John Helliwell - Supertramp Saxophonist. Talks About Supertramp, "Breakfast In America", Roger Hodgson, Rick Davies, Thin Lizzy And More! (Encore Episode)
Episode Notes
John Helliwell is an acclaimed saxophonist and a member of Supertramp, one of the greatest bands of the rock era. In this wonderful Encore Episode from May 2022 John talks about the band's massive 1979 hit album "Breakfast In America" and much more.
Robert
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John Helliwell is the saxophonist for Supertramp, one of the greatest bands of all time. They hit the top of the charts with their 1979 album “Breakfast In America” which sold over 20 million copies - the most of any album that year - and won two GRAMMY awards. John talks about Supertramp, the two songwriters in the band - Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies, “Crime of the Century”, “Breakfast in America”, Thin Lizzy, and we do a Songest featuring several Supertramp songs.
My featured song in this episode is “Ma Petite Fleur” from the Spring Dance album by my band Project Grand Slam. Spotify link HERE.
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John and I discuss the following:
My confession about Supertramp
Comparisons to Weather Report and Wayne Shorter
Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies
Joining Supertramp in 1973 for “Crime Of The Century”
“Breakfast In America” in 1979
Thin Lizzy
In the Songfest we play and discuss these songs:
“The Logical Song”
“Crime Of The Century”
“Bloody Well Right”
“Take The Long Way Home”
“Melani”
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“Live At SteelStacks” is the new 5-song EP by Robert and his band, Project Grand Slam. The release captures the band at the top of their game and shows off the breadth, scope and sound of the band.
The EP has been highly praised by musicians and reviewers alike. Elliott Randall, of Steely Dan fame, the guitarist who recorded the unforgettable solos in ‘Reelin’ In The Years’, calls Live At SteelStacks “Captivating!”. Tony Carey, the incredible multi-talented artist who has produced Joe Cocker, Eric Burden and John Mayall, says “PGS burns down the house!”. Alan Hewitt of the Moody Blues says “Full of life!” Melody Maker says simply “Virtuoso musicians!”, and Hollywood Digest says “Such a great band!”.
“Live At SteelStacks” can be streamed on Spotify, Amazon, Apple and all the other streaming platforms, and can be downloaded at The PGS Store.
“All Of The Time” is Robert’s most recent single by his band Project Grand Slam. It’s a playful, whimsical love song. It’s light and airy and exudes the happiness and joy of being in love. The reviewers agree. Melody Maker gives it 5 Stars and calls it “Pure bliss…An intimate sound with abundant melodic riches!”. Pop Icon also gives it 5 Stars and calls it “Ecstasy…One of the best all-around bands working today!”. And Mob York City says simply “Excellence…A band in full command of their powers!” Watch the video here. You can stream “All Of The Time” on Spotify, Apple or any of the other streaming platforms. And you can download it here.
“The Shakespeare Concert” is the latest album by Robert’s band, Project Grand Slam. It’s been praised by famous musicians including Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad, Jim Peterik of the Ides Of March, Joey Dee of Peppermint Twist fame, legendary guitarist Elliott Randall, and celebrated British composer Sarah Class. The music reviewers have called it “Perfection!”, “5 Stars!”, “Thrilling!”, and “A Masterpiece!”. The album can be streamed on Spotify, Apple and all the other streaming services. You can watch the Highlight Reel HERE. And you can purchase a digital download or autographed CD of the album HERE.
“The Fall Of Winter” is Robert’s single in collaboration with legendary rocker Jim Peterik of the Ides Of March and formerly with Survivor. Also featuring renowned guitarist Elliott Randall (Steely Dan/Doobie Brothers) and keyboard ace Tony Carey (Joe Cocker/Eric Burden). “A triumph!” (The Indie Source). “Flexes Real Rock Muscle!” (Celebrity Zone). Stream it on Spotify or Apple. Watch the lyric video here. Download it here.
Robert’s “Follow Your Dream Handbook” is an Amazon #1 Bestseller. It’s a combination memoir of his unique musical journey and a step by step how-to follow and succeed at your dream. Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
Audio production:
Jimmy Ravenscroft
Kymera Films
Connect with John at:
www.johnhelliwell.com
Connect with the Follow Your Dream Podcast:
Listen to the Follow Your Dream Podcast on these podcast platforms:
Follow Robert’s band, Project Grand Slam, and his music: