My ex brother-in-law was in a local band, called The Firm in the 1980s. His band had the legal rights to the name. A bandmate, who is also an attorney, negotiated a payment with Jimmy page and the management of the supergroup to take the name. It wasn’t a windfall, but it was a cool experience.
@@ProfessorofRock yes, I am serious😀 I am from Omaha Nebraska. The band was called the firm until you know who bought the name. Then the name of the band was changed to the front. They played for several years locally as a bar band.
@@fierro7771 I cannot. I edited my original comment. I meant to say it wasn’t a windfall. I know that it wasn’t that much money, but it wasn’t really my place to ask because I was a 15-year-old kid.
You have to remember that Bad Company was the first band signed to Zepp's Swan Song label in 1974 and Jimmy Page would show up on gigs and play during Bad Company's 1974 tour, so Jimmy and Paul's stage interaction go back a long way before the Firm. So it was a natural progression for the Firm and it worked!
Two rock legends working together like civilized human beings, not having a fit and walking out when one doesn't get their way ... a rare story indeed.
yeh usually stories about rock stars in epic feuds once on bbc jimi interview the firm was a nice time in his music career enjoyable experience he and paul band crew and said the records have held up well.over the years
I didn't know Paul Rogers was in any other band except for Bad Company, until I found out on this channel. I was watching the interview with Anne Wilson when I heard her talking about him. Thanks, Professor of Rock. I learn alot from this channel.
@debbie = Do yourself a wonderful King-sized favour Debbie & watch THIS masterful magical video, link below ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-SgT6ZEzwPY0.htmlsi=EadIV0blPlDPVxSG = Granada T.V Studios, Manchester, England, 1970 It shows Paul (Rodgers) with his original band, FREE who are more famous for "All Right Now", of course. To me, this track AND performance shows just how 'on fire' FREE really were in their heyday & Paul at his best Such a GREAT natural voice, vocal performance AND of course, delivered with natural, but not embarrasing swagger Still is my No.1 favourite music video on You Tube, bar none...
Adam, I was floored when you said that Paul Rodgers is not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! How is that even possible? This man, who so many great artists have cited as being a major influence on them. We need to start a campaign to make this happen!
It's okay with me that they don't put Paul Rodgers in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame as long as they rename it the Paul Rodgers Rock and roll Hall of fame.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 when my wife and I visited the RRHOF, some of the people who were in and the people who were left out had us completely baffled. Some exhibits were outstanding. One of the reasons for us going was to see the John Lennon exhibit. I think Yoko had a huge part in it and it was completely well done. Everything from song lyrics on scraps of paper, drawings he made for Sean and Julien, his guitar collection, and photos of him as a child. There were photos and stories before during and after the Beatles. The final exhibit was of his glasses with the blood stains from when he was murdered. It was rather chilling. There was a phone there and sometimes Yoko would call and talk to whomever answered. We waited, but the phone never rang.
Im so glad you did this interview!! I wasn't a fan of the Firm growing up, but thankfully revisited their music a few years ago and was hooked! Its what I call "long drive music " 😊 I listen to them when I go back home to visit ❤I think when I first heard them i wasn't able to appreciate the artistry.. now in my 50s, it hits my ears and soul "just right " ❤ I hope you and your family has a wonderful week Professor! And MERRY CHRISTMAS to you all! Hugs and cheer from Oklahoma ~Christy
Finally...The Firm! Their albums were released when I was in HS. They weren't Zeppelin, they weren't Bad Co., they had their own sound and I liked it. I always wondered why they only did 2 albums. The albums were really good. I never knew Page told Rodgers they would only do 2 albums. I love Rodgers' interviews. He seems like such a humble, down to earth guy. As to why he isn't in the Rock Hall? Bad Co. alone should have been elected a couple of decades ago. But, you know, apparently Public Enemy and Madonna are more influential rock artists.
Professor, did you hear about a recent episode of Jeapordy, where 3 contestants were shown a picture of Led Zeppelin with the clue they recorded Houses of the Holy . None of the contestants (all in their thirties) could identify them. Our culture is gone.
I saw The Firm at The Philadelphia Spectrum on their first tour in 1985. This was Jimmy's first Philly show in 10 years, hence the 1975 Physical Graffiti tour. Needless to say the place went nuts for him. The "Jimmy,Jimmy" chant after every song. Midnight Moonlight Lady stole the show for me. What an incredible piece from an unfinished Zeppelin track called Swan song. This was the year of Jimmy Page for me. For a couple months later he would return to play with the Beach Boys on July 4th at the Art Museum. And of course, July 13th would see him reunited with Plant and Jonesy. Thanks Adam, I really enjoyed this episode. One of your absolute best. Cheers, Link
I think Paul Rodgers is definitely one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time, although,for some reason, often overlooked by critics. It's wonderful to hear other artists and producers sing his praises. Freddie Mercury is seen as the absolute greatest vocalist ever - you said that he had high praise for Paul, too. Would love to know what Freddie had to say about Paul!
POR more producers please! More behind the music stories from the men that shaped and caressed the artistry of our favorite bands. Especially Mutt Lange!
Can you please thank Paul for being the soundtrack to my youth mountaineering expedition to the Himalaya in Ladkah in 1992. I'd heard "Allright now" on that Wrigley Chewing Gum advert and bought "The Free Story" cassette. It remained stuck in my Walkman the whole trip, and it fitted to the being on the road feeling as we did mountain biking, white water rafting, Tibetan archery, visited monasteries, Taj Mahal, sort of the old hippy trail experience. "Travelling Man" was obv a fave also! Every song on that collection is a fave! Thank you Paul!
^^^ Great tale & GLAD to see yet another aficionado of "The Free Story" double album that I bought in my youth (1970's) Obviously I bought the vinyl album & on the centrefold is just THE coolest photo' of Paul Rodgers, EVER !!!!!!
Oh how I would be grateful to hear a 3rd Firm album, I absolutely LOVE this band and realize touring is probably not possible, but how sweet would it be to find out Paul, Jimmy, Tony, & Chris are working on a new album of great music again?! Please, this band has SO MUCH more in the tank!
Great video you sir are a master of your craft thanks for all you do! I saw The Firm on the day of my 18th birthday what a present that was. I recently chatted with Tony Franklin and he said he would play on my next CD.Now my pipe dream is to get Paul to sing as well lol...Thanks Professor great video...
I saw the Firm in '84 in AZ. One of the best shows I ever saw and, I tell you honestly, the bass solo was unreal. Tony Franklin rocked the entire house and had folks dancing in the isles.
Fantastic story. Legendary. I heard *Radioactive* and went nuts. I was unfamiliar with Chris Slade and Tony Franklin at the time, but that didn't deter me from enjoying the band! I was finally able to get my hands on the CD in the mid-90s, and listen to all the other songs that never got much, if any, airplay. Yes, I still have it, and enjoy it to this day! Professor, as usual, an eye-opener of a story! Thank you Sir, and Paul, for sharing!
"Midnight Moonlight", "Satisfaction Guaranteed", "Cadillac", and "Live In Peace" are just such great songs. I remember buying both Firm albums brand new back in the mid 80s as a teenager. That band and their two albums deserve much more credit, very underrated.
That proves everything Steve Miller said about the Hall of Fame and.... Paul Rogers, the GOAT, not being inducted is an example of how bad the hall has become. The best vocalists ever. ...in a lot of eyes.
I love Paul Rodgers. He has such a great voice (singing and talking). Love that Yorkshire accent! He has such a nice attitude in interviews, and seems like he could be anyone's nextdoor neighbor. Thanks for posting! 😎😍
I saw Paul Rodgers in Austin in 2005 or so. What an amazing show! He’s funny, personable, and had some great short stories about several of the songs. I never knew I was a fan until seeing him live.
What a great story with two legends. It’s so awesome how he remembers he was hitchhiking, the first time he heard All Right Now. And so touching that he produced the album for free, but Paul gave him his ring , which truly meant a great deal to him as a thank you. As far as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he doesn’t need them or anyone else to validate his talent. His accomplishments speak for themselves . Thank you for sharing this with us.
Paul Rodgers is one of my all time favourite vocalists. I grew up listening to Free and Bad Company and still crank them up when driving. Thanks for this video, it's very cool. The Firm was a great band as well. One great singer and guitar pairing I really like are Brad Delp and Tom Scholz of the band Boston.
The Firm only top 50 entry here in Australia is their Album called The Firm number 36 in May 1985 ; single Radioactive peaked at 96 in May 1985; All Right Now Free peaked at 44 in October 1970 ;
I liked your interview with Bob Rock and Paul Rogers. You had mentioned that Freddie Mercury said that Paul had one of the best voices ever, which made me surprised that you never mentioned that after Freddie's passing, Paul had fronted Queen for a bit. They even put out an album in 2008 called The Cosmos Rocks, billed as Queen and Paul Rogers.
Man… I remember being 13 and watching MTV when Radioactive came on and I was FLOORED!! I recognized “The Voice” and just stopped whatever I had been doing and just… LISTENED! That song just takes me back to a more simple time. Back when I didn’t have to worry about getting to work on time or dealing with self important customers or having to worry about gas money or lunch money or doctors appointments… just a more simple time. I’ve loved Paul Rodgers voice since I was NINE!!
Greetings young warrior, from Cedar City! I remember in the late 60’s when my best friend’s band was playing at the after dance after Friday night football games; I was in charge of playing the cowbell at the beginning of; All Right Now and during the song 🎵. I was a fan of Free’s music. I kinda always liked the darker stuff like; Soon I will be Gone. All the Kings Horses 🐎 was a favorite of mine from The Firm. Great interviews as always. I could tell that Paul enjoyed you throwing him the love from your younger generation. Have a great Monday. God bless. Blaze
The early to mid 80’s was a magical time for rock music. The greats like Paul Rodgers and Jimmy Page still had a lot to share with the world and man did they achieve that goal. Just two albums but those two albums will live on for many generations to enjoy just as we did when it was first released.
@@ProfessorofRock I didn’t but I was quite surprised when I heard the news. Actually I was pretty excited about it too. I was very bummed out over the announcement of Led Zeppelin’s disbandment and hearing Jimmy Page was joined with Paul …well let’s just say it was a great thing to hear. Satisfaction Guaranteed is still a favorite of mine.
magical time of Yamaha DX-7 crap. remember the Thompson Twins. gimme Allman Brothers Band with Duane & Dickey blowing the roof of the Fillmore East. 80s was MTV bullshit
@@bbb8997 The whole idea is to keep the music fresh and be willing to try new things to achieve that goal. Yes there was a lot of what we called “New Wave” music that missed the mark among old school rockers. Hell I’m a hardcore Iron Maiden fan so listening to the Thompson Twins was not on my radar.
I saw them in concert they were wonderful! Jimmy Page played Dazed and Confused with his bow. I missed Led Zeppelin Bonham died like a week before I was going to see them at 10yrs old. Anyway, he was magical!!
Many of you probably don't know that Bob Rock was a co-founder of the very good Vancouver, BC band named The Payolas. Their best hit song was probably "Eyes Of A Stranger" along with "Where Is The Love." After The Payolas, Bob Rock went on to form Rock And Hyde who had two more good hit songs named "Dirty Water '87" and "I Will." * NOTE: If you check Bob Rock's Wikipedia page you'll see a vast amount of rock credits * Enjoy the music!
Also Barenaked Ladies couldn't play their hometown (Toronto) city hall summer festival because of a prudish lady mayor. Also heard Cheap Trick had problems in Las Vegas because casinos didn't want their name on their marquis.
Brilliant Song that's taking me 30 and 40 years to understand- the fretlaess bass pinch harmonic drove me crazy- as a Guitarist until a fretless bassist showed me Magical - now Paul's solo ---- I'm over the moon WOW nice job
Fantastic pair of interviews! Didn't know the other guy and had to look in the write-up underneath. The story Bob Rock told about Page giving him the ring off his finger which he'd had on his finger onstage since 1973. Holy sh*t nice stories, Adam. (that's what Paul Rogers said, he used your name. What a charge that is as well. Wow.)
Never knew Paul played the Radio Active solo! I think I saw them in Dallas Texas at the Reunion Area too :) Love both Paul and Jimmys music! Great video Professor
The Firm came out when I was in high school and I LOVED them! Bought both of the albums they released, wish they had done much more music. Still listen to those two albums to this day. Wonderful music.
Paul Roger’s still has a fabulous voice, I saw him in the 70s with Bad Co and then a few years back I went to see Bad Co & a while later Free Spirit…. He still has a most fantastic voice…. It took me right back to my youth.
Paul was talking about the B-Bender Telecaster. The effect of bending the B string creates a country & western slide guitar sound. Jimmy got obsessed with it on the last two Zeppelin albums and many years after. If you don't know what he's talking about, it's the signature sound of Led Zeppelin's All My Love... that crying guitar sound.
A friend called and said he just saw JP in the lobby of the Hyatt (Tampa where Firm kicked off tour). Didn't even hang up phone, took off, met the whole band, drank with JP, my #1 rock hero. Never forget it, very nice man, took everything I had not to talk nonstop Zep, but did some of course
I wore this tape out back when it first released in ‘85 and I still listen to it frequently now!! Paul’s new album just completely blows me away, it’s phenomenal!!
I knew it had to be The Firm. I bought this album on cassette. I loved them. I bought for Jimmy Page. I am embarrassed to say, i didn’t know who Paul Rodgers was. I knew Bad Company and Free but back before the internet you could not look up stuff. I heard the Firm and bought it after the first single. Now I know who Paul is. I love him and this tape is so good. He should be in the Hall of Fame. I love all of his music. But in the old days I didn’t realize it was the same singer. Like I said Bad Company, Free, the Firm, all loved by this music lover. I love music but couldn’t afford to buy a lot of albums. So the Firm’s first album was a special gift to myself. I knew when you said the best guitarist that it had to be the Firm and Paul. Thank you! I really appreciate you doing this interview. To my ears Paul has the best voice for rock. Peace✌🏻🎶🎸🎵🤘🏻🎶
I don't understand how I forgot about Midnight Moonlight. My best friend and I used to listen to it on the way to go surfing, up over the mountains, twisty roads, sunshine slanting through the trees, and us singing. Amazing times. RIP Jeff Adkins. Thanks POR (It's on my playlist now, again)
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I agree 1000%,!!! Bad Company, especially their first album, was groundbreaking!! Their stuff was played at every party I ever went to back then. Everybody LOVED their music!!! Including me! It still sounds great today!! 😎👍
Jimmy needed to be active after Led Zepplin and teaming up with Paul Rodgers to form the Supergroup The FIRM was perfect, the sound was innovative the lyrics was superb. I hate that they didn't continue but it also made it the perfect Band to survive 40 years and still sound fresh.
I hope you do a video on Robert Plant’s Honeydrippers in the future. Their cover of “Sea Of Love” is fantastic. The original Phil Phillips version is great too.
Paul Rodgers, Robert Plant, Freddie Mercury, Lou Gramm, the premier vocalists in the 70s and beyond.. I was fortunate to see The Firm in Dallas Tx, around 1985-86.. What a show!! Randy A Carlisle //DJ//The Real Oldies Show..
One summer in the early 90s I was at a the local lakeside roadhouse and none other than Paul Rodgers was the headliner. I'm in the mens room relieving myself and in walks Paul greeting me smiling with a "What's up mate! I had to ask him why he was playing at the lakeside roadhouse, his response was "I'll play anywhere I'm welcome and of course when I'm getting paid mate!"
There was a dude in our Syracuse, NY neighborhood who just LOVED The Firm. His favorite band. His license plate read THEFIRM. I just remember my friends and I would look at his plate and how much he loved them and say "damn, that was fast. Didn't they just come out like last year"?
The firm's 1985 debut album was fantastic and the fact you had two legends in Paul Rodgers and Jimmy Page coming together and with an awesome backing band in Tony Franklin and ex Manfred Mann's Earth band drummer Chris Slade this was fantastic stuff also fun fact Jimmy's ex Led Zeppelin bandmate Robert plant also released an solo album the same year as the firm his experimental album shaken n stirred
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 funny enough Tony Franklin and Chris Slade would go on to join other supergroups Tony would team up with guitar legend John Sykes and drummer extraordinaire Carmine appice in 1989 to form blue murder and that album is fantastic by the ways and Chris would have a short stint in the early 2000s with the John Payne era Asia and probably my favorite supergroup was bad English that 1989 album rocks and I wished John Waite did more music like that he totally fits that hard rock aor sound perfectly
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 that's an all time favorite power ballad of all time also loved John's previous band the baby's there is one more supergroup I forgot to mention and I loved their debut 1990 album damn Yankees I mean red Nugent, Tommy Shaw and Jack blades heck yeah
Ah yes, The Firm. Great band that had immense talent, but fizzled out way too soon. Paul Rodgers was underrated as a guitarist and keyboardist. Saw Kansas and Bad Company together, and I was blown away by Paul's musical talent. Thanks for this deep dive, Professor! Another great start to the week!
Fire and Water was the first album that I ever bought. I've been loving his work ever since. And, a huge fan of Jimmy Page's work as well. All in my collection.
What an amazing track! I remember this song from my childhood and it stuck with me after all these years. This is one of the first songs I added to my 80's playlist.
Paul on the solo over Jimmy"the nerve" lol. I knew this would be a great episode. I remember when this album came out and wondered if it would be a zep or bad company album and it turned out to be neither instead it was something completely fresh and different than what their other bands did. I love that you got Mr. Rock, the man behind so many great albums! Hope there is more from him. Wished the firm had kept making albums with the legends of rock together. Great interviews and stories behind this fantastic time
I've been playing guitar about 43 years - still can't do that Radioactive thing! Frankly I was surprised at how good and how much I loved the new record - it's been a longtime that I've heard my kind of music and it was NEW! Nice variety too, not every track the same. Highly recommend it to anyone.
Great interview! In the dictionary the definition for the word Icon is Paul Rodgers , Professor I have question for you Did you ever listen to Paul Rodgers and Company, The Hendrix set live? Its with Neil Shon and Dean Castronova
It's funny how a lot of times songs that are initially a skip on an album eventually turn out to be my favorite song on a given record. I think it has something to do with those songs being a more challenging listen and initially being too impatient to absorb them. I don't know if that's correct, but it's definitely something that occurs when I'm first listening to an album. Great episode. I saw The Firm several times in the 80s, and I was right up front for a couple of shows. Good times.
Paul Rogers the best rock vocalist of all!!! Growing up in the 60's I got to hear him in all his iterations! Free, Bad Company, The Firm, Queen + Paul Rogers, and The Law. everyone had that Paul Rogers Sound they needed and they were chart busters as far as I'm concerned.
Paul’s musical accomplishments and and vocal abilities which have spanned decades have been nothing short of incredible. He is most definitely one of the greatest rock vocalists ever. 👍
The Firm’s debut album blew my mind. 🤯 And I didn’t know that Mr. Rodgers played the “Radioactive” guitar solo! Am I remembering correctly that Mr. Page is shown playing the guitar solo in its video?
