Play On (John Miles album)

EMI promised that Miles would use a top producer and top session musicians for his second album for EMI.[1]

Eventually they chose Gus Dudgeon who had worked with artists like Elton John, Chris Rea and Elkie Brooks. Originally, the album was planned to be released in 1982, but because Dudgeon was not available at the time, the release was delayed.[1]

It was also the first time that drummer Barry Black and bassist Bob Marshall were not used on the album. (Although Marshall still wrote the songs with Miles) Instead they were replaced by session musicians. "The Right to Sing" was the first single released from the album and was written about the fact that record companies wanted to decide which songs Miles had to release and which direction he had to take.[1]

"That's Rock 'n' Roll" was left off the album, because it was too different and was released as a B-side.[1]

All songs written by Bob Marshall and John Miles

1. "Take Me to My Heaven"
2. "Song for You"
3. "It Wasn't Love at All"
4. "Ready to Spread Your Wings"
5. "I'll Never Do it Again"
6. "Heart of Stone"
7. "Home"
8. "Close Eyes and Count to Ten"
9. "Carrie"
10. "Right to Sing"

• John Miles: Lead Vocals
• Martin Jenner: Guitar
• Gus Dudgeon: Tambourine
• Graham Jarvie: Drums
• Paul Westwood: Bass
• Bruce Baxter: Orchestral Arrangements

• Billboard.com