Midge Ure discusses the highs and lows of his career in latest I Never Thought it Would Happen episode

Midge Ure is the musician joining Chris in this episode, to discuss his long and highly eclectic career. From his inauspicious start in a teen pop band to work alongside Sex Pistol Glenn Matlock, through a stint with Thin Lizzy and onto groundbreaking work with Ultravox and Visage, the world changing Live Aid and a diverse solo career. All of this, from the highs to the lows, is considered with lots of humour, self deprecation and keen insight.

The episode also features Jae Phang, a Classical Pianist who received support from Help Musicians’ Postgraduate Awards to cover living expenses and study fees while studying a Music Masters in performance at the Royal Northern College of Music.

Guests who have already appeared on the podcast include Robbie Williams, Ruby Turner, Sting and Yungblud, each offering a unique insight for music lovers and creators alike into life as a recording artist. 

The series coincides with our 100th year as a charity and explores what makes someone want to pursue music as a career, and the ever-changing landscape in which they operate. 

Help Musicians has been needed more than ever this past year, providing over £17m in support to 21,000 professional musicians during the pandemic, many of whom slipped through the gaps of government support. 

By coming on these podcasts, and speaking honestly about their own challenges, the guests are lifting the curtain on what can be an incredibly difficult career. It comes at a time when live music is beginning to return, and while the charity adapts to support the musicians returning to work. 

Through our Music Minds Matter service we also support those in the industry who, like Robbie, experience mental health challenges. The service has seen a huge surge in demand as the music world continues to live with the impact of the pandemic. 

I Never Thought It Would Happen is available for free on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and Castbox. Please subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts. 

The series is hosted on Audioboom and produced by Gimme Sugar.