POP the History Makers, we go deep into rock history with legendary producer and engineer Stuart Epps, whose early career placed him right at the heart of Elton John’s rise to superstardom. Stuart began working with Elton John on his early, era-defining records, initially as an assistant engineer, before rapidly progressing to become the engineer in charge of sound — a remarkable rise that speaks to both his technical skill and the trust placed in him during one of the most intense creative periods in British music history. One unforgettable moment he recalls is recording “Song for Guy”, when the studio tape was literally about to run out as Elton played — forcing a split-second decision that helped capture one of Elton’s most emotional and enduring instrumentals. Stuart also speaks candidly about Elton’s infamous studio anger during those years — the volcanic temper, the perfectionism, and how those explosive moments often sat right next to moments of pure musical brilliance. These stories paint a rare, unfiltered picture of Elton John at his most driven and demanding. Astonishingly, Stuart was just 18 years old when he became Elton John’s personal assistant on the 1974 American tour, giving him a front-row seat to rock history. He shares what it was like being thrown into Elton’s inner circle at the absolute peak of fame — navigating airports, arenas, and pressure-cooker situations while learning lessons that would shape his entire career. One of the most iconic moments discussed is the legendary Madison Square Garden show, when John Lennon unexpectedly turned up, walked on stage, and performed with Elton — a moment that would become Lennon’s final live concert appearance. Stuart was there, witnessing history as it unfolded. Beyond Elton John, Stuart Epps’ career reads like a roll call of rock royalty. He has worked with Led Zeppelin, George Harrison, Oasis, Robbie Williams, The Kinks, Chris Rea, Twisted Sister, and many more, seamlessly bridging the worlds of classic analogue recording and modern production. Crucially, Stuart’s story isn’t just about the past. Today, he is still actively producing, mentoring, and developing young artists, passing on decades of studio knowledge and real-world experience to the next generation. 🎶 In this episode, we explore: • The making of Elton John’s early records • Rising from assistant engineer to engineer in charge • Studio tension, genius, and unforgettable moments • Why “Song for Guy” nearly disappeared forever • Life on the road during the peak of 1970s rock • John Lennon, Madison Square Garden, and musical history • Why Stuart still believes in supporting young artists today 👉 Learn more about Stuart Epps and his current work with emerging artists at his official website: https://www.stuartepps.co.uk If you love Elton John, untold studio stories, and first-hand accounts from people who were genuinely there, this episode is essential viewing. Tags; Stuart Epps, Stuart Epps interview, Stuart Epps producer, Steve Blame podcast, POP the History Makers, music producer interview, record producer legend, classic rock producer, Elton John producer, Led Zeppelin producer, Chris Rea producer, UK music industry, behind the scenes music, making hit records, music history podcast, producer stories, songwriting and production, legendary music interviews, 70s music industry, 80s music production, studio stories, famous record producers, British music podcast, music documentary interview, pop music history Keywords Stuart Epps music producer, Stuart Epps Steve Blame interview, Elton John producer Stuart Epps, Led Zeppelin production stories, Oasis recording sessions, famous rock producer podcast, music industry insider interview, behind the hits producer interview, classic rock studio secrets, POP the History Makers Stuart Epps episode, legendary producer career highlights, UK record producer history, how hit records were made