Undercurrent Stories

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to produce a classic hit? Or what goes through a producer’s mind when they're building a song from the ground up—or tearing it down to start again? Here to help us understand that process is Stephen Lipson. Stephen is the legendary producer and creative mastermind behind iconic tracks from Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Grace Jones, Annie Lennox, Simple Minds and many more including collaborations on film music such as  Batman: The Dark Knight Rises, The Lion King and Top Gun: Maverick.  From behind-the-scenes studio secrets to philosophical reflections on the role of music and technology, this conversation is a deep dive into the life of a modern music craftsman.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Making of a Producer: Stephen’s musical beginnings, early bands, and first foray into studio building.Creative Risk-Taking: Why muting a guitar line mid-track helped make Driver’s Seat a hit.The Producer’s Role: From guiding artists behind the scenes to understanding when to let go of perfection.Film Scoring with Hans Zimmer: How scoring for orchestras differs from working with bands—and why Stephen prefers to stay away from the recording room.The Impact of Technology: Thoughts on AI, loop libraries, and whether digital tools are enhancing or diluting creativity.Lessons from Trevor Horn: Rhythm, vocals, and the courage to start over.Real Talk for Aspiring Musicians: Honest advice about entering the music industry today.Personal Reflections: Why Stephen never revisits his old work—and what truly brings him joy in music.💬 Memorable Quotes:“People say, ‘That part made the track.’ But really, it’s the stuff you leave out that makes it special.”“Everything we’ve invented has just made our lives easier—not necessarily better.”“I love music, I love tech, I love people. Producing pulls it all together. It’s chaos, and I love it.”🎸 Featured Tracks & Projects:“Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood“Driver’s Seat” – Sniff 'n’ the TearsEx-Propaganda – New album in progressVarious film scores with Hans ZimmerStephen's link: https://www.stevelipson.com/Steve_Lipson/Home.htmlUndercurrent Stories Links;🌐 More episodes at: undercurrentstories.com  📱 Follow: Instagram                      Linkedin 📩 Feedback & guest suggestions: bob@undercurrentstories.comSign up for weekly newsletter here.Undercurrent Stories Music Playlist : Playlist made up of songs from some of our musical guests.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode of Undercurrent Stories, we sit down with Pulitzer prize winning journalist and bestselling author Gary Rivlin to explore the trillion-dollar race to dominate artificial intelligence. Gary, a former New York Times correspondent and veteran Silicon Valley reporter, shares insights from his latest book, AI Valley, which tells the behind-the-scenes story of tech giants, ambitious founders, and the complex world of AI development.From the origins of artificial intelligence in the 1950s to the ChatGPT revolution of today, Gary unpacks how we got here—and where this transformative technology might be taking us next. He also delves into the ethical dilemmas, energy demands, and the real-world impact AI could have on jobs, education, and society as a whole.Whether you're an AI optimist, skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode offers a compelling, human-centered look at the forces shaping our digital future.🔍 What You'll Learn:Why AI has taken over the tech world—and how it got hereThe surprising history behind artificial intelligenceWhat makes the current AI moment different from past tech boomsThe risks, rewards, and ethical questions surrounding AIHow AI may reshape the workforce, education, and even human relationshipsTips for adapting to AI in your personal and professional life📚 About Gary Rivlin: Gary Rivlin is an award-winning journalist and the author of AI Valley: Microsoft, Google, and the Trillion-Dollar Race to Cash In on Artificial Intelligence. He has written for The New York Times, Wired, and numerous other publications. His work blends investigative depth with vivid storytelling, bringing the human side of tech into focus.🔗 Learn More: Find Gary’s book and more about his work at https://garyrivlin.com/ Book: AI Valley: Microsoft, Google and the Trillion-Dollar Race to Cash in on Artificial Intelligence https://garyrivlin.com/book/ai-valley/ Undercurrent Stories Links;Sign up for weekly newsletter here.Undercurrent Stories Music Playlist : Playlist made up of songs from some of our musical guests.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode, I’m delighted to speak with Rachel Barker, a leading expert in art conservation and the founder of Rachel Barker Associates. With a career spanning decades — including over 20 years at the Tate Gallery — Rachel has restored some of the most iconic works of modern art, from Lichtenstein’s Whaam! to the vandalised Rothko Seagram mural.Rachel shares her personal journey from growing up amid the Troubles in Belfast to developing a deep love of art and science that led her into the world of restoration. We explore how her early exposure to art, her academic path, and her technical skillset came together in a career that balances meticulous science with deep respect for creative legacy.Whether you're an art lover, a science enthusiast, or just curious about what goes into preserving cultural heritage, this episode will open your eyes to the unseen side of the art world.LInks;Restoring Rothko - Tate VideoConserving Roy Lichtenstein's Whaam! - Tate VideoRachel Barker - LinkedinUndercurrent Stories Links;Sign up for weekly newsletter here.Undercurrent Stories Music Playlist : Playlist made up of songs from some of our musical guests.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Today, I’m joined by Neil Lawrence—someone who’s been at the heart of the UK’s builders merchant scene for decades. From starting out in South London with £20 a week to becoming Chief Operating Officer of Jewson and running some of the country’s biggest brands, Neil’s journey is full of lessons, laughs, and a few hard truths.If you’re building a career, leading a team, or just want some no-nonsense advice about work and life, this one’s for you.Here’s what you’ll get:Down-to-earth insights on leadership and people management.Honest talk about what it’s really like climbing the ladder.Stories about learning the hard way—and how to bounce back.And plenty of humour, straight-talking, and heart along the way.Neil doesn’t hold back, and that’s exactly what makes this conversation so good.So whether you're commuting, walking the dog, or just need a break from your inbox—stick around. You’re in for a real treat.Insightful quotes from Neil;🧠 Leadership & Career Growth“I didn’t want to be the chief exec—I wanted to do the job I was good at.” – A reminder that leadership isn’t always about climbing to the very top.“You don’t have to know everything. What you do need are good people around you.” – On building successful teams and letting go of ego.“If someone’s keeping you up at night, that’s the person you need to deal with.” – A powerful truth about people management.“I didn’t want to run a company through fear. I wanted it to feel like it was mine.” – On ownership and culture as a leader.“You can’t be soft and cuddly in operations—you need to have a bit about you.” – Tough love from a seasoned operator.💬 Workplace Culture & Communication“Humour is a great strength—until it’s not.” – On the fine line between levity and leadership missteps.“Most of our staff are trying to do a good job. It’s the few who aren’t that need managing.” – A great mindset shift for leaders dealing with people issues.“I always thought the job was to make decisions. Just get more right than wrong.” – Simple but powerful advice for decision-makers.“Don’t be afraid to say you want to get on. If you don’t speak up, you’ll be overlooked.” – On ambition and visibility in your career.“If you don’t deal with a problem person, it’s not fair on everyone else.” – Leadership is about protecting the whole team, not avoiding conflict.Links:Neil Lawrence on Linkedin Undercurrent Stories; To receive newsletter/notifications of new episodes visit https://www.undercurrentstories.com/Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this live episode of Undercurrent Stories, host Bob Wells sits down with John Coghlan, the legendary original drummer of Status Quo. From "Caroline" to "Rockin’ All Over the World," John recounts the highs, lows, and beat-driven tales of a life lived on stage, on the road, and in rhythm.Recorded in a cosy Cotswolds pub, this intimate conversation dives deep into:How a school Air Cadet turned into a global rock iconWild stories from tours with Slade, Lindisfarne, and Led ZeppelinLife as a "Tax Exile" on the Isle of Man in the '70sBehind-the-scenes of the Frantic Four reunionJazz-infused Status Quo reinterpretations in Quo ReimaginedWhy John still chooses a classic Ringo-style kit over flashy double bass drums🔥 Key Topics CoveredStatus Quo history and legacy1970s British rock sceneInfluences (Ringo Starr, John Bonham, Buddy Rich)Quo Reimagined jazz projectFrantic Four reunion tour storiesBehind-the-scenes rock tour lifeIsle of Man and UK rock taxation exile storiesLife after rock stardomTips for aspiring drummers📚 Resources & Links📘 Spud – John Coghlan’s Biography: Info and Orders email gilliecoghlan@gmail.com💿 Quo Reimagined CD: Info and Orders email gilliecoghlan@gmail.com📸 John Coghlan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnCoghlanOfficial📩 Booking/Info: Gillie Coghlan – gilliecoghlan@gmail.comThanks to Gillie for organising this interview and to Andy for keeping the coffee flowing!Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of British artist George Underwood — a name that resonates not only in the world of fine art but also in rock history. From designing iconic album covers to painting otherworldly portraits, George's work blends the mythical with the emotional in ways few can match.But George’s story is more than just brushes and canvas — it's also deeply tied to the evolution of British pop culture. As a childhood friend and early bandmate of David Bowie, George Underwood helped shape the look and feel of a musical revolution. We’ll explore how a moment of teenage mischief left Bowie with his signature eye look, and how George’s artistic vision matured into one of the most distinctive visual voices of the contemporary art scene.Whether you're an art lover, a music historian, or simply curious about the minds that shape our culture, this episode will leave you inspired both through Sound and Vision.Memorable Quotes:🎨 On Art & Creativity"I try to pull these people out from wherever they exist... they’re not real, but I try to make them appear real." — George Underwood on painting his signature otherworldly portraits"Art gets your brain working in a way nothing else does. It puts you in another world." — George Underwood on the therapeutic power of painting"A hobby can turn into a full-time obsession—if you let it." — George Underwood on creativity becoming a way of life"I’ve always liked the idea that in art, you can mess with people’s heads." — George Underwood, on his surrealistic influences🎸 On David Bowie & Music"People say, ‘You were lucky to know David Bowie.’ I say, he was lucky to know me." — George Underwood, with a smile, on his friendship with Bowie"He turned up drunk at my party, didn’t talk to the girl we both fancied—" — George Underwood recounting the infamous story behind Bowie’s eye"He used to invite us to Switzerland just to get away from the spotlight. That was David." — On Bowie’s private side"I shouted ‘Wham, bam, thank you ma'am!’ at the end of a new song—and David kept it." — George Underwood on contributing to Suffragette City*🖼️ On Album Art & Legacy"A 12-inch album cover was a beautiful format to work on—it had impact." — George Underwood on the golden era of vinyl art"Sometimes I bought an album just because of the cover. And it turned out to be brilliant." — On the visual power of record design"The face has infinite possibilities—just one brushstroke can change everything." — George Underwood on portraitureLinks:https://www.georgeunderwood.com/You can view some of George’s paintings at :Fosse GalleryFamiliar Reality8th June - 28th June 2025The Manor House, The Square, Stow-on-the Wold , Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AFwww.fossegallery.comIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This episode features music pioneer Bruce Woolley, best known for co-writing the groundbreaking hit Video Killed the Radio Star. But as this conversation reveals, that’s just one highlight in a storied and continually evolving career. From his roots in Leicestershire and his early inspiration from Led Zeppelin to forming The Camera Club with a young Thomas Dolby, Bruce shares his journey through innovation, collaboration, and sonic experimentation.You’ll hear the story behind iconic songs, his adventures in synth pop, working with Grace Jones on Slave to the Rhythm, and his passion project, the Radio Science Orchestra, which brings the theremin to the forefront of 21st-century audiovisual performance.Bruce also gives an honest and insightful perspective on how AI and new technologies are reshaping the music industry, and reflects on what it means to be a true artist in the age of digital creation.🎼 Highlights:The story behind Video Killed the Radio Star and its surprising sci-fi rootsForming The Camera Club and working with Thomas DolbyWriting and producing Slave to the Rhythm for Grace JonesThoughts on AI, virtual pop stars, and the future of music creationThe mystique and magic of the thereminThe legacy of The Radio Science Orchestra and immersive audio-visual showsBruce’s latest release: Bruce Woolley & The Camera Club – The Definitive Anthology (1977–1981)🔗 Resources & Links:💿 Bruce Woolley & The Camera Club: The Definitive Anthology (via Cherry Red Records)🌐 Bruce’s website: brucewoolleyhq.com📀 Radio Science Orchestra: https://www.radioscienceorchestra.com/💬 Memorable Quotes:“The rock guitarist plays three chords in front of 3,000 people; the jazz guitarist plays 3,000 chords in front of three.” — Bruce Woolley“Sometimes I think there's a supernatural quality within music and songwriting... the future leaks through.” — Bruce WoolleyEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Undercurrent Stories and explore over 150 episodes featuring fascinating guests across music, history, science, philosophy, and culture.👉 Visit: undercurrentstories.com 📱 Or find us on all major podcast platformsIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In a world where so much is driven by profit, Stuart Wills reminds us of the quiet, powerful difference one person can make — without asking for a penny in return.In this heartwarming episode, I visit Stuart at his home to hear how a few unused bikes in a garage became a grassroots movement to support families, children, refugees, and low-income workers. Since founding Bourne Bike Donation and Recycle UK in 2021, Stuart has refurbished and given away nearly 400 bikes — all free of charge.Stuart shares how the project not only brought joy to others but also helped him recover from a deeply challenging period in his life. What shines through is a story of human connection, kindness, and a deep belief that doing good doesn't need to come with a price tag.What You’ll Hear:Why Stuart never charges for the bikes he repairs and gives awayHow cycling became a lifeline through his personal challengesStories of local families and workers whose lives were improved through mobilityThe emotional reward of helping others without expecting anything in returnStuart’s philosophy: reuse, repair, and give back — no strings attachedWhy recognition (including a Royal garden party invite!) is just a bonus, not the goalHighlights & Quotes:🛠️ “Recycling the cycle — that’s what it’s all about.”🎁 “When a child rides off on their first bike with a smile like it’s Christmas — that’s why I do it.”🏆 “I’ve won awards, but I didn’t start this for recognition. I started it because I love it.”Inspired? Here’s What You Can Do:Donate an unused bikeVolunteer your skills in your local communityShare this episode to inspire others to give without expecting anything in returnResources & Links:🔗 Bourne Bike Donation and Recycle UK on Facebook: 🌐 More episodes: undercurrentstories.comSupport the Show:If you’ve been inspired by Stuart’s story, consider donating a bike or volunteering locally. You can also share this episode with someone who you think might like it and please don’t forget to rate and subscribe!Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Gordon Giltrap MBE is a British guitar virtuoso known for his innovative fingerstyle technique and genre-blending compositions. With a career spanning over five decades, he has released numerous acclaimed albums, including the iconic Perilous Journey (1977), featuring the hit instrumental Heartsong. Giltrap's music fuses folk, rock, and classical influences, earning him a dedicated global following. A true master of the acoustic guitar, he has collaborated with top musicians and continues to inspire players worldwide with his unique style and musical storytelling.In this episode we talk about the upcoming auction of 18 of his guitars (June 10, 2025) — each holding a story from his life on stage and in the studio — and how downsizing, legacy, and creative renewal have shaped his latest chapter.We also hear about;Gordon's early days in the folk scene and friendship with Bert JanschHow Heartsong became an iconic theme and national favouriteCreating music without formal training — and why “doing it all wrong” workedThoughts on gear, tunings, and the role of the delay pedalCollaborations with Rick Wakeman, Brian May, and composer Nicholas HooperThe personal impact of losing his wife Hilary, and the music that followedWhy he’s letting go of his guitars — and what he hopes comes next🎸 Gordon’s Latest Releases:Starfield EPFrom Brush and Stone (Re-released on vinyl with Rick Wakeman)Travel Notes (with Chris McCormack)Scattered Chapters → All available via https://www.giltrap.co.uk/💡 Don’t miss Gordon’s guitar auction on June 10th, 2025 — hosted by Gardiner Houlgate. Details available on his website.🎙️ Subscribe for more deep-dive interviews with creative minds at undercurrentstories.com#GordonGiltrap #Heartsong #BritishGuitarist #GuitarAuction #FolkRock #MusicPodcast #UndercurrentStories👉 Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe if you enjoyed this conversation.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Colin Crabbe was the kind of man who could spot a priceless vintage car under a pile of chicken wire in Paraguay — and somehow drive it home. A flamboyant racing driver, Formula One team owner, and classic car hunter with a taste for adventure (and a knack for trouble), Colin lived life in the fast lane — sometimes literally. From smuggling D-type Jaguars out of Cuba to crashing out of races in style, his stories were as wild as you could imagine.I was lucky enough to interview Colin back in 2022, right here in our little village in Lincolnshire. With his passing earlier this year, it felt only right to bring that conversation back — this time as one extended episode. It’s funny, chaotic, moving, and full of Colin’s unmistakable charm. He’ll be sorely missed by his family, our community, and classic car lovers around the world. But what a ride he had.Colin Crabbe, motor-racing driver and entrepreneur. April 14, 1942 - March 7, 2025.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com