In Part Two of Ian’s chat with Colin Blunstone, the spotlight turns to his brilliant solo career spanning nearly 60 years.

The episode also includes some great music and expect some more “deeper cuts” from Colins solo catalogue. We also focus on his extremely underrated songwriting skills and his famous appearances on The Alan Parsons Project albums.

“In many ways, Ennismore was the beginning of me as a writer”

Colin Blunstone

“Old and Wise is one of my favourite songs that I’ve ever recorded”

Colin Blunstone

The Voices of Russ Ballard Podcast is proud to kick off 2025 with an extra special guest, The Zombie’s lead vocalist Colin Blunstone.

In Part One, Ian chats to Colin about his career in the band and their continued success to this day.

It’s a fascinating insight into the band’s image, Zombies impersonators, Elvis, recording studio secrets and how both John Lennon and George Harrison helped shape the future for them in different ways.

Oh and some great music from Colin too….

"When Susanna Hoffs from The Bangles says your voice is just plain sexy, it's difficult to know how to respond!”

Colin Blunstone on Susanna Hoff’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction speech for The Zombies

"I was half asleep when we recorded "Tell Her No” and in the first chorus, I definitely mumbled"

Colin Blunstone

"Odessey and Oracle would have been a totally different album if John Lennon hadn't left his mellotron behind in the studio at Abbey Road”

Colin Blunstone

Ian presents the final part of the Podcast with Ray Greene as special guest and it's a very enlightening and fun conversation with Ray and Russ Ballard himself. They discover they have similar tastes in both music and life in general. And have a sing along too…..available in both audio and video versions.

“I love the connection I feel with you"

Ray Greene talking to Russ Ballard

As usual you can listen here on Russ’s website…..

https://russballardmusic.com/podcast

Or all mainstream platforms-

Apple

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-russ-ballard-podcast/id1562909888

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/7mMNx0xe1akK6Sq3JQpLEO?si=T5iu1H4HQDKKyjh1IcCFZw

Pocket Casts

https://pca.st/93jv9ojn?fbclid=IwAR3dyJbD7qGVWErDJKwYJbl5zf6qzw1XS2rDvyHWvqDLzk7SwZkBey004DY

And the video version can be found on YouTube here-

https://youtu.be/ux9StjyQbjs

Ian presents Part 2 of his chat with Ray Greene when the focus moves on to Santana and his solo career. A great insight into how Ray joined Santana (with a little help from Social Media), as well as some excellent music and commentary relating to the new album “Stay”.

“He is just the best….”

Ray Greene on working with Carlos Santana

Join us on the Voices Of Russ Ballard with our very special guest, the voice of Tower Of Power and Santana, Ray Greene.

Ray talks about his graduation from the Berkeley School of Music, playing alongside Aretha Franklin, Rick James, The Isley Brothers and of course, Tower Of Power. Some great music along the way too. Look out for Part Two coming soon…..

(this episode was recorded just before the passing of the great Quincy Jones. RIP)

“You give 100% every time you go that stage”

Ray Greene

“The music business has been phenomenal for me, especially the last 10

/15 years of my life”

Ray Greene

The final episode with special guest Paul Shortino features a live chat between him and his friend from the “Rock Meets Classic” tour of Germany, Russ Ballard himself.

A fascinating insight into their views on the music scene today and how technology is shaping the industry, together with hilarious stories guaranteed to make you smile. Oh and a couple of surprises along the way….don’t miss it!

“Russ, I love you like a brother from another….”

Paul Shortino

“Paul, I feel the same way…..”

Russ Ballard

The second part of Ian’s chat with Paul Shortino in which he gives us a fascinating insight to his landmark appearance at Hear N’Aid (America’s rock equivalent to Band Aid), as well as detailing the close association with his mentor, Ronnie James Dio. Apart from Paul’s infectious personality, enjoy more good music and commentary from his solo career and numerous collaborations including Carmine Appice’s band, King Kobra.

“That has changed recently. Russ Ballard gave me chills every night on Rock Meets Classic when I heard him sing “You Can Do Magic”. It has have to be his version, no one else’s version of song. “

Paul Shortino’s response when asked “what is your favourite song of all time?”

Sven is taking a break from the show so Ian kicks off a new series chatting to the legendary Paul Shortino from his home in Las Vegas.

Part 1 features Paul’s climb to stardom from a young age, his role as “Duke Fame” in the movie “This is Spinal Tap”, Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot and much more. He also talks passionately about his recent tour of Germany on “Rock Meets Classic” and his affinity with Russ Ballard and all the other performing artists on that stage.

“I’m sure Russ Ballard could have written a hit song for me!”

Paul Shortino