This 50th anniversary episode of the Denim and Leather podcast features a deep, insightful conversation with Danny Vaughn, the frontman of the band Tyketto and formerly of Waysted. The discussion covers Danny’s upcoming album, reflections on his musical career, the music industry, and personal experiences. The tone is candid and informative, providing a rich understanding of Danny’s artistic vision and professional journey.
The episode was recorded on March 5, 2026, and premiered on March 22, 2026.
Key Highlights and Insights
Tyketto’s New Album “Closer to the Sun”
- Tyketto’s new album, Closer to the Sun, is released on March 20th. You can hear it on YouTube and Spotify.
- The album contains high-energy rock songs similar to the previously released singles “We Rise” and “Higher Than High.”
- The record aims to be positive and uplifting, a deliberate response to the recent global difficulties and negativity.
Musical Style and Themes
- The album blends bluesy riffs, hard rock, glam rock, and heavy metal elements.
- Denny describes the music as having a spiritual, uplifting quality, not in a religious sense but more about the transformative power of music.
- The song “Higher Than High” celebrates the euphoric experience that music provides, surpassing even the effects of drugs in Danny’s youth.
Creative Process and Collaboration
- Danny co-wrote most songs with band members and collaborators, including Jim Peterik from Survivor and Reuben DeMello, a longtime songwriting partner.
- Danny Vaughn prefers collaboration over solo writing because it brings diverse perspectives and energy to the music.
- Johnny Dee, the drummer (who was a guest on the 40th episode of the Denim and Leather podcast), did not contribute to songwriting but was deeply involved in the recording and brought focus and professionalism to the studio.
Release Formats and Distribution
- The album will be available in multiple formats, including three vinyl variants (black, red, and sunburst), CDs, and digital downloads.
- Limited-edition vinyl pressings are included in the pre-order packages.
Views on Digital Music and Streaming
- Danny is not a fan of Spotify due to low artist compensation and ethical concerns about its leadership’s political investments.
- He acknowledges that digital platforms help new listeners discover music, but laments the devaluation of music as a commodity in the digital age.
- Comparison made between the cost of a single in 1955 (99 cents for an Elvis song) and now (99 cents on iTunes), highlighting that while the price remains the same, the artist’s share has drastically decreased.
Danny Vaughn’s Career Reflections and Industry Changes
- Tyketto, Danny’s earlier band, never reached platinum sales but gained a lasting cult following and was highly regarded as a live act.
- The music business is described as fashion-oriented and fickle, with record companies quickly abandoning acts if they don’t show immediate commercial success.
- Danny quit music in 1995 due to the industry’s decline and changing trends, returning later as a solo artist and with Tyketto’s reunion.
- He highlights that modern record companies prefer artists with a strong social media following, reflecting a shift in signing priorities toward pre-established audiences.
Glam Rock vs. Grunge
- While grunge faded after its initial burst in the early 1990s, glam rock, hard rock, and heavy metal have experienced a revival in the past decade.
- Danny suggests musical trends are cyclical and grunge could return as its original fans age.
Live Performance and Touring
- Tyketto is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity, headlining mid-level festivals and expanding into new territories, especially Eastern Europe.
- Danny relocated to southern Spain about 20 years ago, which facilitates European touring due to proximity and cultural diversity.
- Upcoming tour plans include a UK tour starting in April, festival appearances in Barcelona and Sweden, and a planned autumn European tour, potentially including Eastern Europe and Croatia.
Memorable Experiences
- Danny Vaughn recounts a notable event from 1980s Yugoslavia when his band Waysted supported Iron Maiden, including almost being arrested for photographing a police officer.
- He recalls the energy of playing to large crowds (up to 40,000 people) and the professionalism of Iron Maiden, who actively supported their opening acts.
Personal Notes
- Danny Vaughn emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed and focused in the studio, highlighting Johnny Dee’s professionalism and their long-term friendship spanning nearly 40 years.
- He acknowledges the emotional stress involved in releasing music, balancing pride in artistic creation with vulnerability to criticism.
- Danny advises musicians to avoid reading or responding to negative comments to maintain a healthy mindset.
Timeline of Key Events and Releases
| Year/Date | Event/Release |
|---|---|
| 1985 | Danny meets Johnny Dee at Rockfield Studios |
| 1995 | Releases first solo album, Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside |
| 2000 | Releases first solo album, Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside |
| 2004 | Tyketto reunion live performances |
| 2012 | Tyketto releases Dig In Deep |
| 2017 | Festival appearances in Barcelona, Sweden, and others |
| March 20, 2026 | Upcoming release of Tyketto’s Closer to the Sun |
| April 2026 | UK tour with Warrior Soul and Collateral |
| Summer 2026 (planned) | Festival appearances in Barcelona (Barcelona Rock Fest), Sweden (Time to Rock), and others |
| Autumn (September-October 2026) (planned) | European and Eastern European tour |
Definitions and Comparisons
| Term/Item | Description/Comparison |
|---|---|
| Spotify | Streaming service criticized by Danny for low payouts and controversial leadership |
| Vinyl Editions | Multiple limited editions for the new album: black, red, sunburst |
| Music Industry Trend | Shift from labels developing artists to signing pre-established social media stars |
| Glam Rock Revival | Ongoing resurgence of 1980s glam, hard rock, and metal styles over the past decade |
| Grunge Decline | Grunge’s commercial fade in contrast to glam rock’s comeback |
FAQ (Based on the Interview Content)
When is the new Tyketto album releasing?
March 20, 2026, was released by Silver Lining Music.
What style is the new album?
High-energy rock with bluesy, glam, hard rock, and metal influences, with uplifting and positive themes.
Who contributed to the songwriting?
Danny co-wrote with band members Chris Childs and Harry Scott Elliott, Jim Peterik (Survivor), Reuben DeMello Archer, among others.
Does Danny like Spotify?
No, he criticizes the low artist compensation and the company’s leadership ethics.
How does Denny feel about releasing music?
It brings more stress than relaxation due to concerns about reception and criticism.
What are the live plans for Tyketto?
UK tour in April 2026, summer festivals, and a planned European tour in autumn 2026.
Where does Denny live now?
Southern Spain, Europe.
Summary of Danny Vaughn’s Perspectives
- Personal Growth and Relocation
Moving from the US to Europe reflects both personal preference and strategic positioning for touring opportunities. - Music as a Positive Force
The new album is a deliberate antidote to the world’s negativity, aiming to uplift listeners and offer an escape through energetic rock music. - Collaborative Creativity
Writing with bandmates and external collaborators enriches the music, bringing diverse influences and fresh energy. - Industry Realities
The music business is harsh and fashion-driven, requiring resilience and adaptability from musicians. - Digital vs. Physical Media
While digital platforms increase reach, they also dilute artist earnings and music’s perceived value, making physical formats like vinyl important for collectors and fans. - Live Performance Vitality
Despite industry shifts, live shows remain a vital connection to audiences and a cornerstone of the band’s longevity and relevance.
Watch Episode 50
You can find the full episode on the Denim and Leather YouTube channel and on Spotify. If you are a Tyketto fan, we recommend episode 40 of the Denim and Leather podcast, featuring the drummer, Johnny Dee.
