Now Spinning Music Magazine - Artist Interviews & Music Reviews

Growing up in Birmingham, Sabbath were part of my DNA. I carried their albums like talismans. They were protection, identity, defiance. Hearing those songs now is like reading diary entries etched into vinyl grooves. At this concert, I saw not just my past, but my present and future reflected back.What struck me most was the sheer humanity of it all. Musicians just having fun. Young and old sharing space and sound. From pop stars to metal gods, everyone knew this mattered.Back to the Beginning wasn’t perfect — it was far more than that. It was real. Messy, beautiful, loud, and human.Thank you Ozzy.Thank you Sabbath.Thank you Birmingham.Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Black Sabbath - What if your teenage rock heroes became your real-life friends?In this special episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I speak with Pat Renau, a lifelong Black Sabbath fan whose passion and timing led to unforgettable access to the band in the 1970s.From sneaking a photo at 17 to sharing lunch with Ozzy Osbourne, attending gigs across multiple tours, and even mixing Ozzy’s stage drinks during Sabotage—Pat’s story is part Almost Famous, part rock ‘n’ roll fairytale, and all heart.Featuring never-before-heard stories, rare memorabilia, and a touching glimpse into what Black Sabbath really meant to their fans.Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Black Sabbath Farewell Show – A Personal Message to Ozzy Fans EverywhereThis is a personal update on the Back To The Beginning Black Sabbath show — what will likely be Ozzy Osbourne’s final public performance and part of a film celebrating his life and career.There’s been a lot of discussion online about the stream, the pricing, the two-hour delay, and Ozzy’s health. I wanted to take a step back and share my feelings about this event as a fan — as someone who grew up with Black Sabbath and feels deeply connected to this band and its history.For me, this is about more than a gig or a price tag. It’s about celebrating Ozzy’s life, his legacy, and understanding what this means from his perspective. I’m also saddened by some of the negativity toward Sharon Osbourne — I feel this is a time for kindness and compassion.I hope this video brings people together and encourages us all to think about what this moment truly represents.PLEASE SUPPORT 'NOW SPINNING MAGAZINE'Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningor Join the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZSsMr4k8ZVlrJ8MUYR4GA/joinGet a Now Spinning Magazine T-Shirt and Mug - The Merch Shop is now open! https://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/Thank you everyone for being part of my journey and supporting me. Phil :) Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Why Gentle Giant’s Music Is More Popular Now Than Ever – Kerry Minnear InterviewJoin me and Sue Aston of Now Spinning Magazine as we chat with Kerry Minnear, the legendary keyboard player and multi-instrumentalist from the iconic progressive rock band Gentle Giant. With the celebrated reissue and remix of the band's classic live album 'Playing The Fool', Kerry discusses the band’s unexpected revival, the classical influences that shaped their groundbreaking music, and reflects on his ongoing musical and spiritual journey. This is an insightful and heartfelt conversation offering a rare glimpse into the creative mind behind one of prog rock’s most revered groups. Discover what Kerry thinks about Gentle Giant’s legacy and what exciting new directions his musical future might hold.Thank you for all your supportPhil

Russ Ballard on ‘Songs from the Warehouse’ and the Hits That Shaped RockDiscover the music and magic of legendary songwriter Russ Ballard in this in-depth interview! Best known for writing chart-topping hits like “Since You’ve Been Gone” (Rainbow), “Winning” (Santana), “I Surrender” (Rainbow), and “God Gave Rock and Roll to You” (Kiss), Russ opens up about his incredible career, his iconic modified Fender Strat, and his brand-new double album on Frontiers Records: Songs from the Warehouse & The Hits Rewired.Learn how classic tracks came to life, the inspiration behind fresh material like “Courageous,” and what fans can expect from his upcoming shows. Don’t miss this chance to hear the stories behind some of rock’s most enduring anthems—straight from the man who wrote them.Thank you for all your supportPhil

Join me, Phil Aston of Now Spinning Magazine, as I sit down with the wonderful Candice Night—singer, songwriter, and wife of legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. In this revealing interview, Candice opens up about the deeply personal inspiration behind her new solo album, Sea Glass (out April 25th). She delves into stories of love, family, and loss, and explains how nature became her guiding light during dark times. Discover how these heartfelt experiences shaped the songs and why Sea Glass is as much about hope and healing as it is about reflection.Highlights in this interview:The moving story behind the title track, “Sea Glass”Candice’s reflections on loss, especially in “Line Between”The beautiful family tribute on “Promise Me”Why nature and introspection remain her biggest creative muses.Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more exclusive interviews and music reviews. Visit NowSpinning.co.uk for more insights, and consider joining our Patreon or becoming a YouTube member for bonus content and community hangouts!

Sixteen in ’75: The Records That Shaped My Life Ep 2 : Thin LizzyThin Lizzy : Fighting : 1975This a new brand-new video series called “Sixteen in ’75.” This year, a lot of Channels are celebrating albums turning 50, and that includes an incredible batch from 1975. But for me, there’s a personal twist—1975 was the year I turned 16 and left school to start my first job. It was a tough time of transitions, factory dust, and figuring out who I was. This series is all about the albums that got me through it.Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Tim Durling on Y&T, Kansas, and Sammy HagarTim is the author of several books exploring beloved (yet often undersung) rock acts, including Y&T, Kansas, and Sammy Hagar. In our chat, Tim shares how his love of liner notes, a keen ear for undiscovered gems, and a few twists of fate led him to pen these in-depth guides.Get access to the Private Facebook Group, What's App Group and invites to the Now Spinning ArmsWhen you become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) or Join the YouTube Channel Get a Now Spinning Magazine T-Shirt and Mug - The Merch Shop is now open! Thank you everyone for being part of my journey and supporting me. Phil :) Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

An exclusive chat with former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell as he unveils his uplifting new album, What About Love. Discover how he and a talented cast of friends re-envision iconic 80s tracks—blending rock nostalgia with an inspiring message of unity, positivity, and timeless appeal.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) supporting me. Phil :) Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

This a new brand-new Podcast series called “Sixteen in ’75.” This year, a lot of Channels are celebrating albums turning 50, and that includes an incredible batch from 1975. But for me, there’s a personal twist—1975 was the year I turned 16 and left school to start my first job. It was a tough time of transitions, factory dust, and figuring out who I was. This series is all about the albums that got me through it.Please Support Now Spinning MagazineBecome a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) Thank you everyone for being part of my journey and supporting me. Phil :) Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine