Explore every episode of the podcast The Grumpy Cyclist Talks Music

This episode is a real treat. I’m sitting down with Ian—a passionate runner (who actually coached my daughter!) and an equally passionate music lover. We’ve known each other for years, but this chat really opened my eyes to the depth of his musical journey.

It’s going to be at least a two-parter—because when someone lives and breathes music like Ian does, one episode just isn’t enough.

In Part 1, Ian shares:

• ​ How he got the members of The Rolling Stones to sign his Sticky Fingers vinyl (yep, really!)
• ​ His lifelong love for Mott the Hoople
• ​ The thrill of saving up to buy a vinyl a week back in the day
• ​ And the bittersweet regret of never learning to play guitar until in his 50’s

Plus, many more heartfelt, funny, and fascinating stories about what music has meant to him over the years.

It’s a reminder of how music weaves through our lives, shaping memories, friendships, and even the paths we walk (or in Ian’s case, run!).

John’s a music promoter, a manager, and once ran an independent record label—so yeah, he’s seen it all. We dive into his love for the punk era, including stories of seeing The Clash (multiple times!) and other iconic bands at the height of their powers.

He also shares a surprising recent experience seeing The Sex Pistols at the legendary 100 Club, and his passionate thoughts on The Cult-one of his favourite bands-who he believes should have been far bigger than they were.

Also, it was lovely to hear his thoughts on the youth of today who have mental, depression issues on how music is a big thing for them…

Plus, tales from a small but mighty festival in cider country… 🍎🎸

This conversation is just the tip of the iceberg—fascinating, insightful, and honestly, just plain glorious.

In this third and final part of our ongoing series, Michael continues to confront me with questions about my thoughts, opinions, and experiences with various music artists—this time covering bands and musicians with names starting from A, B, C, D, and so on. The twist? The artists were chosen randomly (with a little help from AI), and to my own surprise, I wasn’t familiar with some of them!

That led to some great discoveries—and a growing playlist. I’ve made a note to go back, listen more closely to the ones I missed, and we’ll revisit those in future conversations.

It’s been an unexpectedly insightful and entertaining topic—one that both Michael and I have thoroughly enjoyed diving into.

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🎙️ This episode features Nick Watts, a seasoned TV producer and documentary maker whose work spans across major networks like Channel 4 and the BBC. But beyond his impressive career in television, it’s Nick’s deep passion for music that truly shines in this conversation.

From growing up with Madness, his admiration for Paul Weller, and catching The Smashing Pumpkins live, to his take on Oasis possibly touring again — Nick shares some brilliant stories and opinions. He even recounts being at that Glastonbury when Jarvis Cocker jumped on stage for a karaoke moment with Keith Allen.

It’s all here — and it all makes sense when you listen.

Here is Part 2 of 3 of Michael talking to and asking my thoughts and questions of my live and views on what ‘music means to me’…an insight on what’s ticking over in my head..

I was even surprised by some of the thoughts and responses I gave.

My views on the Eurovision Song Contest and the spirit of Christmas songs amongst other things that were discussed, might divide opinions.

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In this episode, I sit down with Craig, someone I’ve known for several years. Having grown up in the Poole, Parkstone area during the ’90s, I was curious to hear his reflections on what it was like back then—especially the music that shaped his youth. We dive into memories of growing up during the Britpop era, a time that really takes me back to that ‘golden age’ of New Labour and everything that came with it. It was a thoroughly enjoyable chat—nostalgic, insightful, and a great listen for anyone who remembers those days fondly.

This episode is a bit of a turnaround for me… Instead of me doing the asking, interfering, and being my usual nosey self about what music means to others, the tables were turned!

A good friend of mine put me on the spot and kicked things off with:

“Rich, what does music mean to you?”

Well… I had a lot to say!

This is Part 1 of a 3-part series where I reflect on my own journey and deep love for music. It was honestly wonderful to pause and look back at what it’s meant to me over the years.

Tune in and join me on this personal ride — I’d love to hear what music means to you too!

*This episode features Richard, father of Michael, who I previously did a podcast with called “…What’s the Frequency, Michael?..”

It was wonderful hearing Richard share his love for the Rolling Stones, along with his memories of seeing The Who and early Fleetwood Mac live. Plus, he tells the story of how he ended up shaking Mark Knopfler’s hand—an absolute treat. A fantastic catch-up chat filled with great music stories!

This episode of me having a chat was with a wonderful person called Chris, a lead singer with a local band called Cole & The Bakers. His knowledge and reflection of his youth when it came to his music memories was really quite fascinating. How he came to love Thin Lizzy, his involvement with the band he’s in, a chance to see Bruce Springsteen was just a few of the stories he told. An absolute pleasure to be with.

The final conversation I had with Oli closes the ‘trilogy’ of the episodes of his stories, recollections and just some damn good topics and wonderful memories he had. I’m sure (I certainly did) remember myself of some of the eras he relates to..Beastie Boys, Britpop, House Music and much much more…the time capsule opened up!!!

As promised, here’s Part 2 of my conversation with Oli—and it only gets better from here.

We dive deeper into his musical adventures, covering everything from vinyl and CDs to Stock, Aitken & Waterman, unforgettable live performances, and a brilliant story involving my idol casually playing guitar in Oli’s home. It’s a must-hear episode (just like the others)!

P.S. We’ve only just scratched the surface—Part 3 drops next week! 😊

This episode is Part 1 of 2—a great conversation with my friend Ollie, who shares a deep and mutual love of music.

We talk not just about what music means to him, but also dive into some incredible stories about his meetings and experiences with well-known musicians. There was so much to cover that we’re continuing the chat in Part 2.

I guarantee you’ll enjoy this episode—and I’m putting it out there—you’ll be looking forward to the follow-up just as much! 😊

This episode takes a slightly different format—just me sharing my thoughts on something many of us love: the live music experience.

I dive into why attending concerts and seeing your favorite artists, bands, or entertainers live is so special. I also share my personal take on why some established mega stars might not be selling out stadiums and arenas like they used to. Plus, I reflect on the highs and lows of my own concert experiences, sprinkled with some fond memories. A heartfelt chat for all live music lovers! 😊

This episode is Part 2 of 2—a continuation of my wonderful conversation with Amy and Tim.

We dive deeper into what music means to them and their shared joy of listening to music with their children. Their musical tastes sometimes differ—especially when it came to choosing songs for their upcoming autumn wedding this year—which made this episode both fun and fascinating. Don’t miss this lively and heartfelt follow-up!

This episode is Part 1 of 2—a wonderful conversation with Amy and Tim, as they chat and reminisce about what music means to them.

Both share a love of listening to music with their children, though their tastes and memories often differ—making this episode especially fun and interesting to listen to. A great start to a two-part journey through their musical lives!

This episode features a chat with a friend I’ve known for over 30 years.

We share a mutual love for music and swapped stories from our journeys—especially our memories of seeing R.E.M. live, among other gigs. It was amazing to catch up, reminisce, and realize just how fast time flies when you’re having fun with music. Happy days indeed!

In this episode of The Grumpy Cyclist Talks Music, I get personal and talk about what certain records mean to me—sharing the stories, memories, and reasons behind my choices.

This time, it’s all about my love for Duran Duran’s Notorious—a true gem that holds a special place in my heart. Dive in for a nostalgic and heartfelt journey through one of my favorite tracks.

This chat with Lizzie was an absolute pleasure—filled with laughs and wonderful stories.

We dived into her love of classical music and musicals, and even had a hilarious moment reminiscing about how she once listened to music in the car… on a record player! Yes, you read that right. Plus, she shared memories of seeing ELO live, among others. A blissful hour well spent.

This episode is a special one with my daughter, Chloe—even though she wasn’t feeling her best during our chat.

We talked about what music means to her, from the calming effect of classical music to her love for chilled DJ sets. Hearing how much she enjoys going to live shows was really lovely. Despite her feeling under the weather, the whole conversation was a pleasure to be part of.

This episode with my dad was both interesting and genuinely inspiring.

Hearing about his love for Eric Clapton and what it was like listening to music in late 60s Birmingham was such a treat. His stories from those days, along with his take on today’s music, made for a really enjoyable and memorable conversation.

In this episode, I catch up with my friend Niqi—a reunion after several years!

We’ve always shared a love for music, and it was great to reconnect through that passion. Niqi talked about her favourite song, Insomnia by Faithless, her unexpected enjoyment of heavy metal, and some brilliant memories of live gigs—including one standout performance where the artist rocked a pair of heels! A fun and fascinating conversation.

This was the very first recorded chat for the podcast—and it was with my daughter.

I absolutely loved talking to her about her music choices. Her love for Harry Styles and musicals made for some amusing moments… and yes, she even likes one particular Duran Duran song! A fun, heartfelt conversation that was a joy to record.

I had a very special guest join me for a recent chat—my mum.

It was truly lovely to hear what music has meant to her throughout her life. Her deep love for Roy Orbison and Amy Winehouse really shone through, and her memories of hearing Chris Rea while in Cyprus during the 70s were especially touching. A warm, personal episode filled with stories and nostalgia.

I had a lovely chat with Niki yesterday for a future episode of the podcast.

It was such an interesting conversation—full of great stories, including who she saw at Glastonbury (yes, climbing over the fence!), the album that brings back memories of her trip to France with Jez, and so much more. Can’t wait to share this one!

My chat with Roly was a real treat.

It was great to hear him in fine singing voice and to dive into his personal take on the kind of music he loves—especially his vivid memories of the 70s punk era. A nostalgic and entertaining listen that’s certainly worth checking out. 😊🎶

“The Grumpy Cyclist Talks Music” takes a more personal turn in this episode, as I sit down with my 19-year-old son, Jordan, to explore what music means to him.

It was a genuinely interesting conversation—offering insight into his unique perspective and how his relationship with music reflects a different view of life compared to mine. A thoughtful and eye-opening chat across generations.