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In this John Ondrasik interview: John's early songwriting was driven by a chip on his shoulder and a desire to be heard. We talked about the autobiographical nature of John's songs, the power of music to impact people's lives, the challenges of the music industry, the importance of speaking out against atrocities, how his ego has helped… and hindered him… and the low points and dark periods in his life. Specifically, being dropped by his record label and had to get a job, and the challenging time he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. John emphasizes the importance of gratitude, taking care of yourself, and making decisions that align with your values

John Ondrasik, better known as Five For Fighting, is a platinum selling multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter. To me, his songwriting is along the lines of the classic songwriters of the 60s & 70s like Elton John and Neil Diamond. John's released 6 studio LPs… has several hundred music licensing placements, many in well-known TV shows and movies… he co-manages his family's business, Precision Wire Products… and he's also an in-demand keynote speaker (watch his TedX presentation)

Photo by Mike Donahue

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to John Ondrasik

02:02 Early Musical Influences and Songwriting

04:36 The Chip on John Androsik's Shoulder

06:04 Breakthrough Moments in his Career

12:19 Living in the Moment and Appreciating the Little Things

18:04 The Power of Will and Taking Risks

21:46 Positive Affirmations and Mindset

24:21 Reflecting on Mortality and the Meaning of Life

26:53 The Story Behind 'The Day I Died'

29:40 The Autobiographical Nature of John's Songs

30:11 The Power of Music to Impact Lives

36:14 Challenges in the Music Industry

43:25 Speaking Out Against Atrocities

49:10 The Role of Ego in the Music Business

53:52 Dealing with Low Points and Dark Periods in Life

58:41 The Challenges of the Music Industry

01:00:35 Navigating the Pandemic

01:04:23 The Traits that Contribute to Success

01:08:35 Gratitude and Making Decisions

01:11:39 The Power of Music

01:13:13 Speaking Your Mind

Five For Fighting Upcoming Tour

FIVE FOR FIGHTING FULL BAND TOUR DATES:

Thursday, July 11 Hot Summer Nights Concert Series @ Municipal Lawn in Sherman, TX (Free Show)

Saturday, July 27 @ Mystic Lake Casino, Mystic Amphitheater in Prior Lake, MN (Free Show)

Tuesday, August 6 @ Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore.PA

Thursday, August 8 @ Electric City in Buffalo, NY

Friday, August 9, 2024 @ House of Blues, Cambridge Room in Cleveland, OH

Saturday, August 10, 2024 @ St. Andrew's Hall in Detroit, MI

Sunday, August 11, 2024 @ Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, MI

Tuesday, August 13, 2024 @ Lincoln Theatre in Washington, DC

Wednesday, August 14, 2024 @ Oceanfront Concerts Series, 24th Street Park in Virginia Beach, VA

Friday, August 16, 2024 @ Cabot Theater in Beverly, MA

Saturday, August 17, 2024 @ The Wolf Den At Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT (Free Show)

Sunday, August 18, 2024 @ Tarrytown Music Hall in Tarrytown, NY

Five For Fighting Quartet Shows 

Thurs, September 26 in Homer, NY at Center for the Arts of Homer 

Fri, September 27 in Saratoga Springs, NY at Universal Preservation Hall

Sat, September 28 in Corning, NY at Corning Museum Of Glass 

Sun, September 29 in Bethel, NY at The Event Gallery at Bethel Woods 

October 1 in Oneonta, NY at Foothills Performing Arts Center 

October 3 in Nashua, NH at Nashua Center for the Arts 

October 4 in Laconia, NH at The Colonial Theatre Laconia

October 5 in Bethlehem, NY at The Colonial Theatre

October 6 in Waterville, ME at Waterville Opera House 

October 8 in Newport, RI at The JPT Film & Event Center

October 9 in Red Bank, NJ at Count Basie Center for the Arts - The Vogel 

October 10 in Port Washington, NY at Landmark on Main Street

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On this Jeff Schroeder interview, Jeff discusses his new album 'Metanoia' and his decision to leave the Smashing Pumpkins. The album is a departure from his previous work and represents a new era in his musical journey. Jeff reflects on the challenges of leaving a successful band and the process of redefining his identity as a musician, and as a person. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of ego attachments and embracing new opportunities, the importance of being present and enjoying life, the role of passion in your career, the significance of finding your own sound amidst the vast array of gear options available. Jeff shares his interest in mysticism and spirituality, how it has influenced his music and life, the attraction of different cultural philosophies and theologies, the appeal of ambient music, and the process of creating Jeff's new record. Jeff shares his experience of working with friends and the joy of creating something from start to finish, his extensive guitar collection and his approach to production. LOADS of cool stuff here!

Jeff's most well-known as the guitarist for the Smashing Pumpkins. He initially took James Iha's place and was with the band from 2007 to his amicable departure in October 2023. He recorded five studio albums with the band and after bandleader Billy Corgan, and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, Jeff was the third-longest-serving member of the group. Jeff's got a new album out, called Metanoia… and today we're going to talk about the new record, and find out why he left the Smashing Pumpkins. As a side note, Jeff's one of THE most intelligent guests I've had on the show - very bright guy who's incredibly well-read

Photo by Vice Cooler

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On this Andy McKee Interview: His early years as a musician, his experiences playing with Prince, and his approach to songwriting and alternate tunings…. the emotional expression he finds in acoustic guitar music, his approach to playing guitar in altered tunings and the challenges and rewards it brings. He also talks about the inspiration behind his song 'For My Father' and the emotional connection it has with his audience. Andy shares his experiences touring with Eric Johnson and Dream Theater, as well as his involvement in the Michael Hedges documentary… balancing his music career and family life, and his struggle with social media. McKee also mentions his signature guitar models and his love for video game music… the importance of staying true to yourself as a musician, biggest change in his personality over the years, and more. Lovely, sincere guy, great convo!

Originally from Topeka, Kansas… Andy's an awesome finger style guitar player - he's released 7 LPs and 2EPs, and he's also played on records by Josh Groban, Lee Ritenour, and he hosts a lot of guitar workshops. He initially became well-known when a few of his videos blew up on YouTube back in the early 2000's, including his song Drifting - which has over 60 Million views. And at one time, the top 3 videos on YT were all Andy McKee's. This opened doors for Andy to play literally thousands of concerts all over the world, sharing the stage with artists like Prince, Eric Johnson & Dream Theater. Andy has a new finger style "supergroup" LP out featuring himself, Calum Graham and Trevor Gordon Hall. The band, and the LP are called Tripliciti

On this Willie J Laws Jr interview: Growing up in Taft, TX (population 3,000!), hanging out in his grandfather's beer joint, a terrible act of racism he was exposed to in 6th grade, joining the Navy, Moving out to California and getting caught up in the CRACK Epidemic, backstories to his top songs, career and personal highs and lows, most important life lessons he's learned & more:

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Originally from Texas and currently living in Massachusetts, Willie Laws plays Texas soul music, mixed with classic R&B, country, blues & funk. Willie's performed nationally and internationally in Russia, throughout Europe, and more. He won the Massachusetts Blues Society Challenge and was a semi-finalist at the Int'l Blues Competition and Beale St. Kings Awards, in Memphis. Willie has some amazing life stories and was kind enough to share a few of them with us, today. His latest album is Too Much Blues

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Robben's released over 50 albums in a career that's spanned almost as many years. Besides a successful solo career, Robben's played with Joni Mitchell, Miles Davis, George Harrison, Phil Lesh, Bonnie Raitt, Bob Dylan, greg Allman, John Scofield, Susan Tedeschi, Keb Mo, Larry Carlton, Mavis Staples, Brad Paisley and many others

Robben shared literally dozens of personal stories in this conversation, including seeing Hendrix, Albert King, Mike Bloomfield, John Mayall and Mick Taylor in concert back in the late 60's… Stories about working with Joni Mitchell, George Harrison (how they met is pretty cool), Greg Allman and Miles Davis… why he put his career on hold to study Buddhism and meditation, and what he got out of this experience… interesting stories about his dad… personal struggles he's deal with over the course of his career… and some very good advice for musicians, or frankly, anyone in any endeavour. RARE for  Robben to get this personal, so give this a listen now:

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One of the absolute nicest, and most humble people I've been privileged to meet, Paul Jackson - although a rock star by any standards - is about as grounded a human being as you'll find. After a difficult childhood, Paul managed to find his way and become passion-driven by baseball and guitar. He talks about one of his early dreams of one day playing in the Pensacola Civic Center - a dream he successfully accomplished, along with many others.

Paul shared some great stories here, including how his (very supportive) mom turned him on to Motley Crue and changed his life, forever… some wonderful life lessons his parents taught him… cool story about how he met and fell in love with his wife… his vintage guitars… gratitude… and the meaning behind the band's latest EP, "Find A Light." Real class act, amazing guitarist and key member of one of the most successful bands out there, today…

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So many great stories Ricky told here. Like that time he ran into Cher in his local pharmacy… or the time Gregg Allman asked Ricky to keep Gregg's new custom Harley in Ricky's garage, so Cher wouldn't find out about it… Or how Capricorn (and all the other record labels) screwed their artists by including this ONE paragraph in each contract… why he left Wet Willie and moved out to LA… opening for the Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead, Grand Funk Railroad, REO Speedwagon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Humble Pie, and Slade… and his introspective thoughts on so many different things

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Ricky was one of the founding members of Wet Willie and one of the co-writers of their #10 hit, "Keep on Smiling." He also played and toured with Gregg Allman & Cher, Joan Armatrading… and owns two recording studios which he has kept filled for the last 31 years, producing hundreds of records and artists

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Avi Bortnick joined Scofield's jam-oriented band in 2000 and has played rhythm guitar and electronics, along with co-producing and co-writing three records: Überjam, Up All Night, and Überjam Deux. He's also played with Jim Weider, Zigaboo Modeliste, Bobby McFerrin, and his own Avi B Three. He's known in musician circles for his rhythm guitar playing and ability to blend in a variety of musical configurations.  

We spent quite a bit of time on this call talking about Avi's prolific side hustles, which include App Development, and consulting in a unique niche industry. Because he has these other income sources, he never feels pressure to take a gig or work with someone he really doesn't want to work with. Plus, it allows him to live in NYC and be centrally located to the places he enjoys being near. Avi also had some great advice for other guitarists. Interesting interview, not our usual conversations:

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Grant held the guitar chair in the legendary David Grisman Quintet for six years, and has worked alongside artists like Edgar Meyer, Steve Martin, Tony Trischka, Darol Anger, Dominick Leslie, Alex Hargreaves and Joe K. Walsh. Grant's performed all over North America and Europe, including Carnegie Hall, Montreal Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Bonnaroo.

Definitely one of the most intense and introspective interviews I've done. Grant and I dig really deep in the second half of this call when we talk about everything from happiness… struggling when it comes to asking for help… feeling undeserving… finding your musical voice, getting comfortable in your own skin, and more. Truly one of the most genuine guys you'll have the pleasure of getting to know. GREAT success story, Grant is a real warrior - you MUST give this a listen now!:

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John is a 6 time Grammy nominated songwriter, a Grammy winning producer, and guitar player. He's produced and/or written 43 #1 singles, 86 #1 albums and sold over 60 million records. He's worked with Melissa Etheridge, Alanis Morrisette, Joe Cocker, Keith Urban, Santana, Take That, Steven Tyler, Santana, Fleetwood Mac, Robbie Robertson, Sheryl Crow, Michelle Branch, Bon Jovi - as a writer, producer, and now he's also touring with the band - and literally hundreds of other artists

John gets W-A-A-Y deep during this conversation and peels back the curtain behind all the "glamour" and talks about the challenges of doing what he does… moving to LA and not knowing a soul… seeing the Red Hot Chili Peppers at their very first performance gig… passion, curiosity, drive… the 3 critical components every song has to have before it can ever become a hit… dealing with depression and being hard on yourself… compassion and forgiveness… retail therapy… great lesson his dad taught him… the danger of taking your foot off the gas… and how he's dealt with some personal challenges and accomplishments. VERY candid interview from someone who rarely gives interviews - this is a MUST listen:

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Talk about a comeback - Ian Moore really has "been there & done that." A child prodigy on classical violin, Ian slashed all the tendons in his right hand in a bizarre accident… which ultimately led him to guitar. His first album shot to the top of the charts, immediately - suddenly he's opening for The Rolling Stones, ZZ Top, Bob Dylan. Then, through mismanagement on the label's end, Ian has to spend the next 15 years completely rebuilding his career. But today, he's back stronger than ever because of this

Ian gets up close and personal during this conversation and talks about the things that allowed him to hang in there during those parts of his journey when it was looking pretty bleak… the tremendous influence of his dad, who was one of the top Buddhist scholars in the country… the backstory to some of his greatest hits… his resiliency… his wife and other close family ties… the power of being vulnerable… some of his amazingly cool vintage guitars… and why his future's looking bright. One of the most REAL and open people you'll get to meet, and definitely one of the TOP blues players in the country, who's equally adept at singing and writing. One of my favorite interviews because of Ian's openness. You MUST listen to this one:

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Smokey's recording and touring career includes work with Johnny Cash, Adele, Beck, Tom Waits, Neil Diamond, Norah Jones, Joe Strummer, The Blasters, Steve Earle, Maryann Faithful, Justin Timberlake, Mick Jagger, Sean Lennon, Rick Rubin, and many others

Smokey's adventures in life have been plentiful, including learning the blues from Peter Fonda, and vacationing with Larry Hagman… calling up Barney Kessel to ask him for guitar lessons, at age 12… playing 70,000 seat auditoriums with Beck… playing lead guitar with The Blasters… calling Little Richard (and Richard pranking Smokey on the phone)... working with Johnny Cash… connecting with two magic mentors who changed his musical life… getting hammered while making a major MTV video, and much much more. TONS of amazing stories and life lessons in this amazing interview with a tremendous player. If you listen to nothing else, make SURE you listen to this interview:

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Doug talks about working with and being mentored by Wynton Marsalis… scoring documentaries for Ken Burns… and a hilarious story about playing for Courtney Love and why she was running around naked at the party she was hosting at the Russian Tea Room in NYC, dealing with demons, the ups and downs of the music business, The Central Park Five, and more:

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Multi-Grammy nominated Angus Clark traveled the world as Kitaro's lead guitarist, is currently playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and has also played Rock of Ages on Broadway, is a TrueFire instructor and is the managing partner of SongDivision, a  corporate activity built around music

Angus shares the trials and tribulations of getting signed by a label that subsequently folds… trying to figure out your value as a musician and lessons learned from this… a lesson about not relying on "one gig"... knowing when to say "No," and more:

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On this Greg Loiacono Interview: Founding member of The Mother Hips, Greg talks about the chemistry of the band and how they've managed to work together this long, the band's 2003 hiatus and how he responded, getting sober and paying it forward, early mistakes made with The Hips first record label, responding instead of reacting, toughest decision he's had to make, and more. Very open and cool convo 

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Doug's been the lead guitarist for Ambrosia for 18 years now, and he's also played and toured with hundreds of well-known acts including Gary Wright, Marie Osmond, Mac Davis, Nancy Sinatra, Michael McDonald, and loads more

Doug shares some cool stories about playing with Roberto Carlos, Kenny Loggins, and Al Stewart… his greatest ongoing challenge over his career and how he deals with it… why he makes it a point to stay humble… and some great advice to other players - and in fact, to anyone who's ever been intimidated about doing something. 100% Raw and uncut, great conversation with a very talented player:

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One of the most successful songwriters in rock and roll history, having penned two #1 hits, a Grammy winner and an Oscar nomination. On top of this, he's also written hit songs with The Ides of March, .38 Special, Sammy Hagar, Survivor, Rocky III & IV ("Eye of The Tiger"), The Doobie Brothers, Blackhawk, Lynyrd Skynyrd, REO Speedwagon, Cinderella, Brian Wilson, Anthony Gomes, Dennis DeYoung (Styx), along with the theme song for the Chicago Cubs and two best-selling books

Jim talks about the many unlikely events that all randomly occurred which allowed him to write his first #1 song, "Vehicle." The kicker is, the opening verse was inspired by an anti-drug government pamphlet, his stoner friend brought to school… the secret behind Jim's 47 year marriage… thinking you have all the answers when you don't… the pressure of trying to put out hit after hit… dealing with the loss of his dad, along with dozens of really cool and interesting stories that by Jim's own admission… he has literally never even discussed before. AMAZING interview - listen now:

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Robbie is a highly sought after vocalist who was hand-picked by Roger Waters to be the lead singer on the biggest tour in the history of music - The Wall, Live, from 2010 - 2013. He's also the current lead singer for Pablo Cruise, and has recorded and performed with Rick Springfield, Eddie Vedder, Keith Emerson, Greg Rolie, and more…

Robbie talks about surviving cancer, and how it changed his life… what it was like playing with Roger Waters, and performing in front of audiences as large as 300,000 spectators… how The Wall tour made so much money… his experience working with Eddie Vedder… being more compassionate and loads of really cool stuff. One of the warmest people I've had the pleasure of speaking with, this one's an adventure you don't want to miss:

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A teacher on the faculty at Musician's Institute, Jamie has recorded with a diverse roster of artists including Michelle Branch, Jewel, and Malford Milligan (Storyville). He was also a charter member of Zappa Plays Zappa from its inception in 2005/6 until mid-2012, earning a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Rock Performance, in 2009. Jamie was also a member of the house band at the world famous L.A. jazz club The Baked Potato, co-leading the weekly Monday Night Jamz for 13 years… with a current monthly residency at the club today

Jamie shares some great stories about working with Dr. John and Dweezil Zappa… growing up in a military household… the making of his solo album, "Alleys"... some unusual influences, and great advice for younger musicians...

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Now on the heels of releasing his second full-length solo album, one of the funkiest rhythm players around opens up about using Kickstarter as a platform… marketing his albums… managing his time… balancing work and family… the series of challenges he's had along the way in his career, and… a potentially life-threatening medical condition he had to deal with at age 16, and how it permanently changed his life, for the better…

Interesting and very honest conversation with a great player and an absolutely positive, joyful person as well. Listen now...

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At 18, Matte was touring Europe with a successful metal band that had just cut their first CD which took off. But his love of the blues made him realize his heart was no longer in it, and he quit the band, to start all over - working small, local blues clubs in the Stockholm area. But it paid off a short while later when he was asked to join Siena Root, a leading psychedelic blues rock band that already had 5 successful albums under their belt at that time

Matte talks about what got him into guitar and blues… his top guitars… and te new project he is is looking forward to releasing

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2-time Grammy nominee Doug was signed to a major label right out of high school and has been a successful sideman and producer ever since. Doug keeps things real as he talks about getting sober… dealing with the loss of his dad… the cool experience he had playing with Tom Jones, Billy Gibbons, and Warren Haynes… the triggering event that suddenly made him start writing songs... and what makes him unique in the studio as a producer. Nice, laid back call with a super cool, very genuine guy:

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Bryan is a 10 time IBMA Guitar Player of The Year award winner, and has played with a who's who of A-List Nashville artists, including Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, The Dixie Chicks, Dierks Bentley, The Chieftains, and more. His first touring gig was with Ricky Skaggs in front of 5,000 people and his second was with Bela Fleck in front of 10,000 people

During this conversation, Bryan talks about his top 3 musical experiences… "paying it forward" with ArtistWorks.com… dealing with undeserving feelings… getting out of his own way… Eddie Van Halen… how to play faster in bluegrass… his best childhood memory… family, guitar, The Legend of Zelda, and more. This is a rare, extremely candid, and very personal glimpse into the life of one of the greatest acoustic guitar players of modern times:

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Chris started playing professionally while still a teenager, in New York City. First with hardcore band Orange 9mm, then with alternative metal band Helmet. From here, he joined Gavin Rossdale and Bush and has been with them for 18 years. Along the way, he's also managed to work with Peter Green, Katy Perry and Blur.

Chris talks about the difficult task of having to leave a band he founded because his own musical core was no longer aligned with what the band was doing… being comfortable (or not) in your own skin… discipline and commitment… being tied up to the chimney on his roof of his house - by his own dad… Bob Rock's influence on him… his cool vintage gear, being a dad, and more. VERY real and frank conversation with a powerful player, who's a master of playing different styles of music:

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Gretchen is not only an amazing player, but a brilliant person who's accomplished quite a lot, including graduating college... becoming an airline pilot… touring the world with Zepparella… releasing two solo records (including a very difficult concept album) and 4 other albums in separate projects

Gretchen was kind enough to share some personal history on this call, including the pressures of growing up in Palo Alto… the incredibly close relationship she has with her family… dealing with the loss of her best friend at a very young age… and more. This was a GREAT call with an incredibly independent, positive and optimistic person who always sees the glass half full

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On this Hershel Yatovitz Interview: Getting the gig with Chris Isaak and how it almost didn't happen, GREAT conversation about getting sober and some really amazing advice about asking for help, experiences playing with Joe Walsh, Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, Warren Haynes, Bonnie Raitt… growing up in Palo Alto and moving to Portland, Charlie Hunter, Wicked Game, kindness and more. Really sincere convo:

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Hershel's been Chris Isaak's lead guitar player since 1995, playing on 12 LPs, touring the world, and appearing as a cast member on The Chris Isaak Show. Hershel's also played with Art Alexakis, Junior Brown, James Burton, Mark Ford, Warren Haynes, Joe Pass, Bonnie Raitt, Richie Sambora, Joe Walsh and LOADS of other artists

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Allen has influenced literally thousands of guitarists through his teaching at Musician's Institute for over 30 years. He's also toured the world with his own solo band… teaching masterclasses… and playing with Roberta Flack, Randy Crawford, Gino Vanelli, Bebe and Cece Winans, and more

Allen talks about some of the challenges he's had to overcome, including growing up in a large family with an alcoholic parent… and losing his daughter at a young age. On the positive end, Allen talks about some amazing vintage guitars he has… some fun hobbies he enjoys… The Baked Potato… and more. Really nice conversation with a tremendous guitar player:

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Andy grew up literally smack dab in the middle of the pop culture and music revolution of the late 1960's and saw acts like BB King, Albert King, & Buddy Guy & Junior Wells in concert. Yet, oddly enough, he became infatuated with country music, which his older brother turned him on to.

Some great stories about moving to Nashville and a sort of "Baptism by Fire" when Andy found himself playing for a famous actor in his first session… and with literally the best players in Nashville at the time. A collector of vintage guitars, Andy shares his favorite guitars along with some interesting stories about how he acquired them… divorce, cooking, his maternal grandmother / guitar teacher, James Brown, and more. Rare interview with a First Call Nashville session player and original member of the Time Jumpers all-star western swing band, which includes Vince Gill. Listen up:

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One of the most important guitarists in the history of rock, Martin played with Jethro Tull for 43 years. His classic guitar licks were a critical part of the band's success and one of the primary reasons why they sold in excess of 60 million albums.

Martin talks about opening up for Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, and Led Zeppelin… Playing with Paul McCartney and Gary Moore… the exact guitars and amps he used in the studio and on tour… his favorite Jethro Tull song… music that influenced him and helped form his unique style…  

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Over 10 years, Truckfighters released 6 full-length albums and an EP. On top of this Dango mixed, engineered, and produced each record… started a record label - Fuzzorama Records - that is still quite active… produced a full-length documentary… and toured the world performing close to 1,000 shows. Then, mysteriously… the band sent out an e-mail stating they were no longer going to be making records. On this interview, Dango reveals exactly why

He also shares the biggest obstacles in starting a record label, and the toughest challenges about being in the music business… why he loves a little-known guitar Gibson put out, called the SGGT… how he managed to do things his own way - and the value of this… family, balancing life and work, and much more. REALLY interesting conversation with a bright, ambitions musician and writer, and just a terrific guitar player...

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Originally a child actor, Zane was John Mayer's guitarist in the studio and on tour for the Paradise Valley album. He's also worked with Avril LaVigne, Bono & Edge from U2, David Foster, Justin Timberlake, Don Was, and Johnny Lang

This call was all over the place. Zane talked about the ups and downs of growing up as a child actor… things he learned working with John Mayer… how audiences react differently, all over the world… Zane's two sides: the nerdy intelectual video game player and the bohemian artist, and how he tries to reconcile them both… connecting, curiosity, Lyme disease, and more:

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Founding member of Cowboy, played on Gregg Allman's "Laid Back" album as well as the live tour. Also played on The Allmans Brothers & Sisters LP. Has also recorded and toured with Duane Allman, Corky Lang, Dickey Betts, Johnny Rivers and Clarence Carter. Tommy talks about how he met Gregg & Duane Allman, and recording at Criteria Recording Studios in Miami, when he was 16 years old

Great stories about playing at both the Fillmore East and West… stories about Bill Graham… Why Cowboy didn't have a higher profile as a band… dealing with the loss of his dad, at age 5… and re-connecting with the love of his life after a 21 year absence. Tommy really has "been there and done that," many times over - so give this a listen:

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Cliff spent 12 years as Joe Cocker's lead guitarist and music director, and he also played on Robert Palmer's hit album, "Secrets"... winning gold and platinum albums status with both of these artists.

Cliff shares LOADS of great stories about working with both of these legends, including: How he hooked up with Joe Cocker… flying from LA to New Zealand, and why Joe Cocker, Nicky Hopkins and Bobby Keyes got kicked off the flight… playing in Israel and Northern Island when both places were a hotbed of violence and war… playing in Berlin, both before and after the wall came down. SOO many cool stories in this episode, it's "a must"

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Jimmy's held the lead guitar slot at Diamond Rio for the last 33 years. The band has been nominated for 14 Grammys and has sold over 24 million records. And in this conversation, Jimmy shares the secret of success behind the band' ability to get along and resolve conflicts amongst themselves…

Loads of personal stories here, including how Jimmy wound up buying a custom guitar at age 16… some childhood family challenges, how they've impacted him and how he's managed to overcome them as an adult… transitioning from barely being able to make the rent, to having multiple #1 hits, almost overnight… what it's like to make skydive nearly 800 times, and so much more cool stuff. Definitely worth your time, and then some:

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Hailing from the Oss, in the Netherlands, Astrosoniq is one of the most powerful and creative psychedelic hard rock bands ever to lay down a riff. Ron is a founding member of the band and one of the main writers and lyricists. But after putting out 5 amazing albums in 9 years, the band went totally silent. Now, after 9 years of dormancy, the band has just released a new album called Big Ideas Dare Imaginatio

On this call Ron talks about what happened over the last 9 years, and how tragedies the band had to deal with, inspired them to make this new record and start playing live, once again. Ron talks about life in Netherlands and how it's different from America… his biggest obstacle and how he overcame it… family… becoming a dad… and Texas Ribs! Great conversation with an amazing guitarist, incredible writer and a super sincere guy:

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With his new album Heart of My Hometown, hot off the presses and tearing up the charts… SZLACHETKA reveals why he left The Northstar Session after 10 years… why he elected to wait for almost 2 years before releasing his album - even though it was fully completed… why he moved completely across the country after college, and what he learned from this experience…

The importance of patience… work ethic and whether or not it's really necessary… where relationships fit in to the whole picture… and how he wound up working with one of the top producers in the record industry on his most recent record. Real upbeat conversation with an incredibly sincere and very talented guitarist, composer and singer. Gotta listen to this one:

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On this SugaRay Rayford interview: His challenging childhood and how Big Momma turned things around for him and his brothers… an amazing story about his unlikely journey to becoming an artist, working the casino "chitlin' circuit"... Releasing his first LP - at age 41! What happened when he realized "I was the best me that I could be"... VERY cool backstory to some of his songs, including sharing his PTSD from when he served in Desert Storm… the PAIN of America losing its ability to be Civil, why he "Doesn't sing anything he hasn't lived"... being grateful to be on this side of the grass, and more. AWESOME, fun conversation

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 SugaRay Rayford is a blues & soul artist singer and songwriter. He was born in Smith County, Texas, and started singing in Church at age 7. Ray's released 6 LPs, has won 2 Blues Music Awards, including B.B King Entertainer of the Year & Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year. His 2019 album, Somebody Save Me, was nominated for a Grammy Award. As a studio vocalist, Ray sang the theme for Judge Joe Brown & the trailer for the movie City Lights, as well as other vocal work

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New York City's "hot jazz guy" Nir Felder plays with Jeff Coffin, Jeff Babko, Will Lee and Keith Carlock in the Band of Other Brothers… tours around the world with Kenyon Harrold… and is an in-demand session player, as well.

Nir shares his early influences, including his musical maternal grandmother… why he uses 13's on his '94 Strat… best NYC foods… working for Arlen Roth and Hot Licks, as a kid… being present and not looking forward or backwards… and the best pizza in Brooklyn! Cool conversation with a great player who's filled with optimism for living:

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Amazing story about how Josh started playing guitar at age 3… was gigging professionally at age 12 (at the same bars Derek Trucks was playing)... released 4 albums between age 14 and 21 and toured nationally to support these records

Josh shares the ups, downs and very real frustrations of being a full-time musician… along with his rise up through the ranks, into the session world... production world... and artist world, which makes for a great story. Why he loves the blues… letting go and setting yourself free… acting, The NY Yankees, and why his new album is called "Burn To Grow." FANTASTIC conversation with a guy who keeps it 100% REAL, !100% of the time...

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Fresh off the release of his band's album, Michal shares his story about emigrating from Poland to Ireland, and having faith things would work out… why he went back to school to study guitar as an adult, even though he's already been playing professionally for years… how his parents (and even his grandparents) impacted his life, and much more. Great conversation with a simply amazing rock guitarist who you will definitely be hearing a lot more of! So listen now:

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Currently living in Switzerland, Kirk's played the blues for audiences all over the globe. First, as lead guitarists with the Fabulous Thunderbirds, then with Eros Ramazzotti, and now as a solo artist just about to release his 4th album…

Kirk talks about growing up with two older brothers in his parent's house in Compton, and the impact his father (who was a pastor) had on his life. He also shares the biggest obstacles he's had to deal with and the advice he wishes someone had given him, earlier on in his career. Fantastic conversation with a great player who kept it 100% REAL all the way:

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About to release his 7th solo record, Sean is a well-known and well-recognized blues artist who also toured the world with Hubert Sumlin as his guitarist and Music Director for 4 years. He shares an interesting story about how he got the gig working with Hubert, along with what he learned from the experience, as well

Sean also talked about the backstory behind some of the songs off his most recent release, Trouble & Whiskey… his biggest struggles in the music business… best childhood memory… overcoming shyness… happiest moment in his life, and more. Great conversation with an amazing blues artist and a truly genuine, kind person:

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Great story how Joel landed the gig with Alanis Morissette, Sarah McLachlan and Gavin Rossdale. An intense experience he had with the band POD… how his parents (who were both in the music business) influenced him… surfing, yoga, and the importance of  self-awareness in today's crazy world…

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One of the most popular guitar instructors online, Jeff's actually taught all over the world, and had an interesting career as a player, which he is now spending more time playing, once again. Jeff, a first generation American, talks about opening for King Diamond and Anthrax… Playing with Public Enemy & Ice T… losing his dad at an early age and how this impacted him… being an eternal optimist… falafel… dogs, cats, and "letting go." Really insightful and 100% REAL conversation - I encourage you to give this one a listen:

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AG literally brought the blues to communist Hungary... was smuggling vinyl, coffee, and birth control pills into the country at age 12… and was gigging all over the country at age 17, playing with guys twice his age and older

Besides sharing some eye-opening stories about pre- and post-communist culture, AG talks about what he would have liked to do differently, earlier on in his career… positive changes he's made, and why he is so devoted to the blues. VERY interesting conversation with someone who's perspective on the music business, and on life - because of where he grew up - is very different to our perspective here in America. Worth listening to, for sure:

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A sideman whose list of artists he's played with is like a who's who of pop stars. It includes Christina Aguilera (since 2002), New Kids On The Block (8 years), Prince, Tupac, and Nas. He talks about what it's like playing in front of 100,000 people (Hyde Park, with Anastasia) & 200,000 people (Monaco, with Christina Aguilera)

Mike was kind enough to share the top 3 things that have contributed to his massive success… the personal sacrifices he's made and how they've impacted him… the one thing he wishes he'd learned more about, earlier on in his career… some interesting hobbies he has, and much more in this candid and interesting interview:

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Mikes has an incredibly successful career in publishing, simply by following his heart, and pursuing his sincere desire to be of service to the community of readers he cultivated.

During this candid conversation, Mike shares the trials and tribulations of his childhood… what it was like growing up in San Francisco smack dab in the middle of the late 60's and early 70's counterculture revolution… some of his early challenges and how he overcame them… and the most important lesson life's taught him. Interesting conversation with a bright, musical soul with a tireless work ethic, gotta listen to this one:

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Frank Marino Interview: Frank's early experimentation with LSD led him to picking up the guitar and becoming a guitar hero, but it wasn't without a price. One of the most often overlooked guitar players out there, who's anti-establishment mindset caused industry experts to turn, this was an amazing conversation where we discussed everything, including:

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 Why he walked away from $250,000 and his contract with Columbia Records... details of Frank's LSD experimentation, and how guitar was the bridge from his post-LSD dream-like state into reality… God, faith, mercy… the upside and downside of signing with a record label early on in his career… how he developed his playing style, his SG and amp mods… patience, seeing good things in bad things, and more. 100% REAL:

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Stanton grew up on a tree farm in rural East Tennessee and now travels the world over with The Wallflowers. He was kind enough to share his journey with us, and it's very interesting. Especially when you consider Stanton played trumpet and then drums, long before he even thought of picking up a guitar. Then, when he randomly saw his older brothers electric guitar, it was as foreign as a rocket ship might have been…

We also talk about finding a balance between insanity and perfection… the perfect guitar for every style of music you will ever play… the BEST thing that ever happened to Stanton… his other creative pursuits, and… "Hermit Mode." GREAT call with a very bright, introspective artist who's just getting started...

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Kenny's been playing professionally since he was 12 year old, and actually opened up for Tommy Bolin's band Zephyr, in Denver. Stories include taking lessons from Bill Frisell… traveling all over the midwest, and ultimately getting hooked up with Marty Stuart ( Kenny talks about Marty's very close friendship with Johnny Cash) and playing with Marty going on 17 years now.

A great story about flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucia and a bag of weed… jazz keys player Jimmy Smith… The happiest moments in Kenny's life... and which notes you do (and don't) need to play when playing jazz chords...

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