12: Elis James
Summary
Comedian Ellis James joins host Paul Richards to discuss his musical journey, from early pop influences like Kylie Minogue to his formative years with Welsh bands Gorky’s Zygotic Myncin. He reflects on the accessibility of Britpop, his experiences playing in bands, and the logistical challenges of touring as a stand-up comic. The episode also covers his recent Welsh-language S4C special and how his taste evolved through garage rock and psychedelia.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest Ellis James
Post-lockdown gigs and Adwaith
Childhood music memories: Rod Stewart and Kylie Minogue
Sister's eclectic taste and buying singles as a teen
Music collections defining personality and the rise of Shazam
First purchases: Jason Donovan and Bryan Adams
Discovering Nirvana, Oasis, and Gorky's Zygotic Mynci
Welsh language music scene and cultural identity
Growing up speaking Welsh and finding community in music
Writing and touring his S4C comedy special
Learning guitar and the accessibility of Britpop era
Influence of The Beatles documentary and 60s music discovery
Playing in bands and the reality of gigging
Transition to comedy and exploring garage rock
Jazz influences and the mystery of songwriting
DJ set favorites and the Strokes' impact
Recent albums, Cymru Connection podcast, and wrap-up
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