The Backstage Pass: Song Stories

Jaksot

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  The Stranglers 'Golden Brown' 12.09.2026 5min

  Join us in this episode as we delve into the captivating story behind the iconic song "Golden Brown" by The Stranglers, released in 1982. This track, a shining gem of 80s rock production, holds a fascinating narrative that revolves around the life of Jean-Jacques Burnel, the band's bassist.Born to French restaurateurs who later settled in England, Burnel pursued a university degree in economics. However, his true passion lay in Karate, a martial art he practiced as an amateur. Dreaming of traveling to Japan to learn from the great masters, Burnel embarked on a journey to make his aspirations a reality.It was during this time that fate intervened. On a fortuitous evening, returning from a rigorous training session, Burnel encountered a hitchhiker who expressed gratitude by inviting him to join his roommates for a few beers. Little did Burnel know that this encounter would change the course of his life forever.In this episode, we unravel the intricate threads that connect Burnel's personal journey, the chance encounter, and the formation of The Stranglers. We explore the creative process behind "Golden Brown," a song that exudes a hypnotic allure and captivates listeners with its melodic richness and poetic lyrics.Tune in to this episode of our podcast as we uncover the story behind "Golden Brown" by The Stranglers, a timeless masterpiece that encapsulates the serendipitous nature of life's extraordinary moments.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Talk Talk 'It's my Life' 05.09.2026 5min

  The story of "It's My Life" is that of Mark Hollis, a complex character, genius perfectionist, and rebel, who refused to fit into the mold of the music industry. Hollis was born in 1955 in Tottenham and grew up in London. After studying child psychology, he turned to punk music, and by the early 1980s, he had become the frontman of the band Talk Talk. "It's My Life" was released in 1984 as the title track of the band's third album, and it marked a turning point in their sound. The song's driving synth riff and catchy melody were a departure from Talk Talk's earlier post-punk and new wave sound, and it helped to define the emerging synthpop genre. The song initially divided and confused music critics and the group's fans, but it proved highly influential on the emerging new wave and synthpop genres.The lyrics of "It's My Life" are defiant and introspective, reflecting Hollis's desire to break free from the constraints of the music industry and pursue his own creative vision. The song's chorus, "It's my life, don't you forget," became an anthem for individuality and self-expression. The track was produced by Tim Friese-Greene, who had also worked on Talk Talk's previous albums and would continue to collaborate with Hollis throughout his career.Despite the success of "It's My Life" and its subsequent chart performance in Europe, the song failed to make an impact in the United States, where it was overshadowed by the likes of Michael Jackson and Madonna. However, in the years since its release, "It's My Life" has become a cult classic and a staple of '80s pop playlists. It has been covered by a number of artists, including No Doubt, who had a hit with their version in 2003.In this episode of the podcast, we'll explore the origins and influences of "It's My Life," delve into the making of the song in the studio, and examine its impact on the music industry and popular culture. We'll also take a closer look at Mark Hollis and his legacy as a musician and innovator, and we'll explore the broader themes of individuality and self-expression that the song embodies. Join us for a deep dive into one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Robbie Williams ‘Angels' 29.08.2026 6min

  It's the mid-90s, and Robbie Williams has just left Take That. His career is at a standstill, and he's in need of a break. So he heads to Dublin, one of the coolest cities in the world, for some much-needed R&R.One night, Robbie finds himself alone in a pub on George's Street. It's there that he has a chance encounter with a stranger who gives him a new perspective on life.But that's just the beginning of the story. Join us as we explore the story behind "Angels," a song that has touched the hearts of millions and become a timeless classic.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  John Lennon 'Jealous Guy' 22.08.2026 6min

  Join us for an intriguing episode of our podcast as we delve into the captivating story behind one of the most beloved songs in music history: "Jealous Guy" by John Lennon. Released in 1971, this timeless track has left its mark on generations of listeners, and its origins hold an air of mystery and personal revelation.While countless tales surround the creation of "Jealous Guy," we bring you OUR version of the narrative. In this episode, we explore the profound emotions that drove Lennon to compose this poignant masterpiece. Discover the inner workings of a genius musician's mind as we uncover the depths of his own jealousy and vulnerability.As we navigate through the annals of Lennon's life, we shed light on the haunting event that triggered his intense jealousy. Join us as we transport you back to November 1966, when Lennon attended the opening of a London art gallery at the invitation of his friend. Little did he know that this encounter would change his life forever.Prepare to be captivated as we peel back the layers of John Lennon's psyche and reveal the inner turmoil that inspired "Jealous Guy." We explore the complexities of love, jealousy, and human emotions that resonated so deeply with millions around the world.Tune in to our podcast episode as we embark on a journey to understand the enigma that lies within the iconic track "Jealous Guy." Gain insight into Lennon's artistic process and the transformative power of music. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the story behind the song that has stood the test of time.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Peter Gabriel 'Sledgehammer' 15.08.2026 6min

  In 1986, Peter Gabriel released one of his most successful songs, "Sledgehammer". The music video, directed by Stephen R. Johnson, is particularly famous for its use of stop-motion animation and claymation techniques. The song itself is an ode to the soul music of the 1960s, and specifically the work of Otis Redding, whom Gabriel has cited as a major influence. In fact, it was after attending one of Redding's concerts that Gabriel was inspired to pursue a career in music. "Sledgehammer" features a catchy horn riff and a funky rhythm section that perfectly captures the spirit of classic soul.Join us on this episode of "The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the Song" as we explore the making of "Sledgehammer". Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Stretch 'Why did you do it?' 27.06.2026 5min

  Step into the intriguing world of Rock'n Roll's most notorious swindle as we delve into the captivating story behind the song "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, released in 1975. Join us as we uncover the chain of events that led to this audacious move and explore the impact it had on the music industry.In the late 1960s, Fleetwood Mac stood tall as the epitome of British Blues greatness, capturing the hearts of millions. However, fame and excessive drug use left scars on the band, prompting them to take a much-needed hiatus. Little did they know, their manager, Clifford Adams, had other plans in store.With an American tour already booked and tickets sold, Adams faced a daunting challenge. His solution? Persuading Mick Fleetwood, the iconic drummer and founding member of Fleetwood Mac, to perform the shows with a group of newly recruited musicians. The hope was to deceive the American audience and avoid detection.In this episode, we uncover the audacity and cunning of Adams' plan, exploring the motivations behind it and the consequences it had for all involved. We delve into the rise of Stretch, the band created for the sole purpose of continuing Fleetwood Mac's tour, and examine the impact of this controversial move on the music industry as a whole.Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind "Why Did You Do It?" by Stretch, examining the twists and turns that shaped this unforgettable track. Discover the secrets, the betrayals, and the ultimate legacy left by this audacious chapter in Rock'n Roll history.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Tears For Fears 'Everybody wants to rule the World' 20.06.2026 5min

  Welcome to this episode of "Behind the Melody," where we delve into the captivating story behind the iconic song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears, released in 1985.Join us as we uncover the serendipitous origins and extraordinary journey of this timeless track. The tale begins in the picturesque city of Bath, located in the enchanting South West of England. Here, two young teenagers, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, crossed paths and embarked on a remarkable musical adventure.At the time, Roland Orzabal found himself amidst a profound spiritual quest. It was during this introspective period that fate intervened, leading him to encounter "The Primal Scream," a book penned by renowned American psychotherapist Arthur Janov. Janov's work revolved around a therapeutic approach that aimed to unleash the deep-seated childhood traumas through cries, screams, and primal expressions.Thus, the genesis of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was born from this shared pursuit of personal healing and growth. This transformative track would go on to capture the hearts of millions worldwide, resonating with its introspective lyrics and captivating melodies.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Queen 'Bohemian Rhapsody' 13.06.2026 8min

  Welcome to our podcast where we take you on a journey through the fascinating story behind one of the most iconic songs in rock music history: Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody."The genesis of this masterpiece dates back to the late 1960s when the band's enigmatic frontman, Freddie Mercury, began developing the song. He would often play different parts of the song on the piano, piecing it together over time. Interestingly, one of the early pieces that formed the basis of "Bohemian Rhapsody" was a tune he called "The Cowboy Song."But it wasn't until the mid-70s, after several years of experimentation and refinement, that the song was finally recorded and released as a single. And even then, it faced significant resistance from record executives and radio stations who were skeptical of its unconventional structure and length. However, despite the challenges, the song went on to become a massive hit and an enduring classic that has transcended generations.One of the reasons for the song's enduring popularity is the enigmatic lyrics that have inspired countless interpretations and debates. Some have suggested that the song is an allegory for Mercury's personal struggles with his sexuality, while others have seen it as a commentary on social and political issues of the time.Whatever the true meaning may be, one thing is certain: "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a masterpiece of rock music that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences to this day. Join us as we delve deeper into the story behind this iconic song and explore the many layers of its meaning and impact.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Amy Winehouse 'Valerie' 06.06.2026 5min

  The story behind the song "Valerie" is first and foremost the true story of Dave McCabe, lead singer of the Zutons, a rock band from Liverpool. The song is dedicated to Valerie Starr, Dave's girlfriend who he met during an American tour, and who is then to join him on English soil. The song's popularity skyrocketed after Amy Winehouse covered it for Mark Ronson's album "Version." The soulful rendition by Winehouse, with her signature raspy voice, brought a new dimension to the already catchy tune. In this podcast, we'll explore the origins of "Valerie," its rise to fame, and how Winehouse's cover cemented its place in music history.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Deep Purple 'Smoke on the Water' 30.05.2026 7min

  Welcome to the podcast where we dive deep into the stories behind some of the most iconic songs in music history. In this episode, we will be talking about the classic rock anthem "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple.It all started on December 4th, 1971, when the band was in Montreux, Switzerland, to record their album 'Machine Head'. They were using a mobile recording studio rented from the Rolling Stones, known as 'the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio'. Little did they know, that recording session would go down in history.As the band watched a Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention concert at the Montreux Casino, a fire broke out, destroying the entire venue. Deep Purple's lead guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, famously described the scene as "some stupid with a flare gun" causing "the place to burn". The band was staying across the lake and watched the entire scene unfold, including the fire department's attempt to put out the blaze, with the help of a water pump station on the lake.The incident left a lasting impression on the band, and they decided to turn it into a song. Deep Purple's vocalist, Ian Gillan, penned the lyrics, and the rest of the band worked together to create the signature riff. The song was aptly titled "Smoke on the Water" and would go on to become one of the most recognizable and celebrated rock songs of all time.Interestingly, the entertainment complex that was part of the Montreux Casino was referred to as "the gambling house" in the song lyrics. The band's experience in Montreux has become legendary, and the story behind "Smoke on the Water" has become a staple in rock history.Thanks for listening to this episode of our podcast, where we uncovered the fascinating story behind Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water".Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Edwyn Collins 'A Girl Like You' 23.05.2026 5min

  Welcome to the podcast where we uncover the story behind the hit song 'A Girl Like You' by Edwyn Collins. This song is intimately linked to the romantic biography of its author, composer, and performer Edwyn Collins, who was born in 1959 in Edinburgh, Scotland.Collins was a talented musician who, at not even 20 years old, created the group Orange Juice with which he experienced his first success. However, after five years, the band disbanded, and Collins found himself unemployed.Despite the setback, Collins continued to work on his music and eventually went solo, releasing his third album 'Gorgeous George' in 1994. It was this album that included the hit song 'A Girl Like You', which catapulted Collins into the mainstream.The song features a distinctive riff and seductive lyrics that resonated with audiences around the world. But what is the story behind this iconic track?Interestingly, the Sex Pistols drummer Paul Cook performed on the recording. The song had started out as "a more thrashy kind of guitar thing," and there had been a suggestion that Iggy Pop might record a version for the US market, but before that could happen, Collins' version was gaining airplay.'A Girl Like You' remains a beloved hit song that has stood the test of time. Join us as we delve deeper into the fascinating story behind this classic track by Edwyn Collins.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  U2 'Beautiful Day' 16.05.2026 5min

  Welcome to a special backstage pass episode where we unravel the remarkable journey of a song that revitalized the career of one of the most iconic Rock bands of all time. Join us as we delve into the creation of 'Beautiful Day' by U2, released in 2000.In the wake of a tumultuous period marked by the disappointing response to their 1997 album 'Pop', the Irish rockers were under immense pressure from fans and their record label. They were in desperate need of a hit - and that's when 'Beautiful Day' came to the rescue!Crafted within the walls of a studio, U2 collaborated with two of the most renowned producers of the time, Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, who played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of this legendary track.Against all odds, it was during an early morning session that the magic truly transpired, transforming a mundane set of chords into a masterpiece. As the band members entered the studio, it became apparent that the long-awaited breakthrough had finally arrived, leaving Bono with the task of penning the lyrics that would match the brilliance of the composition.Join us as we uncover the remarkable story behind the music, revealing the trials, triumphs, and inspirations that brought 'Beautiful Day' to life, reigniting the legacy of U2 for generations to come.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  David Bowie 'China Girl' 09.05.2026 7min

  Welcome to a backstage pass to unravel the captivating story behind one of David Bowie's greatest hits: "China Girl." Join us in this episode as we explore the remarkable journey of this iconic song.In 1977, David Bowie decided to lend a helping hand to his friend Iggy Pop in recording his debut album. Bowie, well-acquainted with the studios at Château d'Hérouville near Paris, France, set up camp there with Iggy Pop. It was during their time at the château that they crossed paths with a French singer who was also working on his own album—Jacques Higelin. To accommodate this unexpected convergence of talent, Higelin and his Vietnamese partner, Kuêlan Nguyen, occupied a wing of the château.After intense recording sessions, it became customary for everyone to gather in the salon to unwind, drink, smoke, and engage in late-night improvisations. It is in this convivial atmosphere that David Bowie found himself enchanted by Kuêlan's presence, and in secret, they shared a few stolen kisses.Join us as we delve into the hidden layers of this encounter, the inspirations behind "China Girl," and the impact it had on David Bowie's musical journey. Gain insights into the cultural influences and personal connections that shaped the song's creation and understand its significance in the context of Bowie's discography.Whether you're a devoted David Bowie fan, an aficionado of iconic rock hits, or simply fascinated by the interplay between personal experiences and musical masterpieces, this episode will transport you into a world of creativity, passion, and cultural fusion.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  The Police 'Walking On The Moon' 02.05.2026 5min

  In this podcast, we dive into the story behind one of The Police's most iconic songs, 'Walking On The Moon'. The tale starts with a chance encounter between Sting and a composer friend in Munich. After a day of work, the two decided to explore the local nightlife and hit up a few bars. It's during this excursion that Sting has an epiphany - the sensation of walking on the moon could be a powerful metaphor for the feeling of being in love. Back in London, the band begins working on the song and experimenting with various sounds and instruments, including a Moog synthesizer. Finally, the track is complete and released as the second single from their album 'Reggatta de Blanc'. Join us as we explore the creative process behind this timeless hit and the impact it had on the music industry.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Portishead 'Glory Box' 25.04.2026 6min

  Join us for a captivating journey as we delve into the fascinating story behind one of the iconic tracks in the world of trip hop. In this episode, we explore "Glory Box" by the renowned group Portishead, released in 1994.Travel back in time to Bristol, England, in 1991, where a unique program initiated by Margaret Thatcher aimed to assist unemployed individuals in creating their own businesses. It is within this context that the tale of this mesmerizing song begins. Geoff Barrow, a talented assistant sound engineer, proposes the idea of establishing a music production company during a meeting.Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of "Glory Box" from its humble beginnings in a coffee break conversation to becoming a global chart-topper. Gain insights into the creation process, the emotions woven into the song's lyrics, and the impact it had on the trip hop genre. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Portishead, a lover of trip hop, or simply intrigued by the stories behind timeless music, this episode will captivate your imagination and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the magic that lies within "Glory Box."Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Dire Straits 'Money for Nothing' 18.04.2026 7min

  Join us on an exhilarating journey into the heart of one of the most iconic guitar riffs in musical history. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating story behind the creation of 'Money for Nothing' by Dire Straits, released in 1985.In the mid-80s, Dire Straits was a global sensation, yet struggled to gain traction in the USA. Enter MTV, the gateway to American success. Discover how the band's management received a pivotal piece of advice from the music channel, sparking an ingenious plan for their breakthrough.As Mark Knopfler diligently studied MTV for days on end, a revelation struck him while observing ZZ Top's video on heavy rotation. Tune in to learn how Knopfler ingeniously harnessed the thick, rich sound of ZZ Top as the key to Dire Straits' American triumph.Furthermore, the mysterious encounter between Knopfler and ZZ Top's guitarist, Billy Gibbons, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Gibbons remains tight-lipped about the secrets behind the distinctive guitar sound, leaving Knopfler to unravel the mystery on his own.Tune in to discover the hidden stories and secrets that shaped this iconic track and propelled Dire Straits to the forefront of the American music scene.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Amy Winehouse 'Rehab' 11.04.2026 5min

  It's 2005, and Amy Winehouse has already had a small national success with her first album, "Frank." However, her demons are beginning to take hold, and her manager feels that she needs to go to rehab. He approaches her with the offer, but Amy is clear: No, no, no, she will not go to rehab.The song, which was released in 2006 as part of Amy's second album "Back to Black," was an instant hit and became her signature song. It earned her several awards, including three Grammy Awards, and cemented her status as one of the most talented and influential artists of her generation.Join us on this episode of "The Backstage Pass - The Story Behind the Song" as we explore the making of ‘rehab’ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  The Pretenders 'Brass in Pocket' 04.04.2026 4min

  In this episode, we explore the tale behind the timeless track "Brass in Pocket" by The Pretenders, released in 1979.Join us as we unravel the intriguing journey of Chrissie Hynde, the mastermind behind this influential band from the 80s rock scene. Born in the early 1950s in Akron, Ohio, Chrissie grew up in a conservative working-class environment. With only three old albums at home, she turned to the radio for musical inspiration.At the tender age of 14, Chrissie experienced a transformative moment when she heard the Beatles on the airwaves. It was a pivotal moment that ignited her passion for music and set her on a path to stardom. Determined to become a rock star, she made a life-altering decision. When her mother presented her with a watch as a coming-of-age gift, Chrissie traded it for a second-hand Gibson guitar, symbolizing her unwavering dedication to her musical aspirations. At the age of 22, Chrissie Hynde took a leap of faith, leaving behind her art studies and embarking on a journey across the Atlantic to London. This decision would prove to be a defining moment in her life, as she ventured into the vibrant music scene of the British capital.Tune in to this episode as we uncover the story behind "Brass in Pocket," a song that not only left an indelible mark on the rock genre but also showcases the resilience and determination of Chrissie Hynde. Join us as we pay homage to the legacy of The Pretenders and their influential contribution to music history.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Phil Collins 'In The Air Tonight' 28.03.2026 5min

  Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we take you behind the scenes and uncover the fascinating stories behind iconic songs. In today's episode, we have an exclusive backstage pass to the track "In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins, taken from his debut solo album. In 1981, Phil Collins had already spent four years as the lead singer of Genesis, experiencing a whirlwind of album releases and worldwide tours. However, amidst the glitz and glamour, Collins was facing a profound personal crisis. His wife, Andrea, whom he had known since primary school and was the mother of their son Simon, could no longer bear the long absences and had a brief affair with a decorator friend. Fueled by intense anger and a need to exorcise his demons, Phil Collins channelled his emotions into creating "In the Air Tonight."This emotionally charged song became a centerpiece of Collins' first solo album, "Face Value," which delves into the failure of his marriage and the subsequent divorce. Join us as we unravel the layers of this haunting track, exploring the raw emotions, personal turmoil, and artistic expression that gave birth to one of Phil Collins' most iconic songs.Tune in to this episode to discover the story behind "In the Air Tonight" and gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact it had on Collins' career and personal life.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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  Oasis 'Wonderwall' 21.03.2026 5min

  In 1995, "Wonderwall" was released as the third single from Oasis' album "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?". The song became a huge hit, propelling the band to global success and making it one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s. But the story behind the song is as interesting as the music itself.Noel Gallagher wrote "Wonderwall" during a tour with the band in the US, in a hotel room in San Francisco. According to some accounts, he wrote the song for his then-girlfriend, Meg Mathews. But in an interview years later, Gallagher stated that the song was actually written for his mother, Peggy, who had left him a note with the words "Wonderwall" on it.In the podcast, we'll dive deeper into the making of "Wonderwall", exploring the different theories behind its lyrics and the story of how the song came to be. We'll also look at the impact it had on Oasis' career and the music industry as a whole, cementing the band's status as one of the greatest of their time.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.