Soundtracks of My Life … Every breadth you take, every move you make … Bowie and Bono, Prince and Madonna, Moby and Dido, Crowded House and the Beautiful South … Remember them?
December 17, 2024
I grew up in Northumberland, actually born on the banks of the Tyne.
Sting, perhaps, not surprisingly, has been a fixture in my musical life. In fact, when I was at school, he was still a teacher at another nearby school, while playing evenings in local pubs. Then he found his way to London, and the Police.
Born Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner on October 2, 1951, in Wallsend, on the banks of the River Tyne, Sting is a globally renowned musician, songwriter, and activist. Rising to fame as the frontman of The Police in the late 1970s and early ’80s, Sting helped define an era with hits like Roxanne, Every Breath You Take, and Message in a Bottle. The band blended rock, punk, and reggae influences, earning multiple Grammy Awards and international acclaim.
After The Police disbanded, Sting launched a highly successful solo career, showcasing his versatility across genres like jazz, classical, and world music. Albums such as The Dream of the Blue Turtles and Ten Summoner’s Tales further cemented his reputation as a thoughtful lyricist and skilled musician.
Beyond music, Sting is known for his activism, supporting human rights, environmental causes, and indigenous communities, notably through the Rainforest Foundation he co-founded. His intellectual curiosity, distinctive voice, and cross-genre appeal have made him an enduring figure in popular culture.
With a career spanning over four decades, Sting has sold over 100 million records worldwide and continues to tour, record, and engage in philanthropy. His impact on music and social issues has made him both a cultural icon and a committed global citizen.
Queen was my first ever live concert. It’s a Kinda Magic, at St James Park in 1986. It was a year after their global iconic moment at Live Aid a year earlier. While Freddie Mercury grabbed the limelight, it was Brian May’s guitar riffs which got me most.
Queen were a British rock band formed in 1970 in London, consisting of Freddie Mercury (vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar), Roger Taylor (drums), and John Deacon (bass). Known for their elaborate sound, theatrical performances, and fusion of rock, opera, and pop, Queen became one of the most iconic and successful bands in history.
Their breakthrough came with Bohemian Rhapsody (1975), a groundbreaking song that combined operatic and rock elements, becoming one of the most beloved tracks in music history. Queen’s ability to blend diverse genres, coupled with Mercury’s powerful voice and flamboyant stage presence, defined their sound. Hits like We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, and Don’t Stop Me Now are still anthems of rock music.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Queen continued to release successful albums, with A Night at the Opera (1975), News of the World (1977), and The Game (1980) further cementing their legendary status. After Mercury’s death in 1991, the band’s legacy endured, with subsequent tours and collaborations, including the partnership with Adam Lambert as their frontman.
Queen’s influence on music, fashion, and popular culture is immeasurable, and their timeless hits continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Beautiful South was the soundtrack of my student years. Paul Heaton is such a master songwriter, but with a gentle Northern lilt. I loved the lyrics, the melodies, and the memories of those carefree years.
They were a British pop-rock band formed in 1988 by Paul Heaton and Dave Hemingway, both former members of the Housemartins. Known for their melodic tunes paired with often darkly witty, ironic, or melancholic lyrics, the band carved a unique space in the UK music scene. Their debut album, Welcome to the Beautiful South, featured the hit single Song for Whoever, showcasing their clever songwriting style and instantly recognizable sound.
Throughout the 1990s, the band released a string of successful albums, including Choke, Blue Is the Colour, and Quench, which spawned major hits like A Little Time (a UK number one), Rotterdam, and Perfect 10. Their music blended pop, soul, and alternative elements, often featuring lush arrangements and dual male-female vocals, with Jacqui Abbott joining as a key voice during their most commercially successful period.
The Beautiful South earned a reputation for intelligent, often satirical lyrics exploring relationships, politics, and British life, wrapped in deceptively cheerful melodies. Despite their mainstream appeal, they maintained a subversive edge.
The band disbanded in 2007, citing “musical similarities,” but their legacy endures through their timeless songs and the continued work of its former members, particularly in The South and Paul Heaton’s solo projects.
Crowded House were also my favourites at the time. Neil Finn’s band had a similar gift for a great tune. My abiding memory is driving a rental car from Wellington to Auckland in 1990 and listening to their latest album (cassette) non-stop.
They are a rock band formed in Melbourne, Australia, in 1985 by New Zealand singer-songwriter Neil Finn, along with Paul Hester and Nick Seymour. The band quickly gained international recognition for their melodic, emotionally resonant songs and tight musicianship. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1986, featured the global hit Don’t Dream It’s Over, which became an enduring anthem and remains one of their most iconic tracks.
Blending elements of pop, rock, and folk, Crowded House became known for their poignant lyrics, strong harmonies, and memorable melodies. Their follow-up albums, Temple of Low Men and Woodface, included beloved songs like Better Be Home Soon, Weather With You, and Fall at Your Feet. Tim Finn, Neil’s brother and fellow Split Enz alumnus, briefly joined the band during this period, contributing to their rich sound.
Despite internal changes and the tragic death of drummer Paul Hester in 2005, the band has continued to evolve. They reformed in 2007 and released several new albums, including Time on Earth and Dreamers Are Waiting (2021), with Neil’s sons Liam and Elroy joining the lineup.
Crowded House’s legacy is built on timeless songwriting, emotional depth, and a loyal global fanbase that spans generations.
One of the best concerts I ever went to was Prince, at Wembley Arena. I still remember the epic 30 minute version of The Gold Experience which he played towards the end of his show. He was wired, brilliant, enigmatic, and just loved his music.
Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was a groundbreaking American singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Known for his flamboyant stage presence, incredible musicianship, and genre-defying sound, Prince became one of the most influential and innovative artists in music history. His work blended funk, rock, R&B, soul, pop, and new wave, creating a unique sonic identity that defied categorization.
His 1984 album Purple Rain, and the film of the same name, catapulted him to global superstardom, with hits like When Doves Cry, Let’s Go Crazy, and the iconic title track. Prince was a prolific artist, releasing over 30 albums during his lifetime, often playing most or all instruments on his recordings. He was also known for his fierce independence and battles over creative control and artist rights, famously changing his name to an unpronounceable symbol in protest of his record label.
Beyond his own music, Prince wrote hits for other artists, including Nothing Compares 2 U and Manic Monday. He passed away in 2016, but his legacy endures through his vast catalog, electrifying live performances, and lasting influence on artists across genres. Prince remains a symbol of artistic freedom, creativity, and fearless originality.
Eurythmics created a series of stunning songs. Annie Lennox carried on for years as solo artist. But it was Dave Stewart, songwriter and brilliant guitarist, who I loved most. Even creating the soundtrack for my first ever business presentation.
Eurythmics is a British musical duo formed in 1980 by singer Annie Lennox and musician Dave Stewart. Known for their innovative fusion of pop, synth, and new wave, the duo became pioneers of the 1980s electronic music scene. Eurythmics gained global fame with their 1983 album Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This), which featured the iconic title track, a synth-driven anthem that became one of their biggest hits. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with Lennox’s distinctive, androgynous look and powerful voice, defined the band’s unique style.
Eurythmics continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including Touch (1983), Be Yourself Tonight (1985), and Savage (1987), blending electronic, rock, and soul influences. Hits like Here Comes the Rain Again, Would I Lie to You?, and There Must Be an Angel (Playing with My Heart) further solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative acts of their era.
Beyond their music, Eurythmics was known for their striking visuals and bold, often politically charged messages. Annie Lennox’s powerful vocals and Stewart’s creative production made them one of the most influential and enduring acts in pop music. After disbanding in the 1990s, they occasionally reunited for special projects, leaving a lasting legacy in music.
Madonna was a supreme artist, constantly reinventing her music and herself. When I bought my first house, well flat, I could play music to my hearts content. It was the time of Vogue, Erotic, and Roy of Light.
Born Madonna Louise Ciccone on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, she became a global pop icon, singer, songwriter, actress, and cultural trailblazer. Rising to fame in the early 1980s with hits like Holiday, Like a Virgin, and Material Girl, she quickly established herself as the “Queen of Pop.” Known for constantly reinventing her image and sound, Madonna pushed the boundaries of music, fashion, and social norms.
Her 1989 album Like a Prayer marked a turning point, blending pop with deeper themes of religion, sexuality, and personal empowerment. Over the decades, she has released numerous chart-topping albums, including Ray of Light, Confessions on a Dance Floor, and Madame X, showcasing her ability to evolve with the times while staying creatively relevant.
Madonna has also made a mark in film, fashion, and business, and is recognized for her boldness and influence on generations of artists. She’s a trailblazer for women in music, openly confronting sexism, ageism, and cultural taboos. With over 300 million records sold worldwide and countless awards, Madonna is not just a music legend—she’s a symbol of reinvention, resilience, and fearless self-expression. Her legacy continues to shape pop culture and challenge the status quo.
U2, for the sheer power and presence of their anthems, is my go to music on stage. For 20 years I hosted a huge conference each year in Istanbul, each year starting with a U2 blockbuster, and ending with a U2 finale to a thousand lighter flames held high.
The Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1976, featuring Bono (Paul Hewson) on vocals, The Edge (David Evans) on guitar and keyboards, Adam Clayton on bass, and Larry Mullen Jr. on drums. Known for their anthemic sound, spiritual themes, and political engagement, U2 rose to global fame in the 1980s with their breakthrough album The Joshua Tree(1987), which included iconic tracks like With or Without You, Where the Streets Have No Name, and I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.
Blending post-punk roots with expansive soundscapes, the band became known for their emotionally charged performances and thought-provoking lyrics. Albums like Achtung Baby (1991) and All That You Can’t Leave Behind(2000) showcased their ability to reinvent themselves while maintaining their core identity.
Beyond music, U2 has been deeply involved in activism, particularly through Bono’s efforts to combat poverty, disease, and social injustice, including initiatives like DATA and the ONE Campaign. The band has sold over 170 million records worldwide and won more than 20 Grammy Awards.
U2 remains one of the world’s most enduring and influential bands, continually pushing creative boundaries while using their platform to inspire change and connect people globally.
Dido was prolific in her far to short career. Maybe it’s a little uncool to mention her, but each song was fabulous, and her voice haunting. Jump into a taxi in New York or Berlin, and you’re sure to hear her even today.
Dido, born Dido Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O’Malley Armstrong on December 25, 1971, in London, is a British singer-songwriter known for her ethereal voice, introspective lyrics, and genre-blending sound that mixes pop, electronica, and folk influences. She rose to international fame with her debut album No Angel (1999), which became one of the best-selling albums of the early 2000s, fueled by hits like Here with Me and Thank You. The latter gained additional fame after being sampled in Eminem’s Stan, introducing Dido to a wider global audience.
Her second album, Life for Rent (2003), was equally successful, featuring tracks like White Flag and Life for Rent, which showcased her signature melancholy melodies and emotional depth. Dido’s music is characterized by its understated elegance, soothing vocals, and honest storytelling, often exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Despite stepping back from the spotlight for periods to focus on family, Dido continued to release critically acclaimed music, including Safe Trip Home (2008), Girl Who Got Away (2013), and Still on My Mind (2019). With millions of albums sold worldwide, Dido remains a quietly influential figure in contemporary music, admired for her authenticity and timeless sound.
Moby‘s electronica has been a soundtrack to my travels in recent years. I travel a lot – every week for work, around the globe. There’s nothing like plugging in a few familiar tunes to escape the boredom of departure lounges and long flights.
Moby, born Richard Melville Hall on September 11, 1965, in Harlem, New York City, is an American musician, producer, DJ, and activist best known for his pioneering role in bringing electronic music to mainstream audiences. Emerging from the underground rave and dance scene in the early 1990s, Moby gained early recognition with tracks like Go, blending house, techno, and ambient sounds.
His breakthrough came with the 1999 album Play, a landmark release that fused electronic beats with vintage blues and gospel samples. Despite initial skepticism, the album became a massive global success, with all of its tracks licensed for film, TV, and commercials—an unprecedented feat at the time. Hits like Porcelain, Natural Blues, and Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad? showcased Moby’s talent for emotional, genre-defying music.
Throughout his career, Moby has released numerous albums spanning styles from punk to downtempo to orchestral. Beyond music, he is a passionate advocate for animal rights, veganism, and environmental causes, often using his platform for activism.
Known for his introspective nature and DIY approach, Moby remains an influential figure in electronic music. His work continues to resonate for its emotional depth, innovation, and message of compassion and social awareness.
Snow Patrol came to fame with their haunting Chasing Cars track. But the best album for me was their Reworked which remixed all of their best songs in hauntingly beautiful ways. They then played Reworked at an incredible Albert Hall concert.
Snow Patrol is a Northern Irish-Scottish alternative rock band formed in 1994 in Dundee, Scotland. The group is best known for their emotionally charged lyrics, atmospheric sound, and anthemic melodies. The core lineup consists of Gary Lightbody (vocals, guitar), Johnny McDaid (guitar, piano), Paul Wilson (bass), and Jonny Quinn (drums). Snow Patrol initially garnered attention with their debut album Songs for Polarbears (1998), but it was their third album, Final Straw(2003), that brought them international success.
Final Straw included hits like Run and Chocolate, both of which became radio staples and propelled the band into the mainstream. Their signature sound, blending indie rock with orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics, struck a chord with listeners, earning them a dedicated fanbase.
The band continued their success with albums like Eyes Open (2006), which featured the global hit Chasing Cars. The song became one of their most iconic tracks, earning widespread recognition and becoming a staple of TV soundtracks.
Snow Patrol’s music explores themes of love, longing, and loss, often drawing on Lightbody’s introspective and poetic lyricism. With over 16 million albums sold worldwide, Snow Patrol remains one of the defining bands of the 2000s indie rock scene.
Coldplay is, perhaps inevitably, one of my favourite bands today. I love how three student friends can become such a global music writing force. Glastonbury was a highlight, and in particular, that slightly bohemian wonderful song, We Pray.
Coldplay is a British rock band formed in London in 1996, consisting of Chris Martin (vocals, piano), Jonny Buckland (guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), and Will Champion (drums). Known for their soaring melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and stadium-filling sound, Coldplay rose to fame with their debut album Parachutes (2000), featuring the breakthrough single Yellow. The album’s emotional sincerity and atmospheric style quickly won them a devoted global following.
Their follow-up albums, A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002) and X&Y (2005), solidified their status as one of the world’s biggest bands, with hits like Clocks, The Scientist, and Fix You. Over time, Coldplay evolved their sound to incorporate elements of electronic music, pop, and world music, as seen in albums like Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends(2008), Mylo Xyloto (2011), and Everyday Life (2019).
Coldplay is known for visually stunning, emotionally uplifting live shows, as well as their commitment to sustainability and global issues. Their 2021 album Music of the Spheres continued their exploration of cosmic themes and collaborations, including a hit with BTS. With over 100 million records sold, Coldplay remains one of the most successful and influential bands of the 21st century.
Of course there were so many more. David Bowie is one of them. Another great innovator. Life on Mars was probably my favourite, an opera in 4 minutes. I still remember the way Lourde sang that song after his death as a tribute to him.
Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, in London, was one of the most influential and innovative artists in modern music history. Known for his constant reinvention, Bowie pushed boundaries in music, fashion, and performance. His career spanned more than five decades, with a chameleonic ability to evolve with the times while maintaining an unmistakable artistic vision.
Bowie’s breakthrough came in 1969 with Space Oddity, but it was his 1972 persona as Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous rock star from outer space, that solidified his place in music history. Over the years, he ventured into genres ranging from glam rock and soul to electronic and industrial, creating landmark albums like The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, Young Americans, Low, and Heroes.
Known for his thought-provoking lyrics, experimental soundscapes, and boundary-pushing performances, Bowie influenced countless artists across genres. His iconic tracks, like Life on Mars?, Heroes, Let’s Dance, and Rebel Rebel, remain timeless.
Bowie also ventured into acting, starring in films like The Man Who Fell to Earth and Labyrinth. His final album, Blackstar (2016), released just days before his death, was a haunting and poetic farewell, further cementing his legacy as a true cultural icon.
More from the blog