H.O.G. POD: Chicagoland Hyper Local Music Scene

One week before their first show, the founder of a Chicago Oasis tribute band posted an ad looking for a new singer and bass player.The band saw it.They fired him.Then they played the show without him.—James Bruebach joins Hogpod to talk about Matchbox 90s, Wonderwall, Chicago tribute bands, trying to “make it” in music, and why losing his brother changed the way he approaches life forever.Topics include:• The Pandora Method• Why tribute bands get booked• “The easier phone call” theory• Nashville vs TikTok• Why consistency beats polish online• COVID killing bands overnight• The Godsmack audition story• Petra at the Odeum—🎵 “Life Is Short” — the Hogpod album inspired by this episode:https://open.spotify.com/album/3CETxw...—⏱ CHAPTERS0:00 Cold open — Matchbox 20 covers7:09 Broken Oar flooding13:26 COVID kills the band22:13 “Post that content”27:32 “Life is short”29:00 How Matchbox 90s started34:33 The Pandora Method39:56 The firing45:53 Wonderwall is born53:04 Petra at the Odeum55:42 Pop-Tarts—Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes.

Rob Stepen is back — and this time, it's not a catch-up. He was just elected to the Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame board, and the story behind it starts with a night where The Generations walked into a room full of Cheap Trick fans… and left with two standing ovations.Plus: Rob isn't just on the board — he's leading the charge to rebuild the tornado-damaged Route 66 museum. We dive deep into the 2026 national Rock and Roll Hall of Fame debate (does Wu-Tang belong? what about Sade?), reveal the 2026 Illinois inductee class (Koko Taylor, Survivor, The Flock, American Breed, The Boys), and lock in The Generations' summer festival slate including Belmont Sheffield May 24 with special guest bassist Janis Wallin, Highwood Days July 19, and Roberts Westside August 15. Pete shares the secret behind a NeuroNoodle clip that hit 30 million views, and we end up tracking down JBTV's Jerry Bryant.🎵 Honored and Blessed — Hogpod Album #13 inspired by Rob's story:https://open.spotify.com/album/4sgKmEDHTbxuCWIIV54kLk?si=tnVwQJCDQpG1Q6GkbtQ7bw🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:00 The Generations live at the Arcada — cold open8:01 Highwood Days July 19 — The Generations headlining9:11 Two standing ovations at the Arcada9:37 Cheap Trick / Rick Nielsen & the Rockford connection11:30 Hard Rock Casino Rockford — the Dax Nielsen lead12:46 ROB ELECTED TO ILLINOIS ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME BOARD13:32 The Hogpod Pin — join the inner circle14:30 Illinois vs. Cleveland — why Illinois wins19:02 2026 National Rock Hall debate — Iron Maiden, Oasis & Wu-Tang23:37 Illinois 2026 class — Koko Taylor, Survivor & The Flock32:36 Long-form vs. short-form — the 30M view story37:19 Finding Jerry Bryant — JBTV's Chicago music TV legacy40:19 Janis Wallin joins on bass for Belmont Sheffield📍 Chicago - Chicagoland - Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame - The Generations - Cheap Trick - Sons of Cream - Arcada Theatre - Live Music - Route 66 Blues Roots🎤 Guest Links — Rob StepenThe Generations: https://thegenerationsband.com/Rob Stepen Music (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/robstepenmusic/Rob Stepen Music (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/robstepenmusic/Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum: https://roadtorock.org/Museum Donations: https://roadtorock.org/donate/Belmont Sheffield Music Festival (May 22-24, 2026): https://lakevieweast.com/belmont-sheffield-music-festival-2026/Highwood Days / Taste of Highwood (July 17-19, 2026): https://www.celebratehighwood.org/taste-of-highwood-and-highwood-days/Roberts Westside (Forest Park, Aug 15): https://robertswestside.com/Janis Wallin (guest bassist): https://www.janiswallin.com/💗 Support Hogpod — patreon.com/hogpodHosted by Pete Jansons and Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike).📞 Want to come on? Booker / club owner / shredder → [email protected]#IllinoisRockHall #RobStepen #ChicagoMusic #CheapTrick #TheGenerations #HonoredAndBlessed #SonsOfCream #ArcadaTheatre #RickNielsen #KokoTaylor #JanisWallin #SurvivorBand #JimPeterik #BelmontSheffield #HighwoodDays #JBTV #ChicagoMusicScene #RockHall2026 #RockAndRoll #Hogpod

At 75, Debora Masterson is gigging on bass in Chicago — and her debut novel is about the Sunset Strip rocker she loved at 15, the federal drug bust that killed his band Freedom Quest, the bowl of chocolate mescaline on their coffee table, the Hawaii cult he joined when she left him, and the reunion thirty years later that became twenty beautiful years..Plus: the time Sammy Davis Jr. cooked dinner for the whole cast in his Chicago apartment with Jesse Jackson there, Debora warming up alone in a Lincoln Center rehearsal room when Mikhail Baryshnikov walked in, the bowl of chocolate mescaline on a Reseda living room coffee table at age 22, and how she finished her husband's book five and a half years after he passed..🎶 He Taught Me Bass — Hogpod Album #11 inspired by Debora's story:https://open.spotify.com/album/1ZRM23....🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:00 The love story tease — 1965, two kids, sex drugs rock and roll, Vietnam0:14 Why her story belongs in Chicago1:08 Meet Craig Ingraham — the real Mr. Jukebox1:46 Met at 15 and 18 — fake IDs in the San Fernando Valley4:01 Freedom Quest forms in 1973 — the monster band that almost made it4:48 The roadie was a fed — drug bust kills the band5:48 Grammy legend David Benoit's teenage start6:46 The bowl of mescaline on the living room table8:21 He vanished to Hawaii — and joined a cult9:30 Manson was in the Valley too9:57 Sammy Davis Jr. cooks for the cast (Jesse Jackson's surprise visit)13:30 Alone in a room with Baryshnikov17:00 North Beach Summer of Love (not stripper joints)22:00 The Catalina Island Chi-Chi Club summer23:00 Cat's Meow Supper Club, Fort Wayne, the road to Chicago29:30 He never made it to Chicago — he's here in spirit now40:09 The seizures that ended his music42:34 Where to buy Freedom Quest — Bookshop.org over Amazon46:33 Pop-Tarts, Valley Girl, gag me with a spoon46:35 The 420 surprise — a 75-year-old's viral reaction.📍 Chicago - Chicagoland - Music Memoir - Debut Novel - Sunset Strip - 1960s - 1970s - Freedom Quest - Sammy Davis Jr - Baryshnikov - North Beach - Catalina.🎤 Guest Links — Debora MastersonWebsite: deboramasterson.comBook on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GQ573WV4Atmosphere Press: https://atmospherepress.com/books/fre...Bookshop.org: bookshop.org (search "Freedom Quest Debora Masterson")Craig Ingraham music: craigingraham.com/musicApple Music — Freedom Quest album:   / freedom-quest  .❤️ Support Hogpod — patreon.com/hogpod.Hosted by Pete Jansons and Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike)..📞 Booking — [email protected] / 708-287-3692.#ChicagoMusic #ChicagolandMusicScene #DeboraMasterson #FreedomQuest #HeTaughtMeBass #CraigIngraham #ChicagoAuthor #ChicagoPodcast #MusicPodcast #HogpodMusicChat #DebutNovel #MusicMemoir #SammyDavisJr #SunsetStrip #BassPlayer

Jen Brown, Dave "Doc" Zeiger, and Damian "Sgt Sparkles" Thompson of Crossing Decades join Hogpod to break down what happens when six Chicago musicians decide to cover every decade from the 60s to today — in blocks, with costume changes, and one country song per show because the crowd demands it..Plus: the Sergeant Sparkles origin story, their 8-minute mashup built on AC/DC Back in Black, Dave's WSOP run sitting with Scotty Nguyen and Lane Flack, and why the bathroom at Penny Road Pub was the best green room in Chicagoland..🎶 Hogpod Chicago Local Music Chat on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2QtmZ....🎧 New album drops this week — "GAME FILM" — Hogpod Album #10.🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:55 Cheryl Scott weather love1:13 Big Head Todd at Rivers Casino2:37 Dave joins the show8:48 Kicked each other's ass at School of Rock10:00 413 origin story11:48 Jen and Doc join the band a week apart13:04 Meet the six-piece Crossing Decades lineup15:17 How Damian became "Sergeant Sparkles"17:06 Who books the band21:08 Rock Goddess nickname origin22:55 From 413 to Crossing Decades rebrand27:02 The fan-voted name change28:28 "We play a little bit of everything"33:09 The guitar-tuning challenge35:38 Opening for 7th Heaven38:37 The 8-minute Back in Black mashup breakdown40:48 Blank Space, Taylor Swift, fast42:21 Costume changes on stage45:37 Jen hates Save a Horse, but the crowd wins46:27 "If the crowd's into it, it's my favorite song"48:41 Mickey Finn's three-hour show math51:23 Dirty Nelly's catacombs and green rooms52:19 Penny Road Pub bathroom nostalgia53:41 Upcoming: Rookies in Elgin, Mickey Finn's56:26 First concert round — Rush Power Windows Tour57:56 Jen's Metallica Saturday detention skip58:48 Bon Jovi, Cinderella, Slippery When Wet59:43 Spider Mike's first Van Halen Sammy1:01:07 Dave's WSOP run with Scotty Nguyen and Lane Flack1:05:01 Best music movie — Casablanca and Adam Sandler soundtracks1:09:37 Pop-Tart with butter, Family Guy style1:12:00 Butter on a Pop-Tart changes everything1:12:22 Rookies in Elgin, end of June.📍 Chicago - Chicagoland - Cover Band - Tribute - Bar Band - Rock - Country - Pop - Metal - 60s - 70s - 80s - 90s - 2000s - Today.🎤 Guest Links — Crossing DecadesFacebook: facebook.com/Crossing.Decades.ChicagoWebsite coming soon: crossingdecades.comContact: 847-302-6561.❤️ Support Hogpod — patreon.com/hogpod.Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike), and Spider Mike..📞 Booking — [email protected] / 708-287-3692.#ChicagoMusic #ChicagolandMusicScene #CrossingDecades #HogpodMusicChat #ChicagoLocalMusic #CoverBand #TributeBand #BarBand #ChicagoPodcast #MusicPodcast #413Band #RockGoddess #SergeantSparkles

She walked into an audition for a band that didn't want a female singer. Sang one Dorothy song. Walked out as their frontwoman. That's Cherry Bomb Chicago.🎧 Full episode: https://youtu.be/XHXP_I72c8U🎶 Cherry Bombed It on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/album/4YJmXoDncxnh867RCFWDH0?si=dE8zUJDERLmKhYq3AuqDVA📞 Booking — [email protected] / 708-287-3692#HogpodChicago #CherryBombChicago #ChicagoMusic #FemaleFrontedBand #ChicagolandMusicScene #MusicPodcast #Shorts

Chris "Bean" Weng has been drumming and singing at the same time since he was 12 years old. Now he does it every night as the drummer for Heartache Tonight, one of the Midwest's premier Eagles tribute bands — playing 35+ shows a year at theaters and festivals from Chicago to Michigan. Oh, and his first concert was Frank Zappa at the Uptown Theater in 1976. Yeah, Bean's been around.We dig into how Heartache Tonight was born, why New Kid in Town is the hardest Eagles song to pull off live, what happens when the guitar players won't stop at the end of Hotel California, and how Bean landed in Ralph Covert's Bad Examples after 20 years in the Chicago scene. Plus — Pacific Sound Company, the West Coast music project that's turning heads at Mickey Finn's..🎶 NEW KID IN THE WEST — The Hogpod AI Album inspired by this episode[HYPERFOLLOW LINK].🎧 All Hogpod AI Albums on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/6BN8V....🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:00 Opening — Heartache Tonight performs Take It Easy (live)   • Take It Easy (Eagles Cover) - Heartache To...  5:31 Ralph Covert and the Bad Examples connection8:08 History of Heartache Tonight11:10 Bean's artwork — painted by JP and the Cats' Jim Tulk16:19 How hard is it to drum and sing at the same time?17:52 Best singer/drummer of all time? Henley, Levon, Karen Carpenter?25:17 Blue Bayou transition — Tamara Woodruff show clip   • Tamara Woodruff (Blue Bayou) – Linda Ronst...  27:11 Mike Ostrenga show clip   • 🎸 Bassist Mike Ostrenga from Empress Joins...  28:29 Pacific Sound Company — West Coast music comes to Chicago29:00 Playing three guitars together — how do you stay in your lane?29:47 The stink eye — what happens when you screw up on stage30:30 What is the hardest Eagles song to play live?31:45 The Hotel California ending — guitar players going for a day32:50 Has any Eagles member ever shown up to a Heartache Tonight show?35:48 Upcoming Heartache Tonight shows37:06 From originals to tribute — how the Chicago scene evolved41:22 Tom Carey and the Ghost Runners43:00 Sharing the stage with Joe Cocker, Kansas, and Slash46:00 Jimi Sohns shout out — RIP47:44 Jimi Sohns performing Gloria with Chick Norris at Joe's Live53:39 Bongo Mike question segment — first concert, favorite movie, pop tarts.📍 Topics in this episodeEagles Tribute - Heartache Tonight - Pacific Sound Company - Bad Examples - Ralph Covert - Drumming and Singing - Chicago Music Scene - Hotel California - Frank Zappa - Summerfest - Joe Cocker - Jimi Sohns.🎤 Guest LinksHeartache Tonight: https://www.heartachetonight.comHeartache Tonight Band: https://www.heartachetonight.com/the-...Heartache Tonight Calendar: https://www.heartachetonight.com/cale...Pacific Sound Company:   / pacificsoundcompany  Tom Carey Music: https://tomcareymusic.net/Bad Examples: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bad....❤️ Support Hogpod  / hogpod  .Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike), and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes..📞 Booking — [email protected] / 708-287-3692.#HogpodChicago #ChicagoMusic #EaglesTribute #HeartacheTonight #ChicagoMusicScene #TributeBand #ChicagoPodcast #MusicPodcast #DrummerWhoSings #PacificSoundCompany #BadExamples #RalphCovert #HotelCalifornia #ChicagolandMusic #LiveMusic

Rich Sawyer spends his weekdays inspecting buildings in South Elgin — and his weekends channeling Chris Stapleton across the country. The guy went from frustrated Chicago-area musician complaining about not getting festival slots to flying coast-to-coast, doing meet-and-greets after 1,000-person shows at Joe's Live, and turning down the gigs he once begged for. This is that story..Tennessee Whiskey Chicago is widely recognized as the United States' #1 Chris Stapleton tribute act. Rich leads the band while holding down a government building inspector job since 1998 — and he's about 2 years from retirement. The music life and the day job life are about to collide..🎶 All Cattle No Hat — Hogpod AI Album #6:https://open.spotify.com/album/5DwLurfVwuDmFhJgGwRKS6.🎧 All Hogpod AI Albums on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/album/5DwLurfVwuDmFhJgGwRKS6.🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:00 White Horses from Matt's Barn https://youtu.be/SLtS3niaTko?si=ruuQR2XvS9lZ0VGX12:34 Chris and Amy Poboski Wedding Bash15:00 Happy Birthday Beth Miller Party15:20 Rich Sawyer joins the show17:38 Tennessee Whiskey Chicago intro19:53 Rich Sawyer's background29:57 Early vs late show start — why Rich demands the early slot36:20 Why Chris Stapleton — is country even country anymore?42:10 How COVID launched Tennessee Whiskey Chicago47:43 Ed Warm — Joe's Live / Joe's on Weed Street Country Force https://youtu.be/oZGIIOKiQKQ?si=U-oVlz8dTHxJcN3648:47 Has Rich been in contact with Chris Stapleton?52:14 Chicago country music up and comers — Justin Wallace https://youtu.be/Ne728N5YmSw?si=tkOTXtlnEsKBD6NZ55:28 Beard maintenance57:00 Rich Sawyer influences growing up59:24 Three Amigos1:02:50 Upcoming shows https://www.facebook.com/TennesseeWhiskeyBandChicago/events/?id=100085364674088&sk=events1:04:25 Bongo Mike question segment.📍 Topics in this episode — Chris Stapleton tribute - Tennessee Whiskey Chicago - building inspector - Joe's Live - COVID music scene - Chicago country - Justin Wallace - beard maintenance - early shows vs late shows - festival oversaturation - Seventh Heaven - Sundance Saloon - Mosquitoes band - Steel Drivers.🎤 Guest Linkshttps://tennesseewhiskeychicago.comhttps://www.facebook.com/RichSawyerMusic/https://www.facebook.com/TennesseeWhiskeyBandChicago/events/?id=100085364674088&sk=events.❤️ Support Hogpod — https://patreon.com/hogpod.Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike), and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes..📞 Booking — [email protected] / 708-287-3692.#HogpodChicagoMusicPodcast #ChicagoMusicPodcast #ChrisStapleton #TennesseeWhiskeyChicago #ChicagoCountry #TributeBand #ChicagoMusic #HogPod #PeteJansons #BongoMike #ChrisRhodes #CountryMusic #ChicagoMusicScene #JoesLive #SundanceSaloon

Desiree Starr Harris of Libido Funk Circus and Disco Circus brings the heat to Hogpod. She quit EMI with a one-year-old at home to bet everything on funk and disco. Pete nearly killed a disco ball mid-show. Basement laser parties. Peeps and Pop-Tarts hatred that became an AI song. Thirty years of Chicago disco that never dies..🎶 Album 5 — "Follow the Call of the Disco Ball" — 8 AI-generated tracks ripped straight from this conversation:https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hog....🎧 All Hogpod AI Albums on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/2QtmZ....🎤 Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike), and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes.🎯 KEY MOMENTS0:00 Disco Circus live performance — opening sizzle reel   • The Disco Circus Sizzle Reel!  1:03 Hogpod Music Albums on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/2QtmZ...1:11 Rat Bastard Song   • RAT BASTARD 🐀 Punk Rock Groundhog Day | Ho...  3:01 Happy Birthday Beth4:37 Mindy Shulman Live Streamhttps://www.youtube.com/live/EBlo_LTK...5:49 Desiree joins9:40 Libido Funk Circus background — 30 years, Desiree 23 years15:45 Alliance Music17:50 Joey DeMarco21:39 The bands are Desiree's number 1 source of income24:04 How did Disco Circus evolve26:45 Why is disco so special after all these years27:23 Debbie Harry/Blondie — punk or disco28:25 Disco ball Pete incident33:30 Mock Star show   • Mock Star 🎸 Full Band: Axl Watched, Bret M...  34:34 Rhodesy gives Desiree heads up on album creation35:08 Album for this week36:20 8 track players39:10 The magic of the disco ball48:10 Tour of Desiree's basement48:39 Desiree worked at EMI — records on basement wall52:05 Coming out of college getting into music business53:42 Best places to play for a disco bandhttps://impactfuelroom.com/1:03:02 Jim O'Connell show   • Jim O’Connell (Anchors Away, Snapshot) | H...  1:03:05 Desiree sings Tears of a Clown with Jimmy from Coterie Motown1:09:24 Bongo Mike question time.📍 Topics in this episode:Chicago disco bandsChicago tribute bandsLibido Funk Circus historyDisco Circus bandChicago live music sceneBand booking in ChicagoWorking musician lifeAI generated music podcast.🎤 Guest Links:🎸 Libido Funk Circus:https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oha3...libidofunkcircus.com🕺 Disco Circus:discocircusband.com📘 Facebook:  / desiree.stephensharris  🎵 Desiree's tracks:https://open.spotify.com/track/4k5RuD...https://open.spotify.com/track/40gn18...https://open.spotify.com/track/2M5X1S...https://open.spotify.com/track/40KOEQ....❤️ Support Hogpod:  / hogpodsupporters  .Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos (Bongo Mike), and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes..📞 Booking:[email protected] / 708-287-3692.#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #LibidoFunkCircus #DiscoCircus #ChicagolandMusic #AIMusic #Disco #Funk

🎸 Welcome to the Hogpod Chicagoland Music Scene Podcast! 🎸Pete Jansons and Bongo Mike sit down with the FULL Mock Star lineup — Jack Kole (vocals), Phil Slate (drums), Diablo (bass), Stevie Starr (guitar), Nicky Neutron (keys), and new keyboard wizard Frank Lucas — for a deep dive into 80s arena rock, the Chicago music scene, and what it takes to bring 1985 back to life in 2026.🔥 In this episode:🎤 Mock Star opens for Bret Michaels at a sold-out Crown Point show🎸 Axl Rose & Slash watch from a window while Mock Star plays GNR songs outside in 115-degree heat🤝 The 2-year pursuit of keyboard legend Frank Lucas — and the one text that finally worked🥁 Phil Slate's first concert: Elvis Presley with Dionne Warwick opening at the Cleveland Coliseum🎵 Why 80s arena rock is more popular NOW than it was 10 years ago🎯 Cover bands vs. tribute bands — why a cover band takes 45 min to book, a tribute band takes 30 seconds🏟️ Ron Onesti's Arcada Theatre — 100 years of music, and the man who cooks for every band in the room🎹 Six-part live harmonies, zero backing tracks — what makes Mock Star different🎟️ Upcoming show: Hobart Theater, Hobart Indiana — Saturday March 14th⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Opening / Wolfie Jam recap13:03 - Mock Star intro — full band joins15:37 - Mock Star's last Hogpod appearance    • Jack Kole of Mock Star Talks Chicago 80s R...  17:54 - What songs does Mock Star cover?21:30 - Why is 80s music so damn popular?24:32 - Concert ticket prices & why cover bands are winning35:45 - Marketing a cover/tribute/original band in 202642:50 - Ron Onesti, Bret Michaels & the Arcada's 100th year46:21 - Upcoming show: Hobart Theater Sat March 14th   / 18bnhqtvcd  48:22 - Bongo Mike question segment (first concerts + Pop-Tarts)56:30 - Live chat with Mindy Shulman https://www.youtube.com/live/EBlo_LTKguA🎤 MOCK STAR:Website: https://www.mockstarrocks.comFacebook:   / mockstarrocks  🎵 HOGPOD AI ALBUM — "RON ONESTI'S MEATBALLS"8 AI-generated tracks inspired by this episode — on Spotify and all platforms!https://open.spotify.com/album/[Spotify Link TBD]✅ SUPPORT THE SHOW:👉 Patreon:   / hogpodsupporters  👉 Merch: https://hogpodmerch.creator-spring.com📅 NEW EPISODES every Tuesday!Want to be on the show? Contact Beth Miller: [email protected] | 708-287-3692Hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos, Chris "Rhodesy" RhodesBooking: Beth Miller — [email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #MockStar #ChicagoMusic #80sRock #ArenaRock #CoverBand #TributeBand #ChicagolandMusic #LocalMusic #LiveMusic #JackKole #BretMichaels #RonOnesti #ArcadaTheatre #Chicago80sRock #HogpodMusicChat

Ever rediscover a lost cassette from the '90s Chicago scene and end up booking a Canadian musician by mistake? Rob Stepen is back on Hogpod Chicago Local Music Chat spilling all that and more in this must-watch episode! Dive into nostalgic tales like rotating gigs at legendary spots (Riverbend, Broken Oar, Monaco's in McHenry, Dark Crystal Lounge in Crystal Lake, Neighborhood Inn) while chasing bands like Joey and Sam DeMarco who packed houses back then. Hear the wild story of finding a 1990 Fugitive tape with a Joey DeMarco shoutout, and the hilarious Facebook mixup that led to booking the "wrong" Joey from Canada.Rob breaks down killer upcoming gigs: The Generations rock March 6 (Pete's crashing it too!), the jaw-dropping Epiphany Center — a renovated 1885 church turned 42,000 sq ft music epicenter in the West Loop with four venues, historic vibes, and top-tier sound/lights. We've got a tour video to show it off. Hogpod perk: Hit Beth's booth and drop "I saw the podcast" for free merch!Then it's legacy time with the Sons of Cream at Arcada Theatre on March 8 — Kofi Baker (Ginger's son), Malcolm Bruce (Jack's son), and Rob Johnson (Eric Clapton's nephew) fusing blues, psych, and rock like their dads. The Generations are special guests — it's in the DNA!Music news: Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl sparks our round-robin dream halftime picks (rock heavy, of course). Rob shares how he lands TV gigs nonstop, including Bongo Mike's Channel 2 spot on March 26 at 9:45 AM, timed perfectly before their Epiphany show. Wrap with the March 28 charity jam in Lansing, IL — a round-robin fundraiser for a domestic abuse shelter with heavy hitters like Elise and Luis (Pete's offering rides!).This episode is pure Chicago music energy — hit play and tell us in the comments: What's your ultimate Super Bowl halftime act?Timestamps:0:00 Intro (Surrender Lyrics Riff)1:01 Venue Nostalgia: Riverbend, Broken Oar, Monaco's, Dark Crystal Lounge1:44 Lost 1990 Fugitive Cassette Tape Story2:23 Joey DeMarco Mixup & Canadian Booking3:00 Generations Show March 6 -   / 18v7w2uzwz  3:19 Bongo Mike on Channel 2 News March 263:57 Epiphany Center - https://epiphanychi.com/ and https://epiphanychi.com/tickets/4:44 Epiphany Tour Video -    • Epiphany Center for the Arts - (Music Venu...  10:05 Hogpod Free Merch Shoutout - Say "I saw the podcast" at Beth's booth16:04 Sons of Cream Show - https://oshows.com/event/sons-of-crea...19:30 Music in the News: Bad Bunny Super Bowl & Round Robin Wishes39:35 How Rob Gets on TV All the Time - https://robstepenmusic.com/the-band/50:14 Lansing Charity Jam March 28Guest Links:Website: https://robstepenmusic.com/Facebook:   / robstepenmusic  Instagram:   / robstepenmusic  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/robstepenmusicSupport Hogpod on Patreon:   / hogpod   ($5 Buy Us A Beer)Want to be on the show? Contact Beth Miller at [email protected] or 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #RobStepen #TheGenerations #EpiphanyCenter #SonsOfCream #SuperBowlMusic

🎙️ This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast — Mark Molloy is in the house! 🎉You might know him as the theatrical, stick-twirling drummer for My Metal Heart. Or maybe you've spotted him behind the kit for Members Only, the 80s band. But buckle up — Mark just stepped OUT from behind the drum set to front FiveMan, a brand new Tesla tribute band. 🎤🤘At 21, Mark went to Vegas on vacation, accidentally landed a casino showroom gig at an open mic jam... and didn't come home for 19 years. 🎰 Showrooms, studios, tribute bands across Vegas, LA, and Atlantic City. He played Kareem Abdul DeBarge IV and Reverend Jive in full costume funk bands. He wore an African dashiki as Michael Bland in a Prince tribute. He was fully on board with all of it.He came home for his kid — Nevada ranked 49th in public education three years running, and "these dummies are not teaching my child." Now he's back in Chicago with 15 drum kits (3 garage-built), a chrome Roto Tom set that causes "a spectacular light show or a seizure-inducing nightmare," and a brand new gig as a Tesla frontman.🎶 In this episode:🥁 19 years accidentally living in Vegas🎭 Costumes, showrooms & the Prince tribute dashiki🤘 How Rhodesy recruited Mark to front FiveMan after one Yacht Rock jam🍞 The full Rocky Horror Time Warp — maids, toast, the whole production🪘 15 kits, 3 garage-built, and a 35-pound steel snare drum🌆 Vegas vs Nashville vs Chicago music scenes🔗 Connect with Mark:📘 Facebook:   / drummerboymolloy  🎸 My Metal Heart: https://linktr.ee/mymetalheart🕺 Members Only: https://www.membersonly80sband.com/📘 FiveMan Tesla Tribute: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...🎧 Support on Patreon:   / hogpod  🎤 Book the show: Beth Miller | [email protected] | 708-287-3692⏱️ Key Moments:0:00 Opening Video – Time Warp   / 1ackbepijj  5:27 Generations Show March 6 @ Epiphany https://epiphanychi.com/events/the-ge...5:30 Rob Stepen Clip    • HOGPOD  Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ...  8:19 Mark Molloy Joins the Show12:00 Mark Welcomed – Three Bands, One Insane Career13:00 FiveMan Tesla Tribute Debut @ Gordy Palooza22:07 Lisa Orduna Clip    • Lisa Orduna 🎤 Members Only 80s Band | Hogp...  22:10 Elise Clip    • Elise McLearen | My Metal Heart & Sabatha ...  22:25 Mark's Background – Mickey Dolenz, Grease at 14, Vegas at 2129:46 Chris Rhodes Joins the Show30:05 Mindy Shulman Clip https://www.youtube.com/live/EBlo_LTK...36:37 Digital vs Analog Drums – The Vegas Showroom Cycle39:39 Vegas vs Nashville vs Chicago Music Scenes55:15 Members Only Story – How He Joined the 80s Band1:02:09 Bongo Mike Questions – 15 Kits, Iron Maiden Backstage, Star Wars & Pop-Tarts📅 Upcoming Shows:🎸 Generations @ Epiphany Center — March 6 https://epiphanychi.com/events/the-ge...🎸 Generations w/ Sons of Cream @ Arcada — March 8 https://oshows.com/event/sons-of-crea...🥁 My Metal Heart @ Sideouts Island Lake — April 3🥁 My Metal Heart @ Broken Oar — May 17🕺 Members Only @ Shamrocks the Fox, McHenry — March 13🕺 Members Only @ Mickey Finn's, Libertyville — March 21#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MarkMolloy #MyMetalHeart #MembersOnly #FiveMan #TeslaTribute #ChicagolandMusic #DrummerLife #CoverBand #LasVegasMusician #ChicagoLocalMusic

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Joe Dilillo — Chicago-area producer, engineer, songwriter, and owner of Solid Sound Recording Studio in Hoffman Estates for 25 years. Joe recorded Smashing Pumpkins, Smoking Popes, and Plain White T's before they blew up.Join hosts Pete Jansons, Mike "Bongo" Orfanos, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and Mike Dermont as they dive into:🎸 25 years running Solid Sound Recording Studio and the bands that came through🎤 AI in music — useful songwriting tool or threat to the craft?🔥 The death of the old record label model and what it costs to make a record today🎶 Chicago's legendary sound engineers — Chris Steinmetz, Doug McBride, Bruce Swedien, Ryan Freeland🎵 Joe's new music including "When It Comes to Us" and upcoming International Pop Overthrow FestPlus: Wolfie's 21st birthday recap, Chris Rhodes' new 5 Man Tribute Band project, and Valentine's Day wisdom from the fellas.Key Moments:0:00 Opening video Joe Dilillo - When It Comes To Us [OFFICIAL VIDEO]    • Joe Dilillo - When It Comes To Us [OFFICIA...  3:32 Opening banter how was wolfie's 21st birthday?5:41 Whipping Post Chris Rhodes New Project   / 1438232317670299  10:43 Wolfie plays bass too!11:49 Shout out to Chris "CBob" Bobrowski Show Clip    • Chris “CBob” Bobrowski of Rok Brigade Supe...  12:45 ARRA band shout out show clip    • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago...   includes wolfgang paul story part 113:05 Tony Mok Show clip shout out    • HOGPOD Chicago Music Scene Podcast: Tony M...  13:35 Tavo Paul Shout Out video   / 1gsshd5x3w  15:12 Chris Rhodes New Project 5 man tribute band https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...25:07 Coterie FB Page   / 100063696872816  26:29 Joe Dilillo YouTube channel    / @joedilillomusic  26:32 Valentines Day thoughts27:19 Joe Dilillo joins the show helps us to pronounce name29:25 TD Clark Show    • TD Clark 🎸 Guitar Virtuoso Poison'd Crue, ...  31:17 Smoking Popes Mention https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoking...35:20 Mike Dermont Joins the show and gives his own intro of Joe Dilillo39:38 Joe's thoughts on Sound Engineering42:20 Artificial Intelligence44:20 Jeff Anthony Show clip shout out https://travel.usnews.com/hotels/?src...45:10 Dan Peters Shout Out   / daniel.peters.1656  45:40 Analog v Digital46:29 Autotune54:00 Session Musicians57:08 Who besides Joe are the best sound engineers in the area?57:28 Stan Doty Pravda Records https://www.chicagotribune.com/1999/0...57:55 Chris Steinmetz sound engineer https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_S...58:46 Doug McBride Gravity Studios https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity...58:53 Ken Sluiter https://soundbetter.com/profiles/5537...59:16 Bruce Swedien https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_S...1:00:10 Ryan Freeland https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan_Fr...1:00:43 Al Jourgensen https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Jour...1:03:13 $1500 these days to make a record?1:05:27 How do you make money off your recordings?1:09:11 Technology Music Disrupters Napster1:13:49 Pino Farina Band Show clip    • Pino Farina on Band Reunions, Original Mus...  1:16:00 Promotions and Niche Audiences1:23:10 Pop Music today1:26:50 Networking1:30:08 Joes contact info1:32:58 Ted Templeman Platinum Producer life in musicConnect with Joe Dilillo:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/joedilillomusic🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #JoeDilillo #SolidSound #SmashingPumpkins #SmokingPopes #PlainWhiteTees #SoundEngineering #RecordingStudio #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we dive deep into Chicago blues with Kevin Purcell and Road Bill from the award-winning band Kevin Purcell & The Nightburners and the Bus Stop Blues radio/podcast show on 98.3 FM The Life.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes welcome Kevin Purcell (harmonica virtuoso, vocalist, songwriter blending Chicago blues with Southern rock) and Road Bill (sound engineer, roadie, and co-host of Bus Stop Blues) for stories from the road, musical influences, band history, and more Hogpod chaos.Topics include:🎸 Kevin's background in Chicago blues and Southern rock swagger🎤 The Nightburners' evolution, Stevie Ray Vaughan influences, and high-energy shows📻 How Bus Stop Blues podcast/radio show got started, now expanding to 3 nights a week🔊 Road Bill's journey from roadie to sound engineer and lighting pro🎶 Blues legends, original music, tales from the road, and local scene shoutoutsPlus: Bears game rehash drama, postponed gigs due to football, Malort stories, and plenty of laughs.Key Moments:0:00 Pres Show Bongo Mike and Chris Rhodes and Pete Jansons pre show with Road Bill and Kevin Purcell from the Bus Stop Blues5:32 Caleb Wilson miracle throw rehash (original time was 0:58 - please edit going forward)14:30 Rob Stepen Show clip    • HOGPOD  Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ...  15:05 Road Bill and Kevin Purcell from Bus Stop Blues Join the show16:52 Road Bill Story on Malort18:52 Malort: The Redemption of a Revered and Reviled Spirit Paperback – September 3, 2024 https://a.co/d/08dV2XmU20:00 HOGPOD Crew on Bus Stop Blues Episode #42 Nov 2025 Show link20:04 Bus Stop Blues one year anniversary22:42 Kevin Purcell Musical Background and his band the Nightburners26:16 Kevin Purcell and The Nightburners 1991 at EZ Street    • Kevin Purcell and The Nightburners  32:38 Where did the name Nightburners come from38:00 Stevie Ray Vaughn Influence39:00 Stevie Ray Vaughn Death Alpine Valley https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_o...46:52 How did Road Bill connect with Kevin Purcell54:32 Bus Stop Blues Podcast and its Process59:11 [email protected] to book the band59:34 Where is 98.3 The Life Come from?1:05:00 What songs have been an influence to Road Bill and Derek Procell?1:06:05 Living your dash   / mindy.shulman  1:16:22 Looking back what have you learned🔗 Connect with Kevin Purcell & The Nightburners / Bus Stop Blues:https://nightburners.com/home  / nightburners  https://thebusstopblues.com/   / @road_bill  [email protected] (to book the band)🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BusStopBlues #KevinPurcell #Nightburners #ChicagoBlues #RoadBill #BluesPodcast #98.3TheLife #StevieRayVaughan #SouthernRock #MusicPodcast

🔥 This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re cranking it up with Leaving Scarlet — the Chicagoland cover band that’s pure high-energy rock + dance party magic! Two badass women, THREE lead voices, zero egos, and non-stop crowd interaction. 🎤🎸🥁Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes sit down with the full squad to talk 16 years of drama-free rocking, getting everyone on the dance floor, and flipping the script on the old Chicago scene.Meet the crew:🎸 Jackie Settipani – Bass & lead/backing vocals – slays basslines while belting leads, channeling Nancy Wilson, Pat Benatar & Pink energy🎸 Cindi Inden – Guitar, vocals, percussion, drums, mandolin – multi-threat beast with drum corps roots and Heart-level power vocals🎸 Rick Olsen – Lead guitar, keys, vocals – the “Riff-man” with 34+ years shredding, Marine Corps vet, Beatles-to-Zep influences🥁 Randy Kobat – Drums & percussion – 2-year anniversary fire, drum & bugle corps precision, and epic drum-duet chemistry with CindiThey spill the tea on:🚀 The badass origin of “Leaving Scarlet” (ditching the Scarlet Letter-era BS for women in music)📣 How they pitch to club owners + why their massive setlist (male/female leads) keeps crowds moving🥁 Insane “Sympathy for the Devil” drum battles + guest sit-ins (Nick Sanzeri, Lou Farckasi, Gunnar Collins & more)🎤 Turning audiences into rock stars with tambourines, percussion jams & birthday shout-outs🇯🇵 Marine stories, Japan metal scene memories, suburb cover-band survival, and why danceable rock still rules🎉 Wolfie Jam prep (Tesla + Little Susie!), spam-text trolling, deadly tinsel cuts & pure Hogpod chaosKey Moments0:00 Leaving Scarlet - Shut Up and Dance (Walk On)    • LeavingScarlet Shut Up and Dance!  3:38 Chris Rhodes new gig at Gordiepaloosa https://www.facebook.com/events/13266... (Feb 15, 2pm Broken Oar)3:55 Chris Rhodes practicing Saturday in the Park for Gordipaloosa6:42 Bonnie Miske show clip    • HOG POD - Behind the Scenes at Broken Oar ...  9:18 Nick Sanzeri show clip    • Nick Sanzeri 🎤 Singing Basslines, Bass Cam...  10:22 Nick Sanzeri Bruno Mars cover15:06 Randy Kobat joins15:21 Hogpod Swag plug https://hogpod.org/shop-merch/17:15 How Randy pitches the band to a club owner18:13 Leaving Scarlet Setlist https://leavingscarlet.com/setlist21:45 Rock You Like a Hurricane    • LeavingScarlet RockYouLikeAHurricane  26:28 Play That Funky Music    • LeavingScarlet Rochaus Funky Music  28:43 Sympathy for the Devil drum off    • Leaving Scarlet  Drum Duet Sympathy 4 Devil  34:10 Where the band name "Leaving Scarlet" comes from41:09 Upcoming shows https://leavingscarlet.com/upcoming-s...51:45 Has AI come into play?1:00:18 Thunder and Lightning Documentary and Song Sung Blue movie https://www.reelasdirt.com/song-sung-...    • Song Sung Blue - The Original Documentary ...  1:07:10 Electronic Media Kits🔗 Connect with Leaving Scarlet:🌐 https://leavingscarlet.com/home📺    / @leavingscarletband  📘   / leavingscarlet  📅 Upcoming shows: https://leavingscarlet.com/upcoming-s...🎧 Love the pod? Support Hogpod on Patreon — keep Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Booking your band, club gig, or want to guest? Hit up Beth Miller:[email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #LeavingScarlet #JackieSettipani #CindiInden #RickOlsen #RandyKobat #CoverBand #RockDance #ThreeLeadVoices #ChicagoCoverBand #HighEnergy #NoEgos #DrumBattle #MusicPodcast #WolfieJam #Rhodesy

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Pete Durbin — drummer for Jagged Little Pill (Alanis Morissette tribute), frontman for No More Tears (Ozzy Osbourne tribute), and proud dad whose twin sons Eric and Ian are already killing it with their own band Dual Decimator.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes chat with Pete and his sons about growing up in a musical family, starting a teen cover/original band, tribute gigs around Chicago, favorite concerts, Christmas movies, and keeping rock alive for the next generation.Topics include:🎸 How music was always around the house and inspired the kids🥁 Lessons at A Sound Education and building skills young🎤 Forming Dual Decimator for talent shows → block parties → originals soon🤘 Covers like System of a Down, Deftones, Dio, and pushing for Avenged Sevenfold🎸 Tribute life: Jagged Little Pill, No More Tears Ozzy, Superunknown/Chris Cornell projects📅 Upcoming shows, Rush reunion excitement, and passing the torch to young musiciansPlus: Holiday chats, Pop-Tart Bowl shoutouts, first concerts, Chicago food faves, Radiohead love, and classic Hogpod banter with the whole crew.🔗 Connect with Pete Durbin & bands:Pete Durbin:   / pete.durbin  Durbin Family Profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...No More Tears (Ozzy & Black Sabbath Tribute):   / 1039299756269616  Jagged Little Pill:   / jaggedlittlepillband  Jagged Little Pill Website: http://jlpband.com/Band Members (Pete Durbin / Chris Bobrowski / John Braun / Brent Johnson)Upcoming Event:   / 2972642279602121  Dual Decimator (Eric & Ian's band):    / @dualdecimatorband   Key Moments0:00 Intro chaos & holiday catch-up3:00 Roadsy joins, coat stories, Anchors Away6:00 Durbin family arrives, tech struggles9:00 Pete Durbin intro, bands (Jagged Little Pill, No More Tears, Superunknown/Ten)12:00 Eric & Ian intro, instruments, how they started16:00 Forming Dual Decimator, talent show to block parties20:00 Covers & setlist (System of a Down, Deftones, Dio interest)24:00 Voice changes, Brady Bunch style stories28:00 Influences overlap, concerts with dad (Metallica, AC/DC, Rush upcoming)32:00 Rush reunion thoughts, Linkin Park new era36:00 Deftones & modern rock appeal to youth40:00 Learning: A Sound Education shoutout, lessons + ear/YouTube44:00 Upcoming gigs: Jagged Little Pill at Fuel Room 2/13, No More Tears 1/24, Superunknown 1/2348:00 Dual Decimator future (originals, possible Hideaway Ozzfest-style show June '26)52:00 Bongo Mike's question segment: First concerts, Christmas movies, Chicago foods, Pop-Tarts58:00 Radiohead talk, young fans challenging OK Computer1:00:00 Wrap-up, thanks, happy new year🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help keep Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #PeteDurbin #DualDecimator #JaggedLittlePill #NoMoreTears #OzzyTribute #AlanisTribute #YoungMusicians #FamilyBand #ChicagoTribute #RockPodcast #DualDecimator #A SoundEducation #BongoMike #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesy #MikeOrfanos

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Brian "T.D." Clark — guitar virtuoso, shredder, songwriter, sideman, and creator of kids' music education tools, known for his fiery performances with Poison'd Crue (Poison tribute), his solo band, and collaborations across rock scenes.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes talk with TD about:🎸 His journey from piano at age 6 to self-taught guitar shredding in Chicago suburbs🎤 Influences like Black Sabbath/Zeppelin, early neighborhood jams, and no formal lessons📚 Marsh Jams kids' books series, Funporium guitar packs, and teaching young learners🔥 Work with Poison'd Crue tribute, Dee Snider shows, and high-energy stage presence🎶 Upcoming gigs, Chicago scene stories (including James Iha ties), and pro mindsetPlus: Holiday vibes, Scarface quotes, old fashioned drinks, demonetization records, and classic Hogpod chaos.🔗 Connect with TD Clark:https://www.tdclark.com/  / t-d-clark-music-100070993790846  https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Uq1n...https://www.poisondcrue.com/  / pcrockband  https://rockintoolboxes.com/🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] Moments:0:00 Poison'd Crue Promo Video covering the bands of Poison, Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, plus many more!     TD Clark @ Metal Monkey Brewing 9-24-22 TD with Mike Dermont onstage 0:00 Poison'd Crue Promo Video covering the bands of Poison, Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, plus many more! https://youtu.be/wHjgGsIFP80?si=HLYSO-YgtTAdFXyU3:13 Rob Stepen Show Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk8ADmOYxZs8:20 Wolfie 21st bday jam https://www.facebook.com/share/16t8FqsQUb/10:49 TD Clark Joins17:40 TD Introduction20:37 Where did TD Grow up?41:43 Poison'd Crue TD Cover Band https://www.facebook.com/pcrockband https://www.poisondcrue.com/1:12:17 TD Clark @ Metal Monkey Brewing 9-24-22 TD with Mike Dermont onstage https://youtu.be/Ci-rzlNjnOg?si=x4WP9Yx1Fmdtkl431:29:10 TD Children books#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #TDClark #GuitarShredder #PoisonDCrue #MarshJams #KidsMusicBooks #BongoMike #PeteJansons #MikeDermont #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #GuitarVirtuoso #MusicEducation #ChicagoScene #RockTribute #ShredGuitar

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we're cranking it up with Electric 5 🔥 — Chicago's badass all-female electric string quintet that's straight-up redefining rock with live-only, no-backing-tracks shred on electrified violins & cellos! Led by violin beast Adia (Experience Hendrix winner + Steve Vai Best in Shred champ), they turn Metallica, pop hits, and more into pure string chaos. 🎻⚡Hosts Bongo Mike Orfanos, Chris "Rhodesey" Rhodes, and Pete Jansons dive in with Adia, Dusan, and Carlista Tran on:🎸 How a wedding gig sparked this genre-smashing live powerhouse🎻 Cellos as bass + rhythm = full band sound with ZERO tracks (mind blown!)🔥 Adia's wah-wah violin solos, Hendrix/Vai vibes, and DJ violin side hustle🤘 Pre-show madness with Rob Stepen hyping Bongo Mike's new Generation Band gig + their Arcada charity rock-out for food insecurity🍕 First concerts, wild Summerfest stories, fave Chicago eats, Christmas flicks, Pop-Tarts hot takes, and Bongo Mike's classic rapid-fire QsString legends shoutouts (Kansas! Jean-Luc Ponty!), no-drums groove talk, holiday energy, and total Hogpod chaos. Don't miss this electric ride! ⚡Key Moments:🎤0:00 Enter Sandman open Electric 5    • Electric 5 - Enter Sandman (Cover)  4:19 Bongo Mike show link    • Bongo Mike: Inside the Life of a Percussio...  7:00 Rob Stepen CBS Clip   / 839108612303008  12:40 Rob Stepen Show clip hogpod as guest    • HOGPOD  Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ...  29:29 Femmes of rock47:29 Bongo Mike Question Segment🔗 Connect with Electric 5:🌐 https://electric-5.com/ℹ️ https://electric-5.com/about/📘   / electric5music🎧   Digging the Hogpod vibes? Support us on Patreon and keep Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpodband   club owner, or booker? Hit up Beth Miller to get on the show:[email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #Electric5 #AdiaViolin #StringRock #ClassicalCrossover #ChicagoStrings #BongoMike #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

Part 2 of our epic sit-down with Duran Decade — Wisconsin’s ultimate Duran Duran tribute — picks up right in the AI music debate and goes full throttle!Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes continue the conversation with Danny Miller (guitar/vocals), Mark Uselman (lead vocals/keys), and Brian Wirt (drums/vocals) covering:🔥 EDM vs real bands: Laptop DJs, crowd vibe, and why kids boop for an hour🎸 Future of live music: Summerfest changes, streaming gigs, and vinyl revival💰 Pro booking & marketing tips every band needs in 2026🤘 Show production secrets + quick-fire first concerts & favorite 80s foodKey Moments:0:00 Picking up the AI debate0:36 EDM concerts, laptops & crowd energy4:54 Future of live shows & younger generations6:59 Summerfest changes + disappearing headliners8:15 Vinyl comeback & kids rediscovering albums10:35 Album listening vs single tracks18:14 Production details, video sync & no stopping27:39 Venue talk: Vixen, Bend Theater & crowd flow34:45 Supertramp tribute crossover & stage props40:26 Quick questions: First concerts & favorite 80s food44:36 Wrap-up & thanksWatch Part 1 here:    • Duran Decade 🎤 Duran Duran Tribute & 80s N...  🔗 Connect with Duran Decade:  / decadebandmke  https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...   / @durandecade  Danny Miller:   / danny.miller.840953  Songsmith Records:   / songsmithrecords  Supertramp Tribute:   / thesupertramptribute  Upcoming Shows:Jan 30, 2026 – The Grand, Oshkosh WIApr 11, 2026 – Rally Point, Oconomowoc WIJun 12, 2026 – The Bend Theater, West Bend WIJul 18, 2026 – Brown County Playhouse, Nashville INMeet the Band: https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]#hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DuranDecade #DuranDuranTribute #80sMusic #EDMvsLive #BandBooking #AIMusic #BongoMike #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #MilwaukeeMusic #WisconsinBands

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Duran Decade — Wisconsin’s premier Duran Duran tribute delivering authentic 80s sound, era-accurate gear/clothes, and full synced iconic videos.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes sit down with Danny Miller (guitar/vocals), Mark Uselman (lead vocals/keys), and Brian Wirt (drums/vocals) to talk:🎸 How Duran Decade came together and their obsession with authenticity🌍 Overseas concert deals + Pete’s Radiohead trip to Berlin🎹 Early synth pioneers, recreating classic sounds, and the AI vs. synth debate🕺 Why 80s music still rules — MTV visuals, nostalgia power, and Gen Z fansPart 1 ends on the AI cliffhanger — Part 2 coming soon with live music future and pro booking advice!🔗 Connect with Duran Decade:  / decadebandmke  https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...   / @durandecade  Danny Miller:   / danny.miller.840953  Songsmith Records:   / songsmithrecords  Supertramp Tribute:   / thesupertramptribute  Upcoming Shows:Jan 30, 2026 – The Grand, Oshkosh WIApr 11, 2026 – Rally Point, Oconomowoc WIJun 12, 2026 – The Bend Theater, West Bend WIJul 18, 2026 – Brown County Playhouse, Nashville INMeet the Band: https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] Moments:0:00 Sizzle Reel – Duran Decade Tribute to Duran Duran    • DURAN DECADE - TRIBUTE TO DURAN DURAN  3:18 Pete’s Radiohead Berlin trip + “There There” live clip12:32 Danny Miller joins + band introductions14:10 Duran Decade origin & full authenticity breakdown15:19 Setlist, 2-hour show, and synced video magic18:14 Why Duran Duran + surprising crowd demographics19:13 Tribute market gap & Supertramp connection21:54 Early 80s tech, synth pioneers & sound recreation27:39 Why 80s music never dies + MTV’s massive impact35:19 AI vs. synths hypocrisy debate kicks off#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DuranDecade #DuranDuranTribute #80sMusic #NewWave #SynthPop #AIMusic #BongoMike #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #MilwaukeeMusic #WisconsinBands

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Becky Raisman — a talented singer-songwriter originally from the Chicagoland area (Highland Park), now based in Charleston, SC, with her brand-new fifth EP Earth Goddesses featuring pop-rock tracks inspired by life, love, and artists like Chappell Roan.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive into:🎤 Becky’s musical journey from Chicago choirs and Columbia College to releasing originals online🎶 The inspirations behind Earth Goddesses tracks like “Shining Through My Window,” “Live It Up, Live It Loud,” and “Moonlight Goddesses”🏫 Adult band life at School of Rock (from Libertyville to Mount Pleasant), jamming with the late Kevin Clark, and prepping 90s alternative sets🔥 Influences: Taylor Swift, Def Leppard, Journey, Chappell Roan, and dreams of opening for big acts🎄 Plus: Memories of Chicago scenes, tributes to Kevin Clark, upcoming Pride Fest EP, and more holiday vibes.0:00 Becky Raisman "Shining Through My Window" (opening song)2:53 Weekend recap: Jack Tripper band at Broken Oar, Packers beat Bears3:48 Upcoming gigs: Mosquitoes Jan 10 at Broken Oar, Black Diamond Sessions Feb 14 at Madcatz & Feb 27 at Side Outs4:17 Wooden Nickel Dec 18 discussion & calendar mix-up5:00 Drum shop Christmas party shoutout5:46 Drum buying addiction & Sweetwater messages6:30 Sleigh bells purchase for Christmas show7:10 Bruce Springsteen "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" chat7:53 Rock and Roll Christmas show recap at Lyric Theater (Blue Island)9:52 George Harrison "My Sweet Lord" performance clip11:30 Previous episodes mention & upcoming schedule12:10 Basement gear talk & sleigh bells demo13:38 Becky Raisman joins the show – Welcome14:23 Becky's background: Highland Park roots, Columbia College, choir & voice lessons15:11 Earth Goddesses EP intro15:28 Track inspirations: Moonlight Goddesses (Nedra Johnston), Live It Up Live It Loud (songwriting class), Shining Through My Window (Degrassi)16:01 Life in Charleston since 2018 & finding Hogpod online16:39 School of Rock adult band: Libertyville to Mount Pleasant16:47 Tribute to Kevin Clark: School of Rock movie drummer, instructor, jams, benefit concert18:02 School of Rock documentary mention & grand opening19:19 Favorite genres & current 90s alternative season19:54 Influences: Cranewides, Def Leppard, Journey, Foreigner, The Beatles20:22 Chappell Roan love & upcoming Pride Fest EP inspired by "Hot To Go"20:46 Taylor Swift admiration21:12 30 Seconds to Mars & Matt Wachter (actually Walker) as instructor22:29 School of Rock big shows (Arlington Heights opening Weezer)23:15 More Kevin Clark & Peter Nicholson memories23:57 Thoughts on Hogpod interviews (Peter Nicholson, Mack McCrae)25:21 Earth Goddesses details: Released Nov 18, good reviews, pop-rock variety26:08 Production: T-Brizz (BeatStars), Craig Durrance (Studio Pro, real musicians)28:27 Artwork by Justin in Waukegan29:22 "Live It Up, Live It Loud" discussion (Len vibe)29:58 Rapid-fire: First concert Peter, Paul and Mary at Ravinia30:51 Favorite Christmas movie: Home Alone 1 & 2 (North Shore)31:52 Pop-Tarts love: Oreo flavor, toasted preferred32:32 Merchandise website, t-shirts/hoodies with Earth Goddesses design33:29 Closing thanks, happy holidays, cat eating pizza shoutout🔗 Connect with Becky Raisman:  / becky.raisman1    / beckyraisman  https://open.spotify.com/artist/49P4O...  / becky-raisman  https://www.reverbnation.com/becky97   / sing19821  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BeckyRaisman #EarthGoddesses #SchoolOfRock #SingerSongwriter #ChappellRoan #TaylorSwift #KevinClark #PopRock

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Lisa Orduna — powerhouse female lead vocalist for Members Only, Chicagoland's ultimate 80s cover band delivering 100% live, no-backing-tracks performances of rock, pop, new wave, hair metal, and iconic duets.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive into:🎸 The story of Members Only — 9 years strong, adding female vocals to expand the 80s song catalog🎤 Why the 80s music never gets old and tailoring setlists for every crowd🔥 Nostalgia for Members Only jackets, parachute pants, and singing Roxette lyrics🌆 Upcoming gigs, networking in the Chicago scene, and shoutouts to Garbage tribute Stupid Girl🎶 Lisa’s husband reviving Big Time: The Music of Peter Gabriel (solo + Genesis prog classics)Plus: Surviving storm shows at Lyric Theater, Concert for George highlights, Parkinson’s benefit mentions, and classic Hogpod chaos.🔗 Connect with Members Only:https://www.membersonly80sband.com/  / membersonly80sband     / @membersonly80sband55  🔗 Big Time - The Music of Peter Gabriel:  / bigtimegabriel  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] Moments:0:00 Opening video: Members Only performing Roxette "She's Got the Look"    • Cover of The Look- Roxette by Members Only...  3:13 Concert for George "My Sweet Lord" clip from Lyric Theater10:48 Lisa Orduna joins the show15:18 Members Only at Broken Oar Dec 20   / 2007580696479112  23:50 Why sing the 80s?41:00 Members Only upcoming shows: Dec 20 Broken Oar, Jan 24 Private, Feb 14 115 Bourbon St., Feb 27 Jonny Cab's49:40 Stupid Girl Garbage tribute shoutout    • Stupid Girl 🎸 Tribute to Garbage & Chicago...  51:50 Bongo Mike's Important Questions segment1:02:00 Members Only jackets & 80s fashion nostalgia1:08:30 Big Time Peter Gabriel tribute band revival1:12:00 Parkinson’s benefit event mention   / 19vchuy6is  #hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MembersOnly80s #LisaOrduna #80sCoverBand #Roxette #PeterGabriel #BigTimeBand #BongoMike #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #80sNostalgia

Part 2 with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich (Chicago Slim) goes full throttle 🔥🎸The 6’11” orthopedic surgeon who co-founded the Chicago Blues All-Stars, created The Bone Squad, and still shreds lead guitar at Buddy Guy’s Legends when he’s not fixing spines.Hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, and Mike Dermont dig deeper into the mission: using blues gigs to fund life-changing surgeries for the uninsured through OnePatient Global Health Initiative, keeping real Chicago blues alive, and the wild stories that only a blues-playing surgeon can tell.Key Moments (Part 2):0:00 – “Blues is a feeling, not a note” 🔥1:04 – How Chicago Slim became the 6’11” lead guitarist2:05 – Surgeon by day, blues warrior by night10:22 – Founding The Bone Squad – blues pays for surgeries22:40 – The OnePatient mission in action35:15 – Keeping authentic Chicago blues alive in 202550:08 – Lynn Jordan & the Shivers shout-out51:10 – Wrap-up & love for the Hogpod crewConnect with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich / Chicago Blues All-Stars:  / chicagobluesallstars  https://chicagobluesallstars.comhttps://onepatient.org  / danielivankovich  https://chicagoslim.com🎧 Loving the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon!  / hogpod  Want on the show? Hit up Beth Miller:[email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DanielIvankovich #ChicagoBluesAllStars #TheBoneSquad #OnePatient #ChicagoSlim #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

🔥🎸 THIS WEEK ON HOGPOD WE GOT A LEGEND 🔥🎸Dr. Daniel Ivankovich (Part 1) — orthopedic surgeon by day, Chicago Slim & co-founder of Chicago Blues All-Stars by life, the man who uses blues to fund life-saving surgeries through The Bone Squad 🤯🎸Hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, and Mike Dermont dive into Daniel’s insane journey: fleeing Yugoslavia at age 5, becoming a top surgeon, and the night he missed the Rolling Stones jamming with Muddy Waters at Checkerboard Lounge because Killer Ray Allison called him and he thought Ray was bullshitting (he wasn’t 😭😂).Key Moments (Part 1):0:00 – Chicago Slim “Walking The Dog” cold open 🎷🔥9:07 – Erika Miner episode shout-out 🎤18:45 – Aurora Incident 😳29:47 – Mike Ostrenga update 🎸30:06 – Blue Bayou show with Tamara Woodruff 🎶33:33 – Turkey Ball update 🦃39:07 – Bongo Mike George Harrison tribute 🎸44:08 – Dr. Daniel Ivankovich joins 🤯45:15 – Born in Yugoslavia, arrived Chicago at age 5 🇺🇸48:30 – Parents escaped communism for the American dream 🇺🇸52:10 – First blues exposure & falling in love with the music 🎶1:02:20 – Learning guitar from Killer Ray Allison 🎸1:04:45 – Killer Ray: “Rolling Stones at Checkerboard tonight” → thought he was bullshitting → skipped it → Chicago Tribune front page next day 😭😂Connect with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich / Chicago Blues All-Stars:https://www.facebook.com/chicagobluesallstarshttps://chicagobluesallstars.comhttps://onepatient.orghttps://www.facebook.com/danielivankovichhttps://chicagoslim.com🎧 Loving the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodWant on the show? Hit up Beth Miller:[email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DanielIvankovich #ChicagoBluesAllStars #TheBoneSquad #OnePatient #ChicagoSlim #RollingStones #CheckerboardLounge #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

Welcome to The Hogpod! This week, hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike, and Chris Rhodes are joined by the incredibly talented keyboardist and singer, Erika Johnston Miner, a key member of the acclaimed Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses.Erika shares her unique journey, starting with classical piano training as a child and struggling to master the guitar as a teenager. After a long hiatus dedicated to raising her three children, she details how the COVID-19 pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity to bring music back into her life. Hear about her first terrifying (but pre-recorded!) performance of an original song, the power of networking in the vast Chicagoland music community, and how a message from bass player Mick led her to take on the monumental task of recreating Axl Rose's iconic piano parts for Sins and Roses.It’s a great conversation about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of band chemistry, and making a comeback after finding your passion again!Key Moments:11:04 - Guest Introduction: Welcome Erika Johnston Miner13:19 - Piano Beginnings and the Challenge of Learning Guitar19:22 - Returning to Music: The Impact of COVID and Motherhood22:14 - Overcoming Doubt: Performing an Original Song in a Live Stream Fundraiser24:40 - The Power of Open Mics and Networking in the Chicagoland Scene28:11 - The Call: Joining the Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses30:45 - Breaking down the intimidation factor and finding great band chemistryhttps://songwhip.com/erika-minerYouTube → @erikaminermusic326Facebook →   / erika.j.miner  Sins N Roses (Guns N’ Roses tribute) → https://sinsnroses.com/home | Shows → https://sinsnroses.com/showsBooked by Beth Miller – [email protected] | 708-287-3692#TheHogpod #ErikaJohnstonMiner #SinsAndRoses #GunsNRosesTribute #GNRTribute #ChicagolandMusic #ChicagoMusicScene #Keyboardist #Piano #Podcast #MusicInterview #LiveMusic #PeteJansons #BongoMike #ChrisRhodes

Ivy Ford "The Blues Kitten": Buddy Guy, Fire Alarms & Last True Chicago Blues Clubs | Hogpod Chicago Local Music PodcastIvy Ford, Blues Kitten, Chicago Blues, Buddy Guy, Buddy Guy’s Legends, Rosa's Lounge, Blue Chicago, Kingston Mines, Mad Cats, HogPod, Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Rhodesy, live music ChicagoThe Blues Kitten just walked in and blew the doors off 🤯🎸🔥Ivy Ford sits down with Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, and Rhodesy (drummer for hire) and drops straight fire: the cold call that put a 21-year-old kid on stage opening for Buddy Guy at Legends, the night her shower steam set off a hotel fire alarm in France (yeah, she evacuated in a towel), and the real-deal list of the last authentic Chicago blues joints still standing in 2025.From 11-year-old blues brunches in Wisconsin (mom was a bartender, laws were… different) to accidentally taking over her own band at 20 to 8–9 gigs a week while homeschooling an 8-year-old — this woman lives the life.Plus cracked axles in Iowa, trading guitar licks for car repairs, and the JB Richie tribute jam at Mad Cats that had everyone ugly-crying on stage.If you love real Chicago blues, real road stories, and real humans who bleed this music — smash play.Book Ivy right now: ivyformusic.com 🎟️00:00 Sweet Home Chicago cold open 🎸09:27 Ivy Ford walks in18:10 12 years full-time pro24:36 The Buddy Guy phone call26:26 Birth of “The Blues Kitten”30:35 3–9 shows a week grind47:01 Last true Chicago blues clubs named52:49 Emotional JB Richie tribute at Mad Cats1:03:33 France shower fire-alarm chaos 🤯🔥1:09:04 Guitar for car repairs1:11:34 First big concert: Weird Al1:15:14 Upcoming shows + booking#IvyFord #BluesKitten #ChicagoBlues #BuddyGuy #BuddyGuysLegends #RosasLounge #BlueChicago #KingstonMines #MadCats #LiveMusic #BluesGuitar #FranceTour #FullTimeMusician #HogPod #RoadStories

HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast went 100% LIVE and UNSCRIPTED with Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and Beth Miller behind the glass for a Q&A TAKEOVER! We opened the lines and let YOU drive the chaos — no prep, no filter, just real-time Chicago music talk. The crew laughed through first concert memories (Chris: Billy Joel at age 6?!), debated grandkids vs gigs, swapped war stories from the scene, and shouted out listeners from Portugal to the burbs. Beth kept the train on the tracks while the guys riffed on everything from studio glitches to parade waves. Pure HogPod energy — raw, local, and all yours.Key Moments:0:09 – Live Start & Parade Wave0:20 – "100% Live Right Now, Baby!"0:27 – Beth Joins (Wrong Side of the Glass)0:47 – Champ vs Chump Debate1:04 – Upcoming Shows & Shameless Plugs1:39 – Mike D: No 2025 Shows Yet2:19 – Friction Fest Returns October 17, 20263:00 – Bongo Mike Joins from California3:22 – No Pants, No Jumping Jacks3:52 – Last-Minute Guest Cancel → Live Pivot4:49 – Influences: Tom Jones, Elvis, Kermit5:22 – Sweet "Fox on the Run" & Columbia Records5:58 – Mosquito Final Show with Jack Tripper7:25 – Hairbangers Ball & Sins and Roses8:09 – Aussie Fundraiser at LiveWire Lounge10:58 – Rock & Roll Christmas + Concert for George (Nov 28-29)11:34 – Mosquito Next Show Jan 24, 202614:16 – Luminere Christmas (No Chicago Show)16:11 – Jacko & Midnight Calls + Anthony Gnomes16:54 – Dean Z Elvis Christmas (Dec 18, Rockford)17:39 – Infinity TSO Tribute18:08 – Gravity Productions Holiday Event (Dec 4)21:37 – Arctic Bar Winter Pop-Up (Nov 21-Jan)22:37 – Turkey Ball Festival (2 Weekends, 14 Bands)25:26 – Black Wednesday at Broken Oar (Nov 26)26:32 – "Pete's Always That Guy"27:33 – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Debate29:43 – School of Rock vs Garage Bands30:19 – Dermont School of Rock30:42 – Illinois Rock & Roll Museum34:42 – Joliet Museum Inductees41:36 – How Did You Get Your Start? (Mike D, Bongo, Chris)49:25 – Favorite Part of Podcast?53:19 – Donna Joins Live56:36 – Wrap-Up & ThanksBooked by Beth Miller – bands/clubs/owners: [email protected] | 708-287-3692Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook:   / hogpodmusic  Instagram:   / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast  LinkedIn:   / hogpodpodmusic  X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: [email protected]#HogPod #LiveQA #ChicagoMusic #Unscripted

🔥 EDM Producer Matt Ventrelli (Betrel) drops 140 BPM dubstep heat on HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast – hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and booked by Beth Miller.From Gem & Jam 2023 breakthrough to Icon Collective shutdown, Matt breaks down UK dubstep, reggae dub swing, AI in EDM, and why Chicago crushes LA.Key Moments:0:00 Friction Reunion Heat19:05 Matt Joins28:05 EDM 10131:25 AI Deep Dive36:25 Old School DJs41:25 Magic Prompts43:12 EDM Scene Hours48:55 LA/Chicago Clash55:08 Silent Disco1:09:05 Booking MattStream Betrel: SoundCloud/Spotify @betrel.Booked by Beth Miller – contact for gigs.Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook:   / hogpodmusic  Instagram:   / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast  LinkedIn:   / hogpodpodmusic  X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: [email protected]#HogPod #EDM #Dubstep #140BPM #ChicagoEDM #PeteJansons #BongoMike #BethMiller #MikeDermont #ChrisRhodes #LocalMusicPodcast #Ableton #EDMPodcast

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Jet — bassist, vocalist, and multi-band performer with LP Vinyl, LPV Escape, Super Unknown, and No More Faith. Jet shares stories from Chicago’s tribute scene, his Journey and Faith No More projects, and the recent Ozzy Osbourne charity event that brought the community together.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, along with booker Beth Miller, as they dive into:🎸 The Ozzy Osbourne All-Star Celebration for Lurie Children’s Hospital🎤 Building LP Vinyl & LPV Escape — Chicago’s leading Journey tributes🔥 The artistry behind tribute performance & why audiences love itPlus: favorite-band roundtable, stage-sound war stories, and why “chicks love Journey.”Key Moments0:00 Opening Jam5:33 Ozzy Charity Recap7:19 Elise McLearen Show Clip    • Elise McLearen | My Metal Heart & Sabatha ...  20:20 Jet joins the show24:25 Jet Intro by cbob51:45 Why Chicks Love Journey52:30 April Love Superfan Segment1:04:48 Everyone’s Favorite Bands1:07:50 Bongo Mike SegmentConnect with Jet🌐 https://lpvinyl.net🌐 https://lpvescape.com🌐 https://theloungepuppets.com🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodBooking inquiries: Beth Miller — 📧 [email protected] | ☎ 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #Jet #LPVinyl #LPVEscape #SuperUnknown #NoMoreFaith #JourneyTribute #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #OzzyCharity #ChicagoBands

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Annie Stokesberry — lead singer, drummer, and flutist for Corners of a Circle. Broadcasting from her barn studio in Woodstock, Annie shares how she blends her psychology practice, music career, and life on a 30-acre tree farm.Join hosts Pete Jansons and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes — with booking by Beth Miller — as they talk with Annie about:🎸 Building a barn studio and running a working tree farm🎤 Balancing her therapy practice with the Chicago jam-band scene🔥 Music, ADHD, PTSD, and mental-health healing through rhythm🥁 Learning drums and helping kids start in music🔗 Connect with Annie and Corners of a Circle:https://coacband.com/🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Opening video Corners of a Circle Sizzle Reel3:28 Annie Barn Tour WOW!5:28 Annie has a psychology practice and a tree farm!6:00 Annie Stokesberry’s band Corners of a Circle11:05 Mental Health and Music17:55 HRV Heart Rate Variability and Stress Relief20:42 How did Annie get started in drumming21:59 Why did Chris Rhodes get into drums25:23 Advice to parents on getting their kids started in music and drum kit starting kit32:55 AI and writing music36:44 Nick Sanzeri Shout Show Clip https://youtu.be/V6Rh5jc1Vic?si=raQzNyTBnyjPqvRd38:15 Chris Rhodes question time39:13 Chicago Fest and cup stacking41:55 Dr Annie Therapy https://doctorannietherapy.com/Hashtags#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #AnnieStokesberry #CornersOfACircle #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #WomenInRock #MentalHealth

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we crank it up with SIIN — Chicago’s powerhouse original hard-rock band!Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos and Pete Jansons with superfan April Love as they hang with PJ Alvarez (drums/vocals) and Sam Bello (guitar/vocals) from SIIN to talk about:🎸 The band’s 1990 origins and rebirth after lineup shake-ups🎤 Keeping original rock alive in a tribute-band city🔥 April Love on why SIIN’s live shows “hit you in the face”⚡ Opening for Blue Öyster Cult and Ace Frehley🎶 What’s next — studio sessions, fall shows, and Midwest festivals!Connect with SIIN:🌐 https://linktr.ee/siinrocks📧 [email protected]🎟️ Upcoming shows: https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Key Moments⏱️ 0:00 Opening video “Boom” by SIIN →    • SIIN. BOOM 10/8/22  🎥 4:13 Super Fans show clip →    • Beth, April, Leslie & Brian: Chicago's Sup...  🤘 9:47 Superfan April Love joins the show🎤 10:59 April Love introduces SIIN (PJ Alvarez & Sam Bello)🎶 18:55 Shifts in Chicago’s rock scene💬 19:35 April Love on SIIN vs. Journey tribute bands🏙️ 22:25 City vs Suburb music culture🎧 25:30 Medusas memories — the old-school training ground💻 30:02 Backing tracks & laptop bands debate🔥 33:16 Opening for Blue Öyster Cult📅 36:00 Upcoming SIIN shows → https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎸 41:32 Bongo Mike question round (yes, Pop-Tarts included)#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #SIIN #AprilLove #PJAlvarez #SamBello #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #BethMiller #ChicagoRock #HardRock #BlueOysterCult #AceFrehley

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Scotty "Big Cat" Pelvis & Craig Pelvis of The Pelvis Brothers — a versatile Chicago band blending rockabilly, Elvis-inspired classics, and modern flair.Hosts Mike "Bongo" Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes talk with the Pelvis Brothers about:🎸 The origins and rise of The Pelvis Brothers🎤 Rockabilly, Stray Cats, and Elvis influences🔥 Wedding receptions vs. live club shows🥁 Finding a new drummer and building the band's futureConnect with The Pelvis Brothers:Website: https://pelvisbrothers.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PelvisBrothersContact: [email protected] | 847-440-4529Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Pelvis Brothers "Burning Love" Video    • Burning Love  1:35 Post Coterie Hangover Recap13:56 Scott Swearingsen Pelvis Brothers14:58 Bonnie Miske Broken Oar Show Clip    • HOG POD - Behind the Scenes at Broken Oar ...  15:03 Craig Pelvis joins the show15:30 Pelvis Brothers Intro21:09 Wolfgang Paul Show Clip    • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago...  28:25 Brass from the past shout out28:35 Jeff Anthony show clip    • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ...  29:08 Rick Saucedo https://www.facebook.com/ricksaucedo shout out31:15 Elvis Movie36:50 Million Dollar Quartet40:14 Brian Setzer and Stray Cats47:52 1957 band shoutout https://www.facebook.com/the1957s50:31 Wedding Reception vs Live bands in Clubs52:10 Pelvis Brothers Booking Info55:47 Pelvis Brothers Looking for a drummer57:54 Bongo Mikes Questions#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ScottyBigCatPelvis #CraigPelvis #PelvisBrothers #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #Rockabilly #StrayCats #Elvis

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome James Costanza — percussionist, bandleader, and nephew of legendary Mr. Bongo Jack Costanzo.Hosted by Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons & Chris “Rhodesy” RhodesBooking by Beth Miller ([email protected] | 708-287-3692)✨ Highlights of the conversation:🥁 Bongo roots & the legacy of Jack Costanzo🎶 Influences, drum circles & Chicago percussion stories🎤 Playing with Supernatural Soul, Brass from the Past & more0:00 Vehicle - The Ides Of March cover James Costanza Bongos6:54 Hearing The Call https://hearingthecall.org/give/9:30 Bongo James Costanza12:28 Jack_Costanzo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Co...15:49 Bongo Influences21:26 Soldier Field Bucket Brigade22:45 Drum Circles33:02 James Costanza FB Page   / james.costanza.3  36:25 Supernatural Soul Band https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...41:57 Mosquitos playing Highwood Pumpkinfest   / 16zbwv2ask  44:40 Bongo Mike Special Questions segment46:33 Grandson stop bySupport the Hogpod on Patreon →   / hogpod  Book a guest via Beth Miller → [email protected] | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #JamesCostanza #MrBongo #Percussion #SupernaturalSoul

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Stupid Girl — Chicago’s tribute to Garbage featuring vocalist Julie, guitarist Brooke Hernandez, and bassist/programmer Michael Laskowski.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes as they talk with Stupid Girl about:🎸 Why Garbage’s music inspired their tribute🎤 South Side vs. North Side Chicago music scenes🔥 The value of open mics, rehearsal rituals & live set strategiesPlus: clips of Stupid Girl performing Garbage classics, stories of Chicago’s 90s scene, and upcoming shows!🔗 Connect with Stupid Girl:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brookealexis7TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@stupidgirl.chicagoLinktree: https://linktr.ee/stupidgirl.chicagoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@stupidgirlchicago🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-36920:00 Opening Stupid Girl Sizzle Reel Tribute to Garbage1:29 Pre show foolishness5:05 Mike Laskowski intros his band Stupid Girl7:54 Why Garbage?12:04 90's Chicago Music Scene20:28 Sad Machines Show Clip22:13 South Side Music Scene vs North Side?28:44 Value of doing Open Mic's and tips to go about doing one29:52 Yacht Rock Event https://www.facebook.com/events/1504225320742869 9/29/25 Vixen McHenry32:02 Julie Preshow ritual/mantra35:00 Lead Singer Preperation tips37:37 Elemental Ters for Fears Julie Warm up41:25 Stupid Girl Cover Clip by Garbage Tribute Band Stupid Girl42:25 Empty49:02 Doing one long set versus splitting into 2 pros and cons58:26 Stupid girls upcoming shows: Upcoming Showshttps://www.facebook.com/events/411741884853142159:00 Mikes other bands Suckerpunch, Tuesday Night Music Club Perfect Circle1:00:40 Mosquitos upcoming shows pumpkin fest highwood https://www.facebook.com/events/5979678464265261:05:16 Bongo Mike's Segment#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #StupidGirl #GarbageTribute #90sAlternative #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMillerKey MomentsHashtags

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome David Edward Bellah — powerhouse vocalist of Fast Times Chicago and My 80’s Band, known for his soaring high notes and energy-packed performances.Host Pete Jansons talks with David about:🎸 His musical journey from stage to radio🎤 Singing the classics with Fast Times & My 80’s Band🔥 Stories of famous people he’s met through his radio show🔗 Connect with David Edward Bellah:🌐 Website: https://davebellahmusic.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.e.bellahFacebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100036214183944#Fast Times Band: https://www.facebook.com/FastTimesTheBandMy 80’s Band: https://www.facebook.com/my80sband🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 She Sells Sanctuary https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FV5y4b8TW/3:30 Talking Fantasy Football4:25 Chris Rhodes drum sets8:26 What’s been happening in the music scene?8:41 Miracle in Mundelein https://www.themiracleconcert.com/11:45 Let’s talk Bears12:00 Dave joins the show13:05 My 80’s Band13:46 Safety Dance clip https://www.facebook.com/my80sband/videos/82165744645076818:45 Fast Times Band clip20:45 Dave’s musical journey44:22 Famous people Dave has met on his radio show48:21 Bongo Mike Question Segment#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DavidEdwardBellah #FastTimes #My80sBand #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #CoverBands #80sMusic #ChicagoBands

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Dave & Remy Zeiger — a father–daughter bassist duo spanning jazz chops, funk grooves, and Chicago cover/tribute stages.Host Pete Jansons is joined by booker Beth Miller to talk with Dave & Remy about:🎸 Growing through Libertyville School of Rock and jumping to real stages🎤 Bass influences (Jaco, Victor Wooten, Geddy Lee) and learning theory vs tabs🔥 New music and gigs: Mudfish EP, Crossing Decades, The Big Chair, Alice in Payne🔗 Connect with Dave & Remy:Remy Zeiger FB:   / remy.zeiger  Crossing Decades:   / crossing.decades.chicago  Mudfish:   / mudfishchicago  The Big Chair (Tears for Fears tribute):   / bigchairchicago  Alice in Payne (Alice in Chains tribute):   / mudfishchicago  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-36920:00 Crossing Decades Band Clip with Special Guests Dave and Remy Zeiger   • The Early Decades  1:45 Dave and Pete reminisce about their days in Libertyville School of Rock with Pete Dankelson and Jay MartiniPete Dankelson Show clip    • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ...  Jay Martini Show Clip    • HOG POD: Chicago Music Scene with Keyboard...  2:20 Five Acre Flight   / 5afmusic  Lake County Sky Band with Cindy Noonan5:31 Crossing Decades clip    • 90 and beyond.......  7:57 How Remy got into music15:37 Mitch the Lip show clip    • Mitch The Lip on Ska, Trumpets & Chicago’s...  20:58 Remy jamming NIB    • Monster Jam - NIB  28:00 Music Theory vs Tabs37:00 What bass players influenced Remy39:50 Dave on putting a band together and keeping one together43:00 Where are Dave and Remy playing next   / 665073896297218  52:59 Mudfish "Lost"   / 370170292525000  Remy Zeiger FB   / remy.zeiger  Crossing Decades YouTube    / @crossingdecades-vk3qd    / mudfishchicago  #Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DaveZeiger #RemyZeiger #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #SchoolOfRock #BassGuitar #CoverBands #TributeBand #Rush

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Francois Smit — guitarist for Empress and a rising force in Chicago’s rock scene.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes talk with Francois about:🎶 His journey from South Africa to Chicago’s music scene🎸 Life in Empress with Tamara Woodruff, Alex James, Bill, and Sean🎤 Carnival life stories, first U.S. impressions, and food discoveries🏟️ Chicago live music vs. South Africa’s scene🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-36920:001:10 Shout out to Prior guest Rob Stepen    • HOGPOD  Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ...  2:50 Mike Dermonth Drum Circle5:58 Bongo Mike Explanation of Drum Circle10:21 Francois Smit joins the show11;28 Coterie Yacht Rock Sept 28 The Vixen13:13 Friction Reunion Oct 25 Broken Oar14:25 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25   / 2367935456955088  16:00 Francois Introduction17:45 Tamara Woodruff Empress Show Clip    • Tamara Woodruff (Blue Bayou) – Linda Ronst...  18:05 Empress Band20:25 Francois first visit to America23:36 Francois was a carnie?27:34 Is it safe for Francois to go back to South Africa28:13 Whats the music scen liek in South Africa?29:55 How Does a South African get into Rock Music33:48 Food Experiences39:05 Chicago Scene Vs South African Party Scene43:02 Pete Dankelson jamming with the Struts47:51 Pete Dankelson show clip    • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ...  51:00 Doug Shoenbeck show clip52:10 Empress shows   / 1843421552951368   Sep 6 DOcks Wauconda54:01 Coterie Event Sep 28 Vixen Yacht Rock54:56 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25   / 2367935456955088  55:42 Chris Rhodes playing Ozzy Celebration Charity event Oct 19 Vixen57:32 Bongo Mikes rapid fire question1:02:48 Do chicks dig the accent?#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #FrancoisSmit #EmpressBand #SouthAfrica #RockMusic #ChicagoBands

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Rob Stepen — Chicago rocker, storyteller, and frontman of The Generations. Rob’s story is incredible: in 1985 he recorded songs that sat forgotten for nearly four decades in his attic. Thanks to legendary producer Steve Albini, those long-lost tapes were restored and re-released as the album Alternate View.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes are joined by booker Beth Miller to dive into Rob’s journey — rediscovering his analog reels, working with Albini, honoring Flock violinist Jerry Goodman, playing iconic venues like the Des Plaines Theatre, and giving back through Joey’s Song, a nonprofit raising funds for epilepsy research in memory of Joseph Gomoll.Rob shares what it’s like to hear your teenage self on tape 38 years later, how much it really cost to restore the reels, and why passion and service fuel everything he does with The Generations.🔗 Connect with Rob Stepen & The Generations:Website: https://robstepenmusic.com/🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-36920:00 Opening Clip WGN 2024 Interview with Rob and the band The Generations https://youtu.be/oY84UxwspXc7:04 Happy Anniversary Mike And Debbie7:39 Chris Rhodes playing with Focal Point in Buffalo Grove12:08 Shoutout to Anthem17:44 Special Guest Rob Stepen18:28 Rob Stepen Intro20:15 Joey’s Song Charity https://www.joeyssong.org/our-story Joey’s Song fights epilepsy with music in memory of Joseph Gomoll, who died in 2010 just shy of his fifth birthday after suffering a debilitating form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome.20:48 Rob tells the story of refurbishing his long-lost album with Steve Albini!23:11 Butch Vig25:42 The Flock Band https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flock_(band)26:51 Jerry Goodman violinist27:42 Des Plaines Theatre and Ron Onesti Hospitality28:54 Rob Interview WGN https://youtu.be/y04t-cyqPwA and Rob’s mastery of marketing plans38:35 Shout out to company Rob works for Insperity https://www.insperity.com/40:53 Coterie Yacht Rock event Sep 28 2pm The Vixen McHenry https://www.facebook.com/share/1K2so91vET/42:01 Sandy Gennaro https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandy_Gennaro43:31 Rob, Beth Green Room Story44:53 Mike Gomoll Founder at Joey’s Song Story https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gomoll/49:42 Shout out to Green Room Manager Jackie Des Plaines Theatre51:53 The Generations Band Story57:18 What was it like to go back and listen to yourself in high school on those tapes58:16 Steve Albini story on refurbishing the tapes the first visit59:35 How much was it to get refurbished?1:01:46 What would Steve Albini say about music and AI if he were alive today1:03:09 Joey DeMarco United Talent Corporation Booking shout out1:08:42 TUTS and other old school bars1:12:50 Differences today vs old school bands1:17:08 Bongo Mike Question Time1:21:48 How to book The Generations? https://robstepenmusic.com/#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #RobStepen #TheGenerations #SteveAlbini #JoeysSong #DesPlainesTheatre #SandyGennaro #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Kevin Zeiger of Sad Machines — Chicago’s fast-rising Smashing Pumpkins tribute band. With shows booked at Broken Oar (Oct 11) and the Cubby Bear (Nov 23) celebrating the 30th anniversary of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Sad Machines are quickly becoming a must-see for alternative rock fans.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes are joined by Beth Miller (who also books the show) to talk with Kevin about:🎸 Why they chose to honor the Pumpkins instead of other bands🏟️ Memories of Smashing Pumpkins’ early days at Cubby Bear🎤 Tribute vs cover band debates, and what fans want most🎶 Kevin’s influences (Genesis, Slipknot, Rammstein, System of a Down)🤘 The fun, chaos, and passion behind keeping Pumpkins music aliveAlong the way, we dive into Preston Poling’s viral “miniature casting couch” story, band booking advice, and why Chicago tribute bands are keeping live rock thriving.🔗 Connect with The Sad Machines:  / thesadmachinessp  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Sanzeri — a powerhouse bassist, solo artist, and frontman known for his slick tone, wireless rig, and signature bass cam videos that turn heads and book gigs.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, with guest host Wally Swiatly, and Beth Miller (who also books the show), as they chop it up with Nick about the hustle of going solo, crafting the perfect promo video, and playing killer sets without a full band.Highlights include:🎸 Why Nick prefers going solo — and how he keeps things tight without a band🎤 What it takes to sing lead while playing bass (and make it look easy)📹 Behind the scenes of his bass cam + iPhone setup that gets killer promo content🔈 Thoughts on soundcheck stress, wireless gear, and the middle-band squeeze🤘 Shoutouts to Bruno Mars, Mark King, and bassists who front the band💡 Pro tips on what kind of videos actually help promote your actPlus: Bongo Mike joins Anchors Away, chaos in the pool, fridge and grill chat, a Wally Swiatly show clip, and upcoming gigs from both Nick and Mike. Tech issues didn’t stop the vibes — this one’s packed.Key Moments:0:003:22 Bongo Mike Orfanos joins Anchors Away Band4:34 Animal in Mike’s pool????4:50 Chris Rhodes Chasing Amy Band Drummer   / chasingamyband  5:37 Pool Pet update6:14 Mike Refrigerator6:15 Mike’s grilling8:00 Beth Miller9:24 Wally Swiatly Show Clip    • Wally Swiatly Talks Singing with Train & S...  12:40 Should HOGpod do a live Q&A show?14:49 Wally’s Upcoming Shows https://www.wallyswiatly.com/shows16:18 Bob Mansfield Keyboard player Palm Court16:56 Nick Sanzeri Introduction28:25 Why Nick stays solo34:43 What does Nick prefer to play?34:48 Famous bass players that were lead singers36:50 Nick has cool bass cam37:29 Nick covering Bruno Mars45:34 Is it hard to sing and play bass?49:41 Nothing beats an iPhone for getting band videos52:20 Thoughts on which videos to use to promote band56:15 Sound that the crowd hears isn’t necessarily same sound the band hears1:01:50 Middle bands of 3-line check and no sound check1:03:20 Using wireless equipment1:06:20 Bongo Mike’s question segment1:11:40 Nick’s upcoming shows1:15:58 Bongo Mike at Lyric Theater 8/15🔗 Connect with Nick Sanzeri:https://nicksanzeri.com/#homehttps://nicksanzeri.com/#original  / nsanzeri  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #NickSanzeri #BassCam #SingingBassist #BrunoMars #MusicGear #BongoMike #WallySwiatly #BethMiller #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #PeteJansons #MikeDermont #SoloArtist #MusicPodcast

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome the powerhouse vocalist Regina Karma — a Mississippi-born singer who has lit up Chicago’s stages with soul, R&B, jazz, and gospel.Joining hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, along with special guest hosts Chris “CBob” Bobrowski (Rok Brigade) and Wally Swiatly (Simply Wally Band), Regina takes us on a journey from her Southern gospel roots and BB King inspirations to Kansas City’s jazz district and her big leap into Chicago’s vibrant music scene.She shares unforgettable stories — from opening for Gladys Knight, Gloria Gaynor, and Air Supply, to singing the national anthem for the WNBA, to her exciting new role as a backup singer for Gino Vannelli.We dive into:🎶 Growing up in Mississippi & Kansas City jazz roots🎤 Regina’s Chicago music rise at Gibson’s and Green Dolphin🌆 Comparing Kansas City, Nashville, and Chicago music scenes🎹 Regina & Wally’s instant vocal chemistry🔥 Breaking news: Regina joins Gino Vannelli this fall!Key Moments:0:00 Opening clip1:19 Memories of Old Chicago2:32 Shout out to Daniel Nunamaker!3:52 Regina Karma6:20 Who has best hotdogs in Chicago?7:03 Chris “CBob” Bobrowski joins the show + clip from last appearance:    • Chris “CBob” Bobrowski of Rok Brigade Supe...  9:10 Mosquitos gig at Sundance Saloon (Aug 8):   / 551493037930876  10:10 Supfan Dan Show Clip:    • Creative Minds Drummer Mike Hansen & Super...  10:53 Wally Swiatly joins the show:    • Wally Swiatly Talks Singing with Train & S...  12:57 Mike Dermont & Beth Miller at Moon 45th reunion show clip:    • Moon Band Reunion 🎸 Brian Priest & Dannie ...  15:00 Wally Swiatly introduces Regina Karma19:35 Regina and family singing “I’ll Fly Away”22:10 Regina opening for Gladys Knight & Air Supply24:10 Shout out to Ron Onesti’s meatballs25:41 How Regina Karma and Wally Swiatly connected27:22 Singing the National Anthem (Wally & Regina)31:55 Regina growing up in Mississippi42:16 Green Mill shout out Dave Jemelo47:40 Putting harmonies together and backing vocals52:03 Music scenes: KC, Nashville, Austin vs. Chicago1:04:00 Gibson’s Rosemont memories1:06:38 Shout out to Greg Horan, owner Gregory’s: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...1:07:05 Shout out Beth Miller — want to get on the show? Get ahold of her!1:07:55 Regina’s funniest moment with Ron Onesti & Gladys Knight1:10:45 Strangest moment on stage1:15:40 Bongo Mike Question Segment1:18:40 Regina’s upcoming shows — Aug 14 Taylor Street Fest:   / 1840046766552186  1:19:30 Regina’s big news — backup gig with Gino Vannelli! https://ginov.com/1:20:35 Want to book Regina?   / regina.karma.820112  1:20:50 Wally Swiatly upcoming shows1:21:25 Chris Bobrowski (Rok Brigade) upcoming shows — Aug 14, Lake Geneva Venetian Festival:   / 693212713337461  1:22:19 Chris Rhodes — Drummer for hire1:22:40 Bongo Mike Orfanos upcoming show — Aug 8 Sundance Saloon w/ The Mosquitos1:23:00 Mike Dermont Coterie Yacht Rock Sept 28Connect with Regina Karma:Facebook:   / regina.karma.820112  Instagram:   / reginakarma  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] | 708-287-3692Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ReginaKarma #GinoVannelli #GladysKnight #AirSupply #GloriaGaynor #CBob #WallySwiatly #RokBrigade #SimplyWallyBand #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome the incredibly talented Justin Wallace — a rising star out of Johnsburg, IL, who’s already shared the stage with American Idol winner David Cook and AGT standout Mitch Rossell. At just 23, Justin is quickly becoming one of the most versatile and talked-about performers in the Chicagoland music scene, with shows at The Vixen, Broken Oar, and Raymond’s Bowl.Join hosts Mike Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes as they dive deep into Justin’s journey and share some amazing clips along the way.Key Moments:0:00 Opening Clip  / 545180364579930  2:30 Justin Wallace Intro3:47 Pino Farina Clip   • Pino Farina on Band Reunions, Original Mus...  5:15 Beth Miller for booking the Hogpod Podcast – [email protected]:18 Jeff Kleinscmidt Show Clip Shout Out   • 🎶 Jeff Kleinschmidt, Talent Buyer at The V...  10:16 Justin Wallace Musical Influences11:00 Coldplay tangent13:30 Why the shade on Coldplay?14:10 Hate on Nickelback?16:55 Is country music called country anymore or is it pop?19:30 AI and Music22:07 Justin Wallace performs Simple Man   • LIVE AT MATTS BARN - "Simple Man" - Justin...  27:23 Why the hate on Freebird?28:21 New generation of music – acoustic guitar music versus laptop DJ music29:00 How does Justin Wallace read a crowd30:10 Younger generation tastes and length of songs33:28 Paying a solo performer versus band payment37:50 Problems when new bands are starting out38:38 Justin Wallace upcoming shows39:35 Bongo Mike Random Question segment42:40 Mosquitos and Black Diamond Sessions upcoming showsJustin Wallace Links:Facebook:   / justinwallacemusic  Website: https://justinwallacemusic.com🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!Patreon:   / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Email: [email protected]: 708-287-3692Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #JustinWallace #SimpleMan #DavidCook #MitchRossell #TheVixen #BrokenOar #RaymondsBowl #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

🎙️ On this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast, we sit down with Chris “CBob” Babrowski—frontman of Rok Brigade, plus vocalist for Super‑Unknown and Ten—to break down what makes Chicago’s tribute scene so electric.Hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive deep into CBob’s journey: how he commands the stage, the tech behind his vocals, setlist curation across bands, and why DIY tribute culture still thrives—even as AI and modern trends reshape music.We unpack the making of a rock frontman, festival stories, band dynamics, and the endurance required to pull off classic Def‑Leppard and Soundgarden songs night after night. No fluff—just raw insight from a guy who lives it.🎧 You can support the podcast here:  / hogpod  Want on the show? Booking through Beth Miller:[email protected] | 708‑287‑3692Key Moments:0:00 – Intro1:41 – Jim O’Connell / Anchors Away clip    • Jim O’Connell (Anchors Away, Snapshot) | H...  5:46 – Nick Cox clip    • Nick Cox (7th Heaven), Zach Avery & Todd L...  6:09 – Coterie Yacht Rock Night @ Vixen (Sept 28)7:47 – Canceling shows: where’s the line?9:21 – CBob joins Hogpod17:25 – Lineup breakdown: Rok Brigade22:17 – Ozzy’s final show reaction32:05 – Jak Tripper clip    • HOGPOD Chicagoland Music Scene Podcast: Ja...  33:50 – Mike Orfanos as Spoonman?35:25 – Vocal challenges & backing tracks37:03 – Pearl Jam drummer news39:30 – Grunge scene reflections41:50 – MTV’s grunge impact44:30 – Disruptors in music history45:50 – AI & the music future https://rollingstonephilippines.com/m...56:40 – Songs CBob loves vs. can’t stand to sing1:04:11 – Upcoming Rok Brigade shows   / events  1:05:30 – “I Want Out” (Helloween cover):    • I Want Out (GerbitzBunkZatezaloVanActionBo...  1:10:50 – Mosquitos jam band + Black Diamond Sessions previews1:11:42 – Rhodesy (drummer-for-hire) upcoming shows#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ChrisBobrowski #CBob #RokBrigade #SuperUnknown #TenChicago #DefLeppardTribute #SoundgardenTribute #PearlJamTribute #LiveMusic #CoverBands #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LocalMusicScene #AITalk

On this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast, we go deep with the powerhouse cover band Big Brothers Vinyl! Joining us are John Petitt (lead vocals, guitar), Rick “Professor Rick” Fobes (keyboards), Ryan Aiello (drums, vocals), and band historian Joe McMahon—with full shoutouts to fellow bandmates George Lemperis (guitar, vocals), Joe McMichael (bass, vocals), and the whole BBV family.Hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes (with booking by Beth Miller) dive into the band’s formation, their evolution in Chicago’s suburban music scene, and how they craft unforgettable setlists packed with everything from Zeppelin and Toto to Pink Floyd and Yacht Rock staples.You'll hear stories from shows like Jak Tripper’s set, Mount Prospect Day Fest, and Morton Grove Fest, plus insider talk about their upcoming gigs including Deadfest at Brothers’ Field in Long Grove (July 19) and The Coterie Yacht Rock Night at Vixen McHenry (Sept 28).The episode also tackles timeless musician debates like musical theory vs. tabs, the mystery of why Stairway to Heaven is banned in Guitar Center, and how to get more kids into the live music scene.This is a killer hang with one of the tightest, most seasoned bands in the region — don’t miss it!🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected] Moments:0:00 – Intro4:42 – Jak Tripper Show Clip + Mount Prospect Day Fest▶️    • HOGPOD Chicagoland Music Scene Podcast: Ja...  8:35 – Dan Peters Clip + Jeff Anthony Clip▶️    • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ...  9:07 – Morton Grove Fest recap16:48 – John Petitt arrives22:46 – Big Brothers Vinyl: The band’s history30:54 – Coterie Yacht Rock Night @ Vixen McHenry (Sept 28)31:24 – Favorite songs to perform live41:56 – How musical tastes have changed over time46:03 – How the band adds new songs to the setlist55:45 – Why is “Stairway to Heaven” taboo at Guitar Center?56:45 – How to get more kids into playing live music58:33 – Music theory vs. tabs1:06:33 – Upcoming Big Brothers Vinyl shows1:15:05 – Deadfest preview: Brothers’ Field, Long Grove (July 19)▶️   / 674598988397279  Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BigBrothersVinyl #JohnPetitt #GeorgeLemperis #JoeMcMichael #RickFobes #RyanAiello #JoeMcMahon #DadRock #CoverBand #LiveMusic #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

On this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast, we welcome two legends of Chicago’s suburban rock scene — Brian Priest and Dannie Schramm of the iconic band Moon — as they prepare for their long-awaited reunion show on July 26 at the Vixen Theater in McHenry!Hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dig deep with Brian and Dannie on what it takes to keep a band together for 45+ years. From wild rehearsal stories and flash pot mishaps to heartfelt tributes and family legacy, this episode captures the soul of playing music that matters.🎸 Highlights:🎟️ Moon’s July 26 reunion show at Vixen Theater in McHenry🤘 How to keep a band together after 45 years🔥 Rehearsal stories, flash pots, pyro mishaps, and club culture memories🎶 Brian’s acoustic shows at memory care homes👨‍👦 Dannie’s son joining the band for the reunion🕊️ Tributes to lost bandmates Donnie Schramm & Kent Butler📣 Shoutouts to Petty Kings, Matchbox 90s, and more!📌 Links:🎟️ July 26 Reunion Show:   / 715310904236461  🎸 Moon Band Facebook:   / moonchicago  🎧 Jim O’Connell Episode:    • Jim O’Connell (Anchors Away, Snapshot) | H...  🎥 Jeff Kleinschmidt Clip:    • 🎶 Jeff Kleinschmidt, Talent Buyer at The V...  🎥 Dogman Clip:    • schramm weber  📍 The Quarry Cable Park: https://www.thequarrycablepark.com/🎶 Petty Kings:   / pettykings  🎶 Matchbox 90s:   / matchbox90s  🎶 Yacht Rock Coterie Sep 28:   / 195jfpwllk  ⏱️ Key Moments:0:00 Intro2:32 Shout Out – The Quarry Cable Park https://www.thequarrycablepark.com/4:24 Petty Kings Shout Out   / pettykings  4:47 Matchbox 90s Shout Out   / matchbox90s  8:59 Jim O’Connell Show Clip    • Jim O’Connell (Anchors Away, Snapshot) | H...  9:42 Coterie Yacht Rock Sep 28 – Broken Oar   / 195jfpwllk  11:10 Moon Band Introduction – Brian Priest & Dannie Schramm   / moonchicago  15:24 How Do You Keep a Band Together for 45 Years?28:54 Biggest Changes in the Music Scene Over 45 Years30:55 Pyrotechnics Memories34:58 July 26 Reunion Show Info – Vixen Theater   / 715310904236461  35:25 Jeff Kleinschmidt Show Clip    • 🎶 Jeff Kleinschmidt, Talent Buyer at The V...  40:26 Dogman Clip    • schramm weber  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  📣 Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]🔖 Hashtags#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MoonBand #BrianPriest #DannieSchramm #VixenTheater #PettyKings #Matchbox90s #LocalMusicScene #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller

Jim O’Connell, lead singer of Anchors Away and Snapshot, joins the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast to talk about fronting two of the area’s most beloved bands, pushing through intense summer heat while living with cystic fibrosis, and connecting with crowds across Chicagoland.Hosted by Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, this episode delivers behind-the-scenes stories, band camaraderie, and inspiration from a true local legend. From "Pool Time with Bongo Mike" to clips from Jeff Anthony and a viral King Saturday moment, this one's packed with highlights.🎉 Plus, birthday shoutouts to Helen Rockford and Alexa, and a preview of the can't-miss Yacht Rock Coterie show on September 28!📌 Follow the bands:Anchors Away – https://www.anchorsawaychicago.comAnchors Away Facebook –   / anchorsawaychicago  Snapshot –   / snapshotbandchicago  Key Moments:0:00 Intro2:18 King Saturday Clip   / 19aplfgmrw  4:24 Pool Time with Bongo Mike10:06 Jim O’Connell Introduction11:48 Jeff Anthony Clip14:25 Singing in the Heat with Cystic Fibrosis15:37 How Do You Prepare for the Heat?17:00 What Does Jimmy Like to Sing?19:29 Yacht Rock Coterie – Sep 28   / 19dmxnkdg2  24:50 Happy Birthday Helen Rockford!31:25 Church Gigs34:25 Happy 17th Birthday Alexa38:33 Christian Rock44:45 Singing in the Heat🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  📣 Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #JimOConnell #AnchorsAway #Snapshot #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #KingSaturday #YachtRock #ChristianRock #[email protected]

🪘 Get ready to dive into the life behind the rhythm with Bongo Mike, the legendary Chicago percussionist who’s powered bands like The Mosquitoes, Black Diamond Sessions, and more. In this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Podcast, hosts Pete Jansons and Mike Orfanos take you inside Bongo Mike’s world of 90+ drums, his signature washboard gloves, and how he became the go-to guy for adding groove and grit to local live music.🎙️ From spontaneous jam sessions to festival stages, Mike shares:🎧 How he got started with congas and fell in love with percussion🥁 Why he’s more of a second drummer than just a percussionist🔧 The DIY magic behind his washboard setup (hint: thimbles + gloves!)🪣 The true skill behind Chicago’s bucket drummers📦 Why he’s tempted to add Menards buckets to his arsenal🪵 A full basement tour of his congas, bongos, timbales & more🎶 The art of coloring around the drummer in a bandYou’ll also hear about some of his recent shows, his upcoming festival gigs, and what it means to sit in with over 25 different bands—all while keeping his own rhythmic voice.🎵 Upcoming Shows – See Bongo Mike Live:📅 July 3 – Morton Grove Days w/ The Mosquitoes 👉 https://mortongrovedays.org/📅 July 19 – Long Grove w/ Deadfest 👉   / 1enmexjdcs  🥁 Black Diamond Sessions Gigs: 🎶 July 17 – Wooden Nickel 🎡 July 20 – Highwood Days 🛍️ July 23 – Northfield Market at Clarkson ParkSpecial thanks to Beth Miller for booking this amazing episode and keeping Chicago’s local music scene connected and growing.⏱️ Key Moments:0:00 Intro1:00 Mike Orfanos Wrigley Rooftop Trip2:37 Libertyville Days & catching some tunes4:48 How Did Bongo Mike Get into Being a Percussionist7:00 Mike Orfanos Bongo Show and Tell13:08 How Did Mike Get the Nickname Bongo Mike?16:11 How Do Drummers and Percussionists Work Together?24:30 🪣 Bucket Players in Chicago31:38 🎺 Soldier Field Tunnel Performers35:24 🥁 Steel Drums36:41 🧤 The Washboard Setup40:18 🗓️ Bongo Mike’s Upcoming Shows41:20 🎵 Black Diamond Sessions Gig Schedule🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  📣 Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show?Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:📩 [email protected]📞 708-287-3692🔖 Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BongoMike #Percussionist #Bongos #Congas #BucketsAndBeats #StreetDrumming #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #BlackDiamondSessions #TheMosquitoes

In this powerful episode of the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Tamara Woodruff, the powerhouse vocalist behind Blue Bayou, Chicagoland’s premier Linda Ronstadt tribute band! Hosted by Mike Orfanos, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and Pete Jansons, this conversation dives deep into Tamara’s inspiring journey—from recovering from open-heart surgery to launching a tribute project that’s breaking new ground in the scene.🎤 Tamara shares how her recovery conversations with bassist Michael Ostrenga sparked the idea for Blue Bayou, a show celebrating the full vocal and emotional range of Linda Ronstadt. The band’s debut is Friday, June 13 at Sundance in Mundelein, and they're already booking venues like The Roxy in Lockport (Aug 29) and the Ralph Theater.💃 Why Ronstadt? As Tamara explains, Linda never wrote her own songs but transformed every cover she touched—from “You’re No Good” to “Blue Bayou”—into timeless classics. With four-part harmonies, a top-notch lineup including players from Heartache Tonight, Icons of Country, and Codery, and a multi-genre setlist, Blue Bayou is more than a cover band—it’s a full-bodied performance experience.We also dig into Tamara’s alt-rock project Empress, her Codery collabs, and upcoming Yacht Rock Coterie show (Sept 28 @ The Vixen). Plus, the crew relives the golden days of 8-tracks, Columbia Record Club, and how the vinyl comeback has us all nostalgic.💥 Don’t miss this episode full of music talk, real stories, and passionate artistry—and don’t miss Tamara and Blue Bayou when they hit your town!⏱️ Key Moments:0:00 – Intro & Pre-Show Foolishness1:18 – Black Diamond Sessions (Thanks Carol Roman!)  / 1c6xgha2oe  7:43 – Tamara Woodruff Joins the Podcast10:11 – Why Tribute Linda Ronstadt?10:30 – Mike Ostrenga Show Clip   • 🎸 Bassist Mike Ostrenga from Empress Joins...  11:20 – First Blue Bayou Show @ Sundance, Mundelein12:35 – Linda Ronstadt Performed Mostly Covers13:33 – How Linda Got Her Break (The Stone Poneys)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_P...16:03 – Original Backing Band Was the Eagles (She Dated Don Henley!)20:28 – Upcoming Show: August 29, 2025 @ The Roxy Theatre, Lockport, IL21:15 – What Is the Empress Band About?26:40 – Columbia Record Club Memories33:40 – Yacht Rock Codery Show Coming Sept 28 @ The Vixen37:53 – Mosquitos Playing July 3rd @ Morton Grove Festival  / 720413273813872  🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  📣 Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BlueBayou #LindaRonstadt #TamaraWoodruff #EmpressBand #TributeBand #Codery #HeartacheTonight #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #YachtRock #MortonGroveFestival

Welcome to the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast with Tony Engel, lead singer of Blockchain Coalition and GraveReign! From originals like “Caught in the Undertow” to a fresh “West End Girls” cover, Tony shares his journey through Chicago music, DIY tips, and why he delays Spotify. Hear about upcoming shows, including Blockchain Coalition opening for Kings X and the Moon 45th Anniversary benefit. Plus, Tony’s take on AI music, why “Comfortably Numb” is the best song ever, and advice for new bands!Stream the Bands: Caught in the Undertow - Blockchain Coalition:    • "Undertow" 2023 Video by BlockChain Coalition   Get a Little Closer - Blockchain Coalition:    • Get A Little Closer (Exclusive Lyric Video...   West End Girls Cover - Blockchain Coalition:    • BlockChain Coalition Re-envisions WEST END...   GraveReign Music: https://gravereignband.com/Upcoming Shows: Kings X at The Vixen - July 6, 2025:   / 1hw7pvhui5   Moon 45th Anniversary - July 25, 2025: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/5535112...Subscribe for more Chicago music insights:    / @hogpodchicagomusicscenepodcast  Connect with us: Tony Engel - Facebook:   / tony.engel   Blockchain Coalition - Website: https://bccbandchicago.com/ GraveReign - Website: https://gravereignband.com/Key Moments0:00 Caught in the Undertow Blockchain Coalition    • "Undertow" 2023 Video by BlockChain Coalition  3:00 Moon 45th Anniversary Reunion https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/5535112...4:45 Grocery Shopping Techniques6:00 Tony Engel  / tony.engel   Lead Singer Blockchain Coalition   / blockchainband   https://bccbandchicago.com/GraveReign https://gravereignband.com/?fbclid=Iw...15:00 Dough Shoenbeck Clip28:00 Suburban versus Chicago Music Scene Differences33:45 AI Music34:20 Formula of writing an original song36:30 Best Song ever written?45:26 Caught in the Undertow Blockchain Coalition    • "Undertow" 2023 Video by BlockChain Coalition  52:11 Get a little closer Blockchain Coalition    • Get A Little Closer (Exclusive Lyric Video...  59:02 Monetizing Spotify any tips?1:03:05 Advice to new bands trying to make it1:05:15 $200K into your band from a label how does it work?1:09:40 How do you get sponsorships?1:12:39 Wolfgang Paul’s sponsorship deals and clip    • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago...  1:14:12 Do we need a pollstar monitoring attendance for local music scene1:19:40 Merch advise1:24:25 Tony’s upcoming shows Opening   / 1hw7pvhui5  1:28:58 West End Girls covered by Blockchain Coalition    • BlockChain Coalition Re-envisions WEST END...   Hashtags#ChicagoMusic #BlockchainCoalition #GraveReign #TonyEngel #HogpodChicago #MusicPodcast #OriginalMusic #CoverSongs #MusicIndustry #DIYMusic #ChicagoMusicScene #SuburbanMusic #AIMusic #MerchTips #BandAdvice #KingsX #MoonAnniversary #GraveReignBand

Get ready for a fan-powered takeover of the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast! In this Superfan Edition, hosts Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes welcome four of the most dedicated supporters of the Chicago suburban music scene: Beth Miller, April, Leslie, and Brian.These legendary fans don’t just attend shows—they live for the music. Beth shares the story of her 3,000-egg Easter Hunt and 8,000-candy Halloween bash that brings the community together. April reveals VIP ticket hacks, front-row strategies, and her addiction to tribute bands like BonJourney and Oh Yes. Leslie, recovering from brain surgery, refuses to miss a show—even traveling with a walker to support Brass From the Past. Brian brings the energy to the front row and helps bands pack up gear, earning him the “Esquire” of superfans.The episode includes shoutouts to bands like SIN [  / siinrocks  ], Sealed With A Kiss [  / swakband  ], Empress, Pino Farina, ARRA, BonJourney, and Brass From the Past—plus insider tips on Broken Oar, Arcada Theatre, and navigating festivals (including a dust storm!). Don’t miss the shout-out to Harold and Carolyn, a couple whose love of music helped Harold recover from a coma.From lawn chair dancing to Facebook event tracking to battling crowds at Ravinia, this is the ultimate celebration of the suburban music community—and the fans who make it thrive.🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!  / hogpod  Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:[email protected]📌 Key Moments:0:00 – Beth Miller’s Epic Easter Egg Hunt2:26 – Brass From the Past Mega-Fan Leslie3:12 – Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, Drummer for Hire4:35 – “25 or 6 to 4” by Brass From the Past9:50 – 🎥 Pino Farina Clip:    • Pino Farina on Band Reunions, Original Mus...  11:40 – Broken Oar Superfan Hangout (Bonnie Haber clip)11:50 – City vs. Suburban Music Scene15:45 – Festival Guide: What’s Coming Up17:00 – 🎥 Jeff Anthony Show Clip:    • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ...  19:00 – New Band Spotlight: SIN →   / siinrocks  21:20 – Band Shoutouts: • Sealed With a Kiss →   / swakband   • Oh Yes Band →   / ohyesband   • BonJourney →   / therealbonjourney  32:21 – 🎥 ARRA & Wolfgang Paul Clip:    • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago...  39:00 – Is Paying for VIP Worth It?42:38 – Broken Oar Show Tips47:17 – Ravinia Rants📣 Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ChicagoSuperFans #BrassFromThePast #SINband #BonJourney #OhYesBand #BethMiller #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #SealedWithAKiss #EmpressBand #BrokenOar #MusicPodcast #SuburbanMusicScene #LiveMusicLovers