252. Bernard Fowler: Singing for Philip Glass - and Facing Paul Simon
19 October 2026
About This Episode
What happens when a singer finds himself in the recording studio with one of the most influential composers of the 20th century?
Bernard Fowler is best known for his decades of work with The Rolling Stones, but his remarkable career stretches far beyond rock and roll.
In Part 1 of this four-part conversation with Fender Jackson on The Ireland Podcast, Bernard revisits his work with composer Philip Glass on the 1986 album Songs from Liquid Days.
He recalls arriving at the recording session, wondering how he had found himself in such extraordinary company, and confronting his own nerves before stepping up to the microphone.
Bernard shares the unconventional mantra that helped him overcome his anxiety and describes what happened when Paul Simon, who wrote the lyrics to 'Changing Opinion', arrived at the studio.
It's a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, the psychology of performance and the unexpected moments that shape a musician's career.
Across the four parts of this interview, Bernard also discusses Public Image Ltd, John Lydon, Bill Laswell, Steve Vai, Ronnie Wood, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and his decades performing with The Rolling Stones.
The Ireland Podcast - Episode 252, Part 1
Presented by Fender Jackson.
Recording The Island.
Bernard Fowler
Bernard Fowler is an American singer, songwriter and recording artist best known for his longstanding work as a backing vocalist with The Rolling Stones. His extensive career includes collaborations with Philip Glass, Bill Laswell, Public Image Ltd, Herbie Hancock and numerous other influential musicians.
Known for his versatility across rock, funk, soul and experimental music, Fowler has contributed to landmark recordings and toured with some of the world's most celebrated performers. He has also released solo work, including Inside Out, which reinterprets songs associated with The Rolling Stones.
Links
https://www.instagram.com/bernardfowlersings/
https://www.facebook.com/p/Bernard-Fowler-100044847466209/
Watch the full interview on YouTube or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Subscribe to The Ireland Podcast for Parts 2, 3 and 4 of this conversation, exploring Bernard Fowler's work with Public Image Ltd, Bill Laswell, Steve Vai, Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones.
Follow The Ireland Podcast for more conversations with the people whose stories deserve to be recorded.