Ray Cooper joins Gary and Guy for Rockonteurs

Ray Cooper joins Gary and Guy for Rockonteurs

Author: Gary Kemp and Guy Pratt March 1, 2026 Duration: 1:05:15

This week on the Rockonteurs podcast, we are joined by the legendary percussionist Ray Cooper. Ray has performed with so many of our favourite artists over the years but is forever synonymous as being part of Elton John's band since 1972. 

In a fascinating conversation with Guy and Gary, Ray talks about a life with Elton and recording classic albums like 'Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy', a masterpiece that recently turned 50.

You can but the 50th anniversary edition of that album here: https://eltonjohn.lnk.to/CF50


Instagram @rockonteurs @guyprattofficial @garyjkemp @raycooperofficial @eltonjohn @gimmesugarproductions 

 

Listen to the podcast and watch some of our latest episodes on our Rockonteurs YouTube channel.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rockonteurs

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rockonteurs

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therockonteurs

Produced for WMG UK by Ben Jones at Gimme Sugar Productions


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Tune into Rockonteurs with Gary Kemp and Guy Pratt for a backstage pass to music history, hosted by two genuine insiders who lived it. Gary Kemp, the Spandau Ballet songwriter behind anthems like ‘True’ and ‘Gold’, teams up with legendary session bassist Guy Pratt, whose playing underpinned tracks for Pink Floyd and Madonna. Together, they bypass the usual fan questions and press tour anecdotes to dig into the real stories behind real music. This podcast thrives on conversations with the artists, producers, and engineers who were actually in the room, pulling back the curtain on what really happened during those iconic recording sessions, chaotic tours, and career-defining moments. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of the creative clashes, the spontaneous genius, and the sheer hard graft that shaped classic rock and pop. The tone is more like a chat between old friends who happen to have incredible rolodexes, full of laughter, surprising revelations, and a deep, authentic respect for the craft. Each episode feels like you’re eavesdropping on a fascinating, insider conversation you won’t get anywhere else, all grounded in the hosts’ own vast experiences on stage and in the studio. It’s essential listening for anyone who loves the stories behind the songs.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Rockonteurs with Gary Kemp and Guy Pratt
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