In the history of '70s and '80s rock music, Mike Chapman is one of the least known, but most influential people.
As a boy he collected bottles at the Brisbane showgrounds, and traded them for money, which he then saved to buy his first guitar.
He later moved to the UK, hoping to become a rock and roll star.
He ultimately became a success writing songs for others, creating huge hits for bands including The Sweet, Smokey, and Suzi Quatro.
In the US, Mike produced Blondie's classic album, Parallel Lines, which sold more than 20 million copies.
Mike continues to write and produce music all over the world.
Further information
2025 update: a documentary about Mike is in production, called ‘Simply the Best: The Mike Chapman Story’.
Originally broadcast July 2011.
Songs edited for podcast.
- Sunday Girl performed by Blondie
- Hanging on the Telephone performed by Blondie
- Ballroom Blitz performed by The Sweet
- Stumblin' In performed by Suzi Quatro and Chris Norman
- My Sharona performed by The Knack
Standout story – Brenda Blethyn
Hear Richard’s conversation with Brenda Blethyn.
https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/stage-and-screen-actor-brenda-blethyn/7823938
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