Johnny Strikes Up the Band

In this episode, John speaks with Film and Music Producer Bill Oakes. Bill's first job was working for The Beatles at their Apple headquarters, being at the heart of the band's activities in the final years. Bill then went on to be part of the Robert Stigwood Organization, working with artists such as The Bee Gees and Eric Clapton as the head of their record label. Additionally, he outlined his role in the creation of two mega-blockbuster films and music projects: Saturday Night Fever and Grease. Bill discusses his adventures with friends and icons of the '60s and '70s, as well as his recent projects, including the 2020 Bee Gees documentary, and his current work producing a documentary on his friend Rod Stewart. This episode is an inside look at some of the most important cultural events and artists of our time.

On this episode, John speaks with Jeff Jampol.  Jeff's company manages an extensive roster of legacy estates, including those of The Doors, Janis Joplin, and Jefferson Airplane. Jeff details his management approach from both the artistic and commercial standpoints, handling all aspects of the estates, including recording, publishing, films, imagery, and likeness. Jeff is also currently teaching marketing and branding at UCLA, as well as being recognized as an expert in the musical history of the 1960s. Jeff has been active in the sobriety community for decades and has helped hundreds of people in recovery. His personal story of business success, personal recovery, and service to others is wide-ranging and inspiring. 

On this episode, John speaks with Joe and Lzzy from the Grammy-winning band Halestorm.  Lzzy and Joe outline the band's history, as well as their 23 years together, making them one of rock's longest-standing couples.  Halestorm is currently one of rock's hardest touring bands and is currently on the road with Iron Maiden in Europe.  Listen in for terrific advice on touring, starting in the business, recording, and what it takes to be a successful musician. Joe and Lzzy cover all the bases in the far-ranging interview.

On this episode, John speaks with music manager and film producer Andy Gould.Andy is one of rock music's most recognized managers, having worked with Pantera, Rob Zombie, Linkin Park, Guns N' Roses, Lionel Richie, and Morrissey. Andy started his path as a "tea boy" for George Martin and the Beatles, and he outlines his journey from London to New York to LA. Andy offers some of the most common-sense music business advice you've ever heard, thoughtfully and humorously, along with several tales from his experiences working with his artists and navigating the music business from the 1980s to the present.

On this episode, John's guest is Buck Johnson.  Buck is a well-known musician who has played with John Waite, The Joe Perry Project, The Hollywood Vampires, and was a permanent member of Aerosmith as their keyboardist and backing vocalist until the band's retirement.  Buck is currently a touring member of Ringo Starr's band and an in-demand producer based in Nashville.  Buck shares stories of his humble beginnings, up to performing in Stadiums across the world, along with many tales of the road that come with the job.  Buck gives a masterclass on what it takes to be a working musician and producer.

John speaks with Musician Jimmy Stafford, best known as a founding member of the band Train.  Jimmy discusses a wide range of topics from his early days and the formation of Train to the new release of his 10th solo record.  The music business, politics, personal stories, and even spending a weekend at the Kennedy Compound are all discussed in this wide-ranging interview.

John speaks with Black Keys co-founder Patrick Carney. Patrick discusses growing up in Akron, Ohio, and his early musical adventures, which led to his formation of the Black Keys with his neighbor Dan Auerbach.  Patrick succeeded in the music business the old-fashioned way with hard work and dedicated persistence, and his stories are educational and entertaining.

John speaks with singer-songwriter Michelle Branch about getting a record contract at 16 and navigating the music business at a young age.  Michelle also talks about her current recording and touring, while balancing a family life in Nashville with her husband, Patrick Carney from the Black Keys, and their three children.  

John speaks with world-renowned bassist Bill Sheehan about his time with David Lee Roth, his hits with Mr. Big, and his experiences touring the world. Billy also shares stories about his early days breaking into the business, plus his adventures with the guys in Rush and Van Halen.

John speaks with photographer, film, and video director Rocky Schenck.  Rocky talks about his experiences with Joni Mitchell, Rod Stewart, Alice Chains, Robert Plant, and a host of other notables.

John speaks with Damon Johnson, guitarist of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Damon also discusses his time playing in the Alice Cooper Band as well as Thin Lizzy, hanging out with Jeff Beck and Eddie Van Halen, and touring with Robert Plant.