Inside the Sonic Dorm: A Conversation with Michael Des Barres

In this episode, I sit down with Michael Des Barres to explore the legacy of The Power Station as the band’s 40th anniversary deluxe edition is released via Rhino Records.

We talk about the rare chemistry that brought together Robert Palmer, Chic drummer Tony Thompson, and Duran Duran’s John and Andy Taylor — a true supergroup that fused rock, pop, funk, with a sublime swagger.

Michael reflects on his key role in the band’s live history, stepping in as frontman for The Power Station’s performances after Palmer chose not to tour, aside from their iconic Saturday Night Live appearance in 1985. The deluxe edition finally gives fans an official release of the previously unreleased 1985 live show from Michael’s tenure, along with the band’s Live Aid performance, also featuring him on vocals.

We also discuss the newly remastered debut album, raw instrumentals, remixes, and why this release is especially meaningful for longtime fans who have only ever known parts of this era through bootlegs.

An insightful conversation about a lightning-in-a-bottle moment in music history — and why it still resonates forty years later.