Mark Farner, legendary frontman and guitarist of Grand Funk Railroad, joins host Jeff Moffatt for a lively and heartfelt conversation on Treasure Island Discs. From his Flint, Michigan roots to selling over 25 million records worldwide, Farner reflects on the family jam sessions that sparked his passion, the whimsical story behind the band’s famous cowbell, and the electrifying energy of their stadium-filling performances.

With humor, wisdom, and humility, Mark shares how songwriting became his outlet for faith, belief, and messages of unity — timeless themes that continue to resonate today. A true American rock icon, Farner brings both nostalgia and fresh perspective to this unforgettable episode.

Learn more at www.markfarner.com.

Other artists mentioned in this episode:

• Grand Funk Railroad
• Humble Pie
• Alice Cooper
• Ursa Majors
• The Yardbirds
• Jeff Beck
• Rick Derringer
• Steve Cropper
• Howard Tate

Gord Deppe, founding member, lead singer and songwriter of the legendary Canadian band, The Spoons, joins us today to share some great insights into his musical journey, his career and the tracks that have shaped his life. From iconic 80s hits like "Nova Heart" and "Romantic Traffic" to his recent gigs with A Flock of Seagulls, Gord's got stories that'll make you feel all the feels! We’ll dive into how his early days in Burlington, Ontario, set the stage for a career that’s defined by creativity and an unwavering artistic commitment to not dwelling on the past and a refusal to be boxed in. Plus, he's got some surprising picks for the songs that resonate with him, proving that even rock legends have a few unexpected favorites. So grab your headphones, settle in and enjoy our conversation with Gord Deppe!

Supporting Episode Resources

Episode Playlists

Apple Music

https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/treasure-island-discs-episode-playlist-gord-deppe/pl.u-JPAZLZ2sWRoDPN

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7AxkUtBdOnl1mTYgWkg0Bb?si=b13ee4a209da498d

Link to Gord's Book

SpoonFed- My Life with The Spoons

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1897453434?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

Credits

Intro Music written and performed by Jeff Moffatt

Instagram: @therealjeffmoffatt

https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/jeff-moffatt/1563362236

This podcast is presented by Astraltune

Takeaways:

• Gord Deppe shared how the Spoons defined the sound of the 1980s in Canada, creating timeless hits that still resonate today.
• He discusses the importance of finding a personal safe space for creativity, revealing how it influences his songwriting process.
• Gord emphasizes the organic nature of his songwriting, where music often comes before lyrics, creating a unique artistic flow.
• The conversation reveals that even successful artists like Gord grapple with self-doubt and the pressures of the music industry.
• Deppe's anecdote about shaking hands with George Martin highlights the serendipitous moments that shape an artist's journey.
• He reflects on the evolution of music tastes and the importance of authenticity in songwriting, especially in today's rapidly changing music scene.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• the Spoons
• A Flock of Seagulls
• AIR Studios
• George Martin
• Roxy Music
• Duran Duran
• Queen
• The Prodigy
• Marilyn Manson
• The Verve
• Stone Roses
• Main Skin
• Wet Leg

In this episode we visit with Bill Nelson, a true icon and legend of British Music.

Bill’s musical selections are like a time capsule of his life and fascinating music career. He takes us through five significant tracks, each representing a pivotal chapter in his musical evolution—from his childhood memories of saxophonist Freddie Gardner to the electrifying sounds of Duane Eddy that ignited his passion for guitar. What’s truly special is how he organizes his selections chronologically, allowing us to experience his soundtrack in real-time.

We’ll explore the influences that have guided him throughout his impressive career and how his commitment to artistic integrity has kept his creativity alive. So, get comfortable and prepare to explore the unique and fascinating stories with Bill Nelson about the music that forms the soundtrack of his life. If you’ve ever wondered how music weaves itself into the lives and inspiration of your favourite artists, this episode is a must-listen!

Takeaways:

• The music we grow up with profoundly shapes our creativity and artistic expression.
• Bill Nelson shares how his childhood music experiences sparked his lifelong passion for creating.
• Each song selected by Bill Nelson represents a significant chapter in his musical journey.
• Bill's exploration of various musical styles showcases how eclectic influences can shape a unique sound.

Links referenced in this episode:

• billnelson.com
• www.podpage.com/treasure-island-discs/

Episode Playlists

Apple Music

https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/treasure-island-discs-episode-1-bill-nelson/pl.u-aZb0qG7IVK6Pbp