The Hustle – Episode 148 – Mike Lindup of Level 42

In the states, Level 42 may only be seen as two-hit-wonders thanks to the massive success of “Something About You’ and “Lessons in Love” in the mid-80s. But around the rest of the world, Level 42 were viewed as a seriously complex group merging funk, r&b, jazz and rock in ways few others have ever done. Founding members bassist Mark King and keyboardist Mike Lindup finally closed up shop in the mid-90s, but reunited in 2006 and have steadily toured the world ever since. In this deep chat, Mike and I go over the band’s history, the stories behind some of their songs, his excellent, but under-heard solo album, and what he’s up to now. There’s also a hilarious Bill Murray story at the end. On a personal note, this is a big one for me as Mike owns my all-time favorite singing voice.

Roland D-50 Celebration Moments with Mike Lindup

Keyboard legend Mike Lindup reminisces on how Roland’s D-50 synthesizer helped shape some of Level 42’s best-known tracks. Back in 1987, as their fame reached epidemic proportions, the band were spending most of their time on the road, playing arenas all over the world – both as headliners and opening for the likes of Madonna and Tina Turner. Needing to work on new material, Mike put together a studio that he could use on the road, which just happened to include a new and rather interesting Roland synth called the D-50…