Now Spinning Music Magazine - Artist Interviews and Music Reviews

Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, leaving behind an extraordinary catalogue of music—and a legacy of kindness, generosity and humanity.In this personal tribute, I reflect on Dolly’s connection with my late mum, who introduced me to country music, and how I gradually discovered that country and heavy metal were often singing about the same people, struggles and hopes.Dolly gave us timeless songs including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” Yet her legacy reaches far beyond music.Inspired by her father, who was unable to read or write, Dolly created the Imagination Library. It has now provided more than 300 million free books to children around the world. She also funded scholarships, supported families who lost their homes in the 2016 Tennessee wildfires and donated millions of dollars to medical research.I also look at how Dolly built bridges between musical worlds—from singing “Jolene” with Judas Priest’s Rob Halford at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to making Rockstar with artists including Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Elton John, Stevie Nicks, Joan Jett and Peter Frampton.Dolly Parton showed us that music can cross genres, generations, backgrounds and beliefs. She also demonstrated that kindness is not a weakness. Kindness is a superpower.This video is dedicated to Dolly’s family, friends and fans—and to everyone whose life was made a little better by her music or generosity.Please share your memories of Dolly Parton and the songs that have meant the most to you in the comments.Rest in peace, Dolly, and thank you for everything.Phil Aston Now Spinning Magazine Music is the healer and the doctor.

Ritchie Blackmore has performed with Deep Purple for the first time since 1993, joining the band at Jones Beach in New York for an unforgettable version of “Smoke on the Water.”In this video, I share my emotional response to those extraordinary six minutes—not simply the notes Ritchie played, but the smiles, affection and very human interaction between him, Ian Gillan and the rest of Deep Purple.This was not about recreating the past. Neither Ritchie Blackmore nor Deep Purple has anything left to prove. It was about old musical brothers putting their differences aside while there was still time and allowing the music to bring them together again.I also pay tribute to Candice Night, Simon McBride and everyone who helped make this remarkable moment possible.Music is the healer and the doctor.What did this reunion mean to you? Did you ever believe that we would see Ritchie Blackmore sharing a stage with Deep Purple again? Please share your thoughts and memories in the comments. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine https://nowspinning.co.uk

Greg Hart Builds His Dream 1976 Album – 10 Tracks, Two Sides, No FillersWhat would be on your perfect ten-track album from 1976?In this special episode of the Now Spinning Magazine podcast, I am joined by Greg Hart, guitarist and songwriter with Cats in Space, to create his dream vinyl compilation from one of the most extraordinary years in music.This is not a conventional countdown. Greg has selected five tracks for side one and five for side two, carefully choosing the opening song, the final track and several unexpected deep cuts along the way.His choices move from Rainbow, Thin Lizzy and Status Quo to classic pop, soul and disco—and there are absolutely no guilty pleasures. Greg explains what these records meant to him as a young music fan and reveals how artists including 10cc, the Four Seasons, John Miles and Phil Lynott helped shape the writing, harmonies and production of Cats in Space.We also discuss the forthcoming Cats in Space album, the first from the new line-up featuring Chris Childs and Sam Wood. Greg reveals why side one will rock harder than ever, why side two contains five epics, how Thin Lizzy influenced the new guitar arrangements and why the album will receive a refreshingly straightforward physical release on classic black vinyl and CD. Which ten songs would make your own 1976 compilation? What would open side one—and which song would bring the album to a close? Please share your track listing in the comments. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Steve Hackett joins me for the sixth time on Now Spinning Magazine to discuss The Roaring Waves, his long-awaited instrumental collaboration with Marillion guitarist Steve Rothery. Steve explains how the album became “a musical conversation between two guitarists,” with no competition and no desire to fill every available space. We discuss the importance of restraint, sustain and atmosphere; the influence of cinematic and film-noir soundtracks; and how the pair created an emotional connection without conventional lyrics. Steve also takes us inside several of the album’s key compositions, including “The Black Sea,” “Sandsend,” “Red Dragon,” the tragic submarine story behind “K-129” and the joyful Americana of “Pacific Coast Highway,” on which he plays amplified harmonica. We also discuss the unusual guitar sounds used throughout the record, the immersive Dolby Atmos mix and Steve’s suggestion that the response has been so encouraging that another Hackett and Rothery album may follow. The Roaring Waves by Steve Hackett and Steve Rothery will be released through InsideOutMusic on 28 August 2026.Please share your thoughts in the comments. Are you looking forward to hearing the complete album—and would you like Steve Hackett and Steve Rothery to make another one? Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Deep Purple keyboard legend Don Airey joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to discuss the band's new studio album Splat!.In this exclusive interview, Don talks about working with Simon McBride, the band's creative chemistry, recording together in the studio, Bob Ezrin's influence on the songwriting process, the role of the Hammond organ, and why Deep Purple continue to sound inspired more than fifty years into their career.Plus, Don shares stories about the making of Splat!, life on the road with Deep Purple, and how many of the album's songs could take on a whole new life in concert.If you're a fan of Deep Purple, Rainbow, Jon Lord, Ian Gillan, Ian Paice, Roger Glover or classic hard rock, this is an interview you won't want to miss. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Dr. Otis Williams, founding and sole surviving original member of The Temptations, joins Phil Aston of Now Spinning Magazine for a fascinating conversation about Motown, music, friendship and legacy. From growing up in Texas and moving to Detroit, to meeting Berry Gordy, recording My Girl, performing alongside The Four Tops, and seeing his life portrayed in the Broadway hit Ain't Too Proud , Otis shares memories from one of the most remarkable careers in popular music. We also discuss Motown's enduring influence, the story behind Papa Was A Rollin' Stone, protecting The Temptations' legacy, and why he still loves performing these timeless songs today. ⁠If you love Motown, soul music and music history, this is an interview you won't want to miss.⁠ ⁠Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine ⁠

Bruce Soord joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to discuss his deeply personal new solo album Ghosts in the Park.In this emotional and thoughtful conversation, Bruce talks openly about grief, memory, losing parents to Alzheimer’s, songwriting, silence in music, and how certain places and moments stay with us forever. We also explore Bruce’s remix work on Jethro Tull’s Under Wraps deluxe edition, the challenges of revisiting Opeth’s Deliverance, and what lies ahead for The Pineapple Thief.This is one of the most moving conversations ever featured on Now Spinning Magazine. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Composer and producer Jeff Wayne joins me for a rare and exclusive interview about the creation and evolution of Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds.We discuss:the influence of his father Jerry Wayneproducing David Essex’s Rock Onmeeting H.G. Wells’ sonworking with Richard Burton, Justin Hayward and Phil Lynottthe original CBS budget exploding from £35k to £240kthe arena tours and immersive experiencesLiam Neeson joining The New Generationand the extraordinary new Super Deluxe box set from Madfish Records.This is one of the most in-depth and personal conversations Jeff Wayne has given in years.Music, storytelling, legacy and imagination — this is the story behind one of the most ambitious albums ever created. Phil Aston |Now Spinning Magazine

New interview with Jon Davison from YES about the band’s new studio album Aurora, released on June 12th.In this new Now Spinning Magazine interview, Jon talks about his creative growth within YES, the spiritual and uplifting themes behind Aurora, working with Steve Howe, the long-form track “Countermovement”, meditation, artificial intelligence, and why YES continue to move forward rather than simply echo the past.A fascinating conversation about legacy, creativity and the continuing journey of one of progressive rock’s most iconic bands.Join The Now Spinning Magazine Music Community1. Get access to the Now Spinning Magazine Private Facebook Group Community2. Get Access to the Private What’s App Group Community – Deals & Offers, New Release News and friendly Music chat with like minded collectors3. Invites to our twice Monthly Virtual Meet Ups at our own virtual pub called ‘The Now Spinning Arms’.4. Get to see all our videos AD FREE and before they are released to the public.5. Access to exclusive video and photo content6. Special Discounts on Now Spinning Magazine Merch – T-Shirts, Mugs and moreJoin Herehttps://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Music CD / Vinyl Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineOfficial Now Spinning Magazine Websitehttps://nowspinning.co.uk

Lawrence Payton Jr from the legendary Four Tops about legacy, family, Motown, and carrying forward one of the greatest soul music catalogues of all time. Lawrence shares deeply personal stories about growing up with his father, original Four Tops member Lawrence Payton, memories of Motown legends visiting the family home, stepping into the group himself, and the emotional responsibility of performing songs that have become “the soundtracks of people’s lives.” The conversation also explores:The timeless magic of MotownHolland-Dozier-Holland’s songwriting geniusThe emotional connection audiences still have with these songsThe Four Tops & Temptations brotherhoodBrand new music recorded at the original Motown studioA heartfelt conversation about music, memory, love, and why these songs still matter today. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

A new series of Beginner’s Guides, starting with one of the greatest and most influential rock bands of all time: Led Zeppelin.This is not a ranking video. Instead, I goe through the Led Zeppelin catalogue album by album, choosing key gateway songs while sharing personal memories of discovering the band, growing up with the music, and understanding why Zeppelin still matter today.Whether you are completely new to Led Zeppelin or have loved these albums for decades, this guide is designed to help you listen again with fresh ears. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band - Legs Larry Smith Interview In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I talk to Legs Larry Smith — drummer, tap dancer, artist and one of the key figures behind the wonderfully eccentric world of the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.Larry shares stories about the band’s art-school origins, recording classics like “Jazz: Delicious Hot, Disgusting Cold” and “The Intro and the Outro,” learning to tap dance in a London tube station, appearing in The Beatles’ Magical Mystery Tour, working on Do Not Adjust Your Set, and touring with Elton John and Eric Clapton. He also reflects on the superb Still Barking Madfish box set, his ongoing art, and why the Bonzos’ legacy still matters so much today.A warm, funny and revealing conversation with one of British music’s true originals. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Why Ronnie James Dio was such an important figure in rock music history. From his powerful vocals to his iconic stage presence, Dio made a lasting impact on the rock world that continues to inspire fans and musicians today.My top DIO moments include, Last In Line, Light in The Black, Bible Black, Stagazer, Man on A Silver Mountain, Gates of BabylonPlease share your top 5 or 10 DIO moments Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazin e

Darran Charles from Godsticks about the band’s new album VOiD — their darkest, heaviest and most uncompromising record to date.In this in-depth conversation, Darran discusses the themes behind the album, the loss of nuance in modern life, writing lyrics from a more personal place, the importance of melody, the challenge of performing complex progressive metal live, and how Tom Price, Gavin Bushell and new bassist Francis George helped shape the final sound of the record.A thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about music, creativity, community and why some albums need time to fully reveal themselves. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I talk to Ian Crockett, consultant for Madfish Records and Snapper Music, about the art of creating truly definitive box sets. We go behind the scenes of the new Sensational Alex Harvey Band set, discuss the detective work involved in finding rare tapes and memorabilia, and explore why Madfish has become such an important label for collectors of physical music. Ian also talks about Wishbone Ash, Family, Gentle Giant, Steve Hillage, Caravan, Al Stewart, John Mayall, Horslips and more, while explaining why CD remains such an important format for large archival box sets. For anyone who loves deluxe reissues, rare live recordings, signed editions, archive photography and physical music, this is a fascinating look under the bonnet of one of the most respected reissue labels in the world. Music is the healer and the doctor. Keep spinning those discs. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I am joined by John Lees of John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest for a thoughtful and emotional conversation about the superb album Relativity, the Philharmonic orchestral performances with Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra, the Live at RosFest 2009 recording, John’s distinctive guitar style, songwriting, and the emotional power of BJH’s music.John also speaks with honesty about living with anxiety, how it has affected his career, and why songs such as Mockingbird, Hymn, and the material on Relativity continue to connect so deeply with listeners.This is a warm, revealing conversation about music, creativity, vulnerability, and why great songs stay with us for life.If BJH has ever meant something to you, this is one not to miss. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Phil Collen of Def Leppard about Man Raze, the power trio he formed with Simon Laffy of Girl and Paul Cook of the Sex Pistols.With Cherry Red Records releasing the new 5CD box set Lock, Stock & Barrel: Complete Recordings 2008–2011, Phil looks back on how the band came together, the chemistry of the three-piece format, the influence of punk, reggae, dub and hard rock, and why Man Raze still feels like one of rock’s best-kept secrets.Phil also reveals that new Man Raze music and live shows could be on the way. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Robin McAuley joins Phil Aston on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to look back on the McAuley Schenker Group years, from how he first connected with Michael Schenker to the making of Perfect Timing, Save Yourself and M.S.G. In this wide-ranging conversation, Robin discusses songwriting with Michael, the challenge of breaking through in the late ’80s, why some of those albums were overlooked at the time, and why the songs still stand up so well today. He also reflects on Grand Prix, his musical influences including Thin Lizzy, Paul Rodgers and Creedence Clearwater Revival, and brings things right up to date with the new Black Swan album Paralyzed.A warm, honest and uplifting conversation with one of melodic rock’s great voices. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Andy Bown – Out There : The Status Quo Musician’s Space Opera Finally Comes to Life Andy Bown from Status Quo joins the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to talk about Out There, his long-gestating “mind-bending operatic deep space love story” created with the late novelist Russell Hoban.Best known for his work with Status Quo, as well as connections to The Herd, Peter Frampton, Pink Floyd and Roger Waters, Andy shares the remarkable story of how this ambitious project began in the 1990s, why it was left unfinished, and what finally brought it back to life.In this conversation, Andy reflects on:writing with Russell Hobanrediscovering the original demosworking with producer Mike Paxmanthe emotional impact of Judy Tzuke’s “City of Love”his love of storytelling, theatre and sci-fiand why Out There is only the beginningIf you enjoy music with imagination, atmosphere and a sense of adventure, this is a fascinating insight into a very different side of Andy Bown’s musical world. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Jon Lord was far more than the Hammond organ player in Deep Purple. In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, Phil Aston talks to author Ovais Naqvi about his new book Before We Forget — a deeply researched and highly original study of Jon Lord’s life through his sound, instruments, influences and compositions. From Deep Purple and Whitesnake to Pictured Within and Durham Concerto, this conversation explores the full scope of Jon Lord’s musical legacy — including the Hammond organs, synths, classical influences and emotional depth that made him one of the most distinctive musicians in rock history.If you love Deep Purple, classic rock, keyboard-driven music, or Jon Lord’s later orchestral work, this is an episode not to miss.Please subscribe to the channel, follow the podcast, and visit nowspinning.co.uk for more features, reviews and interviews. Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine