VRP Rocks - Classic Rock Interviews

145. Matt Backer - Elton John, Joe Cocker, Marcella Detroit

In this episode of VRP Rocks, Paul Stephenson is joined by acclaimed guitarist Matt Backer, a musician whose playing has appeared alongside some remarkable artists including Alice Cooper, Marcella Detroit, ABC, and many more. Matt stops by to talk about his brand new album Red Guitars, a record packed with expressive blues-rock guitar playing and great songwriting. Along the way he shares stories from his career working with some of the biggest names in music, what it’s like stepping into different artists’ worlds as a session guitarist, and how those experiences shaped the sound of his new record. Check out VRP Rocks Radio : The online radio station hosted by Paul himself, playing deep cuts and classic hits 24/7! Give it a try: https://live365.com/station/VRP-Rocks-Radio-a70025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Suzi Quatro - My 5 Favourite...

In this episode of VRP Rocks, Paul Stephenson is joined by the original Queen of Rock and Roll, Suzi Quatro. In the first half of the episode, Suzi talks about her brand new album Freedom, due for release on March 27th, and reflects on why she’s still driven to create new music after more than five decades in the business. Then in part two, she takes on the My 5 Favourite challenge, revealing the five songs from her incredible career that mean the most to her — and the stories behind them. A fascinating conversation with one of rock’s true pioneers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

144. Brian Vollmer - Helix

In this episode of VRP Rocks, Paul chats with the voice of Canadian hard rock legends Helix – frontman Brian Vollmer. With a career spanning over 50 years, Helix have lived through the highs and lows of the rock world — and Brian’s been there for every single step. From the band's humble beginnings in 1974, through their breakthrough success with Heavy Metal Love, to tours alongside Motörhead, Kiss, Aerosmith and Mötley Crüe — Brian shares it all. You'll hear stories about: The truth behind the story of Michael J. Fox trying out for Helix What it was like touring the U.S. in the ’80s with little money but big ambition How “Rock You” almost didn’t make the album The chaos around a beer commercial that nearly derailed a hit single And we dig into Helix’s brand-new album, Scrap Metal — out January 23rd — including how it evolved from unfinished demos, the emotional ties to late drummer Fritz Hinz, and the stories behind key tracks like “Stuck in the 80s” and “Fast and Furious.” Whether you’ve followed Helix from the early days or you’re just discovering them now, this is a deep, honest and engaging look at one of Canada’s hardest-working rock bands — and the man who kept it all going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

143. Steve Ferrone - Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, George Harrison

In this episode of VRP Rocks, Paul is joined by legendary drummer Steve Ferrone — the rhythm powerhouse behind some of the most iconic names in music. From playing with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers for over two decades, to sessions and tours with Eric Clapton, Christine McVie, George Harrison, Michael Jackson, Duran Duran, Chaka Khan, and many others — Steve’s career reads like a hall of fame roll call. The conversation kicks off with Steve’s behind the scenes memories of that unforgettable Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performance with Prince, where “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” became a viral moment thanks to Prince’s incredible guitar solo — and yes, Steve was right there on stage, holding it all together. From there, he shares incredible stories about his time with Tom Petty, what it was like to work with Michael Jackson, his unexpected recruitment into Duran Duran, and why recording with Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie still holds such a special place in his heart. A warm, funny, and humble storyteller, Steve Ferrone delivers an inside look at some of the most legendary moments in rock and pop history. 🎧 Subscribe now and enjoy this deep dive into a remarkable musical life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Side 2 - Backstage With Foghat in London!

In this very special episode of VRP Rocks, host Paul Stephenson swaps his Highland studio for the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London — joining Foghat legend Roger Earl backstage just hours before the band’s historic return to the UK stage for the first time since 1973! Invited as a special guest by Roger and his wife/manager Linda, Paul takes you behind the scenes of a truly unforgettable night — from soundcheck to dressing room stories, right through to showtime. Roger talks about what it means to finally play in the UK again, reflects on five decades of Foghat, and shares stories of growing up in London. And if you missed it, don’t forget to scroll back and listen to the full 50th anniversary deep-dive into Fool for the City – a must-hear celebration of the album that made them stars. Hit play and join Paul backstage for a unique moment in rock history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices