In the ever-evolving world of music and film, few names command as much respect as pianist and composer Mike Garson and director Rupert Wainwright. Hosted by AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen, this conversation delves into Garson’s legendary work with David Bowie, his journey through jazz and classical influences, and Wainwright’s visionary storytelling in music videos and cinema. Together, they paint a vivid portrait of artistic passion and evolution.
Garson and Wainwright’ colloboration on a gut-punching new music video—a defiant cover of David Bowie’s “Heroes” —draws attention not just to Russia’s war crimes and atrocities, but of the heroism of the Ukrainian people.
“Heroes Ukraine” is an unflinching tribute to the women fighting in the war—both in combat and in the daily battle to keep their families and country alive amidst bombed-out homes, mass graves, and children robbed of their limbs and their futures.
Released ahead of the February 24th third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the project supports Unite with Ukraine, raising funds for frontline medics and the return of the tens of thousands of kidnapped children.”I created this video to shine a light on the heroism of ordinary Ukrainians. War coverage often centers on devastation and tragedy—but it’s vital to tell stories of courage and defiance in the face of unimaginable hardship. The people of Ukraine are not just enduring; they are inspiring the entire world. They are certainly very inspiring to me,” says the video’s director Rupert Wainwright.
The all-star music video features Grammy performer Mika Newton, Eurovision stars Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil as well as celebrated artists DakhaBrakha, KLER, KOLA, Olga Shapovalova. Bowie’s longtime piano player Mike Garson provides a hauntingly evocative performance throughout the song.
Grammy winning Wainwright also produced the project for Adore Creative alongside Ukrainian/American journalist Zorianna Kit. The track was produced by Ukrainian producer Kostiantyn Sukhonosov with the video edited by President Zelenskiy’s longtime film collaborator David Dodson.
All proceeds go to support Unite with Ukraine, the fundraising arm of the Ukrainian World Congress. The UWC unites 20 million Ukrainians in 60 countries and has partnered with renowned humanitarian foundations Come back Alive and Saint Javelin.
Mike Garson: The Pianist Who Defined an Era
Mike Garson’s name is forever intertwined with David Bowie. Their musical relationship, which began in 1972, saw Garson’s avant-garde jazz-infused piano shaping iconic Bowie albums like Aladdin Sane, Diamond Dogs, and Outside. Garson recalls the moment he was introduced to Bowie: “I was a jazz guy, and suddenly, I was playing rock and roll with this visionary artist. He gave me freedom like no one else.”
Garson, who studied under jazz greats like Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock, and Lennie Tristano, brought an improvisational edge to Bowie’s sound. The haunting, freeform piano solo on Aladdin Sane remains one of the most celebrated moments in rock history. “Bowie trusted me to go wild,” Garson says, “and that’s how we created something timeless.”
Beyond Bowie, Garson has worked with Stan Getz, Stanley Clarke, and Nine Inch Nails, pushing the boundaries of genre. Yet, his heart remains in education and composition. “Music is about passing the torch,” he explains. “Teaching young musicians keeps me inspired.”
Rupert Wainwright: From Film to Music Videos and Back
Rupert Wainwright, known for directing Stigmata and The Fog, has an equally fascinating journey. Before feature films, he made a name directing groundbreaking music videos, including MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This”, which won multiple MTV awards. “Music videos were like visual jazz—spontaneous, bold, and culturally defining,” Wainwright says.
His work in advertising and cinema, including the cult classic Blank Check, showcases his ability to blend high energy with storytelling. “I always approached music videos as short films,” he explains. “The best ones tell a story in just a few minutes, just like a great song.”
The Art of Collaboration
When asked about the connection between music and film, both Garson and Wainwright agree: it’s all about emotion and collaboration. “Great directors and musicians share a language,” Garson says. “When I played with Bowie, we weren’t just making songs—we were creating cinema in sound.”
Wainwright echoes this sentiment: “Film and music aren’t separate. They’re two expressions of the same feeling.” He cites his experience working with Michael Jackson as an example of how visual and sonic artistry merge to create something greater than the sum of their parts.
Looking Ahead
Despite decades in the industry, both artists remain as passionate as ever. Garson continues to explore new musical frontiers, while Wainwright develops fresh film projects. “The best work is always ahead of you,” Garson smiles. “That’s what keeps me playing.”
Wainwright agrees: “Creativity doesn’t have an expiration date. You just keep pushing boundaries.”
As the conversation winds down, Salfen nods in agreement. “Art never stops. It just finds new ways to speak.”
For AMFM Magazine, this conversation isn’t just about reflecting on past achievements—it’s about celebrating the endless journey of artistic discovery.
