A Chat With Nat Johnson From Derby

Here's a new July 2008 interview with vocalist/guitarist Nat Johnson from the band Derby (Nat's the guy in the center of the picture to your left). The Portland, Oregon based band has just released their second CD titled "Posters Fade". The disc is total pop rock bliss - and no, pop's not a dirty word if Nat has anything to say about it. Here Nat talks in depth about the new CD - writing, recording, producing (the band self-produced this one and it sounds great), and anything else involving the disc. He also talks about the band's history - and where he'd like to see the band headed in the future, the live music scene in Portland (which he says is incredible), and what fans can expect from the band's live shows. Derby is definitely a band on the rise - check them out and I gurantee you won't be disappointed; talk about well crafted 3 minute pop songs that'll stick in your head! Thanks to Nat for the interview, he's truly passionate about the music. Make sure you visit Derby's website at www.derbyrock.com.

Listen To The July 2008 Interview With Nat Johnson From Derby:

Glen Burtnik's Jersey Summer Beatles Bash #2

Here's a brand new July 2008 interview with one of New Jersey's best, Glen Burtnik. Glen, who of course has had a long and distiguished career as a hit songwriter, session musician, solo artist, and a couple of tenures with Styx, has something very cool coming up. It's the Jersey Summer Beatles Bash - where Glen and some musician friends will recreate note for note the Beatles White Album. The event will take place July 25th at The State Theatre in New Brunswick, NJ. Glen's "friends" for the evening include the great Marshall Crenshaw, Jersey musician Bob Burger, Liverpool, and Marc Muller. Glen has been keeping an interesting blog leading up to the show at his MySpace page located here. In this interview, Glen talks with me about the idea behind the Beatles bash, the influence of the fab four on his music, and even some memories of living through "Beatlemania". Glen also chats a bit about some of his other current activities, including playing some shows opening for Dennis DeYoung this summer, and doing some acoustic gigs with songwriter friends. Make sure you check out Glen's site (www.glenburtnik.com) for complete details of the Jersey Beatles Bash as well as all of Glen's other musical happenings. Thanks a ton to Glen for the chat - all done on the way to driving to a gig nonetheless!

Listen To The July 2008 Interview With Glen Burtnik:

Ronnie Baker Brooks To Be Featured At Pocono Blues Festival

Here's a brand new July 2008 interview with bluesman Ronnie Baker Brooks. Ronnie, who is the son of blues legend Lonnie Brooks, will be one of the featured performers at one of my favorite summer festivals - the Pocono Blues Festival in Blakeslee, PA. In this interview, Ronnie talks about his latest releases - his last studio record, "The Torch", and live CD "Command Performance: The Rhythm and Blues Revue". Ronnie also talks about his live shows, his own brand of blues - which is heavy on the funk factor, and even some memories of growing up with Chicago blues (great stuff like jamming with Buddy Guy at a younge age!) Make sure you check out Ronnie's website at www.ronniebakerbrooks.com for more on his music, and also the Pocono Blues Festival's site for Ronnie's performance info for July 27th.

Listen To The July 2008 Interview With Ronnie Baker Brooks:

Checking In With Verdine White of Earth, Wind, and Fire

Here's a new June 2008 interview with legendary Earth, Wind, and Fire bassist Verdine White. Verdine and the band are still electrifying audiences worldwide with their brand of funk, R&B, and soul. Here, Verdine talks a bit about the band's live show, as well as his bass playing. He also chats about new generations of fans the band has gained over the years. No doubt some of those fans are American Idol viewers - a show which the band performed on last season during "Idol Gives Back" - Verdine talks about that experience. He's also got his own Verdine White Foundation which does charity work in L.A., and he gives his thoughts on that as well. About 12 minutes of audio here - enjoy. Verdine was a great guy to talk with. Make sure you check out the EWF website for live dates: www.earthwindandfire.com.

Listen To The June 2008 Interview With Verdine White:

Talkin' Blues With Studebaker John

Here's a new June 2008 Interview with bluesman Studebaker John. As with the Dale Watson interview preceeding this one, this interview was done in advance of the Honesdale Roots and Rhythm Festival in Honesdale, PA - one of the festival shows in my homebase of the Poconos that I'm jazzed about this summer. Check the link in the left hand column of the page for info. Studebaker John is currently readying a new CD for release this summer - which you'll hear him talk about. John and I also talk about the history of him with his band, The Hawks from the clubs of their native Chicago to the stages of the world. John also gives his thoughts on the current state of the blues and where it's headed. We also touch on John's songwriting, studio experiences, and live set. Make sure you check out John on the web and look out for the new CD due in July. Thanks to John for the chat - he's truly one of the coolest guys in the blues today. Studebaker John online: www.studebakerjohn.com.

Listen To The June 2008 Interview With Studebaker John:

Singer/Songwriter Dale Watson's Journey "From The Cradle To The Grave"

Here's a brand new May 2008 conversation with Texas singer/songwriter Dale Watson. Dale's music is in his own words "ameripolitan" - original music with a prominent roots influence. His latest record "From the Cradle to the Grave" will stir up images of classic country titans like Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and George Jones. Incidentally, while writing and recording for the new CD, Dale spent some time in a Tennessee cabin once owned by Cash - soaking up some vibes. In this interview, Dale talks about the new CD, as well as his songwriting, musical influences, and his thoughts on life on the road. Dale's going to be performing in my neck of the woods at the Honesdale Roots and Rhythm Festival in Honesdale, PA in June. Anyone in the area - come check out Dale live, you won't be dissapointed. For more on his music and live dates, visit Dale online at www.dalewatson.com.

Listen To The May 2008 Interview With Dale Watson:

Gunnar Nelson On Paying Tribute To His Legendary Father

Here's a new May 2008 interview with Gunnar Nelson. Gunnar, who of course is half of melodic rockers Nelson along with brother Matthew, is gearing up to hit the road along with Matthew and The Stone Canyon Band. The Nelsons will present "Ricky Nelson Remembered" - a series of shows in tribute to their late, great superstar father. Gunnar chats here about the origins of the tribute show, and what audiences can expect at the shows. He also shares some memories of his father, including his thoughts on his dad's music, and what it's like being involved with a musical legacy that runs as deep as his family's. Gunnar also chats about the original lineup of Nelson hitting the road this summer - the first time in 15 years, and also talks about his and Matthew's Scrap Metal side project. Gunnar was a most gracious interview subject; I can't thank him enough for his time - which he doesn't have much of these days being involved with three different bands! Check out the following link for information on the "Ricky Nelson Remembered" tour, as well as Nelson's music: www.thenelsonbrothers.com.

Listen To The May 2008 Interview With Gunnar Nelson:

A Conversation With Chicago Bluesman Lurrie Bell

Here's a May 2008 interview with Chicago blues guitarist Lurrie Bell. Lurrie of course is the son of famed harmonica wiz Carey Bell, but Lurrie's been doing well paving his own trail for the last couple of decades. Lurrie's done a few records with his late father in the past, which I ask him about. Lurrie also gives his thoughts on his latest CD "Let's Talk About Love" - which was actually nominated for a few Blues Music Awards recently. Lurrie's going to be appearing at the 2008 Pocono Blues Festival, which this interview was done in advance of. His brand of blues will get your foot tapping and won't let it stop. As far as second generation blues greats in the making, Lurrie's one of 'em. After you listen to the interview, make sure you check out Lurrie online at www.lurrie.com.

Listen To The May 2008 Interview With Lurrie Bell:

These Are "Ever Changing Times" For Steve Lukather

Here's a brand new May 2008 interview with the great Steve Lukather. This chat revolves around Steve's brand new solo record "Ever Changing Times" which is out now in most of the world and June 3rd in the U.S. In this interview I go in depth with Steve about the writing and recording of the record. He even filled me in on the cast of amazing players who lent their time - including guests like Bill Champlin and Joseph Williams. Steve's son Trevor was also a big part of the record - we talk about that as well. "Ever Changing Times" is a masterful melodic rock album that fans of Steve's work with Toto will appreciate, and his hardcore guitar audience will find something to take away from this as well. Thanks to Steve for the chat, well as Dave at Rising Talent Group for makign this happen. Steve will beout on the road in '08 and beyond - check him out at www.stevelukather.net.

Listen To The May 2008 Interview With Steve Lukather:

Talking Blues With Bobby Rush

Here's a May 2008 interview with bluesman Bobby Rush. This was done in advance of Bobby's appearance at this years Pocono Blues Festival, where Bobby will pull double duty - playing solo acoustic as well as with his band. This interview as you'll notice was totally off the cuff - I called Bobby to set up an interview time but it turned out he was ready to talk right then. I didn't have a whole lot prepared at that point, but it was fun to do something loose and frrform like this. Bobby was more than cordial, like talking to someone you'd known for years. We talked about his history in the blues, his current CD "Raw", his time on the legendary Chitlin Circuit, and his take on life (he's lovin' it by the way!) Bobby also just got back from performing for U.S. troops in Iraq and Kuwait, which he chats about as well. Thanks to Bobby for the cool interview - it's long one (over 35 minutes). Check out Bobby's website at www.bobbyrush.net.

Listen To The May 2008 Interview With Bobby Rush:

Songwriting's The Key For Chris Gates

Here's a brand new April 2008 conversation with singer/songwriter Chris Gates. Chris at the moment has got a fantastic country flavored record out called "Ain't It Grand" with his Gatesville band - great production, just the right amount of twang, and plenty of raw passion. He's also got a solo acoustic CD and solo acoustic DVD which were recorded around his homebase of Austin, TX. Chris is currently working on some new music, which he talks about here. He also talks about writing for the "Ain't It Grand" CD, and his thoughts on songwriting in general. Other topics include his evolution as a musician in his early punk bands The Big Boys and Poison 13, to hard rock band Junkyard, to his current country/southern/acoustic efforts. Chris mentions that Junkyard (which still plays a limited number of shows) is heading to Spain for a series of live dates. Maybe even the possibility of a new Junkyard CD? Chris says that he hopes to have his new solo music out sometime this summer. Make sure you check his music out at www.chris-gates.com.

Listen To The April 2008 Interview With Chris Gates:

Rob Hyman On The Hooters "Time Stand Still"

Here's an April 2008 conversation with Rob Hyman of The Hooters. In this one, Rob chats about writing and recording The Hooters latest "Time Stand Still", as well as some of the band's current activity. That current activity includes the video they made for single "I'm Alive", playing live dates in the U.S. and Germany, and even mixing an acoustic/live CD for release later in the year. The band recently hunkered down at Rob's Elm Street Studios and recorded new arrangements of some of their past hits. This collection of songs will either be paired with live tracks recorded at Philly's Electric Factory this past November, or the projects will be two separate entities altogether - it's yet to be determined. At the end, Rob talks about writing for the "Nervous Night" record in my homebase of The Poconos - very inspiring surroundings indeed. Check out The Hooters online at www.thehooters.net.

Listen To The April 2008 Interview With Rob Hyman:

A Chat With Blackfoot's Bobby Barth

Here's a brand new April 2008 conversation with Blackfoot vocalist/guitarist Bobby Barth. Bobby as you may know, was also the founder and vocalist/guitarist for hard rockers Axe. In this interview we chat about how Bobby came to join Blackfoot in the early 1980's, his thoughts on the studio albums he recorded with Blackfoot, the 2004 reformation of the band, and also his founding of the great melodic rock label N.E.H. Records. Bobby also touches on Blackfoot's live record "Train, Train - Southern Rocks Best Live", and even some thoughts about his time with Axe. Bobby's a lifer as they say - having recorded over 40 albums with various artists over the years, not to mention producing and managing as well. He tells me that he's currently working on a solo record between Blackfoot live dates - which you'll hear about in the interview. Thanks to Bobby for the chat! Visit Blackfoot online at www.blackfootrocks.com.

Listen To The April 2008 Interview With Bobby Barth:

Nappy Brown's "Long Time Coming"

Here's a March 2008 conversation with legendary blus/soul man Nappy Brown. Nappy had a string of hits for the Savoy Records label in the mid 1950's-early 60's. Perhaps most notable was the top 10 hit "Don't Be Angry". Nappy also wrote the Ray Charles hit "The Right Time" - which Nappy reprises along with "Don't Be Angry" on his new CD "Long Time Coming". Nappy's extremely proud of the new disc. He says it's the best record he's made since 1955. Nappy is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of soul music, and true to form - his voice belts out the tunes like he never lost a step on the new disc. A nice guy to talk with, Nappy covers topics such as the "Long Time Coming" CD, his thoughts on his early days with Savoy Records, his current touring band, and much more. Check out Nappy on the web at www.myspace.com/nappybrownofficial.

Listen To The March 2008 Interview With Nappy Brown:

The Scott Weis Band Unleashes "Tryin' to Get Back"

Here's a new February 2008 interview with blues guitarist Scott Weis. Scott's based in my home area of the Poconos of PA. Scott and his band are set to release their new CD "Tryin' to Get Back" - a fantastic mix of blues, soul, funk, and rock. Scott's had a solid career in the business over the last two decades. He's done session work for people like Stevie Wonder and Jerry Garcia, and was even the guitarist in bluesman Junior Wells' band for a time. In this interview, Scott talks about all of that, as well as the new CD in detail - including the writing and production of the disc. Other topics covered include Scott's guitar setup, the chemistry of the band's members, and the band's live show. Note: check out Scott's website for video of his blistering display of one handed guitar/harmonica playing. Quite impressive. Scott and the band's site is located at www.scottweisband.com.

Listen To The February 2008 Interview With Scott Weis:

The Holmes Brothers Achieve A "State Of Grace"

Here's a February 2008 interview with bassist/vocalist Sherman Holmes of The Holmes Brothers. The band has a fantastic new CD out on Alligator Records titled "State of Grace" - which features an aclectic batch of cover tunes; and they do know how to make a cover tune their own. They've been called "the best interpretive band working today". For those unfamiliar, The Holmes Brothers sound is a mix of gospel, blues, funk, and rock - with a great positive vibe. Here Sherman chats about the new CD (which was recorded in about 3 days by the way), the band's history, playing live, and more. Fact: Joan Osborne used The Holmes Brothers as her backing band after her "Relish" CD came out. They've also backed numerous other artists too. After you check out the interview, visit the guys online at www.theholmesbrothers.com.

Listen To The February 2008 Interview With Sherman Holmes:

Guitarist Rick Richards On The Georgia Satellites, Izzy Stradlin, and The Art Of Slide Guitar

Here's a February 2008 interview with guitarist Rick Richards of The Georgia Satellites. In this one Rick chats a bit about the Satellites past, and what it's like playing with the revamped lineup of the band these days. I also got to ask Rick about Izzy Stradlin - who Rick's been playing with for over 15 years now. RIck was a member of Izzy's Ju Ju Hounds, and has since remained playing guitar on Stradlin's solo records. I also got to ask Rick about his killer slide guitar playing, which in my opinion adds the perfect amount of kick to the Satellites and Izzy's records. This one was done specifically for a shorter magazine article, so it's not the most in-depth thing I've ever done, but it was cool to chat with one of southern rock's finest. If you ever get the chance to meet Rick, you'll see that he's a cool, laid-back character - and a good guy. Check out The Georgia Satellites - who still do plenty of touring - at www.thegeorgiasatellites.com.

Listen To The February 2008 Interview With Rick Richards:

Drummer Michael Cartellone's Convergence Of Music and Fine Art

Here's a brand new interview with world class drummer Michael Cartellone. Michael, as you may know, was the drummer for Damn Yankees and is currently playing drums for Lynyrd Skynyrd - a gig he's held for the last 10 years. In this interview Michael and I chat about his musical career - from his beginnings in Ohio to Damn Yankees and Skynyrd, and many sessions and tours in between. Fact: Michael has never played drums for Michael Bolton, which I mistakenly stated in my intro to the interview. As you'll hear, we got a laugh out of that one. Michael was a good sport. Another topic covered was Michael's artwork - he's a fantastic artist. He chats about his paintings and even how the rest of Lynyrd Skynyrd pulled up in the tour bus at one of his gallery shows. Thanks to Michael for the interview, he's truly one of the nicest musicians I've had the pleaseure of speaking with. Make it a point to check out Michael's art at www.michaelcartellone.com.

Listen To The February 2008 Interview With Michael Cartellone:

L.A. Guns Drummer Steve Riley Sounds Off

Here's a brand new January 2008 interview with drummer Steve Riley of L.A. Guns. In this one, Steve and I chat about L.A. Guns' fantastic 2005 studio record "Tales From the Strip", their current "Loud and Dangerous" CD and DVD, as well as current life in the band. We also touched on Steve and vocalist Phil Lewis carrying on the band's name, and even some drum talk about Steve's drum sound - from Keel and W.A..S.P. to current L.A. Guns studio activity. Speaking of studio activity, Steve revealed that L.A. Guns is actually ready to get back into the studio to work on a new CD with producer Andy Johns. Other topics include the band's current tour, Steve's involvement in managing L.A. Guns career, and more. Steve was a great interview - nice guy and very knowledgeable, having a great deal of inside experience in the music business. Check out L.A. Guns at www.laguns.net.

Listen To The January 2008 Interview With Steve Riley: