Radio 2 Celebrates Songwriting

Episode

Title

First
Broadcast

Repeated

Comments

Adele At The Bbc

20211120

20211205 (R2)
20220219 (R2)

Zoe Ball introduces a special programme looking back at Adele's history with Radio 2, including her very first appearance on the network, her first national radio studio session, her first national radio concert and more, including Zoe's own recent exclusive conversation with the singer on the Breakfast Show.

Songs include 'To Make You Feel My Love', 'Chasing Pavements', 'Crazy For You' and more.

Zoe Ball looks back at Adele's history on Radio 2, from first to latest!

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

It's A Kind Of Magic - The Queen Story

20211121

20220101 (R2)

It's a Kind of Magic' is a spectacular demonstration of the incredible songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. The concert tells the story of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon through their songs and through the songs of the music legends who inspired them, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Aretha Franklin and more. The 60 piece BBC Concert Orchestra, and rock band, led by top guitarists Dave Holmes and Andy G. Jones, are conducted by Mike Dixon. They are joined by Tony Vincent, star of the hit Queen musical We Will Rock You' , along with other leading vocalists, Vanessa Haynes, Rachael Wooding, Tim Howar (of Mike and the Mechanics), Ashton Jones and Capital Voices. In the beautiful outdoor venue of The Granaries, in Valetta, Malta the singers and orchestra perform a staggering line up of Queen hits, including Killer Queen, Somebody to Love, Don't Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, We Are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. In addition, great songs including Lennon's Imagine', Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll', Liza Minnelli's Cabaret' (written by Kander and Ebb) and Aretha Franklin's Think' (written by Aretha and Ted White) show the influence these writers and performers had on Queen's own sound and song writing. The concert also features a rare re-creation of the whole of the legendary Queen 'Live Aid' set as performed in 1985 at Wembley Stadium. Hosted by Radio 2's 'Sounds of the Eighties' presenter Gary Davies, It's a Kind of Magic' additionally marks what would have been Freddie Mercury's seventy fifth birthday and celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of Queen.

A celebration of the amazing songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

It's A Kind Of Magic - The Queen Story

20211121

20220101 (R2)

It's a Kind of Magic' is a spectacular demonstration of the incredible songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. The concert tells the story of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon through their songs and through the songs of the music legends who inspired them, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Aretha Franklin and more. The 60 piece BBC Concert Orchestra, and rock band, led by top guitarists Dave Holmes and Andy G. Jones, are conducted by Mike Dixon. They are joined by Tony Vincent, star of the hit Queen musical ‘We Will Rock You' , along with other leading vocalists, Vanessa Haynes, Rachael Wooding, Tim Howar (of Mike and the Mechanics), Ashton Jones and Capital Voices. In the beautiful outdoor venue of The Granaries, in Valetta, Malta the singers and orchestra perform a staggering line up of Queen hits, including Killer Queen, Somebody to Love, Don't Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, We Are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. In addition, great songs including Lennon's ‘Imagine', Led Zeppelin's ‘Rock and Roll', Liza Minnelli's ‘Cabaret' (written by Kander and Ebb) and Aretha Franklin's ‘Think' (written by Aretha and Ted White) show the influence these writers and performers had on Queen's own sound and song writing. The concert also features a rare re-creation of the whole of the legendary Queen 'Live Aid' set as performed in 1985 at Wembley Stadium. Hosted by Radio 2's 'Sounds of the Eighties' presenter Gary Davies, ‘It's a Kind of Magic' additionally marks what would have been Freddie Mercury's seventy fifth birthday and celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of Queen.

A celebration of the amazing songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Nashville Songwriters With Ed Sheeran

20211204

Ed Sheeran - a long-time fan and supporter of country music - introduces this special look at the work of Music City songwriters. Nashville is the country songwriting capital, home to thousands of the globe's most successful commercial songwriters and the must visit' destination for countless more wanting their own work sprinkled with some of the city's fairy dust. Nashville is a song factory, utilising an almost industrial level of organisation to ensure that hits are generated on a daily basis every day of the year.

Songwriters work around the clock to get the job done... famously, Dolly Parton wrote Jolene and I Will Always Love You on the same afternoon - the products of a Nashville writing session. But it's not just country music - all genres are covered by Nashville-based songwriters and collaborators, from Pixie Lott, Lady Gaga and One Direction to Peter Frampton, Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey.

This hour-long programme introduces listeners to that world, showing how the machine works and talking to songwriters and artists to uncover the secrets of the only hit factory in the world that is a whole town. Contributors include Keith Urban, Lori McKenna, Brad Paisley, Jaren Johnston of the Cadillac Three and more whose names you may not know but whose songs you definitely will!

Ed Sheeran introduces a look at the Nashville songwriting industry.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Ed Sheeran - a long-time fan and supporter of country music - introduces this special look at the work of Music City songwriters. Nashville is the country songwriting capital, home to thousands of the globe's most successful commercial songwriters and the ‘must visit' destination for countless more wanting their own work sprinkled with some of the city's fairy dust. Nashville is a song factory, utilising an almost industrial level of organisation to ensure that hits are generated on a daily basis every day of the year.

Ed Sheeran introduces a look at the Nashville songwriting industry.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

John Legend And The Beatles

20211205

20211121 (R2)

In an exclusive interview John Legend talks about the influence that John Lennon, Paul McCartney & George Harrison have had on his music, from learning to play Yesterday at the age of 8 to the way that they shaped his songwriting and methods of working in the studio.

In between, he picks his own favourite Beatles songs, discusses the songwriting of Lennon, McCartney & Harrison at length, gives listeners a unique insight into his own songwriting and lets us in on the one song that he thinks sums John Legend up more than any other!

John Legend explores the influence that The Beatles have had on his music

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

When Michael Ball Met Richard Carpenter

20211121

For this one hour special as part of Radio 2 Celebrates Songwriting Season, Michael chats to one of his all-time musical heroes, Richard Carpenter, about the stories behind some of his most well-known compositions. Michael shares his experiences of how the Carpenters songs have influenced his life and his own musical career, and delves into the finer details of how they were composed.

Michael chats to his musical hero Richard Carpenter.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Tracks Of My Tears

20211205

Edith Bowman talks to four guests, from four different professions, about the songs that makes them cry, both tears of joy and tears of sadness. Actor Alan Cumming treats us to a mash up of The Proclaimers, David Guetta, Sia and Midnight Oil, whilst singer/songwriter Sigrid, picks a Neil Young song which reminds her of home. W Series champion Jamie Chadwick recalls crying on a plane when she heard the Cinematic Orchestra, and comedian Phil Wang has never been happier than when he sang Handel's `Zadok The Priest` in Bath Abbey.

Filled with heart and hilarity, you're bound to discover something new for your playlist, and about our guests.

Edith Bowman explores the emotional power of songwriting with four special guests.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Tracks Of My Tears

20211205

Filled with heart and hilarity, you're bound to discover something new for your playlist, and about our guests.

Edith Bowman explores the emotional power of songwriting with four special guests.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

How To Write A Perfect Power Ballad

20211127

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters.

In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Power Ballad - those overwrought, emotional songs that you cannot help singing along to - and possibly punching the air at the same time.

He speaks to the writers of his favourite ballads. Many of them recount how their songs nearly didn't make the cut. Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles tells the story of how Eternal Flame almost wasn't recorded. Snow Patrol's epic song Run was self-sabotaged early on by its own composer Gary Lightbody. And Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran reveals the real-life trauma and heartache that inspired their Ivor Novello winning song Ordinary World.

Hairbrushes at the ready, it's time for a deep dive into all of your favourite Power Ballads - Can Pete find the secret to what makes them tick?

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Power Ballad.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

How To Write A Perfect Dancefloor Filler

20211127

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bona fide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters.

In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Dancefloor Filler - is there a key to the beats, breaks and samples that make up some of his favourites? Pete speaks to Kevin Saunderson of Detroit group Inner City about their biggest hits. Plus he's joined by indie-kid-turned-dancefloor-queen Sophie Ellis-Bextor who speaks about her highs and lows of making sure that no-one leaves the club early.

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Dancefloor Filler.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

How To Write A Perfect Breakup Track

20211128

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bona fide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters.

In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Breakup Track - how does heartache and pain inspire songwriters, and how do they make us as listeners feel? Pete speaks to Shaznay Lewis of All Saints, whose huge hit Never Ever was inspired by her own teenage breakup. Katie Melua's divorce was the catalyst for her to write, and Melanie C of The Spice Girls speaks about which breakup songs she found solace in.

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Breakup Track.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

How To Write A Perfect Girl Power Anthem

20211128

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters.

In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Girl Power Anthem - a term coined in the 90s that still has reverberations now. Pete hears from Spice Girl Melanie C about the origins of her group, and why it wasn't always so easy for them. Texas' Sharleen Spiteri explains how she's treated differently as a songwriter because she's a woman. And it should be noted that some brilliant Girl Power Anthems are written by men, including Klas ŀhlund. He was writing songs for Britney Spears, right at the epicentre of her darkest moments. And what about now - are the Spice Girls still relevant? Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem seems to think so.

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

How To Write A Perfect Girl Power Anthem

20211128

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters.

In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Girl Power Anthem - a term coined in the 90s that still has reverberations now. Pete hears from Spice Girl Melanie C about the origins of her group, and why it wasn't always so easy for them. Texas' Sharleen Spiteri explains how she's treated differently as a songwriter because she's a woman. And it should be noted that some brilliant Girl Power Anthems are written by men, including Klas Åhlund. He was writing songs for Britney Spears, right at the epicentre of her darkest moments. And what about now - are the Spice Girls still relevant? Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem seems to think so.

Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Tracks Of My Years: Songwriters Special

20211204

Ken Bruce presents a songwriters special featuring some of the composers and lyricists who have appeared as guests on Tracks Of My Years. These include established giants of the music industry such as Diane Warren, Richard Carpenter, Smokey Robinson, Brian and Eddie Holland and Jimmy Webb who are featured alongside today's generation of writers. These include Ryan Tedder, Ed Sheeran, Amy Wadge and John Legend.

Featuring Jimmy Webb, Smokey Robinson, Amy Wadge, Ed Sheeran and Ryan Tedder.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Celebrating Leslie Bricusse, Film And Musical Songwriting Legend

20111223

20120622 (R2)
20211212 (R2)

As part of Radio 2 Celebrates Songwriting, Sir Michael Parkinson presents a special Sunday Night is Music Night celebrating the life and career of composer Leslie Bricusse, who died in October. The concert was originally recorded to celebrate his 80th birthday.

As a composer and lyricist, and with Anthony Newley, John Barry and John Williams, Leslie Bricusse wrote an astonishing catalogue of songs. These include Goldfinger, Feeling Good, You Only Live Twice, Pure Imagination, If I Ruled The World, Can You Read My Mind from Superman.

There's also The Candy Man, My Kind Of Girl for Matt Monro, and the groundbreaking musicals Stop The World I Want To Get Off, and The Roar of The Greasepaint The Smell of The Crowd.

Mike Dixon conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, with star singers from the West End including Emmy award-winning Hannah Waddingham, John Owen-Jones, and Michael Jibson, as well as the 40-strong Finchley Children's Music Group and Annie Skates' Capital Voices.

First broadcast in 2011.

A concert celebrating composer Leslie Bricusse, who died in October.

Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.

Episodes

Episode	Title	First Broadcast	Repeated	Comments
	Adele At The Bbc	20211120	20211205 (R2) 20220219 (R2)	Zoe Ball introduces a special programme looking back at Adele's history with Radio 2, including her very first appearance on the network, her first national radio studio session, her first national radio concert and more, including Zoe's own recent exclusive conversation with the singer on the Breakfast Show. Songs include 'To Make You Feel My Love', 'Chasing Pavements', 'Crazy For You' and more. Zoe Ball looks back at Adele's history on Radio 2, from first to latest! Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
	It's A Kind Of Magic - The Queen Story	20211121	20220101 (R2)	It's a Kind of Magic' is a spectacular demonstration of the incredible songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. The concert tells the story of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon through their songs and through the songs of the music legends who inspired them, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Aretha Franklin and more. The 60 piece BBC Concert Orchestra, and rock band, led by top guitarists Dave Holmes and Andy G. Jones, are conducted by Mike Dixon. They are joined by Tony Vincent, star of the hit Queen musical We Will Rock You' , along with other leading vocalists, Vanessa Haynes, Rachael Wooding, Tim Howar (of Mike and the Mechanics), Ashton Jones and Capital Voices. In the beautiful outdoor venue of The Granaries, in Valetta, Malta the singers and orchestra perform a staggering line up of Queen hits, including Killer Queen, Somebody to Love, Don't Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, We Are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. In addition, great songs including Lennon's Imagine', Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll', Liza Minnelli's Cabaret' (written by Kander and Ebb) and Aretha Franklin's Think' (written by Aretha and Ted White) show the influence these writers and performers had on Queen's own sound and song writing. The concert also features a rare re-creation of the whole of the legendary Queen 'Live Aid' set as performed in 1985 at Wembley Stadium. Hosted by Radio 2's 'Sounds of the Eighties' presenter Gary Davies, It's a Kind of Magic' additionally marks what would have been Freddie Mercury's seventy fifth birthday and celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of Queen. A celebration of the amazing songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
	It's A Kind Of Magic - The Queen Story	20211121	20220101 (R2)	It's a Kind of Magic' is a spectacular demonstration of the incredible songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. The concert tells the story of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon through their songs and through the songs of the music legends who inspired them, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Aretha Franklin and more. The 60 piece BBC Concert Orchestra, and rock band, led by top guitarists Dave Holmes and Andy G. Jones, are conducted by Mike Dixon. They are joined by Tony Vincent, star of the hit Queen musical ‘We Will Rock You' , along with other leading vocalists, Vanessa Haynes, Rachael Wooding, Tim Howar (of Mike and the Mechanics), Ashton Jones and Capital Voices. In the beautiful outdoor venue of The Granaries, in Valetta, Malta the singers and orchestra perform a staggering line up of Queen hits, including Killer Queen, Somebody to Love, Don't Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, We Are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. In addition, great songs including Lennon's ‘Imagine', Led Zeppelin's ‘Rock and Roll', Liza Minnelli's ‘Cabaret' (written by Kander and Ebb) and Aretha Franklin's ‘Think' (written by Aretha and Ted White) show the influence these writers and performers had on Queen's own sound and song writing. The concert also features a rare re-creation of the whole of the legendary Queen 'Live Aid' set as performed in 1985 at Wembley Stadium. Hosted by Radio 2's 'Sounds of the Eighties' presenter Gary Davies, ‘It's a Kind of Magic' additionally marks what would have been Freddie Mercury's seventy fifth birthday and celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of Queen. A celebration of the amazing songwriting of one of the world's greatest rock bands, Queen. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
04	Nashville Songwriters With Ed Sheeran	20211204		Ed Sheeran - a long-time fan and supporter of country music - introduces this special look at the work of Music City songwriters. Nashville is the country songwriting capital, home to thousands of the globe's most successful commercial songwriters and the must visit' destination for countless more wanting their own work sprinkled with some of the city's fairy dust. Nashville is a song factory, utilising an almost industrial level of organisation to ensure that hits are generated on a daily basis every day of the year. Songwriters work around the clock to get the job done... famously, Dolly Parton wrote Jolene and I Will Always Love You on the same afternoon - the products of a Nashville writing session. But it's not just country music - all genres are covered by Nashville-based songwriters and collaborators, from Pixie Lott, Lady Gaga and One Direction to Peter Frampton, Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey. This hour-long programme introduces listeners to that world, showing how the machine works and talking to songwriters and artists to uncover the secrets of the only hit factory in the world that is a whole town. Contributors include Keith Urban, Lori McKenna, Brad Paisley, Jaren Johnston of the Cadillac Three and more whose names you may not know but whose songs you definitely will! Ed Sheeran introduces a look at the Nashville songwriting industry. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars. Ed Sheeran - a long-time fan and supporter of country music - introduces this special look at the work of Music City songwriters. Nashville is the country songwriting capital, home to thousands of the globe's most successful commercial songwriters and the ‘must visit' destination for countless more wanting their own work sprinkled with some of the city's fairy dust. Nashville is a song factory, utilising an almost industrial level of organisation to ensure that hits are generated on a daily basis every day of the year. Songwriters work around the clock to get the job done... famously, Dolly Parton wrote Jolene and I Will Always Love You on the same afternoon - the products of a Nashville writing session. But it's not just country music - all genres are covered by Nashville-based songwriters and collaborators, from Pixie Lott, Lady Gaga and One Direction to Peter Frampton, Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey. This hour-long programme introduces listeners to that world, showing how the machine works and talking to songwriters and artists to uncover the secrets of the only hit factory in the world that is a whole town. Contributors include Keith Urban, Lori McKenna, Brad Paisley, Jaren Johnston of the Cadillac Three and more whose names you may not know but whose songs you definitely will! Ed Sheeran introduces a look at the Nashville songwriting industry. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
05	John Legend And The Beatles	20211205	20211121 (R2)	In an exclusive interview John Legend talks about the influence that John Lennon, Paul McCartney & George Harrison have had on his music, from learning to play Yesterday at the age of 8 to the way that they shaped his songwriting and methods of working in the studio. In between, he picks his own favourite Beatles songs, discusses the songwriting of Lennon, McCartney & Harrison at length, gives listeners a unique insight into his own songwriting and lets us in on the one song that he thinks sums John Legend up more than any other! John Legend explores the influence that The Beatles have had on his music Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
08	When Michael Ball Met Richard Carpenter	20211121		For this one hour special as part of Radio 2 Celebrates Songwriting Season, Michael chats to one of his all-time musical heroes, Richard Carpenter, about the stories behind some of his most well-known compositions. Michael shares his experiences of how the Carpenters songs have influenced his life and his own musical career, and delves into the finer details of how they were composed. Michael chats to his musical hero Richard Carpenter. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
13	Tracks Of My Tears	20211205		Edith Bowman talks to four guests, from four different professions, about the songs that makes them cry, both tears of joy and tears of sadness. Actor Alan Cumming treats us to a mash up of The Proclaimers, David Guetta, Sia and Midnight Oil, whilst singer/songwriter Sigrid, picks a Neil Young song which reminds her of home. W Series champion Jamie Chadwick recalls crying on a plane when she heard the Cinematic Orchestra, and comedian Phil Wang has never been happier than when he sang Handel's `Zadok The Priest` in Bath Abbey. Filled with heart and hilarity, you're bound to discover something new for your playlist, and about our guests. Edith Bowman explores the emotional power of songwriting with four special guests. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
13	Tracks Of My Tears	20211205		Edith Bowman talks to four guests, from four different professions, about the songs that makes them cry, both tears of joy and tears of sadness. Actor Alan Cumming treats us to a mash up of The Proclaimers, David Guetta, Sia and Midnight Oil, whilst singer/songwriter Sigrid, picks a Neil Young song which reminds her of home. W Series champion Jamie Chadwick recalls crying on a plane when she heard the Cinematic Orchestra, and comedian Phil Wang has never been happier than when he sang Handel's “Zadok The Priest ? in Bath Abbey. Filled with heart and hilarity, you're bound to discover something new for your playlist, and about our guests. Edith Bowman explores the emotional power of songwriting with four special guests. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
14	How To Write A Perfect Power Ballad	20211127		Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters. In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Power Ballad - those overwrought, emotional songs that you cannot help singing along to - and possibly punching the air at the same time. He speaks to the writers of his favourite ballads. Many of them recount how their songs nearly didn't make the cut. Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles tells the story of how Eternal Flame almost wasn't recorded. Snow Patrol's epic song Run was self-sabotaged early on by its own composer Gary Lightbody. And Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran reveals the real-life trauma and heartache that inspired their Ivor Novello winning song Ordinary World. Hairbrushes at the ready, it's time for a deep dive into all of your favourite Power Ballads - Can Pete find the secret to what makes them tick? Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Power Ballad. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
15	How To Write A Perfect Dancefloor Filler	20211127		Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bona fide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters. In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Dancefloor Filler - is there a key to the beats, breaks and samples that make up some of his favourites? Pete speaks to Kevin Saunderson of Detroit group Inner City about their biggest hits. Plus he's joined by indie-kid-turned-dancefloor-queen Sophie Ellis-Bextor who speaks about her highs and lows of making sure that no-one leaves the club early. Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Dancefloor Filler. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
16	How To Write A Perfect Breakup Track	20211128		Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bona fide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters. In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Breakup Track - how does heartache and pain inspire songwriters, and how do they make us as listeners feel? Pete speaks to Shaznay Lewis of All Saints, whose huge hit Never Ever was inspired by her own teenage breakup. Katie Melua's divorce was the catalyst for her to write, and Melanie C of The Spice Girls speaks about which breakup songs she found solace in. Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a Breakup Track. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
17	How To Write A Perfect Girl Power Anthem	20211128		Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters. In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Girl Power Anthem - a term coined in the 90s that still has reverberations now. Pete hears from Spice Girl Melanie C about the origins of her group, and why it wasn't always so easy for them. Texas' Sharleen Spiteri explains how she's treated differently as a songwriter because she's a woman. And it should be noted that some brilliant Girl Power Anthems are written by men, including Klas ŀhlund. He was writing songs for Britney Spears, right at the epicentre of her darkest moments. And what about now - are the Spice Girls still relevant? Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem seems to think so. Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
17	How To Write A Perfect Girl Power Anthem	20211128		Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit by talking to the people who make them - the songwriters. In this episode, he looks into what makes a perfect Girl Power Anthem - a term coined in the 90s that still has reverberations now. Pete hears from Spice Girl Melanie C about the origins of her group, and why it wasn't always so easy for them. Texas' Sharleen Spiteri explains how she's treated differently as a songwriter because she's a woman. And it should be noted that some brilliant Girl Power Anthems are written by men, including Klas Åhlund. He was writing songs for Britney Spears, right at the epicentre of her darkest moments. And what about now - are the Spice Girls still relevant? Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem seems to think so. Pete Paphides is on a mission to find the perfect formula for making a bonafide hit. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
19	Tracks Of My Years: Songwriters Special	20211204		Ken Bruce presents a songwriters special featuring some of the composers and lyricists who have appeared as guests on Tracks Of My Years. These include established giants of the music industry such as Diane Warren, Richard Carpenter, Smokey Robinson, Brian and Eddie Holland and Jimmy Webb who are featured alongside today's generation of writers. These include Ryan Tedder, Ed Sheeran, Amy Wadge and John Legend. Featuring Jimmy Webb, Smokey Robinson, Amy Wadge, Ed Sheeran and Ryan Tedder. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.
20	Celebrating Leslie Bricusse, Film And Musical Songwriting Legend	20111223	20120622 (R2) 20211212 (R2)	As part of Radio 2 Celebrates Songwriting, Sir Michael Parkinson presents a special Sunday Night is Music Night celebrating the life and career of composer Leslie Bricusse, who died in October. The concert was originally recorded to celebrate his 80th birthday. As a composer and lyricist, and with Anthony Newley, John Barry and John Williams, Leslie Bricusse wrote an astonishing catalogue of songs. These include Goldfinger, Feeling Good, You Only Live Twice, Pure Imagination, If I Ruled The World, Can You Read My Mind from Superman. There's also The Candy Man, My Kind Of Girl for Matt Monro, and the groundbreaking musicals Stop The World I Want To Get Off, and The Roar of The Greasepaint The Smell of The Crowd. Mike Dixon conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, with star singers from the West End including Emmy award-winning Hannah Waddingham, John Owen-Jones, and Michael Jibson, as well as the 40-strong Finchley Children's Music Group and Annie Skates' Capital Voices. First broadcast in 2011. A concert celebrating composer Leslie Bricusse, who died in October. Ed Sheeran on Nashville Songwriters, plus specials with John Legend, Adele and more stars.