Episode 13: Cheryl Baker - Part 1: A Journey Through Music and Fame
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Release Date: 11/18/2025
Episode 17: Session Drummer Darren Ashford: Part 2 - Navigating the Music Industry: Insights and Experiences
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
This conversation explores the significance of reading music in the music industry, the diverse experiences of musicians, and the balance between performance and personal life. Darren shares his insights on the importance of musical education, the challenges faced in learning instruments, and memorable gigs that shaped his career. Darren & Me’sha emphasise the joy of performing and the unique experiences that come with being a musician, while also discussing the importance of finding balance in life and the challenges of learning to play the drums. Darren's links: Stage...
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Episode 16: Behind the Mic: Merry Christmas!! Looking Forward...
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this festive episode of Stage and Screen, Me’sha reflect on the past year, express gratitude to their audience, and share their holiday traditions. They celebrate milestones, including new subscribers and community engagement, while also discussing the joys and challenges of the holiday season. The conversation is filled with warmth, humour, and a sense of togetherness as they look forward to the new year. Takeaways It's been a beautiful thing to connect with listeners. The festive season is a time for togetherness. Community engagement has grown significantly this year. Milestones...
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Episode 15: Session Drummer Darren Ashford: Part 1 - The Art of Drumming and Bodybuilding
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Darren Ashford, a renowned session drummer and two-time all-natural bodybuilding champion, shares insights into his journey in music and fitness. He discusses the physical demands of drumming, the importance of stamina, and how his bodybuilding experience has influenced his performance. The conversation also delves into the setup of his music studio, the challenges of lugging equipment, and the dedication required to excel in both music and fitness. This conversation explores the evolving landscape of drumming, touching on themes of teaching, motivation, practice habits, the impact of...
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Episode 14: Cheryl Baker - Part 2: From Music to TV and Back Again
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this engaging conversation, Me'sha quizes Cheryl into the intricacies of making music videos, the transition to television presenting, and the challenges faced while hosting the popular show Record Breakers. Cheryl reflects on the impact of parenthood on her career, shares heartfelt memories of the late Roy Castle, and discuss the evolution of her identities within the entertainment industry. The conversation highlights the joys and struggles of returning to music and the importance of maintaining a professional persona while navigating fame. Cheryl reflects on her journey through fame,...
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Episode 13: Cheryl Baker - Part 1: A Journey Through Music and Fame
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this engaging conversation, Me’sha chats to Cheryl Baker, known for her role in the iconic pop group Bucks Fizz, shares her journey through the music industry, from her early days in a band called Coco to her experiences with Eurovision and the dynamics of being in a manufactured pop group. She reflects on her love for harmony singing, the challenges of transitioning to a professional career, and the relationships formed within her band. Cheryl's warmth and humour shine through as she recounts memorable moments and the serendipitous nature of her career. In this engaging conversation,...
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Episode 12: Behind the Mic: Darren's Cold & Navigating the Entertainment Industry
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this episode, Me'sha Bryan shares personal updates, reflections on recent podcast episodes, and discusses the challenges faced in the entertainment industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support among artists and the need for open communication about industry issues. Me'sha also encourages audience engagement for future episodes, particularly with upcoming guests. Takeaways It's important to acknowledge one's own contribution to any issues you're having. Singing requires proper technique and foundation behind it. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and support...
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Episode 11: Emer McParland - Part 2: Unlocking the Secrets of Sight Singing
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this conversation, Me’sha & Emer delve into the intricacies of sight singing, its importance in the music industry, and Emer’s personal journey in creating a comprehensive sight singing course. They discuss the challenges faced in sight singing, humorous anecdotes from their experiences, and the impact of AI on music. The conversation also touches on finding balance in life and work, the joy of teaching, and future endeavours in the entertainment industry. Takeaways Sight singing is a crucial skill for musicians. Many musicians struggle with sight singing despite having...
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Episode 10: Lee Hall - Part 2: From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this conversation, Me'sha & Lee dive into the intricacies of writing, storytelling, and the collaborative nature of theatre. They discuss the evolution of the musical 'Billy Elliot', the importance of audience engagement, and the emotional depth in storytelling. Their dialogue touches on the writer's journey, the significance of feedback, and the political power of writing to foster empathy. The speakers share insights into their creative processes and the challenges of navigating collaboration in the arts, while also hinting at future projects and the unpredictability of the creative...
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Episode 9: Emer McParland - Part 1: Navigating the music industry as an elite session singer.
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this delightfully engaging conversation, session vocalist Emer McParland shares her extensive journey through the music industry, highlighting her early influences, the importance of family support, and her education at Trinity College of Music. She discusses the significance of adaptability in her career as a session singer, the techniques she employs to maintain vocal health, and the creative process behind interpreting various musical styles. Emer's insights into the challenges and joys of performance provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of a versatile artist. In this...
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Episode 8: Behind the Mic: Migraine Musings and Interview Insights
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this episode, Me’sha Bryan reflects on the journey of the podcast, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from previous guests. She discusses the importance of audience engagement and the learning experiences that come with podcasting. Me’sha emphasises the value of thoughtful reflection and community building within the entertainment industry. Links: Takeaways Me’sha has chronic migraines, which he openly discusses. The podcast has reached a significant milestone with its episodes. Engagement with the audience is crucial for the podcast's success. Me’sha's presenting style is...
info_outlineIn this engaging conversation, Me’sha chats to Cheryl Baker, known for her role in the iconic pop group Bucks Fizz, shares her journey through the music industry, from her early days in a band called Coco to her experiences with Eurovision and the dynamics of being in a manufactured pop group. She reflects on her love for harmony singing, the challenges of transitioning to a professional career, and the relationships formed within her band. Cheryl's warmth and humour shine through as she recounts memorable moments and the serendipitous nature of her career. In this engaging conversation, Cheryl Baker reflects on her experiences with Bucks Fizz, discussing the dynamics within the band, the challenges of popularity, and the impact of Mike Nolan's departure. She shares insights into the new line-up, her audition experiences, and the demanding nature of live theatre. Cheryl also expresses her desire to explore straight acting roles and discusses her singing training, highlighting the complexities of vocal techniques.
Links:
Cheryl's Website:
The Fizz Website & Socials
https://www.thefizzofficial.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thefizzofficial/?locale=en_GB
https://www.instagram.com/thefizzcmjn
Stage and Screen
http://stageandscreenpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/
Me'sha's Website & Socials
https://www.instagram.com/meshabryan/
Takeaways
Cheryl Baker has been in the music industry for over 40 years.
Her first paid performance was with a band called Mother's Pride in 1975.
Cheryl's love for harmony singing was influenced by her family and early musical experiences.
She won a talent competition at a young age, which boosted her confidence.
Cheryl's transition to professional singing was marked by her involvement with the band Coco.
She experienced the highs and lows of Eurovision, including coming in second and last in different years.
Joining Bucks Fizz was a pivotal moment in her career, facilitated by connections in the industry.
The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex, with strong friendships and some challenges.
Cheryl reflects on the importance of chemistry in a musical group.
Her journey highlights the role of serendipity and timing in achieving success. Cheryl was often late, which caused tension in the band.
Mike Nolan's support was crucial for Cheryl's career.
The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex and sometimes contentious.
Cheryl reflects on the popularity of the band and its members.
The new line-up of Bucks Fizz brings fresh energy and enthusiasm.
Audition experiences can be both challenging and enlightening.
Live theatre demands a strong work ethic and can be all-consuming.
Cheryl expresses interest in pursuing straight acting roles.
Training in singing can be a rigorous process.
The ability to adapt vocal techniques is a valuable skill.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cheryl Baker and Bookz Fizz
02:59 Cheryl's Early Career and Musical Beginnings
06:09 The Formation of Coco and Transition to Bookz Fizz
09:05 Memorable Performances and Family Influence
12:06 Eurovision Journey and Its Impact
14:52 The Dynamics of Being in a Group
17:58 The Formation of Bucks Fizz and Initial Experiences
27:19 The Tension in the Band
30:08 Friendship and Loyalty
33:19 Reflections on Change and Growth
36:43 The New Line-Up
39:06 Audition Experiences
43:40 The Challenges of Theatre Life
45:36 Exploring Acting and Training