Count It Off!

Ep. 61 - Chubby Carrier - "Ain't No Party Like a Chubby Party cuz a Chubby Party Don't Stop!"Stop what you're doing and spend a few minutes with one of the most energetic, positive bandleaders out there anywhere. Chubby hails from the heart of the Louisiana music scene and he's a 3rd generation Creole squeeze box man. I could talk about him but instead, I dare you not to start smiling, tapping your feet and feeling like it's time to dance! One of my favorite friends in the biz and he talks about his upbringing, his motivation and his family pride.

Count It Off Ep. 60 - Chris Gantry“If you can write a song that’s got a timeless message in it, you’ve done your work.”Get ready for an amazing history session with one of the true Music Row legends, our guest Chris Gantry. Chris wrote the Glen Campbell smash "Dreams of the Everyday Housewife and was the inspiration for Kris Kristofferson's classic "The Pilgrim, Chapter 33." We dive into his road from Queens NY to Nashville, living the gypsy life with pals Shel Silverstein, publishing pioneer Bob Beckham and Kris, sneaking thru the back door at the Opry when nobody cared that you did... and so much more.We pull quotes from his book "Gypsy Dreamers in the Alley" and get to hear a little of his upcoming album "Worth Every Nail."Take notes, y'all. It's a true master class in songwriting, full of passion, spirit and wisdom. Don't miss this one!!

Episode 59 features a true guitar legend—Will McFarlane. From touring the world with Bonnie Raitt to spending over 45 years as part of The Swampers (yes, those Swampers), Will brings a lifetime of stories, insights and soul to the show.This is a relaxed, wide-ranging conversation that moves effortlessly through music history—touching on the Stones, Little Feat, Bob Seger, Springsteen and so many more. Along the way, Will shares about his years on the road and in one of the world's most iconic recording studios, all delivered with his warmth, humility, and generosity that have defined both his playing and his life.You can hear it in every note—and every story. Count it off with us!

Welcome back to Count It Off, where every gig tells a story.This is Episode 58, and today we’re sitting down with the unstoppable Teri Cote — a dynamic drummer who’s been lighting up stages her entire life. From her roots in Northern California in the company of Merle Haggard and Freddy Powers to the bright lights of Reno and Las Vegas casinos playing funk and jazz, and all the way to the rugged beauty of the Oregon mountains, Teri’s journey is anything but ordinary and we get to hear all about what it's like when you realize "drumming chose me."For 15 years, she held down the groove behind legend David Cassidy and built a career defined by consistency, power, and passion. But her story goes beyond the stage.In this episode, Teri opens up about breaking through the outdated “drums are for boys” stereotype, carving out her space in a male-dominated industry, and staying true to her voice behind the kit. Whether you’re just picking up sticks or you’ve been playing for decades, she shares hard-earned wisdom, road-tested insights, and inspiration you won’t want to miss.So get ready to dig in, turn it up, and… count it off.

Welcome back to Count It Off, where the stories behind the music matter just as much as the songs themselves. This is Episode 57 and today we’re diving deep into the rich, often surprising soundscape of the American Midwest told by a man who’s made it his life’s mission to document it all—Neal Bond.Through his MN Music History Channel, Neal has incredible stories spanning generations—from early rock ’n’ roll icons to funk pioneers, folk legends to garage band heroes. We’re talking about the artists and moments that shaped the soundtrack of the region: from Bobby Vee’s 50s chart-topping hits to Prince’s genre-defying brilliance, from native son Bob Dylan’s poetic roots to the infectious groove of Funkytown. And that’s just the beginning.Neal’s passion goes even deeper, shining a light on names you might not hear every day but absolutely should—like Texas Bill Strength, the wild energy behind Liar Liar, and the unforgettable sounds of Papa Oom Mau Mau. Country plays a major part as well, with Dave "Six Days On The Road" Dudley to John Volinkaty who penned "Satin Sheets." Together, these stories weave a vibrant tapestry of a region that helped give birth to The Suburbs, Suicide Commandos, Hüsker Dü, the Jayhawks, Kevin Bowe, new blues phenomenon Dylan Salter and so many more—all from right in the heartland.We chat with Neal to talk about his journey, his love of preserving musical history, and his ongoing quest to make sure no artist or band is forgotten until every story is told.If you love music history, this is especially for you. So turn it up and count it off—this is Episode 57 with Neal Bond.

Count It Off Ep. 56This week on the podcast, Nashville drummer Brady Spencer takes us on a fun, informative ride—from cutting his teeth in horn bands, to grinding it out in rock groups, to hitting the road across the country with the iconic pop act Orleans. It’s a conversation packed with stories, lessons, laughs and real-life Nashville experience. He offers advice to young drummers just moving to town to "make it," how to be a team player and much more. Don't miss it!

Count It Off ep. 55Imagine moving to NYC in the early 80s with $300 dollars in your pocket and within a week, having an apartment on the upper West Side, landing a full-time career in the best recording studios in the city and playing the nightclubs. Well, that’s the success story of this week's guest Gregg Mangiafico. We get to hear about his work with Michael Jackson, Elton John, Billy Joel, Phil Ramone, John Waite, Desmond Child, Cher and Michael Bolton among others in studios like the Hit Factory and Power Station. You won’t want to miss this one. He’s got a full raft of great stories and reflections of the great stars of the 80s and 90s. Enjoy!

Count It Off - Episode 54 - David Pomeranz shares The WisdomWith more than 335 million streams on Spotify, 22 platinum records, and 18 gold records, legendary songwriter and touring artist David Pomeranz has spent five decades shaping the sound of popular music. His songs have been recorded by icons like Bette Midler, Barry Manilow, Kenny Rogers, and Freddie Mercury—a testament to the emotional depth and timeless melodies that define his work.In this episode, David sits down with us to talk about the craft behind the classics: where inspiration really comes from, the relentless search for the perfect lyric, and the creative discipline required to turn a spark of an idea into a song that resonates around the world.Drawing from over 50 years creating pop, TV and Broadway hits, David shares stories from the road, behind-the-scenes moments with legendary artists, and the lessons he’s learned from a lifetime of songwriting.Whether you're a songwriter, a music lover, or simply curious about how great songs come to life, this conversation offers rare insight into the mind of one of the industry’s most enduring hitmakers—and the wisdom that only a half-century career can bring. 🎙️🎶

Welcome to Spring Break, Count It Off style!We're taking a week off from our regular schedule of guests, thanks to a monster cold and in honor of spring break. I didn't want to pass the bug along to someone else in the studio, and I want you to know I love doing these shows - so here's an all-music episode! Hope you have a great time by the beach, by the lake or by the pool - and I hope you've got some great friends and loved ones around you. Have a cold bev and count it off with us!

Count It Off – Episode 52: Tommy Williams and the Art of finding and pitching a Hit SongThis week we sit down with Nashville song plugger Tommy Williams, whose career traces the evolution of Music Row from a tight-knit neighborhood of converted houses into the global hit-making machine it is today.Tommy takes us back to his entry-level days at EMI Music Publishing, when paying dues meant long hours, couch surfing and house sitting, and learning the instincts that separate good songs from timeless ones. From those early publishing rooms, he rose to represent and champion major hits—including the era-defining smash I Swear, famously recorded by John Michael Montgomery and later crossing over by All-4-One.Tommy reflects on working with emerging artists who would go on to become superstars, including Faith Hill and Trisha Yearwood in their early days, as well as icons like Emmylou Harris and Wynonna Judd.But beyond the name-dropping and nostalgia, this episode dives deep into the craft. Tommy breaks down how he discerns a hit—what he listens for in a demo, how lyric and melody must lock together, and why emotional truth always outlasts trend. He shares the gut-check moments, the near-misses, and the songs that almost didn’t make it.For anyone fascinated by songwriting, publishing, or the business behind the music, this is a masterclass in instinct, persistence, and the magic that happens when the right song finds the right voice. Highly recommended.

Episode 51 of Count It Off welcomes a true musical innovator: Scottie Miller.Best known for his Grammy-winning collaborations with contemporary blues powerhouse Ruthie Foster, Scottie has quite literally toured the world, bringing soul, groove, and fearless musicianship to global stages. But his story goes far deeper than the spotlight.In this episode, we trace Scottie’s evolution from a young sonic explorer fascinated by synthesized sounds to his accelerated jazz studies at Berklee College of Music. We dig into the unexpected influences that shaped his artistic voice—like the restless prose of Jack Kerouac paired with the sharp wit and musicality of Steve Allen—and how literature, improvisation, and curiosity intertwined in his creative DNA.We'll hear some of his most fascinating pieces from his spoken word jazz works too. You'll be amazed like we were.Scottie also shares the story behind his upcoming release, a sweeping collaboration with the Budapest Scoring Orchestra, blending cinematic scope with his signature harmonic depth.From blues stages to symphonic sessions, from late-night philosophy to jazz discipline, Scottie Miller embodies the true Renaissance spirit. This is a conversation about craft, curiosity, collaboration and the human connection—and what it really means to count it off.

Count It Off hits a milestone with Episode 50!Welcome... this week we're featuring a true heavyweight of the music world: Dave Pomeroy. With credits on more than 500 albums and decades of road stories, Dave brings a deep well of experience from touring and recording with icons like Steve Winwood, Emmylou Harris, Keith Whitley, Vince Gill, and Chet Atkins. From unforgettable sessions to life on the tour bus, Dave shares behind-the-scenes moments that shaped his career and helped define the Nashville sound for generations.Beyond the stories, Dave reflects on the hard-earned wisdom he’s gathered from legendary artists—lessons about professionalism, feel, tone, listening, and longevity. As President of the Nashville Musicians Association, he also offers an inside look at the evolving landscape of live performance, union advocacy, and what the future holds for working musicians in a rapidly changing industry. It’s a masterclass in musicianship, resilience, and staying relevant—Episode 50 is one you don’t want to miss.

On this episode of Count It Off, we talk with Minneapolis-based writer, producer, and musician Kevin Bowe. With songs on three platinum records and two Grammy-winning albums, Kevin has collaborated with The Replacements, Paul Westerberg, Etta James and Lynyrd Skynyrd. He tells us about discovering blues giant Jonny Lang and having his music recorded by Little Steven. His work has over 60 million Spotify streams. Working out of his studio As usual, the stories are the real fun. He's also heard everywhere from The Sopranos to The Blacklist. His dry humor shines through and we share some great laughs along the way. Don't miss this if you're a songwriter or producer. Count It Off!

Welcome back to Count It Off — Ep. 48Today we’re sitting down with Chandler Marie, an authentic country singer and songwriter from Georgia who’s been recording and calling Nashville home for the past five years. Her songs are sharp, intentional, and beautifully crafted, and her production is absolutely top shelf. Beyond the talent, Chandler brings a real sense of poise to everything she does — the kind that comes from knowing your voice and trusting it. We talk songwriting, the Nashville grind, and what it takes to make music that actually feels like you. Let’s count it off.

Count It Off – Ep. 47: Stories from the Road with some Great ArtistsIt’s story time this week on Count It Off. An ice storm in Nashville threw us a major curveball and pushed our next guests back a week, so we’re digging into the vault and sharing a few favorite road memories instead. From playing a black tie show on guitar with Willie Nelson, to lighting up a cigar with Michael Jackson’s legendary manager Frank DiLeo, to the high-wire act of trying to remember all 14 verses of Marty Robbins’ El Paso with the Gatlin Brothers—this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes moments, close calls, and musical mayhem.Love Toby Keith? Beach Boys? Dionne Warwick? Bo Diddley? These are the stories of my time with them.Got a story of your own or want to chime in? Email us at [email protected] or drop a post on the Count It Off Podcast page on Facebook. Pull up a chair—this one’s all about the tales you only hear when the mics are already rolling. 🎸🎶

Episode 46: Marcia Ramirez — Songs, Stories & Life on the RoadIn this episode, we sit down with Marcia Ramirez, an accomplished songwriter and touring musician whose career has taken her across stages with some of music’s most respected artists, including Rodney Crowell, Pam Tillis, Christopher Cross, and Patty Loveless.Marcia shares behind-the-scenes stories from the road, insights into the craft of songwriting, and the lessons she’s learned working alongside legends. From the creative process to the realities of touring, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to build a lasting life in music.Whether you’re a songwriter, a music fan, or someone who loves hearing real stories from the road, this episode is packed with inspiration, honesty, and heart.🎙️ Tune in to hear how Marcia Ramirez continues to shape songs, careers, and moments that matter.

Count It Off Ep 45 - Matt StellCountry hitmaker Matt Stell joins the podcast to talk about the road from small-town beginnings to landing two #1 Billboard hits. He shares the stories behind his biggest songs, playing the Opry, the lessons learned chasing success in Nashville, and what’s next in his evolving music journey. A candid conversation about grit, growth, and staying true to your sound. 🎙️🎶

Count It Off – Episode 44 welcomes acclaimed musician and composer Tom Lieberman for an in-depth conversation spanning a remarkable career. Tom reflects on his ten-year tenure with A Prairie Home Companion, shares insights from his work on Disney’s Bear andthe Big Blue House, and discusses the evolution of his jazz trio Rio Nido. The episode explores the discipline, creativity, and collaboration behind long-running musical projects, offering thoughtful perspective and memorable stories from one of the industry’s most versatile artists. Don't miss it!

Count It Off Ep. 43 - Jeffro checks inHey everyone, welcome back to the show! With the holidays in full swing, I thought this was the perfect time to do a little check-in. Things are busy, a little chaotic, hopefully cozy—and I'm just taking a moment to slow down and catch up. Whether you’re wrapping gifts, traveling, or hiding out with a warm drink somewhere, we’re really glad you’re here. Let’s all relax and reflect a little bit.

Ep 42 - Ryan Story: "The artists that thrive can still play live."Today we’re talking with Ryan Story — LA-based pop artist, songwriter, and all-around good vibe generator. Ryan’s got a great story. He grew up on the east coast of Florida, sharpened his craft in Nashville and finally made the big leap to the bright lights of Hollywood.In this episode, we check out some of his great pop songs and get into his path, what surprised him, what pushed him, and what kept him going. And of course, the big question every creative asks at some point: how do you actually make it in LA?Grab a coffee, settle in and let’s dive into "the story behind the Story."

EP 41: "Why isn't this guy a major star already?"This week we’re hanging out with Rusty Van Sickle and his 19-year-old son, Whitley—two generations of songwriters cut from classic country cloth. We'll hear a few great songs and explore everything from the legends that shaped Rusty’s sound to the Nashville scene today, with a special nod to Keith Whitley, young Whitley’s namesake. Expect plenty of laughs, a couple of “dang, that hit me right in the feels” moments, and a whole lot of heart. And when Rusty lets that rich baritone loose… yeah, you’ll hear why we call it ready-for-stardom. Tune in and enjoy the ride.

Count It Off Ep 40 : Russ Pahl - steel guitar master If you’ve listened to country radio anytime in the last 25 years, odds are you’ve heard the unmistakable shimmer of Russ Pahl’s steel guitar—whether you knew it or not. Nashville may be full of pickers, but Russ is the guy other players point to when they talk about tone, taste, and pure musical magic.Raised on the warm hum of the folk era, hooked by the British Invasion’s spark, and ultimately reeled in by the twangy, string-bending heroes of classic country, Russ followed a sonic trail that led straight to the steel guitar. And once he picked it up, the instrument—and the industry—were never quite the same.How influential is he? In one recent year, of the ten country songs that hit #1 and featured steel guitar, Russ played on eight of them. Eight! That’s not a résumé—that’s gravitational pull. He's played on records for everyone from Carrie Underwood to CeLo Green and with producers like Dan Auerbach and T-Bone Burnette. We talk about his approach to each project and you'll hear his respect for the pioneers of this truly quirky invention.So settle in and let’s talk with the man who made the steel guitar modern again: Nashville’s go-to string magician, Russ Pahl.

Ep. 39 - Chris talks GarthIn this episode, Count It Off sits down with legendary guitarist Chris Leuzinger—the man whose playing you’ve heard on every Garth Brooks album and across countless miles of tour dates. Chris takes us back to those early days in the studio, sharing how the very first Garth tracks came together, the sparks of creativity that shaped them, and the moments none of them realized they were making history.He opens up about Garth’s genuine kindness and generosity behind the scenes—the quiet gestures, the encouragement, the way he made every musician feel valued. We also shine a light on the incredible players, producers, and studio wizards who helped build Garth’s unmistakable sound. From spontaneous late-night sessions to the chemistry that only happens when the right people end up in the same room, Chris brings us stories that are funny, heartfelt, and downright iconic.If you love music, behind-the-scenes magic, or just a great story well told, this one’s a must-listen.

Count It Off — Episode 38: Jake Shimabukuro - ambassador of Hawai'i's signature stringed instrumentIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jake Shimabukuro, widely celebrated as the world’s #1 ukulele virtuoso. We'' hear some of his music and follow Jake's shares stories from his upbringing in Hawai‘i, the deep love for practice that shaped his musicianship, and the early YouTube moments that launched him onto the global stage. We dive into his unforgettable tours with legends like Jimmy Buffett and Tommy Emmanuel, as well as his recent travels across China, Japan, Europe, and beyond. His young fans overseas look up to him like their Shohei Ohtani superhero and you'll hear his modesty and gratitude for those future players.Join us for an uplifting, music-filled conversation as Count It Off welcomes Jake Shimabukuro to Episode 39.

Episode 37: On the Road with Lee GreenwoodIn this week's show, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it’s like to play in Lee Greenwood’s band. From long bus rides and late-night diners to the goosebumps moment when “God Bless the U.S.A.” kicks in, we’ve seen it all. We’re sharing stories from the stage, memories from the road, and what it’s like working with a true American legend who still gives it everything, every night.Lee is a consummate artist and is generous to his band - we'll even hear a song of mine he sang for my demo. Take a Morning Ride with us :)

🎙️  Ep 36 - Key West, Jimmy Buffett, Trop Rock music and the musical side of the southernmost point Join us as we meet the founders of Trop RockN Duval, a week-long festival of beach music. We join artists, songwriters and even a local 5th generation Bahamian Conch. One of the fastest growing genres of music, Trop Rock comes to Key West the last week of October every year and artists from all over the world come to perform for their fans and the lucky tourists who happen in to hear live original music in dozens of venues.This is a fun one... so join us!

🎧 Episode 35: Me, Myself & AI — One Musician’s First Steps into the Hot/Bold/Scary New TechnologyIn this episode, we dive into my first experiences using artificial intelligence as a musician — the tools that sparked new ideas, the challenges that test our industry and the questions that keep me curious. It’s a look at creativity in the age of algorithms: where inspiration meets automation, and where humans still make the magic happen. We'll include listener feedback and do some impromptu testing.Hope you'll enjoy the new hot topic!

🎙️ Scott Joyce: Road Songs & Honky Tonk StoriesNashville songwriter and touring musician Scott Joyce joins us to share about his life on the road with Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, and Tracy Lawrence. From backstage laughs to songwriting magic, Scott brings the journeys, the heart, and the country charm of a Music City career that’s taken him from Texas to the biggest stages anywhere. 🤠🎸Turn it up and ride along — this one’s pure Nashville gold.

🎸 Episode 33: Luc Nyhus: Stories from the StringsThis week, we sit down with Luc Nyhus — a Nashville guitarist, songwriter, and road warrior whose playing has lit up stages with Big & Rich, Elle King, Sam Barber and more.Luc opens up about life on the road, the lessons learned between gigs, and how he's learned to put his heart in his songs..His story is one of passion, hustle, and a deep love for the music that connects us all.🎶 A warm, genuine conversation with one of Nashville’s most soulful guitar storytellers.

🎧 Episode 32: Phil Solem: Behind the ClapsYou know the song — the one that made millions of people clap along every Thursday night. But there’s a lot more to the story than just the Friends theme.In this episode, we sit down with guitarist Phil Solem, singer, songwriter, and one half of The Rembrandts, to talk about how “I’ll Be There for You” became one of the most recognizable songs in television history. Phil shares the story behind the hit, the unexpected whirlwind that followed, and how he’s continued to evolve as an artist beyond the ‘90s spotlight.From the Los Angeles music scene to global fame — and everything in between — we dive deep into the challenges of the music biz, the cast members of the show and share the effect of a song that still brings people together decades later.Tune in for stories, laughter, and a behind-the-scenes look at the man who helped define the sound of friendship.

🎙️ Episode 31: Harmony, Heritage & Heart with Rudy GatlinIn this episode, we sit down with Rudy Gatlin of the legendary Gatlin Brothers to talk about a lifetime in music, family, and faith. From their early days singing in small Texas churches to becoming Grammy Award–winning artists and Grand Ole Opry members, the Gatlins have left an indelible mark on country and gospel music.Rudy shares behind-the-scenes stories from the road, what it was like growing up in a family where harmony was both musical and personal, and how he’s navigated decades in an ever-changing industry. We also dive into his personal passions off the stage, lessons learned from a life in the spotlight, and what continues to inspire him today.Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Gatlin Brothers or just discovering their music, this conversation offers a heartfelt look at the man behind the songs — filled with humor, wisdom, and a whole lot of harmony.

Count It Off – Episode 30: Joe Soucheray of Garage LogicOn this episode of Count It Off, we’re joined by none other than Joe Soucheray, the voice behind Garage Logic, the Mayor of Gumption County and Flashlight King himself. If you’ve ever tuned into GL, you know Joe’s got a knack for mixing common sense, humor, and a little bit of curmudgeonly wisdom into conversations that just stick with you. The show pulls hundreds of thousands of monthly listeners from around the globe and ranks in the top 25% of all podcasts.We talk about how Garage Logic came to be, how good podcasts succeed and what keeps Joe fired up to hit the mic after all this time. Whether you’re a long-time citizen of Garage Logic or just curious what it’s all about, this one feels like hanging out in the mayor’s office—coffee, chatter, and plenty of laughs included. Don't miss this one.

🎙️ Count It Off – Episode 29 : Erica Sunshine LeeIn this episode of Count It Off, we sit down with the unstoppable Erica Sunshine Lee — a powerhouse singer-songwriter known as the Georgia Gypsy. From her small-town Southern roots to touring across the globe, Erica’s journey is fueled by grit, passion, and a love for telling stories through song.She’s earned #1 chart-topping songs, penned heartfelt ballads, rowdy anthems, and everything in between, earning fans worldwide with her fearless honesty and undeniable stage presence. In this conversation, Erica opens up about life on the road, the inspirations behind her songs, and what it really takes to carve out an independent career in today’s music industry.Whether you’re chasing your own creative dreams or just love a good story wrapped in melody, this episode will leave you inspired to count it off and dive in.✨ Listen now and join the ride with Erica Sunshine Lee.

🎹 Count It Off Ep 28: Funk, Faith & Purple Keys with Tommy BarbarellaThis week we’re hanging out with the one and only Tommy Barbarella — keyboardist, composer, and longtime member of Prince’s legendary New Power Generation. We dig into what it was like holding down the keys for one of the greatest artists of all time, the magic (and madness) of life on tour, and how Tommy found his own sound outside the Purple universe.We’ll hear how Tommy has expanded to composing and scoring everything from orchestral works, commercial videos and even an epic Super Bowl ad.From Twin Cities beginnings to the biggest stages in the world, Tommy shares stories that are equal parts funny, wild, and inspiring. We talk about the pressure of keeping up with Prince’s genius, what it takes to survive in the music industry, and how collaboration fuels his creativity to this day.If you love Prince, music history, or just want to hear some behind-the-scenes stories from the guy who helped shape the soundtrack of a generation, this one’s for you.

Welcome to Count It Off, the podcast where we shine a light on the stories behind the music that moves us. Today, we're counting it off with none other than Kensie Coppin — a powerhouse singer-songwriter who made her Grand Ole Opry debut at just 11 years old. With a voice that cuts deep and a rich alto tone that commands every lyric, Kensie has earned three #1 singles on the Texas charts and built a name rooted in heart, grit, and undeniable talent. From center stage to the writing room, she’s blazing her own trail in country music — and we’re here for the ride.

In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Friedman, President of the Trop Rock Music Association (TRMA) — a nationwide network uniting artists, venues, fans, and radio stations passionate about tropical rock. Mark shares his insights into the vibrant world of Trop Rock, its grassroots growth, the passionate fan base, and how the TRMA fosters connection and recognition within the genre.We dive into the evolution of Trop Rock music, its cultural roots, and the role of the association in supporting emerging talent, organizing events, and amplifying the genre across the U.S. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just discovering the sound of saltwater-soaked tunes and island vibes, this episode offers a front-row seat to the movement keeping the music alive and the mission of the ParrotHeads to “Keep the Party Going” in remembrance of Jimmy Buffett.🌴 Tune in for stories, rhythms, and community straight from the heart of Trop Rock.

In this episode, we meet with Billy Alcorn, owner of the Nashville road case company supplying gear for some of the biggest names in music like Metallica, Justin Timberlake, Chris Stapleton and Eric Church. We learn about his roots in Walnut Grove, MN (birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder and home of Little House On the Prairie), explore his years behind the wheel of Phil Vassar’s tours and we get to hear some of the songs they wrote. It’s a fascinating dive into how custom gear and production like Alcorn Custom Cases builds plays a key role in making the big shows all happen.🎧 Tune in for stories, music talk, some country humor and a look at what it takes to bring legends to the stage.

This week, we’re diving deep into the purple legacy with a true pioneer of the Minneapolis Sound: Matt "Dr. Fink" Prince. As the longtime keyboardist for Prince and an original member of The Revolution, Dr. Fink was a key architect of the sonic landscapes behind some of Prince’s most groundbreaking work — from *Dirty Mind* and *1999* to *Purple Rain* and beyond.In this candid conversation, Matt shares firsthand stories from the studio and the stage: what it was like to collaborate with Prince at the peak of his creative powers, how The Revolution came together, and the moments that defined an era. We talk about the iconic look (yes, the scrubs), cool tales of the live shows (including opening for the Rolling Stones), the evolution of Prince’s sound, and what it meant to be part of a musical movement that broke boundaries across genre, race, and style.Whether you're a die-hard Prince fan or just curious about one of the most influential bands in pop music history, this episode is packed with insight, stories, and behind-the-scenes details you won’t hear anywhere else.

Scottish-born Callum Kerr has a great double-fisted career going... he's starred in seasons 2-6 of the Netflix series Virgin River and acted in 12 other shows and now, he's making his Grand Ole Opry debut with his soulful, gritty voice and A-list production. We talk about his life in Edinburgh Scotland, his acting career but mostly about his enthusiasm for a debut album, produced by Dann and David Huff. They just don't come any better and I know you'll love his relaxed personality and Scottish brogue. Don't miss this one!

Country station BOB-FM is a rare example of independent playlists and down-home personalities. Neil Freeman joins us to talk about his rise from small market radio to one of the top-rated stations in the Minneapolis/St. Paul market. They also are one of the few country stations that love to play homegrown artists. Learn what they look for in submissions and how they give back to the community as well.

Join us as we chat with Andy Peake and hear about his long history as the timekeeper for some of the best artists we've known, from Delbert McClinton to Nicolette Larson, Lee Roy Parnell to Don Williams and more. We cover some of the challenges as an independent recording artist as well. He's got history in Boulder, Gainesville and the past 35 years in Nashville. Hang out with us!

From Music City comes a slayin' hard rocker who's seen it all, from the hair band heyday of LA in the early 80s to his current gig at possibly the #1 recording studio in Nashville. Mike has a great love for his heroes - Richie Blackmore, Eddie Van Halen and more. We'll also talk about his new book "Tennessee Metal" and more. Grab a coffee and join us for some cool guitar instrumentals and tales of the Roxy and the Rainbow Room. Recommended!

Colorado recording artist Chris Daniels talks about releasing his 20th album "Blues With Horns II," working with Sonny Landreth and Billy Payne, touring Europe and the US and so much more. We also get a very personal inside view of tackling his acute myeloid leukemia and pulmonary fibrosis and being a 10 year survivor, plus playing 40 shows a year, teaching at the University of Colorado, producing records, staying positive and most of all, keeping it real. This is without a doubt one of most "close to the bone" shows we've had yet, and it's one of my favorites. Join us and enjoy!

Join us as we get to know this prolific hit writer and trace his journey from St. Louis to Nashville. Over 100 songs recorded by Blake Shelton to George Jones and more, including five #1 chart hits. We talk about being new in Nashville and 'making it.' He's as positive and fun a guest as his ever-present smile would indicate. Twice nominated for a Grammy Award, he's also huge on the Parrothead circuit with the Trop Rock crowd. You'll like him for sure!

Join us as we learn about Kevin's star-crossed journey from railroad brakeman to Tangled Up In Blue guitarist and beyond. We have some fun hearing about being in the studio with the legendary Bob Dylan and his connections to the early crew that helped Prince launch his enormous career. He turned a west coast group into the international National Academy of Songwriters, lining up superstar members like Paul McCartney and Lionel Richie, and fighting for songwriters' rights in Washington DC. Dylan fans especially, don't miss this!

50 year radio legend Jim West and I chat about his career in country music and what makes a great station great. He shares stories that includes Dick Clark, Garth Brooks, George Strait and more. How do local bands get their songs on radio? We'll cover that too. Enjoy!

In the late 60s and early 70s, David worked side-by-side with the late great Brian Wilson. You'll hear the first-person stories and we'll play some music to show the influence Brian had on his young understudy and collaborator. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind interview.

Christie and I discuss her burgeoning career in music as a young songwriter, artist and influencer. We'll hear some of her music and learn about the differences between LA and Nashville, talk about streaming and the new hot topic, AI.All that, plus we learn about her years around the world as a medical volunteer with her doctor parents in places like India,Africa and the Far East.She's upbeat, clean and a lot of fun. Hope you'll listen in!

Alabama native Jerry Foster is a real storyteller and he's had a huge career around the greats. From Elvis to Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Charlie Pride and Johnny Paycheck, he's penned their chart records for decades. Don't miss this one! Jerry is a beloved force in Nashville still today, with plans for a new TV series.. We'll learn his secrets of staying young too. I love this guy and you will too.

Case Hardin is a chart-topping cowboy singer, raised on hard work, ranching and rodeo in west Texas. His young career is taking off and he's got some of the Lone Star State's biggest names giving him a hand up. We talk about how rodeo runs generations deep in his family, we'll check out some of his #1 songs and his dreams for the future. If you love George Strait and Cody Johnson, don't miss this one!