Explore every episode of the podcast Franklin's Garage to Stage
Dive into the complete episode list for Franklin's Garage to Stage. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Backstage with Ego Trip: The UK's Rising Grunge Band
07 May 2025
00:35:24
When four musicians with a shared passion for grunge and heavy guitar-driven rock come together, something electric happens. That's exactly what we discovered when UK band Ego Trip joined us on Franklin's Garage to Stage podcast.
Beginning at a brewery open mic night when guitarist Bean and vocalist Will decided they needed a band name rather than having their individual names written on the board, Ego Trip has evolved into a powerhouse of modern grunge with distinctive flair. Their performances are thoughtfully crafted experiences - starting fast and bright, building to crushing heaviness in the middle, then easing listeners back out with lightness by the end.
What struck me most during our conversation was the band's genuine camaraderie and collaborative spirit. While they jokingly call their dynamic a "dictatorship," it's clear that each member brings unique contributions that elevate their sound. From Ellis's foundation-building drum beats to Will's powerful vocals, Bean's riff-crafting abilities, and Daz's complementary bass lines, Ego Trip represents true musical partnership.
The band shared candid stories about their journey - from embarrassing on-stage moments (like losing vocal capabilities during their entire set or accidentally erasing amp presets mid-performance) to the thrill of playing Kendall Calling festival. They're currently preparing to release their first album recorded at Rex Studio in Carlisle and embarking on their next tour leg across the UK.
For fellow musicians, Ego Trip offers this wisdom: "The best time to take the leap is yesterday. If you wait to feel ready, you never will." Their parting message to fans and listeners emphasized supporting local music scenes - attending sparsely-populated shows, buying that slightly overpriced pint, and simply showing appreciation to performers who put their hearts on stage. Check out Ego Trip wherever you stream music and catch their high-energy live shows if you're in the UK!
Rob and Dana Franklin welcome Daz from the UK-based Motorhead tribute band Loser to discuss his unique approach to tribute performances and supporting the local music scene.
• Loser is a relatively new Motorhead tribute band that tours across England, Wales, and Scotland playing mid-sized venues • Rather than just performing Motorhead covers, Daz creates full evenings of entertainment with a comedian and original bands as opening acts • Young musicians in the band gain valuable stage experience while helping carry on Motorhead's legacy • Daz explains his philosophy of using tribute bands to introduce audiences to original music they might not otherwise hear • Challenges of self-promotion and booking mid-sized venues in today's difficult market for live rock music • Impressive collection of custom basses including a specially-made Rickenbacker-inspired instrument • Communication and shared expectations are crucial for band success - musicians must discuss goals upfront • July 5th streaming event planned featuring multiple local bands each performing Black Sabbath songs
If you enjoy live rock music, please buy advance tickets rather than waiting for the night of the show - it helps ensure venues remain willing to book bands and keeps performances happening.
Franklin's Journey: From Garage to Stage on onstage music podcast
05 Apr 2025
00:57:49
Rob and Dana Franklin share their 30+ year journey as musicians in hard rock, metal, and blues, offering insights from both sides of the podcast mic. The brothers discuss their musical beginnings, touring experiences, and how they've maintained their passion while navigating the industry's challenges.
• Rob was inspired to become a drummer after seeing a live performance at his aunt's wedding • Dana followed his brother's path, switching from guitar to bass when he discovered his natural connection to the instrument • Their parents were exceptionally supportive, attending shows despite the loud heavy metal and hard rock • "Fool's Gold," an original song written by Dana, became one of their most successful tracks • The brothers have toured with bands including Monolith from Reno and Eyewitness Blues from Sacramento • They've opened for notable acts including Quiet Riot • Teaching music helped Rob reconnect with the fundamentals of drumming • Creating bands involves finding the right personalities, not just talented musicians • Their podcast aims to help musicians navigate the journey from garage practice to professional performance • Dana emphasizes the importance of relationship support when pursuing a serious music career
Visit franklinsgaragetostage.com and email rob@franklinsgaragetostage.com or dana@franklinsgaragetostage.com to join their mailing list for episode updates and giveaways.
Martin Motnik's Journey: Accept, Studio Work, and 1,000+ Recording Credits
27 Mar 2025
00:44:23
Martin Motnik shares his remarkable journey from practice sessions in his parents' basement to becoming the bassist for legendary metal band Accept, with over 1,000 recording credits to his name.
• Journey from bedroom practice to professional touring musician • Auditioning for Accept and the importance of personal chemistry with bandmates • Bass technique adaptations for playing aggressive metal music • Creation of his solo album "Dream Chaser" featuring notable guest musicians • The value of networking and treating every professional relationship with respect • Balancing studio session work with live performance • Equipment insights including his custom Sadowski bass with luminous fretboard markers • Accept's upcoming 50th anniversary plans and tours with Judas Priest • Pre-show rituals and maintaining performance quality across thousands of shows • Life lessons learned from decades in the music business
Sound Architect: A Conversation with Producer Connor Small
17 Mar 2025
00:43:28
Connor Small, also known as Quiet Son, shares his journey as a Los Angeles-based producer and mix/mastering engineer for both Grass-Fed Music and independent artists worldwide.
• Originally from Philadelphia, Connor discovered his passion for music early, banging on pots and pans as a child • Gained initial studio experience through high school recording programs and internships • Approaches production as a collaborative process rather than exerting control over artists • Uses the analogy of artists being in the driver's seat while he rides shotgun with the map • Views rhythm as the foundation of all music, emphasizing its importance when recording live performances • Has worked on projects ranging from American Horror Story to independent artists across multiple genres • Believes in making professional production accessible by working with artists' budgets • Advises new artists to trust themselves while remaining open to feedback • Emphasizes the importance of finding someone who believes in your vision • Recommends waiting until you truly believe in your songs before recording them • Can be reached through Instagram (@quietsonmusic) or his website (quietson.com)
For production inquiries, visit Connor's website at quietson.com or find him on Instagram @quietsonmusic.
When Musicians Stop Playing and Start Feeling the Music
11 Mar 2025
00:28:42
Rob and Dana explore the magical moment when musicians stop playing notes and start feeling the music, sharing their recent band practice experience where everything finally clicked. They discuss how finding the right bandmates creates chemistry that transforms practices from work to pure enjoyment.
• Update on their new project and recent lineup changes • Reflections on interviews with Robin Brumfield and Nile Atway from GrassFit Music • Discussion about the challenges of modern music genre classifications • Tips for new bands on member selection and maintaining a positive practice mindset • "Oh Shit" segment featuring embarrassing live performance stories • Importance of feeling rather than overthinking your parts when playing • Announcement of upcoming guest "Quiet Son" and future podcast appearance
Text us your band stories, questions, or suggestions! We'd love to hear from listeners about your own musical journeys and what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes.
From Passion to Profession: Navigating Artist Management
13 Feb 2025
01:01:55
Nael Atweh, founder of Grass-Fed Music, shares his journey and insights on artist management, the evolving music landscape, and the essential qualities for new artists. He emphasizes building trust, maintaining authenticity, and utilizing social media effectively to grow an audience.
• Nael's inspiring story from Toronto to success in the music industry • Importance of a strong online following for artists • Grass-Fed Music’s unique management approach centered on trust • Strategies for effective social media usage to promote music • Insights on the future of rock music and genre evolution
Robin Brumfield, an up-and-coming musician from Los Angeles, discusses his journey and influences in the music industry, highlighting his dual role as an artist and producer. He emphasizes the importance of emotional connection through performance, networking, and the creative process behind producing music for others.
• Discusses the emotional impact of live performances • Shares insights on navigating the LA music scene • Explains the blend of digital and live instrumentation in his music • Highlights the collaborative approach to music production • Reflects on the paradox of artist preferences versus audience reception • Offers advice for aspiring musicians on networking and putting their work out there • Stresses the importance of authenticity in art and connection with listeners
The episode reflects on key insights from previous discussions, emphasizing the importance of rehearsal spaces, auditioning musicians, and band dynamics. Rob and Dana explore the significance of image in music versus musicianship, encouraging aspiring musicians to engage with their passion genuinely. • Recap of previous guest insights • Importance of secure rehearsal environments • Strategies for successful auditions • Establishing band goals and identity • Approaching rehearsals with professionalism • Tips for recovering from mistakes during live performances • Discussion on the role of band image versus musicianship • Call for new guest musicians in Season 2
Remember the rush of your first live performance? Join us as we revisit that exhilarating moment with our brother and fellow musician, John Franklin, sharing our early gigs at places like Duke's Wild Goose Bar in Reno. Get ready to uncover the secrets of live music success, from negotiating set times and mastering sound checks to the art of written contracts that keep your band protected. Aspiring musicians won't want to miss our tales of sound engineers as unsung heroes and how cover charges can be a hidden gem for income.
Laugh along with us as we recount our most awkward stage mishaps, like Dana's bluesy blunder at Tumbleweed and Rob's drum kit disaster at Shady Brady's, narrowly averted by a quick-thinking bass player. We ponder the exciting potential of remote musical collaboration and dream of an all-Franklin band, giving a nod to our cousin Bruce Franklin from Trouble, the Godfathers of Doom Metal. Our stories of wild nights in Redding and hilarious close calls with the law underline the importance of professionalism, stage etiquette, and a solid sound check. These anecdotes remind us that preparation and teamwork are the keys to a successful show.
Eric Bogumil might have been just 17 when he joined our band, but his journey from garage rehearsals to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. With a little encouragement from friends and perhaps a touch of liquid courage, Eric found his footing in our musical ensemble back in 1987. Together, we revisit those electrifying early gigs, sharing tales of our debut at Duke's Wild Goose Bar and the unforgettable camaraderie of playing for an under-21 audience, all while balancing atop a precarious stage setup.
Managing the dynamics of a band can be as intricate as navigating a marriage, and that’s no exaggeration. We unpack the complexities of maintaining harmony within the group, drawing on personal stories from our time with Threshold. Eric and I reminisce about the importance of communication and the unspoken challenges we faced, from mental health struggles to the courage required to transcend our own limits. Alongside these reflections, we also recount some lighter moments that bring to life the vibrant local music scene we were once a part of.
As we share memories of outrageous stage outfits and makeup mishaps, we also delve into the stories behind our band Deadly Grin and the creation of "Man Made Sin." Our conversation touches on the ever-evolving music industry and the role social media plays in bridging geographical distances for potential collaborations. We conclude by expressing our gratitude to our supporters, whose contributions help us continue this creative journey and keep the spirit of our early music days alive.
Band Harmony and the Art of Balancing Life on and off Stage
14 Nov 2024
00:30:30
Ever felt like managing a band is like juggling flaming guitar picks? Welcome to Franklin's Garage to Stage podcast, where we bust the myth that band life is all rock 'n roll glam. This week, we tackle the nitty-gritty of practice schedules, the art of set list organization, and the marriage-like dynamics that can make or break a group. Rob shares his own adjustment story of swapping Arizona's sun for North Carolina's chill, highlighting how the band's evolution requires constant communication and compromise. Listen as we share strategies that not only refine our sound but also keep the band harmony alive.
The creative spark of a spontaneous jam can be magical, and we've got the tales to prove it. From blues-rock jams that unexpectedly became local hits to capturing those elusive moments of brilliance with a simple recording, creativity thrives in the most unplanned moments. We open up about the struggles and triumphs of maintaining punctuality and honesty within the band, treating it as a family where open communication reigns. Our stories of mishaps and laughter, like Dana's Reno escapade or the infamous lyric scattering incident, paint a vivid picture of the band's journey.
Relationships outside the band? Yeah, they're a whole other concert. Young musicians often find the balancing act between band commitments and personal life a challenging riff to play. We've learned the hard way about the impact it can have and the importance of keeping communication lines open with loved ones. Before we wrap up, we hint at a future episode with Eric Bogomil from Reno and share some vital tips on practice space security. Gratitude pours out to our listeners, with a nod to their role in our ongoing journey, and a small call-to-action for those who wish to support us further.
Picture this: a freezing Reno garage, a propane heater trying its best, and a practice session that feels more like a scene from a sitcom than the birth of a band. Our journey from Garage to Stage starts with tales like these—missteps, misadventures, and a lot of music-making in between. Whether you're striking out on your own or joining the ranks of an established group, we promise insights into the realities of band formation, from choosing the perfect practice spot to navigating the complex world of potential bandmates through platforms like Band Mix and social media.
The road to a harmonious band is paved with challenges, and our early days in Reno taught us that aligning musical visions isn't just about finding musicians; it's about finding the right ones. We unwrap the trials and triumphs of assembling musicians with varying skill levels and ambitions. Expect candid conversations about managing expectations, ensuring everyone shares the same musical direction, and the eternal quest for the perfect vocalist without letting egos take center stage. Our stories are your guide to understanding band dynamics and the creative synergy that fuels a cohesive group.
And then, there's the laughter. The auditions that went sideways, the gigs where cymbals became airborne—these stories aren't just for chuckles; they're lessons in preparation and perseverance. We explore how these nerve-wracking moments shaped our understanding of the time and dedication a band demands, rivaling even personal relationships. As we share these anecdotes, we open the floor to you, our listeners, inviting you to become part of our narrative, support our podcast, and maybe even win a guitar along the way. Join us in a community that celebrates the journey from Garage to Stage with humor and heart.
What happens when a snare drum borrowed from a sibling and a mesmerizing wedding band performance become the sparks that ignite a lifelong passion for music? Join us, Rob (aka Wardrums Franklin) and Dana Thunder Bass Franklin, as we take you on a personal journey from our humble beginnings to rocking the stage. Discover how Dana's early attempts at guitar led him to find his true calling with the bass guitar, thanks to some brotherly advice. Meanwhile, Rob shares the captivating experience that set him on the path to becoming a drummer, all inspired by a family wedding. Get ready to be inspired by our stories as we offer practical advice for those ready to embark on their own musical journey.
For aspiring musicians everywhere, this episode is a treasure trove of tips and encouragement. We open up about the early days of band formation and share how to forge connections that lead to your first gigs at local clubs. From the challenges of picking the right instrument to the joy of playing with others, listeners will find relatable stories and valuable insights. Whether you're strumming your first chords, pounding out rhythms, or raising your voice, we aim to motivate you to take that crucial next step from the garage to the spotlight. Grab your instrument, tune in, and let's make those musical dreams a reality together!