Can You Dig It? Podcast with Ella and David Lauser, Episode 2

In Episode 2 of Can You Dig It?, the conversation travels back to the beginning of a lifelong musical journey. Father and daughter explore what "making it" really meant in the 1960s—not fame or fortune, but simply getting to play music. Through stories of first gigs, stage fright, opening for legendary acts, and taking risks in pursuit of a dream, the episode paints a personal portrait of becoming a working musician.Along the way are memories of teenage bands, Sammy Hagar's early ambition, San Francisco in the early '70s, and the artists who shaped an entire generation of rock musicians.In This EpisodeWhat "making it" meant before record deals and celebrityReceiving a first drum kit and forming the YoungbloodsSurviving first-show nerves—and an accidental drumstick trick that looked intentionalHow music became a way to find identity, confidence, and connectionOpening for Long John Baldry, Savoy Brown, and Skid Row (featuring future guitar legend Gary Moore)Why persistence matters more than a single breakthroughThe contrast between Sammy Hagar's drive for stardom and a love of simply playing musicMoving to San Francisco with little money and a lot of faithLife as a struggling young band sharing a tiny apartment in the early '70sParking Volkswagens by literally lifting them into impossible spacesMemorable MomentsThe bands and musicians that provided the soundtrack to an emerging careerThe very first public performance of "House of the Rising Sun."Accidentally tossing a drumstick into the air and having the audience believe it was part of the act.Gary Moore inviting the band to jam during soundcheck—and immediately demonstrating world-class musicianship.Seeing a familiar face in the audience during a 3,000-person concert, making the experience suddenly feel real.Reflecting on the difference between wanting to be a great musician and wanting to become a star.Artists & Influences MentionedThe BeatlesThe Rolling StonesChuck BerryWilson PickettOtis ReddingJames BrownSam & DaveMoby GrapeBuffalo SpringfieldJimi HendrixCreamTower of PowerDave GaribaldiGary Moore38 SpecialSongs Mentioned"House of the Rising Sun" – The Animals"It's All Over Now" – The Rolling Stones"Manic Depression" – Jimi Hendrix Experience"Black Dog" – Led Zeppelin"The Sound of Your Voice" – 38 SpecialKey TakeawaysPassion often comes before ambition.Small moments of encouragement can shape an entire career.Persistence creates opportunities that talent alone cannot.The journey to becoming a musician is built one gig, one risk, and one relationship at a time.Sometimes success isn't becoming famous—it's getting to spend your life doing what you love.Quote of the Episode:"The reason I picked up the drumsticks was because I loved the way the music sounded. I just loved it."Listen If You EnjoyBehind-the-scenes stories from classic rockMusic history told through personal experienceConversations about creativity, perseverance, and finding your pathFather-daughter storytelling with humor and heart