Back to the Light

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Musician and music writer J.D. Reager talks to friends and fellow creatives - musicians, comedians, filmmakers, etc. - about the artistic process, maintaining mental health, and silencing self-doubt.

J.D. Reager


    • May 15, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 53m AVG DURATION
    • 149 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Back to the Light

    Midtown Con 2025 with Harry Koniditsiotis, Russ Thompson and Mike McCarthy

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 22:50


    Host J.D. Reager chats with musician/entrepreneur Harry Koniditsiotis (The Switchblade Kid, 901 Toys), author/musician Russ Thompson (The Loop Breaker series, 1000 Lights), and filmmaker/artist Mike McCarthy (Time Warp Drive In, Black & Wyatt Records Podcast) on location at Midtown Con in Memphis, TN. For more episodes and other fine podcasts, visit backtothelight.net!

    The Drip Edges

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 52:43


    Host J.D. Reager hangs out with musician Jeremy Scott and his bandmates in The Drip Edges - Graham Burks, Mitchell Manley and Noel Clark - at the band's rehearsal studio in Memphis.J.D. talks with Jeremy about making his solo album Bear Grease, the transition from "solo artist" to The Drip Edges, the band's new EP Kicking the Tires on the Clown Car, the last ride of the Reigning Sound, mining inspiration from frustration, and more. Later, the full band joins the show to discuss the band's history and dynamics - and they perform the song "Everything's Gonna Have to Be Alright" live at B-Side Memphis.For more episodes of Back to the Light and other fine podcasts, visit backtothelight.net

    Russ Thompson (The Loop Breaker series, 1000 Lights)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 52:03


    Host J.D. Reager talks with author and musician Russ Thompson at his home in Memphis. They chat about the recent holidays and forecast the new year before diving into a deep discussion about Russ' latest book, The Loop Breaker: Secrets of the Falls. They also get into Russ' various musical projects, including 1000 Lights, Polyglamorous, and his solo work. For more episodes of Back to the Light and other fine podcasts, visit ⁠backtothelight.net

    Back to the Light-Radio Memphis Holiday Telethon with Jeremy Scott, Marvin Stockwell, Dustin Starr, Big John Dalton, The Subteens, Ric Chetter and Monica O'Donniley-Summerfield

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2024 78:14


    It's late December - and that means it's time for The 43rd Annual Back to the Light-Radio Memphis Holiday Telethon! Back to the Light host J.D. Reager and Radio Memphis hosts Ric Chetter and Monica O'Donniley-Summerfield embark on a star-studded journey to benefit Room In The Inn - Memphis. First, musician Jeremy Scott (The Drip Edges, Reigning Sound) talks about his upcoming new album and Doug Sahm tribute project, and performs “Dirty Sound.” Then Marvin Stockwell provides updates on Baron Von Opperbean, the Mid-South Coliseum and Pezz. Next, Dustin Starr and Big John Dalton discuss all things Memphis Wrestling. And, finally - The Subteens close down the show with lively banter and a raucous version of “Out of My Head.” To donate to Room In The Inn - Memphis, visit ritimemphis.org To listen to Radio Memphis, visit radio-memphis.com For more episodes of Back to the Light and other fine podcasts, visit backtothelight.net

    Jeff Hulett and Dirk Kitterlin

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 51:49


    Host J.D. Reager talks with two fine musicians and friends, Jeff Hulett and Dirk Kitterlin. First, Jeff and J.D. discuss the recent U.S. election, Jeff's new LP Little Windows, and maintaining a positive outlook. Then, Dirk taps in to chat about his new album Tempus Novare, synth collecting, and his day job teaching music. For more episodes and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠.

    Not Too Late Night Talk Show with Tylon Monger, Cheyenne Marrs, Katrina Coleman and Allison McArthur

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2024 40:21


    J.D. Reager hosts another star-studded Not Too Late Night Talk Show in front of a live audience at the Memphis Listening Lab. Tylon Monger discusses his comedy career and dating life, Cheyenne Marrs performs the song “Fortune” from his new LP Everybody Wants to Go Home, and Allison McArthur challenges Katrina Coleman to a one-round You Look Like battle. This episode was recorded on 10/11/2024. To support the Memphis Listening Lab, visit memphislisteninglab.org. For more episodes and other fine podcasts visit ⁠backtothelight.net⁠.

    Eric Friedl (Gonerfest 21 preview)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 45:51


    Host J.D. Reager talks with returning guest Eric Friedl on location at Goner Records in Memphis, TN. They discuss Gonerfest 21's line-up and planning process in-depth, and also touch on the evolution of the festival, Eric's recent trip to Canada, his musical endeavors, and more. Gonerfest 21 takes place September 26-29 at Railgarten - for more information visit gonerfest.com. For more episodes and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net.

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    Morgan Jon Fox (The Hobby)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 68:55


    Host J.D. Reager talks with filmmaker Morgan Jon Fox, whose new film The Hobby is now streaming for free on Amazon Prime. They discuss the Memphis film community, the benefits of living in Chicago, working with Craig Brewer and Jemaine Clement, and the trading card boom that inspired The Hobby. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net

    The Subteens Celebrate Burn Your Cardigan with Mark Akin, Jay Hines, John Bonds, Jacob Church, Mike McCarthy and Chris Davis - LIVE from the Memphis Listening Lab

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 43:27


    Host J.D. Reager sits down with The Subteens (Mark Akin, Jay Hines and John Bonds) and special guests Jacob Church, Mike McCarthy and Chris Davis to celebrate the 25th anniversary reissue of the band's classic album Burn Your Cardigan. They discuss the band's history, the album's original creation, the remastering process and more in front of a live audience - and also spin two classic Subteens' songs, “Anyone” and “Tokarev.” For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. For more information on The Subteens visit thesubteens.com.

    Orchid South with Chris Milam - LIVE from the Memphis Listening Lab

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 46:50


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician Chris Milam about his new release Orchid South in front of a live audience at the Memphis Listening Lab. Chris also performs two songs from the album: "Cut Myself Shaving" and "Song of the Summer." For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

    The Return of Midtown Con with Harry Koniditsiotis (901 Toys, Switchblade Kid)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2024 48:55


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician and entrepreneur Harry Koniditsiotis on location at 901 Toys (Midtown) - while Harry works behind the counter! They discuss Harry's journey in the comic books and toys business, a few of his recent musical projects, and the upcoming Midtown Con at Black Lodge in Memphis on April 27th. They also check out a customer! For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠⁠⁠.

    Open Doors with Steve Mayer (The Merrycrest Sessions) featuring Seize and Desist and One Strange Bird

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2024 49:38


    Host J.D. Reager talks with audio engineer and content creator Steve Mayer upstairs at Shangri-La Records. They discuss Steve's journey from Illinois to Memphis, his work as a live engineer, and the inspiration behind his current project The Merrycrest Sessions. Steve also shares Merrycrest Session performances from Memphis artists Seize and Desist and One Strange Bird. Support The Merrycrest Sessions at patreon.com/TheMerrycrestSessions For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠⁠⁠.

    Go Where the Love Is with Mark Edgar Stuart

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 40:04


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician, songwriter and producer Mark Edgar Stuart on location at Mark's home studio. They discuss Mark's "adult" audience, recent studio projects, pet grief, and more. Mark also performs "Throwing Rocks At Your Window" live at Shangri-La Records. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠⁠. www.markedgarstuart.com www.shangrilarecords.com

    Possum Advocate with Mo Alexander

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024 48:39


    Host J.D. Reager talks to stand-up comedian Mo Alexander on location at Shangri-La Records. They discuss Mo's early days in comedy, the Memphis comedy scene, life on tour, the proper care of domesticated possums, and more. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠⁠backtothelight.net⁠⁠.

    Jughead Forever with John Miller and Jared McStay

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2023 37:47


    This episode is a special celebration of the life of Jared McStay. First, host J.D. Reager shares some memories with Jared's friend and business partner John Miller, followed by a replay of J.D.'s conversation with Jared from 2021. To close the show, J.D. spins two classic Jared McStay tunes - "Safe Passage" and "Pen." For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit ⁠backtothelight.net⁠.

    Wrestling is My Artform with Deonna Purrazzo (IMPACT Wrestling) and Barnabas the Leader (Memphis Wrestling)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 35:06


    Host J.D. Reager talks to the 3x former Knockouts World Champion Deonna Purrazzo about IMPACT Wrestling's upcoming shows in Memphis on September 22-23, defining her character, and more. Then Memphis Wrestling's Barnabas the Leader joins to discuss the status of The Circuz, his new career path as a "producer," and his journey in the wrestling business. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Music is the Great Equalizer with Ari Morris

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 41:43


    Host J.D. Reager talks to the acclaimed musician, engineer and producer Ari Morris on location at his studio/secret lair, Edge Recording. They discuss their shared musical history, Ari's journey from New Jersey to making platinum records in Memphis, the rise of Dolby Atmos, and more. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Duddy's ur Buddy! 100 with Dustin Heath

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 33:06


    In a very special Back to the Light network crossover, host J.D. Reager talks to Duddy's ur Buddy! host Dustin Heath on the occasion of his podcast's 100th episode. They discuss the milestone, Dustin's injury status, the ever-looming specter of addiction, and the hope that comes from recovery. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts (including Duddy's ur Buddy!) visit backtothelight.net!

    A Spare Few Tens of Thousands of Dollars with Chris McCoy (Antenna, 1000 Lights, Memphis Flyer)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 95:02


    Host J.D. Reager talks to writer, filmmaker and musician Chris McCoy on location at the Memphis Listening Lab. They discuss Chris' many paths as an artist, the inner-band dynamics of 1000 Lights, the behind-the-scenes story of the making of the documentary film Antenna, and more. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Frequencies with Maggie Trisler (Mystic Light Casino)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2023 64:48


    Host J.D. Reager talks with Maggie Trisler of Mystic Light Casino on location at the Hi Tone during WiMM (Women in Memphis Music) Fest. They discuss their shared musical history, Maggie's personal backstory, the artistic vision behind Mystic Light Casino, and more. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net! For more information on WiMM Fest visit wimmfest.com!

    WiMM Fest 2023 with Alice Hasen, Liz Lane and Miz Stefani

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2023 39:12


    Host J.D. Reager talks to performer Alice Hasen and Women in Memphis Music (WiMM) organizers Liz Lane and Miz Stefani on location at the Hi Tone during the inaugural WiMM Fest. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net! For more information on WiMM Fest visit wimmfest.com!

    Raised Up Right with Dale Naron (Creation Press, Owlbear)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2023 69:06


    Host J.D. Reager talks to Dale Naron about his complete musical history - including bands such as Bicycle Thief, Bottom of the Bottle, Oracle and the Mountain, and The Great Depression, which J.D. was a member of. They also discuss Dale's latest project Owlbear and his career in the screen printing business with Creation Press. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Fellow Champions with Marvin Stockwell (Champions of the Lost Causes) and Abe White (Laundry Bats)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2023 30:09


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician, activist and podcast host Marvin Stockwell about his latest project, the Champions of the Lost Causes Summer Road Trip, which is currently underway. Then J.D. talks to musician Abe White about his new band Laundry Bats and extensive musical history, including The Oscars, Manatees and True Sons of Thunder.

    The Steamroller with Rachel Maxann and Doug Walker (Dream Crusher Hope Smasher)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2023 49:29


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musicians Rachel Maxann and Doug Walker (Dream Crusher Hope Smasher) at Doug's home studio in Memphis. They discuss Rachel's new album Black Fae (which Doug produced), Rachel's journey as a musician, J.D. and Doug's musical history, Rachel's other career as a therapist, and more. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Love Has Gone Away with Harry Koniditsiotis (The Switchblade Kid, 901 Toys) and Dustin Heath (Duddy's ur Buddy, Maurice the Strong)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2023 51:27


    Host J.D. Reager talks to Harry Koniditsiotis about the success of Midtown Con and 901 Toys, the life of a "collector," and the new album by The Switchblade Kid, 3 - Love Has Gone Away. Then Dustin Heath joins the show to discuss his recent in-ring injury as Maurice the Strong, and his mental health podcast Duddy's ur Buddy. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Fresh with Jeff Hulett (Snowglobe, Me & Leah) and Jeff Pruitt (The Smokin' Jays, The Heavy Pour)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2023 37:48


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musicians Jeff Hulett (Snowglobe, Me & Leah, Restless Townies) and Jeff Pruitt (The Smokin' Jays, The Heavy Pour) on location at the Back to the Light Spring Turnout at Crosstown Brewing. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    No More Jesus Boys with Caroline Allen

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2023 51:54


    Host J.D. Reager talks to longtime friend and comedian Caroline Allen about their shared alma mater (Harding Academy), and how a religious upbringing influenced her early life choices. They also discuss the gender dynamics of the Church of Christ, Caroline's time at Second City in Chicago, and her path to becoming a high school teacher/comedian. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Trophy Guest with Chris Davis (Papa Top's West Coast Turnaround)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2023 56:35


    Host J.D. Reager chats with musician and writer Chris Davis on location at Midtown Con. They discuss Chris' career as a journalist for The Memphis Flyer, his work as a musician with Papa Top's West Coast Turnaround, his ambition as a fiction writer, and how their paths have intersected. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    A Worthy Fight with Trent Williamson (Harding Academy of Memphis)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2023 86:01


    Host J.D. Reager talks to his favorite teacher from high school (Harding Academy of Memphis), Trent Williamson. They discuss Trent's unbelievable journey from being fired by Harding in 1995 to his current role as Head of School, how things have changed at the school since the '90s, what work there still is to do and how Trent helped J.D. through difficult times as a teenager. For more episodes, music and other fine podcasts visit backtothelight.net!

    Not Too Late Night Talk Show - Holiday Spectacular! with Josh Shaw (Blvck Hippie), Steve Selvidge (the Hold Steady), Mark Edgar Stuart, Trace Lee Hunt, Joshua McLane, Jason Pulley and S p a c e r

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2022 115:07


    J.D. Reager hosts a star-studded show in front of a live audience at the Green Room in Crosstown Arts alongside Jason Pulley at the piano. Solo musicians Josh Shaw (Blvck Hippie), Steve Selvidge (the Hold Steady, MEM_MODS, Big Ass Truck), and Mark Edgar Stuart perform live and chat with J.D. at the desk, pro wrestler Trace Lee Hunt shares tales of grit and victory, chef/comedian Joshua McLane teaches the room to make pesto, rock duo S p a c e r (Cheyenne Marrs and Neal Lathem) tears the house down, and everyone joins in for a big grand finale. This episode was recorded on December 8, 2022. backtothelight.net

    A Glass Ceiling with Lawrence Matthews (FKA Don Lifted)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2022 77:33


    Host J.D. Reager has a deep conversation with musician and artist Lawrence Matthews (formerly known as Don Lifted) on location at Midtown Con in Memphis. They discuss the tricky nature of the music business, mental health maintenance, Lawrence's journey as Don Lifted, and more. backtothelight.net

    Freedom with Russ Thompson and Marvin Stockwell

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2022 34:00


    Host J.D. Reager talks with two guests on location at Midtown Con in Memphis. First, author and musician Russ Thompson discusses the promo push for his new children's book The Owls of Sedgemount and gives an update on his various musical projects. Then, activist, musician and podcast host Marvin Stockwell talks about the recent Mid-South Coliseum news and the launch of his PR venture, Champion the Cause. backtothelight.net

    Running the Table with Oakwalker and Garrison Starr

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2022 42:24


    Host J.D. Reager talks to Oakwalker and Garrison Starr on location in Nashville at the Music Export Memphis showcase during Americanafest. Also, Oakwalker performs "Sunset" and Garrison Starr performs "Better Day Comin'" and "Superhero." backtothelight.net musicexportmemphis.org

    Hurry Up and Wait with "the GunShow" Brett Michaels and Dustin Heath (DNA, Maurice the Strong)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2022 37:13


    Host J.D. Reager talks to "the GunShow" Brett Michaels about working on the NBC TV series Young Rock and the ongoing Memphis Wrestling trios tournament. Then Dustin Heath (AKA DNA and Maurice the Strong) talks about his finishing move, working for Control Your Narrative, his inspirational podcast Duddy's ur Buddy!, and more - before being interrupted somewhat by the one and only "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock. This episode was recorded on location at The WrestleCenter courtesy of Memphis Wrestling. backtothelight.net championshipwrestlingmemphis.com

    An Unwritten Rule with Alexis Jade and Rodd Bland

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2022 36:25


    Host J.D. Reager talks to singer-songwriter Alexis Jade and drummer/bandleader (and son of the late Bobby "Blue" Bland) Rodd Bland on location in Nashville at the Music Export Memphis showcase during Americanafest. Also, Alexis Jade and the Gemstones perform "Heartstrings," and Rodd Bland and the Members Only Band featuring Stacy Mitchhart perform "I Wouldn't Treat A Dog (The Way You Treated Me)." backtothelight.net musicexportmemphis

    A City of Choice with Elizabeth Cawein (Music Export Memphis), Graham Winchester (Turnstyles, Reigning Sound) and Rachel Maxann

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 35:14


    Host J.D. Reager talks to Music Export Memphis founder Elizabeth Cawein and the busiest person in Memphis music, Graham Winchester, on location at the Overton Park Shell in Memphis. Then he talks to musician Rachel Maxann on location at InDo in Nashville, and Rachel performs "Better Off Dead" and "Breathe" live. backtothelight.net musicexportmemphis.org

    Hammer, Nail, Coffin with Pete Pranica (Memphis Grizzlies) and Gangrel (WWE)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2022 17:30


    Host J.D. Reager talks to 30 year NBA broadcaster and the TV voice of the Memphis Grizzlies, Pete Pranica, about his love of classic AWA wrestling, calling matches for Memphis Wrestling and the Grizzlies' outlook for the 2022-23 season. Then wrestling legend Gangrel joins the show to discuss his history and future in Memphis, making it with WWE, and the late Luna Vachon. This episode was recorded on location at The WrestleCenter. backtothelight.net

    Living the Gimmick with Mark Akin and Jay Hines (The Subteens)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2022 57:06


    Host J.D. Reager and guests Mark Akin and Jay Hines from The Subteens discuss the inspiration behind their new albums - J.D.'s Where Wasn't I?, The Subteens' Vol. 4: Dashed Hopes and Good Intentions - which both come out on October 14 on Back to the Light Records. They also discuss high school arts participation, recovery, "daddy issues," and more, and J.D. spins "Hard To Be Lonely Tonight" by The Subteens and "Hammer Mannequin" by himself. backtothelight.net

    Radio Row with Robby Grant and Jared "Jay B." Boyd (WYXR) + John Michael (96X)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2022 40:25


    Host J.D. Reager checks in with three key players in the Memphis radio community on location at Crosstown Concourse. First, Robby Grant and Jared "Jay B." Boyd discuss the second anniversary of WYXR, then John Michael gives an update on 96X. backtothelight.net wyxr.org 96xmemphis.com

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    You Look Like A Gonerfest 19 Preview with Katrina Coleman (You Look Like A Comedy Show) and Eric Friedl (Goner Records, Oblivians)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2022 28:30


    Host J.D. Reager has a quick chat with comedian Katrina Coleman about the upcoming You Look Like A Comedy Show re-boot before doing a Gonerfest 19 deep-dive with Goner Records co-owner Eric Friedl, AKA Eric Oblivian. backtothelight.net

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    Getting Results with Jeff Hulett (Snowglobe) and Ra'id (Seize and Desist, Audionautz)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2022 33:38


    Host J.D. Reager talks to two musicians - solo artist and Snowglobe member Jeff Hulett, and Ra'id of Seize and Desist (formerly Negro Terror) and Audionautz - on location at the Memphis Listening Lab/WYXR Record Swap in Crosstown Concourse. backtothelight.net

    Very Loud, Very Fast, Very Colorful with Christopher Rubano (Trash Goblin)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2022 36:47


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician Christopher Rubano on location at the Memphis Listening Lab/WYXR Record Swap in Crosstown Concourse about his journey from Chicago to Memphis, getting sober, starting a rock band later in life, and recording Trash Goblin's new album Bad Vibes. J.D. also spins the album's first single, "This Is Your Life Now." backtothelight.net

    Elvis and the Mid-South Coliseum with Mike McCarthy and Marvin Stockwell - LIVE at the Memphis Listening Lab

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2022 61:48


    Host J.D. Reager talks to two cornerstones of the Coliseum Coalition - filmmaker, musician and activist Mike McCarthy (Teenage Tupelo, Guerilla Monster Films) and musician, activist and podcast host Marvin Stockwell (Pezz, Champions of the Lost Causes) - about Elvis Presley and the live album he recorded in 1974 at the Mid-South Coliseum, Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis. Along the way they also discuss Baz Luhrmann's recent biopic Elvis and efforts to revitalize the Coliseum, and take questions from the live studio audience. This episode was recorded at the Memphis Listening Lab on August 20, 2022. backtothelight.net

    Memphis Knights with Cheyenne Marrs and Neal Lathem (s p a c e r) + Harry Koniditsiotis (5 and Dime Recording)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2022 50:51


    Host J.D. Reager talks to new friends Cheyenne Marrs and Neal Lathem from the Memphis band s p a c e r and old friend Harry Koniditsiotis (5 and Dime Recording, 901 Toys, The Switchblade Kid) about making music, not "forcing it," recovery, and friendship. J.D. also spins "L.A." from s p a c e r's new EP. This episode was recorded at 5 and Dime Recording. backtothelight.net

    Three Set-Ups and Magic with Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, Footloose, Coming 2 America)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2022 69:16


    Host J.D. Reager talks to filmmaker Craig Brewer about his bi-monthly "Secret Screenings" at Crosstown Theater, his early attempts at making movies, breaking through with Hustle & Flow, the influence of John Singleton, the challenges of re-visiting beloved source material, collaborating with Eddie Murphy, the making of $5 Cover, and much more. This episode is dedicated to Max.

    Dueling Birthday Shows with Jeremy Scott (Scott August Night) and Brian "Skinny" McCabe (The Hi-Tone)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2022 36:44


    Host J.D. Reager talks with two friends - Jeremy Scott (Reigning Sound, The Toy Trucks, Jeremy & the Drip Edges) and Brian "Skinny" McCabe (The Hi-Tone) - throwing birthday shows on the same night in Memphis. First, Jeremy discusses his thought process behind Scott August Night, which takes place on Friday, August 5th at Black Lodge. Then Brian jumps on to discuss his recent foray into the visual arts and his annual birthday show at The Hi-Tone, also on Friday, August 5th.

    Back to the Light Network Roundup with Brian Balough (Of Marks and Men) and Mike Anthony (Memphis Heritage Champion) + Anthony Siracusa and Marvin Stockwell (Memphis Hardwood)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2022 30:47


    Host J.D. Reager plugs the upcoming re-boot of the Shangri-La Records Podcast before digging in to 2 new podcasts on the Back to the Light Podcast Network with their creators. First, Brian Balough and J.D. explain the origins of their new show called Of Marks and Men: A Wrestling Podcast and share a clip of their conversation with the "Genetic Nightmare" and reigning Memphis Heritage Champion Mike Anthony. Then Anthony Siracusa and Marvin Stockwell grab the rock and discuss their excellent new Memphis Grizzlies podcast Memphis Hardwood.

    Breakfast with Lamont Dozier, Barbara Dozier and Fred Mollin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2022 52:20


    Host J.D. Reager shares something truly special from his personal archives: a lo-fi "field recording" of his 2017 conversation over breakfast at the Peabody Hotel with music legend Lamont Dozier (Holland-Dozier-Holland, Motown Records, etc.), producer Fred Mollin, and Lamont's late wife Barbara Dozier. They discuss the recording for what would become Lamont's 2018 solo album Reimagination, the singular inspiration behind several Motown classics, how Lamont's solo work has been reinterpreted by modern hip-hop and soul artists, and much more. This interview was originally conducted for an article in the Memphis Flyer which was published on August 3, 2017.

    100th Episode Media Scrum with Marvin Stockwell, Chris Davis, Magpie Nonconnah and Graham Burks - LIVE from the Memphis Listening Lab

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022 29:04


    Host J.D. Reager reads a brief statement before taking questions from a small gathering of media members at the Memphis Listening Lab to celebrate 100 episodes of Back to the Light. J.D. also announces the long-awaited release date - October 14 - for both his new album and the new album by The Subteens.

    Come Hither To Me with Alex Greene (Reigning Sound, The Rolling Head Orchestra)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2022 50:06


    Host J.D. Reager talks to musician and music writer Alex Greene about the end of his band Reigning Sound, upcoming Compulsive Gamblers gigs, and his recent Memphis Flyer cover story before deep diving on Alex's upcoming live film score performance at The Grove at GPAC. Alex also performs a piece from the score called "Come Hither To Me."

    Reissue: New Beats, New Rhythms with Howard Grimes (Hi Rhythm, Al Green, Ann Peebles) - WYXR VERSION

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2022 55:42


    Host J.D. Reager revisits his conversation with a Memphis music icon, the late Howard Grimes. They discuss Mr. Grimes' early career as a drummer in the '50s, his work with fellow legends such as Rufus & Carla Thomas, William Bell, Al Green, Ann Peebles, O.V. Wright and Willie Mitchell, writing his autobiography Timekeeper, and how Memphis music has evolved over the years. This conversation originally ran on the Back to the Light podcast in June of 2021, and was re-aired in this form on WYXR 91.7 FM radio on June 20, 2022.

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