Music, War & Peace hosted by Neil McCormick – Details, episodes & analysis

Sir Bob Geldof — Music as a Force for Change 

In the debut episode of Music, War & Peace, music journalist, broadcaster, and author Neil McCormick sits down with legendary Irish musician and activist Sir Bob Geldof for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation about the intersection of music and global impact.

From the explosive birth of Live Aid to its unprecedented influence on international consciousness, Bob reflects on the moments that sparked a global movement — and how music became a megaphone for the voiceless. Together, Neil and Bob explore the enduring power of song to challenge authority, spark empathy, and push for peace in a turbulent world.

This is more than music history — it's a look at how rhythm and rebellion can change the world.

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🎙️ Music, War & Peace Podcast

Hosted by Neil McCormick | Presented by The Bridge

What if a song could end a war — or spark a revolution of hope? 

Welcome to our Music, War & Peace podcast, a powerful conversation series where renowned British music journalist Neil McCormick (The Daily Telegraph, U2 biographer) sits down with iconic artists to explore the heart behind their sound.

 In each episode, we dive deep into the stories behind the songs — from personal battles and global struggles to the moments where music becomes a weapon of truth, healing, and unity. Some stories will stir you; others inspire you, but all of them reveal the soul of the artist and the possibility of change through rhythm and melody.

At The Bridge, we believe music is more than entertainment. It’s a force. A movement. A path to peace.

 🎧 Discover how artists are using their voices to shift culture, challenge power, and build bridges between divided worlds.

 Because when words fail, music still speaks.

In Episode 3 of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, Neil McCormick is joined by Mike Scott - founder, frontman, and driving force behind The Waterboys - for a wide-ranging conversation on creativity, spirituality and the power of music to shift perception.

With over 80 musicians having passed through The Waterboys’ ever-evolving lineup, Scott reflects on the diplomacy of leadership, the challenges of staying true to a vision, the band’s new album 'Life, Death and Dennis Hopper', and the role of music as a vehicle to heighten spiritual awareness. Touching on his experience within the spiritual community of Findhorn, Scott redefines peace not as stillness but as focus - a sharpened lens through which both music and life become more meaningful and offers insights into how storytelling, sound, and symbolism converge in his latest work.

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Stream or Buy ‘Life, Death and Dennis Hopper’: Sunrecords.ink.to

Waterboy’s Official Website: mikescottwaterboys.com 

IG: @waterboysmusic
FB: The Waterboys & Mike Scott

In the second episode of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, acclaimed music journalist Neil McCormick sits down with Norwegian singer, songwriter, and producer AURORA for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation at the intersection of music and global impact.

From her early discovery that “music was the first thing I stumbled upon that made me understand… I can find meaning with life,” to her unfiltered insights on creativity, peace, and personal liberation, AURORA opens up like never before. She shares the raw truth behind her artistic process and questions whether music can truly change the world.

“We should be able to sit at a table and talk about things and find pleasure in it without everyone having to agree all the time,” she says - reminding us that diversity in thought is just as vital as harmony in sound.

This is more than music history - it’s a deep dive into how rhythm and rebellion can reshape the world.

Follow, subscribe, and tune in - new episodes every two weeks.

In Episode 4 of The Bridge: Music, War & Peace, Neil McCormick is joined by Gary Kemp - songwriter, guitarist, and founding member of Spandau Ballet - for a candid and personal exploration of the intersection between art and conflict.

Reflecting on a formative trip to Belfast in 1981, Kemp recalls the powerful emotions surrounding the band’s decision to perform “Through the Barricades” in a city scarred by division. The conversation delves into the risks artists face when taking political stances, the inner conflict that often fuels meaningful songwriting, and the moral weight of creative expression in turbulent times. Kemp also grapples with the big question: can music truly change the world? This episode offers a compelling portrait of an artist navigating the fragile space between music, memory, and meaning.

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Stream or Buy ‘The Destination’: shop.garykemp.com

Gary Kemp Official Website: garykemp.com 

IG: @garyjkemp X: @garyjkemp YT: @garykempvevo