Hard House History

Paul Glazby

Welcome to Hard House History, formerly known as When I Grow Up, hosted by Hard House icon Paul Glazby. This podcast dives deep into the evolution of the Hard House movement, exploring the music, the culture, and the unforgettable nights that defined an era. Join Paul as he reconnects with the DJs, producers, promoters, and fans who built the scene from the underground up. Whether you lived it or are discovering it for the first time, Hard House History is your front-row seat to the beats, stories, and energy that still move dancefloors today.

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20 episodes
Updated Monday
Explicit

Episodes20

Newest first

Monday · 1 hr 4 min
Bryan Kearney: "Inspirations" The Stories Behind the Music
Bryan Kearney returns to Hard House History for an Inspirations episode that goes far beyond the records themselves. Joining Paul Glazby for the second time, Bryan opens up about the music, memories and real-life experiences behind three tracks from his career, revealing how inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. First up is his remix of Flash – Frantic Theme, a record forever connected to the Irish club scene and Bryan's early days attending venues such as Dublin's legendary Temple Theatre. From Mark Kavanagh destroying Creamfields with the original to producing his own version on a basic home hi-fi system, Bryan explains how a classic record became part of his own musical journey. There's even an exclusive story involving the track's infamous "drug addicts" vocal and perhaps the most inappropriate gig at which he could possibly have played it. Then things get considerably deeper. Bryan reveals the remarkable story behind All Over Again, his collaboration with Plumb. Created during a period when he was processing the sudden loss of his father, the track became a way of turning grief into something positive. He explains where its musical inspiration came from, how Plumb's vocal transformed the record, and why listeners continue to connect with it so deeply. Finally comes Kaia, arguably the most personal record Bryan has ever made. Bryan takes Paul through years of fertility struggles, IVF, major surgery, miscarriage and ultimately the birth of his daughter Kaia. He explains why the original project was simply called "Why?", how the finished record became the closing chapter of an incredibly difficult period, and why his daughter's actual heartbeat was incorporated into the track. It's funny, brutally open and incredibly moving, while offering a rare look at the human experiences behind electronic music. JOIN THE HISTORY These aren't simply stories about records; they're stories about the moments that created them. Subscribe to Hard House History, share the episode with someone who lives for dance music, and join us as we preserve the stories behind the tracks, clubs and people that built our scene. #HardHouseHistory #BryanKearney #PaulGlazby #TranceMusic #HardHouse #DanceMusicHistory #IrishTrance #ClubCulture #ElectronicMusic #TranceFamily
July 27 · 1 hr 7 min
Mijk van Dijk: Schöneberg to Superstardom
Some records define an era, and some artists help create an entirely new movement. This week on Hard House History, Paul Glazby welcomes German electronic music pioneer Mijk van Dijk for an unforgettable conversation that traces the evolution of trance, techno and rave culture from the streets of Berlin to dancefloors around the world. Known for the timeless classic Schöneberg, Mijk reveals the real story behind one of the defining records of the 1990s, explaining the difference between the original release and the legendary Marmion remix that became a UK club anthem. Along the way, he reflects on how a generation of producers weren't trying to fit into genres; they were simply trying to create sounds that had never existed before. The conversation explores Mijk's musical influences, from Prince, Heaven 17 and Detroit techno to the unique atmosphere of West Berlin before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. He shares incredible stories about the birth of Berlin's club culture, the first Love Parade, abandoned warehouses becoming legendary venues, and how labels like MFS Records helped shape what would eventually become trance music. Paul and Mijk also compare the evolution of the German and UK dance scenes, discussing iconic clubs, underground movements, Tony De Vit, Baby Doc, hard house, hard trance and the way different countries inspired each other throughout the 1990s. The episode also brings things right up to date, covering Mijk's recent collaborations with Baby Doc, the Microglobe Collective, and the growing challenges facing club culture as venues continue to disappear across Europe. It's a passionate discussion about why clubs still matter, why dancefloors create lifelong memories, and why innovation remains at the heart of electronic music. Whether you discovered Schöneberg back in the 90s or you're hearing Mijk's story for the very first time, this is an essential episode celebrating one of electronic music's true innovators. Join the History If you love hearing the stories behind the records that shaped generations of clubbers, make sure you subscribe, leave a review and share this episode with a fellow dance music fan. Every listen helps preserve the history of the music we all love. #HardHouseHistory #MijkVanDijk #PaulGlazby #TranceHistory #BerlinTechno #LoveParade #HardHouse #ClassicTrance #ElectronicMusic #DanceMusicPodcast
July 20 · 1 hr
Choci: Shaping Acid House
Paul Glazby sits down with one of the true pioneers of the underground, Choci, a producer, label owner, record shop operator and DJ whose influence helped shape the foundations of acid house, acid techno and the harder sounds that followed. Long before genres were neatly labelled, Choci was making music, running record stores in the heart of London's Soho and releasing groundbreaking records that inspired an entire generation of DJs. In this fascinating episode, he takes us back to the birth of the UK underground, sharing incredible stories from the late 1980s when acid house exploded, the Roland TB-303 changed electronic music forever, and record shops became the beating heart of dance culture. Paul and Choci dive into everything from early warehouse parties and the discovery of acid house to the evolution of Choci's legendary labels, including Chewns, Public House, and VCF Records. Along the way, they discuss legendary producers, Chris Liberator, Dynamic Intervention, Blue Peter, the acid techno family, the rise and fall of vinyl culture, and how social media and AI are changing DJing forever. The conversation is packed with hilarious stories, heartfelt memories and plenty of nostalgia, including tales from the Summer of Love, London's record shop scene, learning to produce with nothing more than a 303 and a drum machine, and why Choci still believes community is at the heart of underground music. Paul also reveals the personal impact Choci's iconic remix of Beyond Motion had on his own DJ career, making for one of the most genuine and emotional moments ever featured on Hardhouse History. If you love the history of rave culture, acid house, hard house, vinyl collecting and the stories behind the people who built the scene, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Join the History If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your mates. Every share helps preserve the stories of the DJs, producers and pioneers who built the underground scene we all love. #HardHouseHistory #Choci #PaulGlazby #AcidHouse #AcidTechno #HardHouse #RaveCulture #VinylCommunity #DanceMusicHistory #ElectronicMusic
July 13 · 54 min
Kirk Field: The Untold Story of UK Rave Culture
Hard House History welcomes one of the true storytellers of UK dance music, Kirk Field, and what unfolds is one of the most fascinating journeys ever told on the podcast. Long before he became the bestselling author of Rave New World and Planes, Trains and Amphetamines, Kirk was a struggling musician who found himself homeless, broke and searching for direction. Then one phone call changed everything. Working behind the bar at the very first illegal acid house raves, he witnessed the birth of a movement that would reshape music, culture and an entire generation. In this episode, Kirk takes Paul Glazby behind the scenes of the legendary warehouse parties, explaining how underground events were organised, why hydration trucks were just as important as the DJs, and what it was really like travelling in convoy to secret rave locations around the M25 during the legendary Summer of Love. The conversation also explores how Kirk accidentally became Mixmag's first rave reporter, documenting a scene that mainstream newspapers completely misunderstood. From travelling across Europe covering dance music history to creating Radical Escapes and pioneering clubbing holidays with Fever & Frantic, Kirk shares stories that only someone who truly lived the era could tell. Paul and Kirk also dive into the success of the recent Tidy Weekender, why the hard house community remains one of dance music's strongest families, and why authenticity will always beat fashion. Along the way, you'll hear incredible tales involving Ibiza, Hamburg, 9/11, Saddam Hussein's family, Blue Marlin, Lisa Lashes and the many twists that have made Kirk one of dance music's greatest storytellers. If you love rave history, hard house, trance, club culture and hearing the stories behind the stories, this is an episode you simply cannot miss. Join the History If you've enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Hard House History, leave a five-star review and share it with your rave family. Every download helps preserve the stories, memories and people that built our scene. #HardHouseHistory #KirkField #PaulGlazby #HardHouse #RaveHistory #AcidHouse #Mixmag #ClubCulture #DanceMusic #Tidy
July 6 · 48 min
Barry Goodgreef: The Story Behind the Goodgreef Empire
Goodgreef wasn't just another club brand; it became one of the defining names of the UK hard house movement. In this episode of Hard House History, Paul Glazby sits down with Barry Goodgreef to relive the incredible story behind one of the scene's most influential promoters, event organisers and talent managers. From sneaking into clubs as a teenager to launching Goodgreef in Manchester at just 18 years old, Barry shares how a passion for music evolved into one of the biggest hard dance brands of the 2000s. He takes us behind the scenes of those unforgettable nights, the famous collaborations with Sundissential, the rise of the agency business, and the challenges of navigating the changing music industry. The conversation explores the golden era of hard house, why Goodgreef succeeded by doing things differently, and how iconic venues, legendary DJs and passionate clubbers created memories that still resonate today. Barry also reflects on working alongside names like Eddie Halliwell, Alex Kidd, Kutski and Andy Whitby, while discussing how today's DJs face a completely different landscape driven by social media, branding and constant online engagement. Paul and Barry also look back on unforgettable moments, including the Tuxedo Princess boat parties, the Goodgreef Extra Hard cruises, the agency's birth, and the incredible resurgence of hard music that has brought many legendary artists back into the spotlight. If you lived through the early 2000s rave scene, or you're discovering hard house for the first time, this episode is packed with stories, nostalgia and honest insight into one of dance music's most important eras. Join the History If Goodgreef was part of your clubbing journey, or you've got memories from those legendary nights, we'd love to hear them. Subscribe to Hard House History, leave us a review, and share this episode with the friends you stood beside on the dance floor. Every story helps preserve the history of our scene. #HardHouseHistory #BarryGoodgreef #GoodGrief #PaulGlazby #HardHouse #DanceMusic #ClubCulture #RaveHistory #UKClubbing #ElectronicMusic
June 29 · 55 min
Blu Peter: Before Hard House Had A Name
This week on Hard House History, Paul Glazby sits down with one of the true pioneers of the UK dance scene, Blu Peter. Long before hard house had a name, before the superclubs, and before packed festival stages, Blu Peter was helping shape the sound from the DJ booth at some of London's most iconic venues. From starting behind the bar at Heaven to becoming the resident DJ at Garage and the legendary Final Frontier (FF), this episode uncovers the story of a man whose influence reached far beyond the records he played. Blu Peter reflects on the early days of London's club culture, discovering his unique musical identity, and why emotion has always been at the heart of every set he's ever played. He explains how warm-up sets became the perfect training ground, why energy is more important than flawless mixing, and how simply being yourself is the key to becoming a great DJ. Paul and Blu Peter also dive into the birth of the Reactivate series, the evolution of New Energy, shopping for vinyl in London's legendary record stores, and the unforgettable atmosphere that made FF one of the most important clubs of the 1990s. Along the way, they share stories about Tony De Vit, Mrs Wood, Sister Bliss, Judge Jules, E&M, Leftfield, Sven Väth, React Records, and the incredible people who helped shape an era that continues to influence dance music today. The conversation also explores why Blu Peter walked away from chasing commercial success, his philosophy on creativity, and the exciting announcement of brand-new music being released decades after his pioneering work first inspired a generation of DJs. Whether you discovered him through Reactivate 10, Final Frontier, or you're only just learning about one of dance music's true innovators, this is an episode packed with history, nostalgia and genuine insight from one of the architects of the underground. Join The History If you loved this episode, make sure you subscribe to Hard House History, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend who remembers the golden era of UK clubbing. Every listen helps preserve the stories that built our scene. #HardHouseHistory #BluPeter #FinalFrontier #Reactivate #HardHouse #DanceMusic #ClubCulture #PaulGlazby #DJHistory #ElectronicMusic
June 22 · 55 min
Scott Forshaw: From Hard House Kid To Dubai Superstar
This week on Hard House History, Paul Glazby catches up with one of the scene's most intriguing success stories, Scott Forshaw. Many hard house fans will remember Scott as the teenage producer and DJ who burst onto the scene in the mid-2000s, playing Storm, Frantic and the legendary Weekenders before most people his age were even allowed through the door. But while many artists stayed within the boundaries of hard dance, Scott's journey took him in a completely different direction. Now based in Dubai, Scott has built an incredible career that has seen him amass over 40 million streams, play alongside some of the biggest names in dance music, and perform for crowds of over 100,000 people. From opening for Swedish House Mafia, Calvin Harris, and Martin Garrix to an unexpected encounter with Jennifer Lopez, Scott shares how a bad week in the UK led to a life-changing move to the Middle East. Paul and Scott dive deep into the evolution of club culture, the differences between old-school hard house and today's VIP bottle-service scene, the realities of ghost production, songwriting camps, and social media DJs, and why being pigeonholed can be both a blessing and a curse. There are plenty of laughs along the way as the pair reminisce about Storm, Insomniac, Frantic and the golden era of hard house, while discussing ADHD, Metallica, family life, and the challenges of balancing creativity with commercial success. It's an honest, funny and fascinating conversation with a producer who quietly became one of dance music's most successful exports. Join The History Enjoyed this episode? Help keep the stories alive by subscribing to Hard House History, sharing the podcast with your mates, and leaving a review. Every download helps preserve the legacy of hard house for future generations. #HardHouseHistory #ScottForshaw #HardHouse #PaulGlazby #DanceMusic #ClubCulture #DJLife #MusicProduction #HardDance #ElectronicMusic
June 15 · 47 min
James Lawson: From Rock Bands to Hard House Royalty
This week on Hard House History, Paul Glazby sits down with one of the most respected names in the hard house scene, James Lawson. From learning classical guitar as a child and dreaming of becoming a rock star, to helping shape the sound of hard house during its golden era, James takes us on a fascinating journey through his musical life. The conversation explores his early influences, from Metallica and Guns N' Roses through to the underground rave scenes of Leeds, Manchester and London. James shares how a chance win in a DJ competition helped launch his career, the move to London that changed everything, and the formation of Edison Factor with studio partner Matt Williams. Together, they would go on to create some of the scene's most memorable productions, secure releases on influential labels, and perform live at major events, including Creamfields and Global Gathering. Along the way, James reflects on working with legendary figures such as Andy Farley, Lisa Lashes, Steve Hill, BK, Nick Sentience and Justin Bourne. He also reveals how a career opportunity at Ministry of Sound unexpectedly helped him take the leap into full-time DJing and production. Beyond the records and club nights, this episode dives into the friendships, opportunities and moments that helped define an era of hard house culture. From London after-parties and Ibiza adventures to festival stages and studio collaborations, James offers an honest and insightful look at the highs, challenges and lessons learned throughout a remarkable career. The conversation finishes with a thoughtful discussion about success, mindset, creativity and why being ready to embrace opportunity can make all the difference. Whether you followed James Lawson and Edison Factor from the beginning or are discovering his story for the first time, this is a fascinating chapter in the history of hard house. Join the History Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe, follow and leave a review wherever you listen. Every download helps preserve the stories, music and memories that built our scene. Share this episode with a fellow raver and help keep Hard House History alive for future generations. #HardHouseHistory #JamesLawson #PaulGlazby #EdisonFactor #HardHouse #HardTrance #Frantic #Twisted #Creamfields #ClubCulture
June 8 · 1 hr 42 min
Sam Townend Part 2: How Tidy Refused To Die
This week on Hard House History, Paul Glazby continues his deep dive into the story of Sam Townend, picking up where Part One left off and exploring one of the most turbulent and fascinating periods in modern hard house history. From the rise and fall of the Ideal brand to the rebirth of Tidy, Sam takes us behind the scenes of the events, decisions and challenges that shaped the scene throughout the 2010s and beyond. He shares the reality of promoting hard house during a period when the genre had fallen from its commercial peak, the success of the legendary Tidy XX celebrations, and the Tidy Boys' emotional farewell tour. The conversation then turns into a collection of unbelievable promoter war stories. From the infamous "Tiny Boys" disaster at a Tidy Weekender to gang-related chaos at another weekender event, car chases through a holiday park, death threats, lockdowns, and one of the most bizarre stories you'll ever hear involving an urn and a dancefloor, this episode delivers some genuinely jaw-dropping moments. Sam also opens up about the challenges of running large-scale events, dealing with local authorities, navigating licensing requirements, surviving the COVID years, and the devastating impact of losing long-time venues such as Prestatyn. Despite every setback, his passion for music and the community never wavers. More than anything, this episode highlights why hard house has survived for so long. It's not about money, fame or status. It's about creating unforgettable experiences, bringing people together, and giving people a place where they truly belong. As the story reaches 2026, Paul and Sam prepare to welcome a special guest to discuss the next chapter in the continuing story of Tidy and Hard House. Join The History What was your favourite Tidy Weekender memory? Were you there for Tidy XX, Tidy Resurrection, Prestatyn, Southport, or one of the legendary reunion events? Drop your memories in the comments and let us know where your Hard House journey began. #HardHouseHistory #PaulGlazby #SamTownend #TidyTrax #TidyWeekender #HardHouse #ClubCulture #DanceMusicHistory #UKClubbing #HardHouseFamily
June 1 · 1 hr 6 min
Baby Doc: Trade, Vinyl and the Golden Era
In this episode of Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby welcomes back one of the true pioneers of the hard house movement, Baby Doc, for an honest, hilarious and deeply nostalgic conversation about the evolution of underground dance music. From the early North London rave scene through to producing some of the most iconic hard house records of the ‘90s and 2000s, Baby Doc reflects on the creative chaos that helped shape an entire generation of club culture. The episode dives into legendary clubs like Trade, Heaven and Camden Palace, stories from the studio with names like John the Dentist, Sister Bliss, Tall Paul and React Records, plus behind-the-scenes memories of working in iconic studios alongside acts like Oasis and The Chemical Brothers. Baby Doc also opens up about his production process, explaining how classic tracks like Bangers and Mash, Ploughman's Lunch and Yum Yum came together during an era where sampling technology was limited, creativity mattered more than plugins, and producers fiercely protected their sounds. There's a fascinating discussion about old-school hardware, Zip disks, remix culture, and how modern technology has completely changed music production. The conversation also touches on his latest music with Mike Van Dyke, upcoming releases on Perfecto Fluoro, and why he's currently enjoying making faster, melodic dance music again. Along the way, there are plenty of funny stories, classic clubbing memories and raw insights into what made the golden era of hard house so special. JOIN THE HISTORY Were you there for the golden era of hard house? Did you dance at Trade, Heaven or one of the legendary London all-nighters? Let us know your favourite Baby Doc tracks, club memories and stories from the underground scene. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help preserve the DJs, clubs and music that built a movement. #HardhouseHistory #BabyDoc #HardHouse #PaulGlazby #Trade #ClubCulture #90sRave #DanceMusic #UKRave #ElectronicMusic
May 25 · 1 hr 13 min
Phil Reynolds: The Untold Story of Frantic
In this episode of Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby sits down with one of the most influential names in UK hard dance history, Phil Reynolds. From buying his very first set of decks in the early ‘90s to helping build the legendary Frantic brand from a small birthday party into one of London’s biggest clubbing institutions, Phil shares an honest and detailed look at the golden era of club culture. The conversation dives deep into the rise of Frantic, the impact of Aussie, Kiwi and South African clubbers on London's hard house explosion, and the unforgettable nights at iconic venues like Bagleys and Camden Palace. Phil reflects on the pressure of his first gigs, learning to DJ without YouTube tutorials, hunting for rare vinyl in London record shops, and how mixtapes helped build underground club culture before social media existed. Paul and Phil also unpack the evolution of hard house itself, from the importance of musical progression in clubs to the changing drug culture that shifted dancefloors throughout the 2000s. There's a fascinating discussion about why modern daytime events and reunion parties like Rewind and Frantic have become so popular with an older generation of ravers reconnecting with the music that defined their youth. The episode also explores Phil's production career, including working with legends like Nick Sentience, running Impact Records, and creating crossover trance and hard house tracks that became anthems across the scene. There are brilliant behind-the-scenes stories about studio sessions, vinyl culture, record-shopping rituals, and the politics of the UK clubbing industry during its peak years. More than anything, this episode captures why hard house meant so much to so many people. It's about community, identity, friendship, and the feeling of walking into a packed club where everyone is there for the same reason: the music. JOIN THE HISTORY What was your first Frantic memory? Did you ever rave at Camden Palace, Bagleys, Escape From Samsara or one of the legendary London all-nighters? Let us know your favourite memories, tunes and moments from the golden era of hard house. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help preserve the stories, DJs and dancefloors that shaped a generation. #HardhouseHistory #PhilReynolds #Frantic #HardHouse #PaulGlazby #CamdenPalace #UKClubCulture #HardDance #VinylDJ #RaveHistory
May 18 · 1 hr 17 min
Sam Townend: How Hard House Changed a Generation
In this episode of Hard House History, Paul Glazby sits down with one of the true workhorses of the hard house scene, Sam Townend. From his early days as a wide-eyed clubber listening to Mark EG and M-Zone tapes, through to becoming one of the key figures behind Tidy, Sam shares an honest and fascinating look at the rise, evolution and survival of hard house culture. The conversation dives deep into the golden era of clubbing in Leeds, the madness of Sundissential North, and the unforgettable energy of venues like Europa, Evolution and The Orbit. Sam talks about discovering tracks like Justin Bourne's Drop The Bass and the moment hard house truly clicked for him. Paul and Sam also explore what made the scene so special, the diversity of the crowds, the chaos of the weekend lifestyle, and why hard house still grabs people in a way few genres can. There are brilliant stories throughout about hustling demo tapes, networking in clubs, surviving the scene's decline, and eventually working his way into Tidy itself. Sam opens up about joining Tidy during one of the brand's most challenging periods, taking over after Lee Haslam and trying to guide the label through changing trends and industry uncertainty. It's a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the reality of keeping a legendary brand alive while balancing passion, business and personal ambition. More than anything, this episode is about dedication. Sam Townend represents the people who kept hard house moving long after the mainstream spotlight faded, and his love for the music shines through every minute of this conversation. JOIN THE HISTORY What was your first hard house club experience? Did you ever rave at Sundissential, Trade, Tidy Weekenders or one of the legendary Leeds nights? Drop your memories, favourite tracks and club stories in the comments. Subscribe to Hard House History and help preserve the stories, music and legacy of the scene. #HardhouseHistory #SamTownend #Tidy #HardHouse #PaulGlazby #SundayCentral #ClubCulture #UKRaveScene #DanceMusicPodcast #HardHouseHistoryPodcast
May 11 · 1 hr 21 min
Rachel Auburn: Before Hard House Had a Name
In this episode of Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby sits down with true scene pioneer Rachel Auburn, and what follows is a fascinating journey through the birth of hard house culture in London. Long before hard house had a name, Rachel was immersed in the underground club scene through fashion, art and nightlife. Starting in iconic London clubs like Taboo and Delirium during the mid-80s, she found herself surrounded by legendary figures including Afrika Bambaataa, Judge Jules, Sister Bliss and the infamous Trade crowd. Rachel opens up about how she accidentally fell into DJing while working in fashion design, eventually becoming one of the earliest female DJs to break into the London club circuit. From Heaven and Garage through to Trade, she explains how those clubs shaped her sound and inspired her to start producing records that would eventually become hard house classics. The episode dives deep into tracks like Fee Fi Fo Fum, Machine Man and her collaborations with producers including Paul Masterson and Amo. There are brilliant behind-the-scenes stories about sampling, remix culture, and the early studio process, including how one random vinyl thrown into a crowd became the vocal that launched one of her biggest records. Rachel also reflects on the rise of women in dance music, though she makes it clear she never saw herself as “a female DJ”, just a DJ trying to make the best music possible. It's a refreshing perspective from someone who helped shape an entire era without ever chasing the spotlight. Packed with stories about Trade, Tony De Vit, Tidy Girls, club culture and the evolution of hard house, this is a must-listen episode for anyone who loves the roots of the scene. JOIN THE HISTORY What’s your favourite Rachel Auburn track or remix? Were you there for the Trade era, Heaven, Garage or the early Tidy years? Drop your memories, favourite tracks and stories in the comments. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help keep the scene's legacy alive. #HardhouseHistory #RachelAuburn #TradeClub #UKHardHouse #TonyDeVit #TidyGirls #RaveCulture #DanceMusicPodcast #ClubCulture #HardHouse
May 4 · 1 hr 3 min
Alf Bamford: "Inspirations"
The latest episode of Hardhouse History sees Paul Glazby sit down with Alf Bamford for Part 2 of the Inspirations Series, and this one goes deep into the creative process behind some of Alf’s most iconic tracks. This isn't your typical "greatest hits" chat. Instead, Alf pulls back the curtain on how tracks are actually made, the messy middle, the stolen ideas, the happy accidents, and the moments where nothing is working until suddenly everything clicks. Right from the jump, Alf admits something most producers won't: a lot of tracks don't actually have some grand story behind them. Sometimes it's just opening Cubase and getting to work. But the tracks he’s chosen for this episode are the ones with a bit more "meat on the bones", whether that's a production breakthrough, a strange inspiration, or chaos surrounding the release. Track Deep Dive: “Somersault” (2005) One of the standout moments is the breakdown of "Somersault", a track that almost didn't make it. Alf talks through how the record sat in limbo for months after he got completely stuck on the breakdown. It wasn't until he went down a psytrance rabbit hole, influenced by artists like Nick Sentience, that everything changed. The bassline approach flipped, the track came alive, and suddenly it had direction. Ironically, despite strong reactions on dancefloors, no labels wanted to sign it at first. It didn't fit neatly into hard trance or hard house, which made it a risk. Eventually, it found a home and later attracted interest from labels that had initially passed. It's a perfect example of a track being "ahead of its lane", something DJs loved, but labels didn't quite know what to do with at the time. The Reality of "Inspiration" (aka stealing… sort of) This episode leans heavily into one of the best ongoing jokes in dance music; nothing is truly original. Alf openly admits borrowing elements from other tracks, bassline ideas, stab patterns, and even melodies, but reframing them into something new. And honestly, it's one of the most valuable parts of the episode. Instead of pretending inspiration is some mystical process, this is a real look at how producers actually work: Hear something interesting Break it down Rebuild it in your own style As Alf and Paul joke, this series could just as easily be called “Thieving Bastards”. The “I Found Some Gas” Story Then comes one of the all-time stories from the podcast. Alf's track "N2O (Found Some Gas)" ends up accidentally using a vocal sample from an internet character that later gets picked up by TV. Sounds harmless, until that same sample ends up in a national TV advert for a Lisa Lashes compilation. Cue legal emails from Channel 4. What follows is chaos: Emails flying between labels Questions around sample clearance And eventually… the guy behind the vocal confronting Lisa Lashes on camera at a Tidy Weekender The best part? She had absolutely no idea what was going on. It’s one of those stories that perfectly captures the wild, unpolished nature of the scene at the time. Beyond the Music What makes this episode hit is that it’s not just about tracks, it’s about process, frustration, and evolution. There's a lot of insight into: Writer's block and how to break through it Why deadlines actually help creativity The difference between producing for yourself vs clients How trends (like psytrance in the mid-2000s) shape sound It's raw, honest, and exactly what makes Hardhouse History such a strong listen. JOIN THE HISTORY What's your favourite Alf Bamford track? Do you remember "Somersault" or "N2O" from back in the day? And be honest, how much of dance music do you reckon is “inspired” vs straight-up nicked? Drop your thoughts, memories, and stories. #HardhouseHistory #AlfBamford #PaulGlazby #HardHouse #RaveCulture #DanceMusic #DJStories #ElectronicMusic #ClubHistory #TidyRecords
April 27 · 1 hr 10 min
Rich Wakley: The Rise, Fall & Return of Filthy Rich
In this latest episode of Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby sits down with his old friend Rich Wakley, better known to many as Filthy Rich, for a deep, honest, and at times emotional conversation spanning decades of club culture. From the early days of handing out trance tapes at university in Leeds, Rich takes us right back to where it all began, cutting his teeth playing five nights a week at Heaven & Hell while immersed in the exploding UK club scene. What starts as a passion quickly evolves into a career, moving from trance into hard house, and eventually into the global electronic scene through his Filthy Rich alias. The episode dives into his evolution as an artist, from those early residencies to producing alongside some of the biggest names in the industry and forming the Spectre project with Paul Maddox. It's a story of growth, reinvention, and constantly adapting to the shifting sounds of electronic music. But this isn't just a highlight reel. Rich opens up about the realities behind the scenes, the pressure to produce, the stigma around working with engineers, and the ever-changing landscape of DJ culture. He speaks candidly about how COVID hit at the worst possible time for Spectre, halting momentum just as things were peaking, and the difficult transition into full-time work outside of music. What follows is one of the most raw parts of the conversation, as Rich reflects on loss, identity and the challenge of rediscovering passion after stepping away from something that defined his life. It’s honest, relatable and something many in the industry will connect with. This is Hardhouse History at its best: real stories, real people, and the reality behind the music. JOIN THE HISTORY Were you part of the Leeds club scene, Kiss Da Funk, or those early 2000s hard house nights? What's your memory of that era, the music, the people or the moments? Drop your stories in the comments and tag someone you were on the dancefloor with. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help keep the legacy alive. #HardhouseHistory #FilthyRich #RichWakley #UKClubScene #HardHouse #RaveCulture #DanceMusicPodcast #LeedsNightlife #ClubHistory #ElectronicMusic
April 20 · 1 hr 13 min
Dexter Jones: Rave, Addiction & Redemption
In this episode of Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby flips the script and sits down with Dexter Jones, the man behind the Dexter Jones Podcast, for a brutally honest and wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the decks. Dexter's story starts early, growing up around the late 80s underground rave scene, where illegal warehouse parties were part of everyday life. From those formative years through to discovering house music at events like Strawberry Sundays in London, this episode captures the raw, unfiltered energy of a scene built on obsession and community. From there, the conversation dives into Dexter's time in Ibiza, where he became deeply embedded in the worker culture. From running wild underground parties and boat events to helping shape the infamous Shipwrecked and Slut Party concepts, it's a look at an era that simply couldn't exist today. The freedom, the chaos and the consequences are all laid bare. But this episode isn't just about the highs. Dexter opens up about the darker side of that lifestyle, including years of heavy drinking, addiction and the toll it took on his life. In one of the episode's most powerful moments, he shares the turning point that led him to sobriety, choosing family over self-destruction and rebuilding his life from the ground up. Now based in Croatia, Dexter has reinvented himself, building a successful social media business, launching his own podcast, and continuing to shape culture from a different angle. It's a story of resilience, reinvention and understanding what really matters. This is one of the most honest conversations in Hardhouse History to date. JOIN THE HISTORY Were you part of the Ibiza worker era or those early underground parties? What's your memory of that time, the chaos, the music or the people? Drop your stories in the comments and tag someone who lived it with you. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help keep these stories alive for the next generation. #HardhouseHistory #DexterJones #IbizaWorkers #UKHardHouse #RaveCulture #ClubCulture #DanceMusicPodcast #90sRave #HardDance #PaulGlazby
April 13 · 51 min
Johnny Dangerous Unfiltered: Vinyl, Warehouse Raves and Tidy
In this episode of Hardhouse History, Paul sits down with one of the scene's most respected figures, Johnny Dangerous, to unpack a journey that runs deep through the foundations of hard house culture. From record shops in the heart of Doncaster Warehouse to the pages of M8 Magazine and eventually into the inner workings of Tidy, this is a story packed with history, influence and perspective. Johnny takes us back to the mid-90s, when the Doncaster Warehouse was in full flight, running all-night licences and acting as a hub for ravers, DJs and vinyl culture. Operating out of a small cupboard turned record shop, he was at the centre of a movement, supplying tracks to DJs across the UK, including the legendary Tony De Vit. It's a proper reminder of how grassroots the scene really was, built on passion, hustle and community. The conversation dives into Johnny's early influences, from 80s synth pop and hip hop through to the harder European sounds that would eventually shape hard house. There's a fascinating look at how multiple genres collided to create the sound we now know, proving there was never just one path into the scene. We also get insights into his time as a journalist, interviewing some of the biggest names in dance music and documenting the culture as it evolved. Plus, stories from inside Tidy during its peak years, giving a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important labels in the genre. This episode isn't just about nostalgia; it’s about understanding where hard house came from, how it evolved, and where it might be heading next. Join the History Love the stories? Make sure you subscribe, share this episode, and tag your crew. Keep the legacy alive and be part of the next chapter of hard house. #HardHouseHistory #JohnnyDangerous #TidyTrax #UKHardHouse #RaveCulture #DanceMusicPodcast #90sRave #ClubCulture #DJLife #ElectronicMusic
April 6 · 1 hr 22 min
The Amadeus Mozart Journey: From DJ to Pioneer
In this episode of Hardhouse History, we dive deep into the story of Amadeus Mozart, a true architect of the UK hard house sound and one half of the iconic Tidy Boys. From humble beginnings as a DJ inspired by the 80s underground scene, to becoming a pioneering producer, Amadeus shares the moments that shaped his journey and ultimately helped define an entire genre. We go back to the early days, before Tidy Trax, where inspiration came from unlikely places, including DJ-only services like Music Factory Mastermix and early sampling pioneers. There's a brilliant insight into how one meeting with Dutch producer Peter Slaghuis changed everything, sparking the investment in studio gear and setting Amadeus on the path to production. It's a raw, honest look at the trial-and-error era of making music before YouTube tutorials and digital workflows, when passion and persistence were everything. The episode also touches on the emotional side of the journey, including the impact of losing a mentor and how that shaped his perspective moving forward. From early mashups and chart attempts to navigating the business side of music, this is a story about evolution, risk, and backing your instincts. If you want to understand how hard house was built from the ground up, this episode is essential listening. It’s not just about the music, it’s about the people, the culture, and the moments that created something timeless. JOIN THE HISTORY If you're loving these deep dives into hard house history, make sure you subscribe, share the episode with your mates, and tag us on socials with your favourite memories from the era. Let's keep the scene alive. #HardHouseHistory #TidyTrax #AmadeusMozart #UKHardHouse #DanceMusicHistory #ClubCulture #90sRave #DJCulture #ElectronicMusic #HardHouseLegends
March 30 · 51 min
Pete Bennett: From Big Brother to Hard House
This week on Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby sits down with one of the most unique and unforgettable personalities to ever cross over into the hard dance scene, Pete Bennett. For many, Pete first burst onto the radar through Big Brother in 2006, but this episode goes far beyond reality TV fame. It's a deep dive into the life behind the headlines, including Pete's experience living with Tourette's and the complicated reality of public perception. From moments of acceptance to frustration over misunderstandings, Pete speaks openly about what it's like to navigate life in the spotlight with a condition that is often misrepresented. From there, the conversation shifts into music, creativity and Pete's ongoing connection to the scene. Whether it's new tracks, upcoming releases or gigs tied to labels like Tidy Trax, Pete brings his signature chaotic energy and humour to everything he does. There's also insight into his creative world beyond music, including documentaries, acting work and his latest project, giving fans a closer look at "This is Pete", a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his life. What makes this episode stand out is Pete himself. Unpredictable, hilarious and brutally honest, he moves between topics at lightning speed, from serious reflections to completely off-the-wall moments that only he could deliver. It’s a reminder that hard house has always been about characters as much as it has about music. This is not your typical DJ interview; it's something far more human. Join the History What's your favourite Pete Bennett moment, on TV or in the scene? Have you seen him live or followed his journey since Big Brother? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s celebrate one of the most unique personalities in the culture. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help us keep these stories alive. #HardhouseHistory #PeteBennett #BigBrotherUK #HardHouse #RaveCulture #TidyTrax #HardDance #UKRave #PaulGlazby #DanceMusicPodcast
March 23 · 57 min
Rob Tissera: Crash, Comeback & Club Culture
This week on Hardhouse History, Paul Glazby welcomes back a true pioneer of the UK scene, Rob Tissera, for a raw and deeply personal second appearance. The episode opens with Rob sharing the shocking story of a near-fatal car crash, a freak accident on the motorway that left him with serious injuries and a moment where he genuinely believed his life was over. It's a powerful reminder of how quickly everything can change, and sets the tone for an honest conversation about resilience, perspective and what really matters after decades in the game. From there, the conversation shifts into Rob's journey through the hard house scene. Unlike the meteoric rise experienced by some DJs, Rob reflects on his steady, long-term career and why that slower trajectory can sometimes be easier to manage mentally. He talks about the importance of having the right people around you, not just hype, but honest voices who push you to improve. There are also classic stories from the road, including encounters with global superstars and behind-the-scenes moments that show a different side of the industry. Rob shares how genuine curiosity and respect, even from the biggest names, can leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the culture's foundation. Paul and Rob also revisit iconic moments from the scene, from wild tour stories to the origins of DJ names and unforgettable nights on the south coast. It's a reminder that hard house wasn't just about the music; it was about the community, the chaos, and the characters that defined an era. This is more than a catch-up; it's a reflection on survival, longevity and staying grounded in a scene that has constantly evolved. Join the History What’s your favourite Rob Tissera memory or track? Were you there for the Rise or Tidy era? Drop your stories in the comments and tag a mate you used to rave with. Subscribe to Hardhouse History and help us keep the culture alive. #HardhouseHistory #RobTissera #UKHardHouse #RaveCulture #TidyTrax #HardDance #90sRave #ClubCulture #PaulGlazby #DanceMusicHistory