On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Lloyd Cole, one of Britain’s most respected singer-songwriters. As the frontman of Lloyd Cole and the Commotions, he helped shape alternative music in the 80s with classic albums like Rattlesnakes, before going on to build a critically acclaimed solo career spanning more than four decades. In this fascinating conversation, Lloyd looks back on the formation of the Commotions, the stories behind songs like Perfect Skin and Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken and the literary influences that have always been at the heart of his songwriting. He also opens up about the pressures of success, the creative tensions that eventually led to the band’s breakup, and why moving to New York gave him the freedom to reinvent himself as a solo artist. We also discuss his love of music, from David Bowie and Bob Dylan to Steely Dan and disco, his ever evolving approach to songwriting, and why he believes the key to a lasting career is trusting your own artistic instincts rather than following trends. Insightful, honest and full of humour, it’s a conversation with an artist who continues to challenge himself creatively while remaining true to his own unique vision.

Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Lloyd Cole.

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Photo Credit: Doug Seymour

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Don McLean, legendary singer songwriter, master storyteller, and the voice behind some of the most enduring songs ever written. Growing up in New York listening to old 78 RPM records, Don developed a love of music that would shape his life. After teaching himself guitar and finding his place in the folk scene, he followed his creative instincts with determination and conviction. Inspired by artists like Buddy Holly and mentored by folk icon Pete Seeger, he built a remarkable career spanning more than six decades. We explore the making of American Pie, the cultural phenomenon that introduced the immortal phrase “the day the music died.” More than fifty years later, the song remains one of popular music’s most celebrated works and has been recognised by the Library of Congress, which selected it for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its lasting cultural and historical significance. Don also reflects on protecting his artistic vision, the inspiration behind classics such as “Vincent,” and why he has always prioritised authenticity over commercial success. Along the way, we discuss his admiration for Buddy Holly, the story behind “Killing Me Softly,” his perspective on the changing music industry, and the passion that still draws him back to the stage. The result is an honest and insightful conversation with a songwriter whose music has become part of the soundtrack of generations.

Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Don McLean.

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Photo Credit: Jeremy Westby / 2911 Media

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On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Thomas Dolby, musician, producer, inventor, storyteller, and one of the most inventive minds to emerge from the golden age of synth-pop. Best known for classics like “She Blinded Me With Science” and the groundbreaking album The Golden Age of Wireless, Dolby’s career has taken him far beyond the world of 80s pop stardom. From building homemade synthesizers out of discarded circuit boards in South London, to performing with David Bowie at Live Aid, producing landmark records for Prefab Sprout, and later becoming a pioneer in music technology and Silicon Valley innovation, his story is one of constant reinvention. In this conversation, Thomas reflects on the grey, chaotic energy of 1970s London, the explosion of punk and electronic music, and how he carved out a sound that brought warmth and humanity to synthesisers at a time when electronic music often felt cold and mechanical. He shares hilarious stories including working with eccentric British scientist Magnus Pyke and explains how a global novelty hit unexpectedly opened the door to a deeper, more personal body of work. We also talk about busking in the Paris Metro, touring with bands like The Fall and Gang of Four, the pressure and excitement of performing at Live Aid with Bowie, and his belief that the best music comes from emotional honesty rather than chasing trends. Later in the episode, Thomas opens up about life beyond pop fame from launching tech companies during the dot-com boom, helping pioneer early mobile ringtone technology with Nokia and developing ambitious new live shows that blend music, storytelling, and orchestral performance.

Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Thomas Dolby.

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