Behind The Scenes

Radio Devon's Vic Morgan celebrated the roots of rock and blues music with a special two-hour programme live from New York City.

Broadcast on Monday 12 November 2007, the programme featured some fascinating guests from the world of blues and rock music. 

"It's the realisation of a dream to broadcast from one of the world's great musical cities," said Vic.

"During the progamme, we talk to some of the people who create and promote some of the best music in America.

"The trip also gave us the chance to visit some of the most historic musical venues, like the Apollo in Harlem and Madison Square Garden.

"I'm really excited about this edition of Vic Morgan Rocks, and the listener can be assured that not a penny will come out of the BBC licence fee for the trip.

Vic with Steve Forbert and guests

"It's two middle aged blokes visiting New York on holiday, and making a radio programme at the same time."

Vic was joined by special guests, Steve Forbert and Michael Powers, two of the most influential figures on the blues and rock scene today.

Steve has been in the music business since his teens and released his first album, Alive on Arrival, in 1978.

Now in his fourth decade as a singer-songwriter, he's recently released a new album, Strange Names & New Sensations. 

Steve's musical style is characterised by a combination of wit, social consciousness and ever-present romantic optimism - something that has endeared him to two generations of folk-rock fans.

Blues guitarist Michael Powers

Michael Powers, a five-times Blues Award nominee, was brought up on a nightly diet of blues and gospel music played to him by his mother Doris.

At the age of seven she bought him a guitar by cashing in her savings stamps. Every day, Michael had to listen to records and play along with them.

It would prove to be a strong influence as Doris' favorites included Muddy Waters, Lightnin Hopkins, Jimmy Reed, Billie Holiday, and John Lee Hooker.

From his first band 'The R&B Zig Zags' to working with the likes of Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter and Robert Cray, he went on to critical accliam as a solo artist.

Vic with Stephanie Todd

Vic also talked to Joe Budnick, president of UMO Music, a non-profit organisation based in Greenwich Village, which helps develop and promote original singers, songwriters and bands.

UMO is funded through private donations, membership contributions and sales of its annual CD, which features the best singer-songwriters recorded during its weekly showcase and open-mike sessions.

Stephanie Todd, one of the artists supported by UMO, will be singing live on the show. 

The two-hour special was broadcast live from the BBC studios in Midtown, Manhattan on Monday 12 November. You can also listen again on this website.

Vic Morgan Rocks is broadcast each Monday evening from 6pm on BBC Radio Devon. So dust off your Afghan coat, string on some beads, and get ready to rock!