Dive Bar Music Club: low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.
Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, your new favorite monthly hangout where deep music knowledge meets dive bar vibes. Each episode, a rotating cast of indie music lifers (record store owners, radio hosts, touring musicians, venue bookers, photographers, and more) grab a drink, hop online, and swap notes on the three albums they can’t stop spinning.
It’s not a review show; it’s a conversation. A cozy, no-gatekeeping zone for the kind of people who make playlists for every mood, still buy records, and love to discover that one incredible band hiding in the liner notes. We’re heavy on new releases, but old favorites, hidden gems, and "how did I miss this?" moments are always on the table.
Whether you work in music, live for your local scene, or just want cool friends to talk tunes with, Dive Bar Music Club is your invitation to pull up a stool, pour a drink, and nerd out. No VIP pass required.
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The Regulars: Sloane Spencer, Serial Music Podcaster
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 13:03
Summary
Grab your favorite drink and settle in, because we’re diving deep with Sloane Spencer, the mastermind behind Dive Bar Music Club. This week, Sloane shares her journey through the indie music scene, from her days as a radio host to her latest venture, Sleep with Rock Stars, a chill podcast that aims to lull you to sleep with the soothing sounds of music history. We chat about the evolution of her musical passion, how the pandemic sparked her return to podcasting, and her love for dive bars that serve as the heartbeat of local music communities. Sloane’s tales of sneaking into punk clubs as a kid and her nostalgic nods to legendary venues like the 40 Watt and Caledonia remind us that music isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life. So, whether you're a seasoned music nerd or just looking to unwind with some good tunes, this episode promises to be a cozy listen that’ll have you saying, "Y’all come back now, you hear?"
Chapters
00:12 - Introducing the Host: Sloane Spencer
03:18 - The Birth of Dive Bar Music Club Podcast
06:30 - The Journey to College Radio
07:54 - The Evolution of Music Spaces
12:05 - Exploring Dive Bar Music Club
Show Notes
Diving into the depths of music culture, this episode of Dive Bar Music Club takes a relaxed stroll through the melodious journey of Sloane Spencer, a figure who embodies both nostalgia and innovation in the podcasting realm. Sloane's story unfolds like a well-worn record, starting from her childhood roots steeped in music, where her parents' love for artists like Janis Joplin laid the groundwork for her lifelong passion. The conversation meanders through her early foray into radio, where she cleverly maneuvered her way into the industry, despite her initial lack of musical talent. This candid narrative is peppered with humor, as Sloane shares anecdotes of sneaking into punk rock shows, her brief stint as a frontwoman for a Ramones cover band, and her 'soft retirement' from traditional radio.
With a charmingly colloquial tone, Sloane explains her latest ventures, including the creation of her new podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars, which takes an unexpected turn as she reads about popular bands in a soothing, sleepy voice, an idea that initially perplexed her. This shift not only highlights her adaptability but also her desire to cater to the Gen X audience, merging the worlds of music and relaxation in a uniquely engaging format. As she shares her love for indie music and her commitment to venues like the 40 Watt and Nuci's Space, Sloane invites listeners to reminisce about their own musical experiences while subtly encouraging them to explore the vibrant indie scene.
As the episode wraps up, listeners are left with a sense of camaraderie and nostalgia, as Sloane's journey reflects the broader tapestry of music culture that unites us all—reminding us that whether it's in a dive bar or through the airwaves, music has a way of bringing people together in the most delightful of ways.
---
In a heartfelt and humorous exchange, this episode of Dive Bar Music Club dives deep into the rich tapestry of Sloane Spencer's musical journey. From her early days of being a music enthusiast fueled by her parents' eclectic tastes to her evolution into a radio personality and podcaster, Sloane's narrative is as engaging as it is reflective. The episode captures the essence of Sloane's personality, allowing her quirky and relatable nature to shine through as she recounts her adventures in the music scene, including her unsuccessful attempts at playing guitar and her amusing role in a Ramones cover band.
Sloane's transition from radio to podcasting is a central theme, with her latest project, Sleep with Rock Stars, offering a fresh take on the podcast format....
The Regulars: Kim Ware of The Good Graces and Y'All'Re
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 08:10
Summary
Grab a drink and slide into the booth because we're diving deep with Kim Ware, the talented songwriter behind The Good Graces and drummer for the punk band Y'All'Re. This week, we’re peeling back the layers on her musical journey that started with school band and a love for drums, turning into a vibrant career filled with songwriting and live performances across the Carolinas. Kim shares tales from her early days, where she found comfort and expression through music, especially during life’s ups and downs. We’ll also have a laugh or two about the quirks of venue life, reminiscing about iconic spots like Fat City in Charlotte, which painted the backdrop of her indie rock beginnings. So come hang out with us at the Dive Bar Music Club, where the conversations flow as freely as the drinks, and the love for independent music runs deep.
Bio
(Note this is my most recent music one -- we can tweak it to include radio/podcast/etc. stuff if you want!)
Drummer-turned-songwriter Kim Ware of the Good Graces makes the kind of music that stops you in your tracks—raw, honest Southern indie that's earned her the title of 'songwriter's songwriter' and 'Atlanta treasure.' Since picking up a guitar in 2006, she's been writing songs with so much heart and raw guts that even her mom admits, 'The music is excellent. Some of the words are too sad.' Her unflinching lyrics offer exactly what we need: a way to feel our way through dark times rather than think our way out of them.
00:15 - Introducing Kim Ware: A Dive into Independent Music
The Regulars: Rachel Cholst, Beyond Adobe & Teardrops and Rainbow Rodeo
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 14:22
Summary
This week at the Dive Bar Music Club, we meet one of the Regulars, the incredible Rachel Cholst, who’s here to take us on a deep dive into the colorful world of queer country and Americana. Get ready for some surprising insights and music recommendations, including jazz for non-historians.
As we sip on our metaphorical cocktails and kick back, Rachel Cholst helps us explore the magic of live music venues and how they create a sense of community, especially for those of us who don’t fit the cis het white dude roots music scene mold. And if you're a fan of Lilith Fair 90s vibes, you're in for a treat, as we also chat about how the past has shaped the music we love today.
Dive in to broad influences from peers to NPR with Rachel Cholst.
Links
Rachel Cholst (she/her/hers) is an educator and music journalist in New York City. She focuses on diversity in Americana and country music, particularly queer country. She is the editor of the queer country blog and zine Rainbow Rodeo, and the longtime writer for Adobe & Teardrops. Her work appears in No Depression, the Nashville Scene, Good Country, The Boot, and Wide Open Country.
07:23 The Importance of Community Spaces in Live Music
09:53 Exploring the Music Scene in Upper Manhattan
13:17 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club
The Regulars: Amanda Miles, Former Music Writer and Discerning Fan
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 06:15
Summary
Amanda Miles joins us for a spirited chat about the magic of music and the venues that bring it to life. We're diving deep into the heart of what makes places like the Tabernacle in Atlanta and the Ryman in Nashville such special spots for music lovers. It's not just about the shows; it’s about the stories, the experiences, and that electric feeling when your favorite artist hits the stage. As Amanda shares her journey from a music writer to a passionate fan, we explore how music connects us on a human level, whether it’s the tunes that get us through tough times or the ones that make us rage. So, grab your drink of choice, kick back, and let’s indulge in some good music talk that’ll make you want to dig through your playlists for that perfect jam.
Amands Miles
Former entertainment writer/blogger, Currently serve as a nonprofit executive, leading development strategy at New Disabled South and is a self-described music nerd.
00:48 - The Journey from Music Writer to Music Fan
02:21 - Exploring Favorite Music Venues
03:57 - The History of the Tabernacle Venue
04:36 - Connecting with Creativity: The Journey of Amanda Miles
05:20 - The Power of Music Connection
indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast,
, Dive Bar Music Club, Amanda Miles podcast, 90s alt rock, music fan community, concert experiences, Atlanta music scene, music writing, favorite music venues, Tabernacle Atlanta, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, indie music recommendations, music playlists, music discussions, sharing music passion, listening to new music, music nerd culture, attending live shows, music fan connections, upcoming novel about music
The Regulars: Charles Hale of Driver 8 Records and Ajax Diner Book Club
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 07:43
Summary
We're diving deep into the world of independent music with Fort Collins, Colorado's very own Charles Hale, the mastermind behind Driver 8 Records and Ajax Diner Book Club. Charles is not just your average record store owner; he's a long-time community radio host and a passionate music advocate who believes that it’s all about taste, not trends. In our chat, we explore his journey from a curious high schooler raising his hand to get on the airwaves, to opening a boutique record store that fills a much-needed gap in his community. We reminisce about some legendary dive bars where the music flows as freely as the drinks, and Charles shares tales of unforgettable performances that remind us of the magic of live music. So grab your drink of choice, kick back, and let’s get to know the man behind the records and the radio waves, because this is all about the vibe, folks!
Bio
Charles Hale
Currently: owner Driver 8 Records, an independent record store in Ft. Collins CO. Host Ajax Diner Book Club, a 10-year plus radio show on KRFC.
Formerly: Contributor Nine Bullets blog
In this episode, we dive straight in with Charles Hale, the creative force behind Driver 8 Records and the Ajax Diner Book Club on KRFC radio. From spinning records on college radio to opening one of the city’s most beloved record stores, Charles shares the story of how passion, persistence, and community came together to build something truly special.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
The Regulars: Nelson Gullet of WDVX from College Radio to Americana Guru
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 09:43
Join us as we dive deep into the eclectic world of independent music with the one and only Nelson Gullett from WDVX in Knoxville, Tennessee. We’re not just sipping drinks; we’re pouring over the rich tapestry of sounds that connect the past and present of roots music. Nelson shares his journey from college radio to crafting a show that showcases diverse voices and classic influences, all while keeping it fresh and engaging. We’ll explore the venues that shaped his musical palate and, trust me, you’ll want to hear about his first encounter with Kasey Chambers that sparked a love affair with Americana music. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s unravel the threads of music that define us in this laid-back, high-taste gathering of music aficionados.
Nelson Gullett
Nelson was born in the deep dark hills of Eastern Kentucky in a town called Paintsville... just a few miles away from Loretta Lynn's cabin on the hill. He initially cut his musical teeth on pop artists of the 80s. Somewhere along the way, though, his mother instilled a love for songwriters such as Paul Simon and Jim Croce while his dad exposed him to early rockabilly rebels and the pioneers of rock and roll. Nelson was eventually introduced to the band R.E.M., and their blend of southern folk/rock in high school. In college, it was the Dave Matthews Band’s brand of roots-based jams that provoked him to drive for hours just to get to the next show.
In college, he became fully engrossed in Americana music and stated hosting Americana Crossroads on Morehead State Public Radio. Nelson moved to Knoxville and started working for WDVX in 2006, where he now serves as Development Director and host of the weekly Americana Pulse radio show.
Dive Bar Music Club, independent music podcast, Nelson Gullett interview, Americana music, WDVX Knoxville, community radio, music knowledge, music trends, roots music, music recommendations, live music venues, music history, music exploration, music fandom, music appreciation, folk music, bluegrass music, music festivals, supporting local radio, music culture
The Regulars: Chad Cochran AKA CowtownChad, Music Photographer and Visual Artist
Chad Cochran, better known as CowtownChad, takes us on a laid-back journey through the vibrant world of independent music in this episode of Dive Bar Music Club. We dive into his experiences as a live music and portrait photographer, where he seamlessly transitions between capturing electrifying live performances and intimate backstage moments. Chad's love for Americana music runs deep, and he shares tales from his time at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Beachland Ballroom, where the magic of music truly comes alive. Throughout our chat, we explore the evolution of his artistic journey, from a punk rock kid to a sought-after photographer, and how those gritty dive bars laid the foundation for honing his craft. So, grab your favorite drink and join us for a candid conversation that’s sure to resonate with music lovers and aspiring artists alike!
Show Notes
Welcome back to another laid-back session of Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. This week, we’re pulling up a stool with someone who's seen it all from behind the lens: music photographer and filmmaker Chad Cochran, aka CowtownChad.
Here’s what went down:
Meet Chad Cochran: portrait photographer, music video filmmaker, and the guy behind the camera at some of your favorite Americana shows.
The Regulars: Caitlin Cary Cheers Change, Shifting from Music to Art
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 09:34
Summary
Caitlin Cary joins us for a thoughtful and downright inspiring chat about her creative evolution, from the indie rock trenches to the calm, tactile world of fabric collage art, which she affectionately calls her “needle prints.” We dig into how this shift has opened up new ways for her to express herself, offering both artistic freedom and a healthy bit of distance from the grind of life on stage.
Caitlin also gets reflective about her roots in Raleigh, North Carolina, the places, people, and memories that shaped her, and how the city’s constant transformation nudged her to start preserving its essence through her artwork.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation among musicians without a few good laughs: we revisit her whirlwind years as co-founder of Whiskeytown alongside Ryan Adams, swap stories about the unpredictable charm of dive-bar gigs and bartending shifts, and touch on what it means to keep creating, no matter the medium.
So, pour yourself something good, settle in, and join us as we explore the crossroads of music and visual art with Caitlin Cary. She’s full of sharp insight, warmth, and a few recommendations you won’t want to miss.
Bio
Caitlin Cary is a visual artist and singer/songwriter/violinist based in Raleigh, NC since the early '90s. She and her husband, Skillet, were founding members of Whiskeytown, formed in 1994. Caitlin co-wrote many of the band’s beloved songs with Ryan Adams, and their vocal blend was a highlight. Despite the band's chaos, Caitlin is proud of their work and grateful for her 25-year marriage to Skillet.
After Whiskeytown, Caitlin released three solo albums, a duets record with Thad Cockrell, and two albums with Tres Chicas. In the mid-2000s, she shifted focus to visual art, developing a unique textile collage technique called “needleprint” using repurposed upholstery fabric for both representational and abstract pieces.
In 2015, Caitlin was awarded the Regional Emerging Artist Residency at Artspace in Raleigh, where she still works. Her art is widely exhibited, awarded, and collected, including in the 2023 NC Museum of Art’s Here and Now, There and Then: Visions of North Carolina.
Dive Bar Music Club: Pull Up to the Trailer
Friday, January 2, 2026 • Duration 00:54
Summary
Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club, where we’re all about vibing with our favorite tunes and diving into the deep cuts that make our playlists louder than a karaoke night gone right. This episode is all about celebrating the indie music scene. No pretentiousness here, just genuine passion for the sounds we love. Our rotating crew of music aficionados pulls up a barstool to share what’s currently spinning in their heads and hearts, from overlooked gems to the fresh bands that are about to blow up. We're cutting through the usual industry chatter and gatekeeping, so you can enjoy real talk about the tracks that resonate with us, whether they’re from that cozy basement show or a band on the verge of their big break. So, pour yourself a drink, get comfy, and let’s hang out, because music is always better with friends!
Show Notes
Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the hangout where indie music lovers meet to swap stories, share obsessions, and discover their next favorite song.
Picture this: a round of drinks, a few deep cuts spinning in the background, and a bunch of folks geeking out over the sounds that move us, from basement shows to breakout bands.
No pretentious vibes here, just real talk about what makes great music stick.
Each month, I’m joined by a crew of passionate voices as we dive into the heart of indie music culture, exploring how sound evolves, the grassroots scenes that shape it, and the hidden gems that deserve a bigger spotlight.
Expect plenty of laughs, a few wild stories, and a lot of “Wait, you’ve GOT to hear this track!” moments.
So grab a drink, pull up a stool, and join the conversation.
Because at Dive Bar Music Club, everyone’s got a song worth sharing.
is the ultimate hangout for music lovers: easygoing vibes, great conversation, and seriously good tunes.
, indie music podcast, music recommendations, music playlists, new music finds, deep cuts, music discussions, music experts, indie bands, music nerds, basement shows, favorite songs, music community, podcast episodes, music industry insights, music culture, new artist spotlight, music lovers, indie music trends, music discovery, Dive Bar Music Club
Dive Bar Music Club: Low-Key, High Taste Happy Hour for Music Nerds (Teaser)
Friday, October 10, 2025 • Duration 00:54
Hey, welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club.
We’re all about good tunes, better stories, and maybe a cheap drink or coffee while we’re at it.
Each month, we’ll dive headfirst into the indie music world with a crew that knows their stuff: a venue owner, a touring songwriter, a zine editor, or a radio host who’s seen (and heard) it all. We’re swapping stories about the hidden gems buried at the bottom of festival flyers, the bands we still blast from our college days, and those unforgettable nights when the only person in the crowd was the bartender. Shoutout to them, seriously.
Whether you’re a die-hard music head or just here for the vibes, pull up a chair. Let’s talk about what’s surprising us, what’s still hitting hard, and why music always finds a way to keep things interesting.
Low-key. High taste. Happy hour for music nerds. Let’s get into it.
Doors open January 2026.
Show Notes
Let your hair down after a long month, and join one heck of a rotating crew:
A venue owner who’s seen it all from behind the bar to backstage
A touring songwriter with stories that could fill a novel (or three)
A zine editor who’s deep in the queer country scene
A radio host who always seems to know the next big thing before anyone else
A songwriter and musician who found her groove making textile art
And a rotating crew of friends and colleagues
No script here. Just a bunch of passionate music nerds riffing on what we are listening to right now.
Here’s what we’re getting into:
What’s been catching our ears lately: new finds, unexpected earworms (better than brain worms), and bands that blew our minds in the most random venues
That magical moment when a song just clicks and becomes a forever favorite
Our wildest concert memories (yes, including the ones where the bartender was the only one clapping)
Related Shows Based on Content Similarities
Discover shows related to Dive Bar Music Club, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
01:06 - The Journey of Kim Ware: From Drummer to Songwriter
03:20 - Nostalgic Venues and Memories in Music
06:39 - Transitioning from Corporate Life to Creative Expression
07:50 - Embracing Accents in Podcasting
Recommended If You Like
Kim Ware, Dive Bar Music Club, independent music, singer songwriter, punk rock band, Y'All're, Grand Epiphanies EP, music podcast, music venues, Charlotte North Carolina, music nostalgia, songwriting process, female drummers, underground music scene, booking shows, music therapy, music industry insights, Southern musicians, live music experience, music community, music interviews, the good graces
Transcript
Speaker A
00:00:00.160 - 00:00:03.760
Hey, this is Kim Ware, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.
Speaker B
00:00:04.320 - 00:00:06.160
Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the.
Speaker C
00:00:06.160 - 00:00:32.710
Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of regulars, people who live and breathe independent music.
This week, we'll get to know Kim Ware, songwriter for the Good Graces, drummer for the punk band y' all Are, and former booking agent. Part hang, part deep dive, it's Dive Bar Music Club.
So grab a drink, slide into that booth, and get to know Kim Ware on this week's session of Dive Bar Music Club.
Speaker B
00:00:33.670 - 00:00:40.870
So, Kim Ware, I am so glad you're going to be part of the regulars here on Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days?
Speaker A
00:00:41.270 - 00:00:57.600
I'm a singer, songwriter, and I just released a new ep. It's called Grand Epiphanies. And I also play drums in a punk rock band called Y' All...
Takeaways
Vibrant, Inclusive Vibes: Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers of all kinds, where everyone can share their current obsessions and discover fresh new tunes
Community & Live Venues Matter: We chat about why live music venues are more than just places to hear music. They create a sense of community for both fans and artists, and that’s what makes the music scene so special.
Queer Country & Americana: We dive into genres like queer country and Americana, exploring how they reflect personal stories and cultural shifts, making for some pretty deep and powerful music.
Witty Banter & Musical History: Expect fun conversations mixed with deep dives into music history. We’ll navigate how genres and identities blend together to shape today’s music scene.
Recommended If You Like
Dive Bar Music Club, Rachel Cholst, Americana music, queer country, 90s alt rock, indie music podcasts, emerging songwriters, underground music scenes, live music venues, music communities, music recommendations, music reviews, jazz influences, Southern rock, intersectionality in music, music blogging, music playlists, artist highlights, cultural music discussions, music nerd culture, Yahoo, Pandora, No Depression, Good Country, Two Cow Garage, Karen and the Sorrows, Rainbow Rodeo, Penny Jo's, Rockwood Music Hall, Lilith Fair, Bad Bunny, Alt Latino, Adobe and Teardrops
Transcript
Speaker A
00:00:00.960 - 00:00:05.120
Hey, everybody, this is Rachel Cholst, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.
Speaker B
00:00:05.760 - 00:00:52.390
Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the...
Transcript
Speaker A
00:00:00.320 - 00:00:03.680
This is Amanda Miles, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.
Speaker B
00:00:04.960 - 00:00:47.720
Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs.
We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen. Okay, that last one's probably me. Sloan Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste. Happy hour for music nerds.
Amanda Miles, we are so glad to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days?
Speaker A
00:00:48.120 - 00:01:07.010
Well, I'm a former entertainment writer. I would say I'm retired music writer, and I am just now a music fan. Now I'm attending concerts and listening to as many albums as I can.
But I formerly wrote for Atlanta Music Guide, Inside Atlanta, and just love attending shows now.
Speaker B
00:01:07.730 - 00:01:12.530
Ah. So what's kind of the longer version? How did you end up in music writing?
Speaker A
00:01:13.890 - 00:01:40.600
So I am a huge music fan. I've always been a...
The origin story of Driver 8 Records: How Charles turned a community need into a thriving record store that opened its doors in July 2022.
Behind the business plan: A year and a half of late nights, coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions, and the moment he knew it was time to take the leap.
Curating with heart: Why Driver 8 isn’t just about selling vinyl; it’s about creating a space where music lovers can discover something meaningful.
From radio to records: Charles’ journey from a volunteer college DJ to hosting a Friday afternoon radio show that celebrates his deep love for sound and storytelling.
Doing the “unfun work”: The lessons learned along the way about persistence, preparation, and embracing every part of the creative grind.
A tour through musical memories: Stories from dive bars and venues that shaped his appreciation for live music, like the Parish Baker Pub in Oxford, Mississippi, and Surfside 7 in Fort Collins.
Community at the core: How local scenes, shared spaces, and a good setlist can bring people together in lasting ways.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
It’s an honest, inspiring, and down-to-earth chat that reminds us why independent music, and the people who champion it, matter so much. Whether you’re a crate digger, a small business dreamer, or just someone who loves a good story about following your heart, this one’s for you.
Listen now to hear how Charles Hale built more than a record store; he built a community around the joy of music.
indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast,
Chapters
00:12 - Introducing the Cast of Characters
01:37 - Nelson's Musical Journey
03:12 - The Awakening of a Music Enthusiast
04:23 - Musical Memories of a Small Town
07:27 - Supporting the Arts: How to Help WDVX
08:00 - Fall Fund Drive Announcement
Takeaways
The Dive Bar Music Club is all about chilled vibes and deep music discussions, making it a special hangout for music enthusiasts....
Chad’s journey from punk metal kid to the Americana scene (thanks to a cowboy hat and a certain host).
He’s worked with big names and captured quiet moments, both live on stage and backstage at festivals.
This summer’s lineup included:
Nelsonville Music Festival
Pickin’ in the Backwoods
Healing Appalachia
Woody Guthrie Folk Festival, where Chad was also a guest speaker on mental health in music.
Trivia Night:
Fun fact: Chad didn’t pick up a camera until he was 40. Now at 53, he's built a career shooting festivals, portraits, and raw emotional moments in music.
His first band? A “horrible” high school group called Stonehenge. But it laid the foundation for a creative path back to music decades later.
Favorite venues? The iconic Ryman Auditorium tops the list, but the Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland is where he honed his chops in tricky, low-light dives.
Why small venues matter for music photographers: they’re gritty, they’re real, and they’re the perfect training ground before the big stages.
Where to find him online:
Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and TikTok
Username: @CowtownChad
Yes, he's talking about music on TikTok (because his kids made him download it and a PR friend told him to find a niche).
Thanks again to Chad for joining our crew of rotating regulars, and yes, you’re definitely going to want to hear more from him in future episodes.
Last Call Reminder
Like the vibe? Follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend who stays till the very last note. See you next time at Dive Bar Music Club, where the love of music always takes center stage.
In this episode of Dive Bar Music Club, we sit down with Caitlin Cary, a former touring musician turned visual artist, for a heartfelt conversation about her journey from the indie music scene to creating stunning fabric collage art, which she calls "needle prints."
Caitlin opens up about how she made the transition away from music and found solace in a new form of artistic expression. We explore the personal connection she has to her hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina, and how the ever-changing landscape of the city inspired her to start documenting its most beloved landmarks through her art. Caitlin shares how this shift in focus has given her the creative distance she needed while still maintaining a fulfilling artistic career.
From her early days as a classically trained violinist to her unexpected entry into the world of indie rock with Whiskeytown, Caitlin's journey into music was as unpredictable as it was transformative. She reflects on the chaotic, yet rewarding years spent in the music industry, the quirks of dive bars, and what it means to live the life of a working musician.
We also talk about the humble, yet vital, venues that...
Dive Bar Music Club
Our rotating crew digs into indie music gems that deserve more love, so you’re always ahead of the curve.
No gatekeeping here, just real talk about the songs that hit us right in the feels.
New episodes drop every month, so grab a drink and keep that playlist close.
Hit subscribe to stay in the loop and join us on every new musical adventure.
Want to learn more? Visit divebarmusicclub.com to connect with our music-loving community and share the soundtrack of good company.
indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast,
Transcript
Speaker A
00:00:01.600 - 00:00:49.300
Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.
Every month, a rotating crew of indie music experts pull up a barstool to talk about what's spinning in their playlists...
Random places we’ve been caught dancing or singing like no one’s watching
Plenty of laughs, low-key wisdom, and a healthy dose of “you had to be there” stories
And we get a little real, too:
How music marks time in our lives, those tracks that instantly transport you back
The ways music helps us through it all: breakups, breakthroughs, road trips, and rainy Tuesdays
Why the indie scene still matters, and why we’re not giving up on it anytime soon
So grab a drink, slide into your comfiest chair, and hang with us.
This is where stories get swapped, deep cuts get shared, and the volume’s always just a little too loud. Just how we like it.
Related Rabbit Holes
More fun podcasts from the creator: the Gen X sleep podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars, and Country Fried Rock, where the archives from 2009-2020 are slowly available again.
Takeaways
The Dive Bar Music Club is a cozy gathering spot for music enthusiasts to share insights.
Each week features a diverse panel from the independent music scene, enriching our conversations.
We delve into unexpected musical gems, from hidden festival treasures to timeless playlist favorites.
Our discussions highlight the intimate experiences of live shows, even when it’s just us and the bartender.
Tune in for a relaxed vibe where music lovers swap stories over drinks, celebrating the art form.
This podcast is a sanctuary for music nerds, bridging the gap between casual listeners and deep aficionados.
