Episode 3: Can You Dig It? - Trajectories, Trust, and the Conversations That Change Everything

Sometimes a single conversation can alter the course of a life.In Episode 3 of Can You Dig It?, father and daughter explore the moments that changed everything—from a chance encounter at a music store in San Bernardino to opening for future legends and discovering what it means to trust your instincts.David reflects on leaving his first band as a teenager, joining older musicians, and the chain of events that led to meeting Sammy Hagar. Along the way, the conversation traces the evolution of his career through Youngblood, the Justice Brothers, Free and Easy (later Toys), and the many musical influences that shaped his playing.The episode becomes a meditation on trust: - How do we know when to say yes? - How do we recognize the opportunities that quietly redirect our lives? Through stories of garage rehearsals, bar gigs, San Francisco's vibrant music scene, and family memories, this episode celebrates the unexpected intersections that define us.In This EpisodeLeaving Youngblood at age 17 and joining a new band that changed everything.A chance meeting at Lear's Music that led to meeting Sammy Hagar.Growing up in San Bernardino and the musicians who shaped David's early years.The rise and fall of the Justice Brothers and Sammy's transition to Montrose.Finding confidence as the "older guy" in Free and Easy and later Toys.Learning to trust your instincts when opportunities don't make immediate sense.Opening for The Knack, Van Halen, and the Ramones before they became household names.Seeing Bob Marley and the Wailers perform in San Francisco in the early days.Reflections on growing up backstage, watching MTV, and finding one's own musical identity.Memorable Moments"Had I not gone to the store that day, I wouldn't have known about the band. I wouldn't have met Sam. And I wouldn't be here today.""Practice prepares us for these opportunities.""When you know the story, it's not just stuff.""Music was my friend. Artists were my family.""I can't imagine what it'd be like to grow up with a rock musician."Featured Artists & ReferencesSammy HagarMontroseThe BeatlesCreamThe PoliceBob Marley & The WailersThe RamonesVan HalenThe KnackQueenKISSJoe JacksonErykah BaduPaula AbdulSarah McLachlanAlanis MorissetteThe CranberriesNatalie MerchantSheryl CrowAnnie LennoxSongs Mentioned"Stone Cold Crazy" — Queen"Detroit Rock City" — KISS"Blitzkrieg Bop" — Ramones"Fools in Love" — Joe Jackson"The Healer" — Erykah BaduEpisode ThemesTrusting your instinctsThe ripple effect of chance encountersMusical lineage and mentorshipGrowing up around musicFinding your voiceFamily stories across generationsHow preparation meets opportunityAbout Can You Dig It? PodcastCan You Dig It? is an intimate conversation series exploring music, memory, family, and the moments that shape a life. Through candid conversations between father and daughter, each episode uncovers the stories behind a lifetime in music—and the lessons that continue to resonate from one generation to the next.