In this brand new series, we dig deep into the story behind some of the most memorable hits that we all know and love. In this episode of The Story Behind we uncover the unexpected and harrowing origin of the feel-good anthem “Dancing in the Moonlight.”

What sounds like a carefree celebration of joy and unity under moonlit skies was, in fact, born out of a traumatic and violent experience. Songwriter Sherman Kelly and his girlfriend were brutally attacked by a notorious gang—a moment that would forever shape the song’s deeper meaning. Discover how a terrifying night sparked a timeless hit, and how music can transform pain into hope. 

In this episode, we delve into the tragic and controversial story that inspired the Boomtown Rats’ haunting hit, "I Don't Like Mondays." We trace the origins of the song and how lead singer Bob Geldof and keyboardist Johnny Fingers came up with the idea, before taking listeners back to 1979 when 16-year-old Brenda Ann Spencer opened fire at a school in San Diego, California, killing two people and injuring nine.

We also explore the events leading up to the shooting, Brenda’s background, possible motives, and what ultimately happened to her. We also examine the public's reaction to the song, the backlash it received, and the controversy that led to it being banned from radio play in San Diego.

Join us as we explore how a tragic event inspired a hit song and the controversy that followed.

*TRIGGER WARNING* This episode contains references to sexual abuse, suicide and school shootings. 

In this episode of Lyrics Of Their Life – The Story Behind, we delve into the devastating  tragedy that inspired one of the most moving ballads ever written, “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton.

As we examine how the deeply flawed Eric Clapton confronted unimaginable grief after the tragic death of his four and a half year old son Conor,  who tragically fell 53 storeys from a New York apartment building in 1991. As we discover how such tragedy and heartbreak could inspire a song that would resonate with millions around the world providing many with the hope for an eventual reunion in the afterlife.

In this episode of Lyrics Of Their Life – The Story Behind, we delve into the story behind the classic rock anthem "Smoke On The Water" by Deep Purple and the 1971 Montreux casino fire that inspired the song. We also take a look at the challenging recording process for the track as well as the Machine Head album and the impact the song has had to this day. 

In this episode of Lyrics Of Their Life – The Story Behind, we delve into the powerful and deeply moving story behind The Killing of Georgie (Part I and II) by Rod Stewart.

Released in 1976, the song was inspired by the real-life murder of a friend of Rod's and the band "Faces" — a young gay man who was killed by a New Jersey gang of youths during a time when homosexuality was still criminalised in many parts of the world and violence against the gay community was tragically common.

In this episode, we unpack the rise of Rod Stewart from North London rocker to global superstar, the true story behind Georgie, The social climate of the 1970s and why the song was considered risky, The backlash, bans and controversy surrounding its release and the lasting legacy of a track that helped break down barriers in popular music and even within society.

**Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses themes of violence, sexual references and discrimination that may be distressing to some listeners**

Did Phil Collins really watch on as a drowning man was refused help by a bystander and did Phil confront this bystander when inviting him to the front row of his show? For over 40 years, one of rock music’s darkest urban legends has surrounded the hit "In The Air Tonight.". However the misunderstood lyrics actually tell the true story of Phil's marriage breakdown and the bitterness, betrayal and anger he felt when he discovered his wife had been unfaithful. 

On this episode of Lyrics of Their Life, we delve deep into the story behind one of the darkest but greatest pop tracks of all time: Michael Jackson’s "Billie Jean."

Come with me behind the scenes of a grueling recording process that saw Quincy Jones and Michael clash over creative differences. We'll revisit the literal trial by fire when Michael's car almost went up in flames as he was entirely obsessed with the infectious beat of Billie Jean running through his head and the schoolyard fashion trend that Michael sparked with his iconic Billie Jean outfit.

We also take a look at the iconic moments that defined this era:

• The Motown 25 Debut: The night the world first witnessed the Moonwalk.

• Breaking the Barrier: How "Billie Jean" shattered the MTV colour barrier forever.

• The Paranoid Anthem: The true inspiration behind the mystery.

• The Real Life "Billie Jean" The stalkers known as "Billie Jeans" who prayed on Michael both before and after the tracks success including the notorious Lavon Powlis who would haunt Michael for the remainder of his career.