The Voices Of Russ Ballard Podcast

It's just days days before the release of Russ Ballard's long awaited new double album “Songs from the Warehouse/The Hits Rewired” and Ian talks to Russ in depth about the new album(s). Expect to hear some stunning new tracks alongside reworked versions of 13 hits from his back catalogue.

Ian launches the final part of the Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast with Colin Blunstone and this time Colin is in conversation with Russ Ballard himself. They talk about how “I Don't Believe in Miracles” was written, the darker side of the music press and even Colin's Olympic potential! “Colin, you've got a unique voice, you're immediately identifiable and I love it when I hear your voice, love it”Russ Ballard to Colin BlunstoneTwo versions are available, one also on Youtube here-(that features a video of Colin & Russ playing “Miracles” live)https://youtu.be/aRG9fUlHsmI

In Part Two of Ian's chat with Colin Blunstone, the spotlight turns to his brilliant solo career spanning nearly 60 years.  The episode also includes some great music and expect some more “deeper cuts” from Colins solo catalogue. We also focus on his extremely underrated songwriting skills and his famous appearances on The Alan Parsons Project albums. “In many ways, Ennismore was the beginning of me as a writer” Colin Blunstone “Old and Wise is one of my favourite songs that I've ever recorded” Colin Blunstone

The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast is proud to kick off 2025 with an extra special guest, The Zombie's lead vocalist Colin Blunstone.  In Part One, Ian chats to Colin about his career in the band and their continued success to this day.  It's a fascinating insight into the band's image, Zombies impersonators, Elvis, recording studio secrets and how both John Lennon and George Harrison helped shape the future for them in different ways.  Oh and some great music from Colin too…. "When Susanna Hoffs from The Bangles says your voice is just plain sexy, it's difficult to know how to respond!” Colin Blunstone on Susanna Hoff's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction speech for The Zombies  "I was half asleep when we recorded "Tell Her No” and in the first chorus, I definitely mumbled" Colin Blunstone "Odessey and Oracle would have been a totally different album if John Lennon hadn't left his mellotron behind in the studio at Abbey Road” Colin Blunstone 

Ian presents the final part of the Podcast with Ray Greene as special guest and it's a very enlightening and fun conversation with Ray and Russ Ballard himself. They discover they have similar tastes in both music and life in general. And have a sing along too…..available in both audio and video versions.  “I love the connection I feel with you" Ray Greene talking to Russ Ballard As usual you can listen here on Russ's website….. https://russballardmusic.com/podcast Or all mainstream platforms- Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-russ-ballard-podcast/id1562909888 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7mMNx0xe1akK6Sq3JQpLEO?si=T5iu1H4HQDKKyjh1IcCFZw Pocket Casts https://pca.st/93jv9ojn?fbclid=IwAR3dyJbD7qGVWErDJKwYJbl5zf6qzw1XS2rDvyHWvqDLzk7SwZkBey004DY And the video version can be found on YouTube here- https://youtu.be/ux9StjyQbjs

Ian presents Part 2 of his chat with Ray Greene when the focus moves on to Santana and his solo career. A great insight into how Ray joined Santana (with a little help from Social Media), as well as some excellent music and commentary relating to the new album “Stay”. “He is just the best….” Ray Greene on working with Carlos Santana 

Join us on the Voices Of Russ Ballard with our very special guest, the voice of Tower Of Power and Santana, Ray Greene.  Ray talks about his graduation from the Berkeley School of Music, playing alongside Aretha Franklin, Rick James, The Isley Brothers and of course, Tower Of Power. Some great music along the way too. Look out for Part Two coming soon….. (this episode was recorded just before the passing of the great Quincy Jones. RIP) “You give 100% every time you go that stage”  Ray Greene  “The music business has been phenomenal for me, especially the last 10  /15 years of my life”  Ray Greene 

The final episode with special guest Paul Shortino features a live chat between him and his friend from the “Rock Meets Classic” tour of Germany, Russ Ballard himself. A fascinating insight into their views on the music scene today and how technology is shaping the industry, together with hilarious stories guaranteed to make you smile. Oh and a couple of surprises along the way….don't miss it!  “Russ, I love you like a brother from another….” Paul Shortino  “Paul, I feel the same way…..” Russ Ballard

The second part of Ian's chat with Paul Shortino in which he gives us a fascinating insight to his landmark appearance at Hear N'Aid (America's rock equivalent to Band Aid), as well as detailing the close association with his mentor, Ronnie James Dio. Apart from Paul's infectious personality, enjoy more good music and commentary from his solo career and numerous collaborations including Carmine Appice's band, King Kobra. “That has changed recently. Russ Ballard gave me chills every night on Rock Meets Classic when I heard him sing “You Can Do Magic”. It has have to be his version, no one else's version of song. “ Paul Shortino's response when asked “what is your favourite song of all time?”

Sven is taking a break from the show so Ian kicks off a new series chatting to the legendary Paul Shortino from his home in Las Vegas.  Part 1 features Paul's climb to stardom from a young age, his role as “Duke Fame” in the movie “This is Spinal Tap”, Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot and much more. He also talks passionately about his recent tour of Germany on “Rock Meets Classic” and his affinity with Russ Ballard and all the other performing artists on that stage.  “I'm sure Russ Ballard could have written a hit song for me!”  Paul Shortino

Ian and Sven conclude their conversation with Graham Bonnet from his home in LA and we hear from Beth Ami Heavenstone too.  “No” Graham Bonnet when asked if he does anything special to keep his unbelievable voice in shape. “It's just pure fluke, maybe one day it will just go but I don't think it will happen anytime soon. My voice is me. This is what I do.” Graham Bonnet when asked about the potential longevity of his voice.

Ian and Sven are proud to share their conversation with a member of rock royalty, Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Michael Schenker, Alcatrazz and many more). Graham has recorded many Russ Ballard songs over the years and they are all featured here. Hear many great stories from his Rainbow days including the late, great Cozy Powell and Ritchie Blackmore himself.  “Cozy would say “Here comes the F…. Bank Manager” Graham Bonnet describing how Cozy Powell greeted him at breakfast on tour with Rainbow  “Don Airey came up to me and said, do you know we are the only two in this band who have got hair” A hair raising story from Graham Bonnet…..

Ian and Sven start 2024 with a very special guest who has one of the most versatile and powerful voices in rock, Robert Hart. He has worked with or alongside, the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, Sly Stone, The Jacksons, Bad Company, Zak Starkey, Vince Gill, Chic, Kenney Jones, Manfred Mann, Russ Ballard….need I go on?  Have a listen to Robert discussing an incredible career in music and also talking about his new album, “Circus Life”. Manfred Mann in conversation with Robert Hart  “Don't think of me as your boss, think of me as a friend who can fire you”

Join Ian and Sven for a one off Voices of Russ Ballard special featuring the legendary drummer Bob Henrit (Kinks, Argent, Unit 4 Plus 2, Adam Faith and the Roulettes).  Bob talks about his new project “Borough Beats” which is a local exhibition celebrating many of the talented musicians who grew up in the Borough of Broxbourne including Cliff Richard, The Shadows, The Roulettes, Russ Ballard and of course, Bob himself.The exhibition runs until June 2024. 

Ian and Sven present the final episode of their conversation with Mike Moran. We discuss the diversity of Mike's brilliant career, his friendship with George Harrison (including singing backing vocals with three of The Beatles on a recording session), the day the Pythons asked for money, Ozzy Osbourne and so much more.  “George and I got on well and stayed friends until he died.” Mike on George Harrison “Here I am, in between George Harrison and Paul McCartney singing backing vocals with George Martin looking at us through the glass. If anybody had told me…….” Mike talking about how he did a lot of work with George Harrison

Welcome to the landmark edition of The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast…..this is the 25th edition since we launched in the summer of 2020. Part Two of Ian and Sven's conversation with Mike Moran concentrates on his collaboration with the one and only Freddie Mercury and there are some legendary stories to hear. Discover how Mike takes Freddie to his local Garden Centre, Freddie tells Mike to keep playing that “Flashy Sh*t” on the keyboards, Mike becomes the only non Queen member to co write a song on a Queen Album and of course, Mike and Freddie create a new musical genre…..all this and more, it's a must listen! “They could have given Rami a smaller set of false teeth” Mike Moran on Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury in the Bohemian Rhapsody movie 

Welcome back to the Voices of Russ Ballard for another fascinating interview this time with the incredibly talented Mike Moran whose expertise spans so many different musical genres.In Part One we learn about his journey from the Royal College of Music (starting the same day as Rick Wakeman) to playing with 70's Rock bands and much more. Oh and that Eurovision song too…..“Reluctantly, I became an England International”Mike Moran talking about his appearance on Eurovision “I quite like being called a Professor”Mike Moran on his achievement of being Professor of Jazz Piano at The Royal College of Music

The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast is back and in this episode Ian and Sven talk to the frontman of the band Fugitive who have been established for over 30 years. Michael Angel tells the story of how a “legend” offered his help which culminated in two tracks written and produced by Russ Ballard. These songs are from the new album “Nobody Gets Out Alive” (released on 26th May) which is exclusively showcased here. Also listen to their fascinating story ranging from being homeless and sleeping in a van to working with a musician who has been responsible for over 100m record sales. “I ended up homeless and living in a van” -Mike Angel “Russ is so good at making you feel at ease” -Mike Angel on Russ Ballard

Ian and Sven present the last of our three Podcasts with very special guest Leo Sayer and we are joined by Russ Ballard himself for a long awaited catch up with Leo. The boys talk about Russ's musical contributions on “Silverbird” and his production of “Another Year” for Leo as well as both providing fascinating anecdotes from their multi million selling recording careers. To date the duo have unfortunately never written any songs together but following this Podcast, that might be about to change….. "I wanted to write songs with Leo in 1976" Russ Ballard on Leo Sayer “Great talking to Russ again, he's a wonderful man” Leo Sayer on Russ Ballard

Ian and Sven follow up their highly acclaimed Podcast featuring Leo Sayer with part 2 of the chat which focuses on some amazing stories, told the only way Leo can. These include how he became (after falling 25 feet off the stage), the last person to speak to Elvis before the King passed. Expect also to hear about sitting in British Airways First Class where he and Mohammed Ali became close friends and how Leo taught him and other famous boxers, how to to sing….. We also discuss his latest releases “Selfie” and “Northern Songs” as well some fun “desert island” questions. Elvis Presley (to Leo Sayer) “This is Elvis Aaron Presley and you Make Me Feel Like Dancing “ Muhammad Ali (to Leo Sayer) “I love you Leo”

We have an outstanding start to 2023 thanks to an extra special guest on the Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast with Ian and Sven, the one and only Leo Sayer who just celebrated 50 years in the music business. This is part 1 of two Podcasts with Leo himself before we feature a fascinating conversation with Leo and Russ in the final episode. We start here with the early years and many of Leo's hits are featured, as well as recollections of his first taste of fame thanks to Roger Daltrey recording his songs. Hear Leo describe his career in detail playing with amazing musicians in LA (Steve Lukather, Larry Carlton, Jeff Porcaro, David Hungate, Leland Sklar, David Paich and Tom Scott to name but a few) when he was at his peak as a household name and “TV personality”. And with Leo there are always some great stories to tell. The Podcast finishes with a Voices of Russ Ballard exclusive……is it true that Toto asked Leo to be their lead singer even before their first album was released? Join us and find out! Roger Daltrey (talking about Leo Sayer) “You wait until you hear this guy, he's a better singer than me….” Leo Sayer (on Russ Ballard) “He not only plays guitar but also mind-blowing piano. He's very wise and very cool”

In Part Two of this Voices Podcast with Ian and Sven, the conversation with Bob Bradbury is concluded and they discuss (amongst other things) the gradual demise of Glam Rock in 1977. Bob also tells us about other projects in his fascinating career including The Boomtown Rats, Glam Rock Allstars and solo projects. “In 1977 we started getting punk and that killed it” Bob Bradbury on the demise of Glam Rock during the late 1970's

Ian and Sven return in conversation with a 70s Glam Rock ICON who is part of Russ's rich history and also recorded on of his most popular songs “New York Groove” (covered by Ace Frehley for Kiss amongst others). Bob Bradbury fronted the band Hello! for many years and all their singles are featured/discussed here together with much more during Part One. “David Bowie was doing “Starman” …he looked amazing……we had a chat and he gave me some fantastic tips on how to act in front of the camera” Bob Bradbury on David Bowie and himself on Top Of The Pops in the early 70s

The Podcast is back after a short break following Russ's successful UK tour in early 2022 and his guest appearance at the 02 Shepherds Bush Empire supporting Rick Wakeman. Ian and Sven speak with David and The Duchess from “Space Elevator”, the band that were set to support Russ on his German tour that was cancelled two days before commencement thanks to Covid. Hear tracks from the excellent new Space Elevator album “Persona Non Grata” as well as soundbites from their previous two releases and enjoy an insight into how these talented musicians made their journey to becoming professional musicians. “How do people make a living as a musician if they're not in Queen or something?" David Young when contemplating his decision to become a professional musician. “We are not just going to take over the world, we want to get beyond the world's atmosphere and go up in a Space Elevator…..we just wanted to be larger then life I guess” The Duchess tells us about choosing the name for the band.

The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast ends the year with a bumper Christmas Eve edition featuring the legendary and multi talented Francie Conway. Francie tells of his excitement working with Russ, Chris White, and Argent and how his big break came along out of nowhere. Links and stories relating to Queen, Alistair Campbell, Henry McCullough (Wings and Joe Cocker), Noddy Holder, Chris Rea and more are all here….we also play some great music from Francie's career including his brand new single “Christmas Night”. “I learnt my songwriting skills from the best,…..Chris White and Russ Ballard” Francie Conway “People say you shouldn't meet your heroes, suddenly I was going to record with them…” Francie Conway on being in a recording studio (for the first time) with Russ, Chris White, Bob Henrit, Jim Rodford, and John Verity

Ian and Sven complete their conversation with Steve Rodford with a Podcast dedicated to the life of his father, Jim Rodford. This coincides with the publication of a book about his life called “Jim Rodford Sideman, The Jim Rodford Story”. Enjoy some brilliant anecdotes along the way as well as an exciting exclusive…..Steve reveals a lost track he recently found by the GB Blues Company featuring the Argent rhythm section (Jim and Bob Henrit) and the Mike Cotton Sound Horn Section. It's called “ No Place” and you can hear it here for the first time anywhere in the world. “I'd like to think that Dad was a big part of bringing rock and roll back to the Kinks” - Steve Rodford speaking about Jim Rodford. “It”s What I do” - Jim Rodford on himself playing live gigs.

Following on from Chris White, Ian & Sven continue the Zombies theme and are in conversation with Steve Rodford, a fine drummer and musician in his own right but also the son of the legendry Bass Player Jim Rodford (Argent, Kinks, Zombies). Enjoy lots of great music from Argent, The Zombies, Frida from Abba, John Verity and much more. “Growing up with my Dad in Argent I can't tell you just looking back, how amazing that was and what an influence that was”. Steve Rodford “I was so proud of him” Steve Rodford (talking about having a rock star father and parents evening!) “You're wasting your money Mum, I want to be a drummer” Steve Rodford to his mother Jean when she arranged piano lessons

Ian and Sven return with part two of their fascinating conversation with original Zombie bass player and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Chris White. Did you know Chris was responsible for the original Dire Straits demos? Did you know The Zombies were responsible for introducing Tom Petty to rock and roll? Which version of “celebration” do you prefer, Argent or Sparrow? (Talking of which, the newly released Sparrow album is also featured). The new podcast answers all these questions and more! Stop Press….Listen carefully for an excerpt from a brand new Russ Ballard track. “I just wanted to say how much you affected Queen” Brian May speaking to Chris White backstage at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony

After a short summer break, Ian and Sven are proud to present their latest guest on the Podcast Original Zombies Bass player and member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Chris White. In part one (of two), Chris tells us how the Zombies met and we go on the incredible journey towards their masterpiece, “Odessey & Oracle”. Learn how the Zombies producer is carried out of the recording studio, Chris starts production and writing for Argent and Colin Blunstone in the early 70s and much, much more…. Songs featured “She's Not There”, Beechwood Park, Hung Up On a Dream, “Time of the Season” “A Girl Like That”, Russ Ballard hit medley. “Rod Argent called me many years later and told me how great my playing was on the original Zombies recordings” Chris White He's one of the greatest English songwriters of all time” Chris White talking about Russ Ballard

In Podcast Number Eleven, Ian and Sven conclude their conversation with the legendary Bob Henrit so stand by to hear even more humorous stories together with related music from Bob's career including The Kinks, Genesis, Ringo Starr, The Who, Mike and The Mechanics and….The Bay City Rollers! Learn the story of the two Ivor's (Novello and Arbiter), what the Queen of England said to Bob (and apparently always says) when she met him, what Keith Moon offered him in the back of his Rolls Royce and much, much more….. “Russell's always been a year younger than me!” Bob talking about Russ Ballard ‘Sound good Man!” BB King (whilst cradling Lucille, his Gibson guitar) on hearing Argent play live

Ian and Sven kick off Podcast Number Ten (and the first launched via a multi platform format) with probably Russ's oldest friend in music, Bob Henrit (Roulettes, Kinks, Argent, Ringo Starr, Don Mclean, amongst others). Hear about Bob's VERY famous neighbour as a schoolboy (even though they don't talk anymore…), saving Russ's life (Adam Faith did that too apparently), falling asleep while having dinner with Noel Coward, trying to play the drums with Chinese shoes on and many more humorous and informative stories. “We got paid five pounds, fifteen shillings and sixpence and it sold two million copies” Bob on playing drums on “Concrete and Clay” when with Unit 4 Plus 2 “New Zealand was a long way away and now it's even further!” Bob on touring and getting on aeroplanes

Ian and Sven conclude their exclusive interview with Russ with a bumper two hour special featuring lots of great RB music, some questions probably never posed to him before and lots more. Find out how Russ nearly died on stage in Germany, writing “Hope” the theme song for the South African World Cup, being invited to link up with Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Nelson Mandala in the process, as well as flying First Class to LA to write with Alice Cooper and chat with Gene Simmons and Michael Bolton by the swimming pool.... “I've been a pianist since I was 8 years old, when I write songs I write them on the piano, I want to play more piano when I go on tour" Russ Ballard I was the only one writing melodies and using overdriven guitars, most bands weren't getting played on the radio and it took years before they did it” Russ Ballard on the period in his career where he was writing countless hits for other artists and had unparalleled success. “Maybe Frida from ABBA can do the Voices Podcast” Russ Ballard Originally released on 1st of April 2021

Ian and Sven recommence the Podcasts following the sad passing of our previous guest and friend, Peter Thorp and the show starts with a deserved tribute to the man himself. This is the second of three shows featuring our conversation with Russ in late 2020. Hear him talk about the "Voices" Russ Ballard album and "The Fire Still Burns" as well as great stories of touring and recording with Roger Daltrey of The Who. Look out for passionate and emotional renditions from "The Book of Love" album before we finish with a Voices of Russ Ballard exclusive, a new song never heard anywhere in the world before. (Our gratefully thanks fo Russ for allowing us to use the track). Songs featured, "The Fire Still Burns", New York Groove", "Crazy World" and "The One Who Breathes Me". "Everything on the album was a signpost on the way to looking for love" Russ talking about his album "The Book of Love". Originally released on 14th of February 2021

A real positive end to 2020 with a Christmas Eve Podcast featuring Ian and Sven in lengthy conversation with none other than Russ Ballard himself at his home in Hertfordshire. This is part one of three Podcasts, the others to follow in early 2021 and will include a World Exclusive.... hear for the time anywhere..... a brand new Russ song. In this Podcast we play some of Russ's most famous hits including “Hold Your Head Up”, God Gave Rock And Roll To You”, “Since You Been Gone” and “You Can Do Magic”. We start with the early days and his audition at age 16 for Adam Faith's Roulettes (where he never even got to demonstrate his guitar skills!) before progressing to anecdotes about amongst others, Elton John, Santana, Rainbow, Three Dog Night and America. Russ closes the Podcast with a special Christmas message to all his fans all over the world. Al Gallico (Legendary New York Music Publisher, talking about Russ's ability in the recording studio) “Russ don't make demos, he makes masters!) Russ Ballard on Elton John “He told us that “In Deep” was his favourite album” Originally released on 24th of December 2020

A chance for everyone to banish those “Lockdown” blues and join us in conversation with Peter Thorp, arguably the founder member of The Roulettes. Peter's fascinating story starts right from the early days when he was asked to join Adam Faith (who incidentally lived just round the corner) and play live at the Royal Albert Hall in 1961. Recognised by his peers as a consummate musician and songwriter, whilst telling his story on the show Peter even takes a call from Russ live on air..... "If anyone deserves success it's him" Peter on RB Originally released on 1st of December 2020

We conclude our exclusive interview featuring the wonderful John Verity (JV) with a bumper edition which includes some great music, including tracks from JV's latest album “Passion”. Learn how he nearly joined Michael Schenker, Ted Nugent, Asia and an Aerosmith “side project” band. Also, some fascinating revelations around Russ's hit “I Surrender” by Rainbow (JV played on the demo) and how he probably recorded the first “tribute” album…. full of Led Zeppelin classics. “He was a great inspiration to me” “My songwriting definitely went up a notch after spending time in the studio with him” JV on Russ Ballard. Originally released on 15th of November 2020

We continue our “Voices” Podcast Show and celebrate Russ's birthday with a special Halloween edition. Our Spooktacular hour long version features the multi talented John Verity, the man who replaced Russ in Argent (Russ recommended him personally for the spot!). In this first part of an exclusive chat with JV, the music business revelations continue with him waxing lyrical about Jimi Hendrix, Phil Collins, Bob Henrit, Rod Argent and many more. Learn how JV and other musicians are attempting to cope with these difficult Covid times and hear four excellent tracks from the early part of his wide and successful career. Fangs for listening!!! “You have to be in the right place at the right time and I was just lucky to be in the right place at the right time” JV on himself. “When Genesis were a three piece Phil Collins told me they weren't sure their new album was going to be any good” JV on Phil Collins and Genesis “You have to look in the mirror and see yourself “ JV on Punk Originally released on 31st of October 2020

For the third podcast, we feature the second part of our interview with John “Mod” Rogan. Mod continues to entertain us in only the way he can! Tap Dancing, Cabaret, Sandie Shaw, Dusty Springfield (a kiss for bottle of Vodka), it's all here. Mod also gives an emotional tribute to the late Jim Rodford. In addition we play in full, our first piece of Russ related music as we showcase our next Podcast…. “Mod, you sound more like Adam Faith than I do” Adam Faith. Originally released on 15th of October 2020

Our second Podcast is part one of an interview we did recently with John George Rogan, otherwise known as "Mod" (and he will tell you how he got that nickname too...). A really honest, humorous and fascinating insight into the world of Showbiz. Mod talks about growing up with Wayne Sleep, how he joined Adam Faith & the Roulettes against all the odds and even how he invited Adam Faith home for tea.... And who did actually write "Since you Been Gone" and "God Gave Rock and Roll To You"? Find out here. Originally released on 1st of October 2020

The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast is a series of podcasts with several, well known musicians, which are all linked to Russ Ballard. Episode 1 is the introduction to the concept and your hosts. Originally released on 15th September 2020