track named Common People, it proves a difficult song to nail in the studio but once Chris Thomas comes in as producer it is honed into the bands first bonafide hit single, reaching number 2 in the charts.

Disco 2000 is another track which comes together & a surprise support slot with Oasis at Sheffield Arena follows. Mark Webber joins as a full time member around this time but everything changes following a surprise phone call from Rough Trade head Geoff Travis. Pulp end up replacing the Stone Roses headlining Glastonbury.

Following the triumph of Glastonbury a double A Side single follows - Sorted For E's & Whizz & Mis-Shapes which again peaks at number 2. The singles cover art depicting a drug wrap causes a tabloid furore (not the last involving the band).

The album debuts at number 1 & leads to the bands first arena tour in the spring of 1996. We find out how the title Different Class came about & Nick also gives his recollections of a memorable night at Earls Court for the BRIT Awards & a run-in between Jarvis Cocker & Michael Jackson with help from Bob Mortimer.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Keywords: Pulp, Common People, Britpop, Glastonbury, Nick Banks, Jarvis Cocker, music production, 1990s, album release, British music, Different Class, music history, Brit Awards, Mercury Prize, concert experiences, behind the scenes, music industry

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we delve into the life and music of Arthur Russell, exploring his eclectic style, early influences, and the New York Lower East Side music scene that shaped his career. Richard shares insights from his book 'Travels Over Feeling: Arthur Russell', discussing Arthur's unique approach to music, his connections with notable figures, and the cultural context of his work. The conversation highlights Arthur's impact on the music world and the enduring legacy of his artistry.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

This conversation delves into the life and career of Arthur Russell, exploring his unique approach to music, his performance habits, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on his work. We discuss Russell's eclectic style, his relationships with record labels, and the lasting influence he has had on contemporary music. The dialogue also reflects on the personal aspects of Russell's life, including his work ethic and the support he received from friends and collaborators.

Takeaways:

The New York Lower East Side experimental music scene was pivotal in Arthur's career development.

Arthur's connections with figures like Allan Ginsberg were significant.

The Kitchen was a key venue for avant-garde music in New York.

The rise of digital music changed the way Arthur's work was perceived.

Arthur had little interest in traditional touring or live performances.

His music resonated with the cultural fabric of New York City. Arthur Russell performed frequently in small venues, often walking to gigs.

He had a successful working relationship with Geofff Travis from Rough Trade.

Russell's music was not commercially successful during his lifetime.

His influence can be heard in contemporary artists like Frank Ocean and Kanye West.

Arthur Russell meticulously kept artifacts from his life and career. 

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for a live episode of Music Maps recorded at the legendary Walthamstow Trades Hall with John Doran in conversation with artist, writer and musician Cosey Fanni Tutti about her life, her new book 'Re-Sisters', and her connections to influential figures like Delia Derbyshire and Margery Kempe.

The discussion features the impact of the Radiophonic Workshop, the historical significance of Margery Kempe's life and work, the intersections of music, art, and personal experience, providing insights into the creative processes of these remarkable women.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. 

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Music Maps and Cozy

04:57 Cozy's Journey and Artistic Evolution

10:05 Exploring the Book: Resisters

15:04 Delia Derbyshire and the Radiophonic Workshop

20:02 Marjorie Kemp: A Historical Perspective

24:49 The Intersection of Music and Personal Experience

25:55 The Power of Otherness in Creativity

30:37 Navigating the Fringe: A Personal Journey

32:30 Historical Context: Misogyny and Artistic Expression

34:33 Reflections on Autobiography and Legacy

36:00 The Evolution of Women in Music

40:28 Childhood Sounds and Their Influence

43:10 Art, Magic, and Intuition in Creativity

46:15 The Impact of Electronic Music Today

49:09 Researching Lives: Writing About Others

51:21 Balancing Parenthood and Creativity

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Edited, mixed & spruced up by Rob Donnelly-Jackson

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