He’s interviewed almost everyone… everyone except Bob Dylan, John Lennon, and Mozart, and now Misadventures in Music welcomes back the one and only Spencer Leigh.
In Episode 32, we’re graced once more by the legendary Liverpool music historian, radio presenter and writer. On this occasion we’re celebrating his new autobiography 80 at 80: A Liverpool Life in 80 Chapters. As ever, the stories flow freely and delivered with Spencer’s signature warmth, humour, and unrivalled knowledge.
Having written over 50 books and recorded hundreds of interviews for BBC Radio Merseyside and beyond, Spencer shares highlights from a career that has captured the soul of Liverpool’s music scene like no other. From his iconic 1990s interview with Rory Gallagher to tales of Billy Fury’s sensual stage presence (and his mum screaming from the crowd), listeners are taken on a vivid journey through rock ‘n’ roll’s golden decades with plenty of Scouse characters and chaos along the way.
- A rare clip of Spencer’s Rory Gallagher interview, where Rory traces his influences from Irish folk to Leadbelly and Muddy Waters.
- Personal memories of Billy Fury, Freddie Starr, and Cilla Black, told with affection and unflinching honesty.
- Hilarious tales of Keith Moon, including the time he stormed The Mousetrap stage to spoil the ending for the audience.
- Reflections on his friendships with Bob Wooler and Alan Williams, and the untold backstage dramas of Liverpool’s post-Beatles music scene.
- A heartfelt appreciation of Jamie Webster, Willie Nelson, and the ongoing musical soul of Liverpool today.
Throughout the episode, Spencer’s deep love for Liverpool shines. Whether he’s unpacking the strange afterlives of Merseybeat icons or sharing the poignant legacy of a Judy Collins song, his voice is that of a living archive — and a reminder that music history isn’t something distant or dusty; it’s alive, breathing, and still being written in real time.
As host Ian Prowse says,
“Every time I spend time with you, I come away with a depth of information that nobody else has.” And after 80 years on Earth, Spencer Leigh still has more to give. Thankfully, he shows no signs of slowing down.
80 at 80: A Liverpool Life in 80 Chapters is out now and available at Waterstones.
