Whether you like his music or not, nobody can knock Paul McCartney's achievements as the world's most successful songwriter. In a rare interview he talks to Patrick Humphries about the music, recordings and personalities that combined to produce his first solo album for three years - 'Press To Play'.

When is Left Right?

Sinister Tony Reed takes the side of the left-handed musician

George Martin 5th Beatle/2nd Part

A complete history of record production accompanied by quotations and anecdotes from no fewer than 18 of the world's leading producers.

Part 9 - Hammond to Hanert.

George Martin — the fifth Beatle?

The second and final part of this series on computer composition examines the differences between human composers and their electronic counterparts. Ian Waugh keeps the score.

Greater reliance on hi-tech instruments in the studio means there's more demand for people able to programme them. Paul Gilby spoke first to Karin Clayton about her recently formed agency that supplies programmers for studio sessions, and then to Fairlight programmer Simon Lloyd about his work.

Part 6: It's A Wrap! Composer/musician Robin Lumley packs away the manuscript paper, switches off the Steenbeck viewer and submits his final thoughts on writing music for films in this concluding episode of his series.

Who's making the cash out of record sales - the artist, the record company, the management, the record shops? David Bradwell investigates record royalties.

The Pros And Cons

Seasoned programmer Paul Wiffen reveals the truth about separate voice outputs on samplers. Are they really desirable or are they just a nuisance? And what happens to the polyphony when you use them? We tell you what no others dared!!

Reverb: Too much of a good thing?

A new column that allows music industry figures to air their views on whatever it is that bugs them! Keyboard programmer, music consultant and author Paul Wiffen kicks things off this month.

With a little thought and a few 'tricks of the trade', it is possible to produce top quality recordings at home. David Mellor explains how.

News of Ensoniq’s rackmount sampler, the EPS-M, and other goodies are unveiled in glorious techno-colour. Read all about it.

The Story of the Guitar Synth

Learn the history of the guitar synthesiser and what the stars think of them.

Shop now for Christmas.

History Of Producers

Just who are these people who get their names on record sleeves and their sounds in your speakers?

Historic and faintly embarrassing pix of Jeff Beck and John Paul Jones. Another exclusive!

An instrument which has shaped today's electro-music

Avoiding Problems

The last instalment in the current series wraps up with tips on avoiding problems and the use of Pressure Zone Microphones.

More recording legends: Norman Petty tapes Buddy Holly.

How much do musicians really earn? The rich ones (ahem) the poor ones (definitely).