146. Carmine Appice - Star Studded Return!

146. Carmine Appice - Star Studded Return!

Author: VRP Rocks March 30, 2026 Duration: 31:22
In this episode of VRP Rocks, Paul Stephenson welcomes back legendary drummer Carmine Appice — one of rock’s most enduring and well-connected musicians. Carmine returns to talk about the brand new Cactus album, Temple of the Blues 2, a powerful blues-rock release packed with an incredible all-star lineup. Featuring contributions from Dee Snider, Joe Lynn Turner, Billy Sheehan, Rudy Sarzo, Tracii Guns, Bumblefoot, Pat Travers, Ted Nugent and many more, this is a record built on collaboration, creativity and serious musical firepower. In the interview, Carmine reveals how the album came together, from hand picking the songs and players, to building each track layer by layer, and managing a project that brings together some of the biggest names in rock. We also dive into standout moments from the album, including “The Red Rooster”, and the story behind its eye-catching video, plus how this project evolved from the success of the first Temple of the Blues release. If you love bluesy hard rock, great musicianship, and behind-the-scenes insight into how major collaborative albums are made, this is one you won’t want to miss. 🎸 Temple of the Blues 2 is released April 3rd — available to pre-order now on CD, vinyl and digital formats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a certain magic in hearing the stories behind the music directly from the people who created it. VRP Rocks-Classic Rock Interviews is built on that simple idea, offering long-form conversations with the legendary artists who defined an era. Each episode features a different iconic figure, with an impressive roster that includes more than thirty Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Hosted by UK radio veteran Paul Stephenson, the discussions go beyond the greatest hits to explore the personal memories, studio sessions, and touring tales from the heart of rock's glory days. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of the creativity, chaos, and camaraderie that fueled classic rock, all presented with a deep respect for the genre and its history. This isn't just a series of quick promotional chats; it's a thoughtfully produced podcast dedicated to preserving these narratives. For anyone who has ever wondered about the real stories behind the anthems, this podcast serves as an essential oral history, recorded for fans who want to listen closely.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

VRP Rocks - Classic Rock Interviews
Podcast Episodes
105. Rudy Sarzo - Quiet Riot/Ozzy/Whitesnake [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:50
Rudy Sarzo—an iconic figure in the world of rock music—opens up about his fascinating journey, from his early days playing in club bands with his brother to his professional career with renowned bands like Ozzy Osbourne,…
104. Vinny Appice - Black Sabbath/Dio [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:13
Legendary drummer Vinny Appice, known for his iconic work with Black Sabbath and Dio, has had an incredible career that spans decades and includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in rock. In this episode, V…
103. Adrian Vandenberg - Whitesnake/Vandenberg [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:00
Today's special interview is with Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg! In this episode, Adrian, renowned for his work with bands like Vandenberg and Whitesnake shares captivating stories from his early struggles in Holland…
Side 2 - Joe Bonamassa Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:19
In this special Side 2 episode of VRP Rocks, host Paul Stephenson sits down with blues rock guitar legend, Joe Bonamassa, for a quick chat about his new album Blues Deluxe Vol.2 and tour. Joe reflects on the first Blues…
102. Doug Aldrich - Whitesnake/Dio [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:11
VRP Rocks takes listeners on a musical journey through the fascinating career of guitar player Doug Aldrich. From his early influences and auditions with iconic bands like Kiss to his time working alongside legends Ronni…
Jim McCarty - Yardbirds: My 5 Favourite... [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:06
Join us for as we dive into the world of one of the most influential bands in rock history, The Yardbirds! In this special edition of "My 5 Favorites," we sit down with the legendary Jim McCarty, drummer and founding mem…
101. Martin Barre - Jethro Tull [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:17
VRP sits down with the legendary guitarist Martin Barre, former member of Jethro Tull, to discuss his remarkable journey and the highs and lows of his career. Martin Barre's success didn't come easily, and he openly shar…
100. Peter Frampton!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:02
Welcome to the milestone 100th episode of VRP Rocks, where we bring you exclusive interviews with the biggest names in rock music. In this special episode, Paul plays you his exclusive new interview with the one and only…
99. Uli Jon Roth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:39
We have a special treat for guitar enthusiasts as we sit down with the legendary Uli Jon Roth! Known for his incredible talent and iconic contributions to bands like the Scorpions, Uli shares his journey with the guitar…
John Illsley - Dire Straits: My 5 Favourite... [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:58
Paul sits down again with John Illsley, renowned member of the legendary band Dire Straits. As part of the new series "My Five Favourite," John takes us on a journey through his most beloved songs from the bands back cat…