VRP Rocks - Classic Rock Interviews

VRP Rocks

About

The ultimate classic rock podcast with big name interviews on every episode including 30+ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees! If you love classic rock and want to hear stories of the glory days from the guys who were at the heart of the action then you'll LOVE this comprehensive classic rock podcast, hosted by UK radio veteran, Paul Stephenson!
Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 - the 24/7 online classic rock station unlike any other classic rock radio! Playing deep cuts and forgotten bands, give it a try, you won't regret it!
Check out the video interviews too at https://www.youtube.com/@VRPRocks
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540 episodes

Leland Sklar - My 5 Favourite...

Legendary bassist Leland Sklar takes us behind the scenes of iconic albums and collaborations with music legends. From his work on Phil Collins' chart-topping "No Jacket Required" to his enduring partnership with James Taylor, Leland shares captivating stories of the music industry's highs and lows. Delve into Sklar's profound insights on the impact of negative press, the unpredictability of industry success, and the enduring influence of timeless music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

40m
Apr 01
*Special* Joe Lynn Turner Answers YOUR Questions!

In a special bonus episode of VRP Rocks, iconic rock vocalist, Joe Lynn Turner, answers your questions! We delve into his time with Yngwie and Deep Purple, we hear stories of being thrown out of a bar with Johnny Rotten, how he first met Ritchie Blackmore, why he felt it was the right time to reveal his alopecia and how becoming a father again has changed him. He also talks about future plans with perhaps a surprising twist ahead! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

42m
Mar 29
Joe Lynn Turner - My 5 Favourite...

Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 In this exclusive episode of VRP Rocks, iconic rock legend Joe Lynn Turner takes centre stage, sharing insights and personal anecdotes in a candid discussion. Delving deep into his illustrious career, Turner highlights his all-time favourite albums, including Rainbow and his solo albums, supergroup collaborations and more. The rock maestro also reveals behind-the-scenes stories from the people involved in making these records! This episode offers a mesmerizing journey through the career of a music icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

46m
Mar 25
118. Frankie Sullivan - Survivor

Listen to VRP ROCKS RADIO: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 This is a fascinating and brutally honest interview with a man who hasn't done too many interviews over the years, and it shows! Frankie Sullivan, guitarist and founding member of Survivor sets the record straight telling his version of events from the Survivor story! It's a truly intriguing chat that takes many twists and turns throughout. Prepare to be engaged! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 21m
Mar 18
117. Rik Emmett - Triumph

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 Rik Emmett joins me to answer YOUR questions! you'll hear about on-stage accidents, his famous white V guitar, the US Festival, the best band he saw live and much more! Plus he tells us about his new compilation album Diamonds too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

33m
Mar 11
116. Russ Ballard - Argent/Rainbow/Kiss/Roger Daltrey

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 This weeks guest is the legendary musician and songwriter, Russ Ballard! Discover the enthralling backstory of Russ Ballard's musical journey, from his worldwide hit "Hold Your Head Up" with Argent to his solo career, years working with Roger Daltrey, the stories behind his anthems, such as "Since You've Been Gone" and "I Surrender" by Rainbow, "God Gave Rock and Roll to You," which gained attention through KISS and Ace Frehley's 70's hit with "New York Groove." He also speaks honestly and openly about his battle with depression and how it shaped his songwriting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

56m
Mar 04
115. Nigel Glockler - Saxon

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270  In this episode of VRP Rocks, iconic drummer Nigel Glockler, known for his legendary work with the band Saxon, shares captivating insights into the band's journey. Telling stories from tours with Ozzy Osbourne, Motorhead and Motley Crue, legal battles over their name, why he quit the band in 1987 and what lured him back, to their latest triumphs with the release of their 24th studio album, "Hell, Fire, and Damnation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

48m
Feb 26
114. Jack Casady - Jefferson Airplane / Hot Tuna

Check out VRP Rocks Radio : https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a61270 - the 24/7 online classic rock station unlike any other classic rock radio! Playing deep cuts and forgotten bands, give it a try, you won't regret it! This week legendary bass player and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Jack Casady, joins Paul to talk about his life in music. The Jefferson Airplane / Hot Tuna star talks about how he and Jorma Kaukonen met, joining the Airplane, working with Jimi Hendrix on one his most iconic songs, Voodoo Chile, Woodstock and the Rock Hall Induction! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

49m
Feb 19
113. Eddie "Fingers" Ojeda - Twisted Sister

In this insightful interview Eddie Ojeda opens up on many hot topics from his career, including his thoughts on Dee Snider's prominent role in the PMRC hearing, how his guitar sparked jealousy amongst his bandmates, how they "creates a monster" in recruiting Dee into Twisted Sister and much more. If you enjoyed this episode please check out Episode 98 and Episode 111 which features extended interviews with Eddie's former Twisted Sister bandmates Dee Snider and Jay Jay French! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

45m
Feb 12
Side 2 - Roger Earl - Foghat

Foghat legend Roger Earl joins VRP Rocks again, this time to talk about the bands new hit album Sonic Mojo! The groups first studio record for 7 years, it's topped the Billboard Blues chart and is pulling in rave reviews... so Paul got Roger back to speak about all about it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

28m
Feb 05
Bev Bevan - ELO & Black Sabbath: My 5 Favourite...

Paul Stephenson sits down with rock and roll hall of famer, Bev Bevan, for an exclusive and in-depth chat about the Bev's 5 Favourite Albums that he worked on. Bevan, a true rock legend, shares insights into his illustrious career, spanning from his time with The Move, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), Black Sabbath and now Quill. Get ready for an insider's look at the making of the albums, the highs and lows of touring, and the impact of their music on fans around the world. Experience the excitement as Bevan reminisces about the challenges and triumphs during his time on the road, from driving long distances across America to the unforgettable performances at legendary venues. Hear captivating stories about ELO's stage set with a spaceship and the inspiration behind their chart-topping hit "Mr. Blue Sky." As Bev Bevan opens up about his musical journey, he also provides a glimpse into Quill, his current group, and their latest album "Midland Beats," along with exciting plans for the future, including more tours. Discover how you can stay connected with Quill's upcoming shows and events as Bevan shares his passion for their music. Join the conversation and explore the world of classic rock with VRP Rocks as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Bev Bevan and his remarkable contribution to the music industry. Don't miss this extraordinary episode, packed with iconic names, beloved songs, and unforgettable rock and roll memories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

39m
Jan 29
112. Ace Frehley - KISS

Rock legend Ace Frehley sits down with Paul Stephenson, sharing insights into his latest album "10,000 Volts" and delving into his storied career as a member of the iconic band KISS! Get ready to rock as Ace discusses his collaboration with renowned musician Steve Brown, the evolution of his music, and the inspiration behind some of his new songs. Listen in as Ace reflects on his time with Kiss, sharing anecdotes about his relationships with fellow band members Paul, Gene and Peter, as well as his transformation into a solo artist and the creation of his groundbreaking solo record in '78. Plus, don't miss out on Ace's engaging stories about his experiences touring in Australia and Japan, from memorable concerts to adventurous escapades. It really is the cliché of s*x, drugs and rock and roll! From his journey to sobriety to his current band lineup and beyond, Ace Frehley holds nothing back in this captivating interview. Join us on VRP Rocks as we dive into the world of rock and roll with Ace Frehley, and discover the electrifying energy behind "10,000 Volts" and the enduring legacy of Kiss. Tune in to VRP Rocks now for an exclusive backstage pass into the life and music of Ace Frehley, and get ready to experience the power of rock like never before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

43m
Jan 22
111. Jay Jay French - Twisted Sister

Jay Jay French joins me for an in-depth conversation about Twisted Sister's tumultuous journey in the music industry. From the band's early struggles to acclaim and the challenges along the way, Jay Jay French's candid revelations provide a fascinating insight into the world of rock and roll. Delve into Twisted Sister's rise to stardom and inner turmoil as they conquered the music scene with iconic albums like "Stay Hungry" and "Can't Stop Rock and Roll." Jay Jay French recounts the band's relentless pursuit of success, recounting key moments such as meeting Atlantic Records' Doug Morris and their groundbreaking success on MTV with hits like "We're Not Gonna Take It" and "I Wanna Rock." Experience the gripping accounts of resilience and survival as Jay Jay French shares personal challenges, including the loss of his mother, financial hardships, bankruptcy, and the groundbreaking resurgence of Twisted Sister. Uncover the band's remarkable comeback, including headlining major festivals and releasing the beloved Christmas album "A Twisted Christmas." This engaging episode also explores Jay Jay French's entrepreneurial journey, his battle with health issues, and his transformative experiences in the music industry. Dive into discussions on business insights, talent, and dedication, as he shares his wisdom in his new book, "Twisted Business: Lessons from My Life in Rock and Roll." Unearth the captivating stories behind Twisted Sister's resilience and rise to fame and explore the profound impact of their music on the world. Join the conversation as Jay Jay French discusses Twisted Sister's enduring legacy, their 40th-anniversary celebrations, their new album, and his podcast "JJ French Connection" showcasing insights from record company presidents and industry professionals. Tune in to VRP Rocks as Jay Jay French's engaging anecdotes, resilience, and unparalleled dedication inspire and captivate audiences, delivering an unforgettable journey through the highs and lows of a rock and roll icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 3m
Jan 15
The Stars We Lost in 2023

VRP Rocks pays a heartfelt tribute to the iconic rock stars we lost in 2023. Join Paul and a line-up of esteemed guests including Joe Bonamassa, Peter Frampton, John Illsley (Dire Straits), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Rod Argent (Argent/The Zombies), Simon Phillips, Malcolm Bruce and guitarist Rich Williams (Kansas) as they share personal stories and reminisce about the celebrated careers of some of the rock legends who sadly passed away last year. It's always a hard show to put together, remembering just how many legends we've lost in such a short space of time, but at the same time it's great to be able to pay tribute to the likes of Jeff Beck, Tina Turner, David Crosby, Gary Rossington, Bernie Marsden and others, who left us in the last 12 months. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow VRP Rocks on your preferred podcast app and on YouTube for exclusive content and captivating interviews. With a wealth of fascinating conversations from rock legends like Stewart Copeland, Steve Vai, and more, VRP Rocks is your ultimate destination for enriching classic rock experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

29m
Jan 08
110. Malcolm Bruce - Heavenly Cream

Malcolm Bruce, son of Cream bassist Jack Bruce, joins us for an in-depth discussion about the legendary rock band's impact and the new acoustic tribute album "Heavenly Cream." Delve into the fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflections on the making of the album, featuring performances from renowned artists like Paul Rodgers, Ginger Baker, Joe Bonamassa and Malcolm Bruce himself. Malcolm takes you on a journey through Cream's storied history, exploring the band’s musical journey. Get insights into the iconic band's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the complex dynamics within the group, sharing personal anecdotes and reflections on the band's legacy. Discover how “Heavenly Cream” came to be, with Malcolm revealing the origins of the project, the collaborative selection process, and the emotional significance of the album following the passing of significant contributors. Uncover the rare creative process behind the tribute album and the organic inclusion of well-known Cream songs, alongside moving collaborations with respected musicians. Dive into the unique recording process, featuring sessions with Joe Bonamassa, Bernie Marsden, and Paul Rodgers, at iconic the Abbey Road Studios. Learn about the personal connections that shaped the album, as Malcolm shares the influence of Cream on his life and the historical context behind the record. The conversation also delves into the deeper themes and messages within the album, as Malcolm shares his aspirations for creating music of substance in an industry often dominated by "cookie-cutter" mentality. Plus, hear about Malcolm's new solo record "Fake Humans and Real Dolls," set for release in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

53m
Dec 25, 2023
109. Desmond Child - Kiss/Aerosmith/Bon Jovi/Alice Cooper

Legendary songwriter and producer Desmond Child spills all the juiciest details from his career including working with Kiss, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper and more! He shares the quirky backstories and surprising inspirations behind timeless classics such as "Living on a Prayer", "I Was Made for Loving You", "Dude Looks Like a Lady", "I Hate Myself for Loving You" and many more. It's a fascinating look behind the curtain of a man whose records have sold half a billion copies worldwide! To find out more, check out Desmond's new book 'Living On A Prayer, Big Songs, Big Life' which is available now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 3m
Dec 18, 2023
108. Simon Phillips

Paul is joined by the legendary drummer Simon Phillips, known for his work with classic rock icons like Judas Priest, Toto, The Who, Jeff Beck, and many more. Simon shares captivating stories from his illustrious career, including his experiences as a session musician, his work with different bands, and the challenges he faced along the way. Join us as Simon Phillips takes us on a journey through his remarkable musical odyssey, from his early jazz background to his foray into the world of rock and roll. He provides fascinating insights into his work with Pete Townshend, Jeff Beck, and The Who, shedding light on the unique dynamics of each collaboration. Simon also delves into his decision to join Toto and shares the challenges he encountered as a touring musician. Get ready for an engaging and insightful conversation with a true music maestro as Simon Phillips opens up about the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of his career. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a music enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to VRP Rocks to catch all these incredible stories and more. Don't miss out on exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and the best of classic rock. Stay tuned for future episodes and join us as we celebrate the timeless allure of rock music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 22m
Dec 11, 2023
Side 2 - Stewart Copeland - His Police Diaries

In this special Side 2 episode, Paul sits down with Stewart Copeland, the renowned drummer and co-founder of The Police, to discuss the release of his new book, "Stewart Copeland's Police Diaries." The book provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the formative years of The Police, chronicling their journey from struggling musicians to conquering superstars. Get ready to hear Stewart Copeland share captivating stories from The Police's early days, including details about how he recruited Sting, and the pivotal moment when Andy Summers joined the group. Delve into the world of punk rock as Stewart describes the band's interactions with other iconic groups like The Clash and their experiences at the Roxy Club during the punk movement's genesis. Through this riveting interview, listeners will gain insight into the challenges, successes, and enduring passion that shaped The Police's journey to international stardom. Discover the untold stories, struggles, and triumphs that paved the way for the iconic band's rise to fame. Tune in to this episode of VRP Rocks and immerse yourself in the enthralling narrative of one of the most influential bands in music history, as told by the legendary Stewart Copeland. And if you want to hear more from Stewart Copeland, check out the extended interview Paul did with him back on Episode 72 of VRP Rocks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

26m
Dec 04, 2023
VRP @ WinterStorm 2023

For the first time in VRP Rocks history, this episode is out on location! WinterStorm Festival 2023, held in the small west coast town of Troon in Scotland, attracted an unbelievable array of classic rock bands to the three day spectacular and Paul was there to soak up the atmosphere and mingle. Headliners included Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth and Graham Bonnet as well as many other classic acts like Dutch prog group Focus, original Iron Maiden singer Paul Di'Anno, Tyketto, former Rainbow singer Doogie White, UK rock radio favourites FM and Tyketto. Paul catches up with a number of acts backstage, including some of the newer bands making a name for themselves, as well as few of the gig-goers to get their take on the weekend and festivities. Hopefully this gives you a nice feel for what the 3 day event was all about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

55m
Dec 01, 2023
107. Jon Levin - Dokken / Doro

Known for his impressive work with bands like Dokken, Warlock and Doro, Jon Levin takes us on a journey through his musical career, sharing insights, stories, and his passion for creating authentic music. From a young age, Jon showed his musical talent by playing various instruments but it was the guitar that captivated him and ignited his passion for rock music. Inspired by guitar gods like Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, Jon honed his skills and pushed himself to excel. Later on, he discovered the guitar mastery of Eddie Van Halen, with "Unchained" becoming his favorite Van Halen track. But it wasn't all smooth sailing for Jon. As he opens up about his challenges with reading comprehension, we gain a deeper understanding of the determination and resilience that define a true rock performer. Jon also shares his experiences collaborating with renowned artists such as Doro Pesch and her band, revealing his pride in Warlock's album and the impact they had on the metal scene. In a surprising turn of events, Jon reveals that he pursued a career in law during the grunge movement. However, music never truly left his soul. Even while in law school, he would occasionally strum his guitar, but it wasn't until he received a life-changing call from Jeff Pilson that his music career reignited. Discussing his time with Dokken, Jon shares the exhilarating story of how he joined the band. Reluctant at first, it was ultimately his father who convinced him to take the leap. Jon's talent shone through as he played two blazing guitar solos for Dokken without even hearing the tracks beforehand, proving that he had the chops to fill the shoes left by other guitarists. Throughout the episode, Jon shows immense admiration for Ed Van Halen, praising his brilliance and recounting a brief encounter with the guitar virtuoso when their bands shared a stage. He also takes us back to his early years, recalling the moment he made the pivotal decision to drop out of college against his parents' wishes and fully commit to a career in music. As we dive into the band's latest album, "Heaven Comes Down," Jon talks about the circumstances they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unable to collaborate in person, the band relied on correspondence to create the record. Jon discusses his struggle with programming drums but overcame the challenge with the help of a friend, Tommy Henriksen. With the downtime, Jon began recording demos and found that writing in the early hours of the morning worked best. Jon explains how the album came together, with him sending Don demos and the lead singer improvising lyrics and melodies on the spot. Some songs were collaborations, while others had already been written, allowing the band to adapt and create despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic. Throughout the episode, Jon's passion for genuine music shines through, as he shares his thoughts on creating without ripping off or forcing ideas. He explains that on "Heaven Comes Down," they managed to accomplish this organically, creating a record filled with raw emotion and strong musicality. Don delves deeper into the creative process and discusses the band's approach to balancing new music with their iconic hits. They explore how the band's sound resonates with a modern audience and discuss the challenges and successes they encountered during the recording process. Looking ahead, Jon Levin reveals exciting plans for the future, with more music videos in the works and a tour scheduled for 2024, potentially including stops in Europe and Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

44m
Nov 27, 2023
106. Mike Derosier - Heart

Todays very special guest, is Mike Derosier, the renowned drummer of the iconic band Heart. Mike Derosier, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, shares his fascinating experiences from his time with Heart, from the 1970s to the early 1980s, contributing his incredible drumming skills to multiple platinum-selling albums. Listen in as Mike talks about his early days with Heart, joining the band, and recording under tight time constraints. Discover how the band honed their sound through electrifying live performances, playing residencies and sharing the stage with iconic bands like The Who, Rolling Stones, Bee Gees, and Rod Stewart. As the conversation unfolds, Mike discusses the changing landscape of the music industry and reflects on the influence of platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Not only does Mike reminisce about his time with Heart, but he also talks about his journey after leaving the band. He shares insights into his collaboration with Orion the Hunter, working with fellow musicians Barry Goudreau and Brad Delp from Boston and Richard Marx. Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes his love for playing classic rock and the importance of representing the songs properly. He discusses the creative process within a rock band, the significance of establishing agreements and roles, as well as his favorite songs to drum, like "Barracuda" and "Mistral Wind." Don't miss this unforgettable episode of VRP Rocks with special guest Mike Derosier, where the magic and nostalgia of classic rock come to life. Tune in, crank up the volume, and get ready to rock out! If you're a fan of Heart, check out episode 21 of VRP Rocks to hear another version of events from the band, with an exclusive interview with Heart's original bass player, Steve Fossen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

44m
Nov 20, 2023
105. Rudy Sarzo - Quiet Riot/Ozzy/Whitesnake

Rudy Sarzo—an iconic figure in the world of rock music—opens up about his fascinating journey, from his early days playing in club bands with his brother to his professional career with renowned bands like Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Blue Oyster Cult, and Dio. An insightful and multifaceted individual, Sarzo takes us on an intriguing exploration that spans from music to quantum physics, belief systems, AI, myths, and consciousness. Paul and Rudy engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the power of human consciousness and its potential to influence our reality. Drawing connections between quantum physics and belief systems, they touch on topics such as the manifestation of thoughts, the influence of collective consciousness on a virtual reality matrix, and the interplay of energy and frequency waves in shaping our experiences. This intellectually stimulating dialogue takes a captivating turn as Rudy shares his insights on the Beatles' new single, reflecting on the cultural impact of music and its role in driving societal shifts and activism. He also discusses his thoughts on the intersection of technology and music production, sparking a conversation about the consciousness of artificial intelligence and the timeless simplicity of the Beatles' music. Amidst this rich array of topics, Rudy delves into his personal journey, revealing how his genealogy and DNA exploration has influenced his health choices and sense of identity. He candidly shares how the music of the Beatles transcended social and cultural boundaries, instilling a sense of unity and hope during turbulent times, both in the United States and in his own life as a Cuban political refugee. As the conversation seamlessly transitions to Rudy Sarzo's music career, listeners are treated to insightful anecdotes about his pivotal roles in bands such as Quiet Riot and Whitesnake. From his initial hesitation to join Quiet Riot to the band's MTV-friendly focus and their groundbreaking success with "Metal Health," Rudy provides an intimate look at his experiences and creative contributions within these influential musical collectives. Rudy also opens up about his deep connection with fellow musicians and shares touching stories about his time with the late Randy Rhoads, emphasizing the profound impact of musical integrity and the enduring legacy of beloved artists. From the mystical allure of Loch Ness to the pioneering spirit of the British invasion, this episode of VRP Rocks captivates audiences with a rare blend of intellectual discourse, personal reflection, and rock 'n' roll nostalgia. As Paul and Rudy wrap up their conversation, listeners are left with a renewed appreciation for the multifaceted nature of music and the pervasive influence of consciousness on our lives. Join us in this thought-provoking exploration of music, quantum physics, and the human experience, and don't forget to subscribe to the VRP Rocks podcast for more engaging content. Let's rock on together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 6m
Nov 13, 2023
104. Vinny Appice - Black Sabbath/Dio

Legendary drummer Vinny Appice, known for his iconic work with Black Sabbath and Dio, has had an incredible career that spans decades and includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in rock. In this episode, Vinny shares exclusive stories and insights about his time working with John Lennon, recalling playing with the legendary musician on his last ever live show when Vinny was just 16 years old. Vinny's anecdotes will transport you back to those magical moments, as he reminisces about Lennon's fondness for him and the hilarious incident involving Vinny's mum, John Lennon and a lasagne pan! But that's not all! Vinny takes us behind the scenes of his journey, from quitting high school after hanging out with John Lennon to being a last-minute replacement for Bill Ward in Black Sabbath. He shares the nerve-wracking experience of auditioning for the band and the progression of their shows as the new drummer, shedding light on the dynamics and tensions within the group. We also delve into Vinny's collaboration with Ronnie James Dio, as he discusses their creative process, the making of Dio's iconic album "Holy Diver," and the formation of the band Last in Line after Ronnie's passing. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! If you're a rock music aficionado, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Join VRP Rocks as we dive deep into the world of Vinny Appice, exploring his fascinating career, remarkable collaborations, and iconic songs that have shaped the heavy metal genre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

39m
Nov 06, 2023
103. Adrian Vandenberg - Whitesnake/Vandenberg

Today's special interview is with Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg! In this episode, Adrian, renowned for his work with bands like Vandenberg and Whitesnake shares captivating stories from his early struggles in Holland to his time in Whitesnake, including encounters with legends like Jimmy Page, Brian May, AC/DC, and David Coverdale. You'll hear what it was like to join Whitesnake just before they exploded in North America with their self-titled 1987 album, how he was asked to provide the solo for the huge hit 'Here I Go Again' and all about the accident that prevented him from recording the follow up album 'Slip of the Tongue'. It's another episode packed with fascinating stories and insightful discussions. Don't forget to subscribe to VRP Rocks on your favorite podcast app and tune in every Monday for new episodes featuring the biggest names in classic rock! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

42m
Oct 30, 2023
Side 2 - Joe Bonamassa Interview

In this special Side 2 episode of VRP Rocks, host Paul Stephenson sits down with blues rock guitar legend, Joe Bonamassa, for a quick chat about his new album Blues Deluxe Vol.2 and tour. Joe reflects on the first Blues Deluxe album and the inspiration behind this latest release, Vol 2. With his melodic guitar playing and rich vocals, Joe talks about his growth as a musician and singer over the past 20 years. Join us as we dive into the song selection process and the creation of two original tracks on the album. Plus, discover the importance of physical copies and the unique merchandise available on Joe's website. Don't miss this opportunity to get a sneak peek into the mind of a true blues virtuoso. Subscribe now to VRP Rocks for more episodes featuring big name guests every Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

20m
Oct 23, 2023
102. Doug Aldrich - Whitesnake/Dio

VRP Rocks takes listeners on a musical journey through the fascinating career of guitar player Doug Aldrich. From his early influences and auditions with iconic bands like Kiss to his time working alongside legends Ronnie James Dio and David Coverdale, Doug shares intriguing stories and valuable insights. The conversation delves into his early years with Lion and Hurricane, where their success in Japan propelled them to new heights. The difficult decision of choosing between Dio and Whitesnake leads to a discussion on the repercussions of those choices and the challenges that came with them. Doug also opens up about his current venture with The Dead Daisies, revealing exciting plans for big tours and the groups new Best Of album release. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

40m
Oct 16, 2023
Jim McCarty - Yardbirds: My 5 Favourite...

Join us for as we dive into the world of one of the most influential bands in rock history, The Yardbirds! In this special edition of "My 5 Favorites," we sit down with the legendary Jim McCarty, drummer and founding member of The Yardbirds, as he takes us on a journey through his personal selection of the band's best songs. In the first part of the episode, Jim McCarty talks about the band's breakthrough hit, "For Your Love." Discover the story behind this iconic track and how it helped put The Yardbirds on the map in the UK and the US. Moving on to the second song, Jim shares insights into the unique guitar sound and how Jeff Beck's influence shaped the band's psychedelic feel. Learn about the studio experimentation and the decision to swap the sitar for a fuzz box, giving birth to a distinctive and memorable riff. Finally, Jim gives us a glimpse into the recruitment of Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page as Eric Clapton didn't fit in with the group's new vision and direction. Join us as we explore these fascinating stories and more, delving into the music that defined an era and continues to inspire generations of rock fans. Tune in now to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of The Yardbirds through the eyes of Jim McCarty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

31m
Oct 09, 2023
101. Martin Barre - Jethro Tull

VRP sits down with the legendary guitarist Martin Barre, former member of Jethro Tull, to discuss his remarkable journey and the highs and lows of his career. Martin Barre's success didn't come easily, and he openly shares the challenges he faced after getting his foot in the door. Despite feeling like he was on his own, Barre remained loyal to his band and appreciated the hard work they put in. He takes us back to the golden age of rock in the 1970s, where albums like "Passion Play," "War Child," "Minstrel in the Gallery," and "Songs from the Wood" reigned supreme. Barre delves into the groundbreaking album "Aqualung", as well as the unique challenges faced during the creation of "Under Wraps." Alongside VRP, Martin Barre discusses his split from Jethro Tull and how he persevered through the difficult times. Known for his honest, humble nature, and immense talent, Barre shares anecdotes from his disastrous audition to sharing a stage with Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. The honest dialogue explores the setbacks, doubts, and ultimate triumphs experienced during the process. Don't miss out on the captivating journey of Martin Barre, as he candidly shares his stories and insights on VRP Rocks. Tune in now to immerse yourself in this riveting episode. Don't forget you can watch some clips from this interview with Martin, as well as hundreds of other guests, on the VRP Rocks YouTube channel! Check it out now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

52m
Oct 02, 2023
100. Peter Frampton!!

Welcome to the milestone 100th episode of Vintage Rock Pod, where we bring you exclusive interviews with the biggest names in rock music. In this special episode, Paul plays you his exclusive new interview with the one and only Peter Frampton. Join us as we celebrate this momentous occasion and thank our incredible listeners for their unwavering support over the years. We give a special shoutout to those devoted fans who have been with us since day one. Your love and enthusiasm for Vintage Rock Pod have made it all possible. We also extend our gratitude to our colleagues at the Pantheon Podcast Network for their partnership and support in making our podcast a success. But the star of this episode is none other than the iconic Peter Frampton. With a career spanning over 50 years, Peter has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. He shares insights into his latest project, collaborating with the legendary Dolly Parton on her Rockstar album. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Peter takes us on a journey through his early days with the Small Faces, his friendship with George Harrison, and his work with David Bowie. We dive into his signature sound, his health battles, and so much more. Thank you again for joining us on this incredible journey through rock music history. Stay tuned for more episodes of Vintage Rock Pod, where the legends of rock come alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

49m
Sep 25, 2023
99. Uli Jon Roth

We have a special treat for guitar enthusiasts as we sit down with the legendary Uli Jon Roth! Known for his incredible talent and iconic contributions to bands like the Scorpions, Uli shares his journey with the guitar and how he honed his craft. From his early years to his dedication and practice, Uli reveals the secrets behind his exceptional playing ability. But that's not all! We also delve into the technical side of Uli's sound. Fans of the early Scorpions albums will be thrilled to hear him discuss the effects and distortion techniques he used to achieve that signature tone on records like "Virgin Killer" and "In Trance". Join us as Uli takes us back in time to the height of his career with the Scorpions, particularly their iconic live album, "Tokyo Tapes". Hear him reminisce about the significance of that visit to Japan and how it marked the culmination of their journey as a band to that stage. Get exclusive insights into the decision he made to leave the Scorpions and pursue his artistic vision with Electric Sun. And speaking of life after the Scorpions... Uli opens up about his relationship with his former bandmates and the friendship that has endured beyond their time together. Find out if there is any chance of a full tour reunion with the Scorpions, a question hotly hoped for by eager fans. And don't miss out on Uli's revelation about an intriguing offer he received from another prominent band in 1975. Learn which band approached him and why he ultimately turned down the opportunity. The stories and insights from Uli Jon Roth himself are not to be missed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

36m
Sep 18, 2023