Made for Music

What does it take to navigate a #1 hit? Today's friend of the podcast is a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and frontman of Plain White T's. He's also the head of Humans Were Here, a Chicago-based record label, drummer for TLB, and launching his solo act Million Miler. So without further ado, say hello to Tom Higgenson.

Today's friend of the podcast is our first international guest. Coming to us from Northampton, England. We talk about his journey into music, including his venture into the 2000s Kerrang world via his sister, picking up the guitar circa 11 years old, discovering heavier metal artists, signing to @abyssalsounds, and so much more (including his many upcoming projects). Now, sitting atop the underground Trap Metal scene, he's preparing to release Basement with Fellow De Se and friend of the podcast – Xstitch.  While he screams over intense beats to horrorcore mainstays, he's claims to be a true softy deep down.  So, without further ado, please welcome – a new father of 3 Baby Giant African Land Snails, owner of 50 guitars, and lover of cars – the man with the most powerful scream in the scene, ghostofblu.

Duncan breaks down the rights that enable artists and songwriters to generate revenue and the organizations they must register with to actually collect them. Think of this as the first day of class in a Music Business 101 course (or a 500-level graduate school course...).

Today's friend of the podcast made his industry debut at just 16 years old – as the youngest DJ in Santa Barbara's KJEE's history. This led to an early career as a promoter – followed by stints as a touring crew member, a member of Conan O Brian's music department, then time as a publicist, manager, freelance A&R, and ultimately landing at Angry Mob Music in 2015 – a full-service publishing company in Los Angeles.  Needless to say, this guy KNOWS the business. Not only that, but he plays guitar, bass, drums, keys, and sings. Excited yet? Same. So, without further ado, please welcome – the co-lead vocalist and guitarist of Cuffed Up, manager of Cape Francis, and IFS awarding-winning director and screenwriter – Angry Mob Music's Senior Director of A&R, Ralph Torrefranca. 

Today's friend of the podcast is coming to us from Los Angeles. Born in Long Island New York and raised in Charlotte North Carolina he kickstarted his musical journey at 15 on bass. About a decade later he began honing his production chops in Logic Pro, opening a whole new world.  Drawing from everything from alternative rock and pop punk to Billie Eilish, he's crafted incredible works across the musical spectrum – working with the likes of Brooke Daye, King Elle Noir, and Ataia.  Recently, “Ripe” a song he produced for Flavia – was featured in Generations – the latest project from Lena Dunham now on HBO Max. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.  So without further ado, please welcome – the man achieves balance as an avid runner and avid foodie – Joe Pepe. 

Today's friend of the podcast has made a career in live music as a front-of-house sound engineer, production manager, and tour manager. In fact, he's engineered some of my personal favorite concerts (which we dive into). He makes country and hard rock heavy hitters sound great day-in, day-out – including Godsmack, Avatar, Saint Asonia, Avenged Sevenfold, Hunter Hayes, and more.  He's been featured in ProSoundNews, Audio-Technical, Mix Magazine, Roadie Free Radio, Mix Masters inaugural episode, and ProSoundWeb's podcast Signal to Noise. You get it.  So without further ado, please welcome – the man making your favorite rock stars sound like they aren't terrible – the founder of “Hellooo,” the ultimate, all-inclusive live concert video production service, Erik Rogers. 

We have an extremely special guest today. Hailing from Sao Paulo, Brasil, he fell in love with rock greats such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Queen at a young age. Inspired by everyone from McCartney and Lennon to Jeff Beck and Eddie Van Halen, to George Martin and T-Bone Burnett – he began working at a studio by age 20.  This led to bands you may have heard of – such as Candlebox, Plain White Ts, Sugarland, and Thin Lzzy (just to name a few) asking him to record, mix, and tour internationally going on 33 years now.  So without further ado, please welcome – the King of the Road Show – Carlos Novais. 

Welcome to Made for Music! We have a truly special episode in store. This one has STORIES. Today's friend of the podcast is coming to you from Nashville, by way of Houston, Texas. The first tour this man ever was a part of was a Motley Crue tour in 1989 – and things have not slowed down since. He currently drives for Coach Quarters out of Nashville, Tennessee – working with the likes of Kevin Hart, and Scott Stapp – just to drop a FEW more big names into the mix. Not only that, but he's a drummer and songwriter – with his song “Two Wheels on the Highway” but by Del McCoury and Leftover Salmon. So without further ado, please welcome – the only man I've ever met to have a date mishap land them in another country – THE celebrity bus driver, JR Robinson. 

Today's friend of the podcast returns to Made for Music three years removed from his initial appearance and with an entirely new aesthetic and moniker. A producer and sound-design extraordinaire, he's taken the trap-metal music by storm - collaborating with the likes of ghostofblu, and Downwxlf, Johnny Gash, and more. We chat about the emerging trap metal scene, operating within a niche market, learning new types of screams, and pushing the boundaries of genre.  So without further ado, please say hello to my creative confidant and one of the most versatile producers in the game - Xstitch. 

Today's friend of the podcast made his foyer into the music world about 20 years ago, kickstarting his talent buying ventures straight out of college for local clubs in Southeast Texas. Starting at 500-1000 cap rooms, he booked shows for the likes of Puddle of Mudd, Sevendust, and Halestorm. Over the years, he's gone on to work with acts from Willie Nelson and Rascal Flats to Five Finger Death Punch, to the Steve Millar Band.    Operating as a boutique firm, his company (pre-pandemic) books upward of 500 shows per year. In recent years, he and his agency have moved into artists management as well due to their strengths in artist development, touring, negotiations, and much more.    So without further ado, please welcome the co-founder and managing partner of “Rise Up Agency” – a self-proclaimed “unapologetic gear snob” and coffee bean connoisseur – Richard Gandy. 

From Harvard to Broadway.  Today's friend of the podcast is LITERALLY teaching me the music game. Graduating from Harvard with a degree in Computer Science, she went on to work at Next Big Sound – a platform acquired by Pandora to provide social media, streaming service, and radio analytics.    Hailing from the Bay Area she started playing piano when she was four years old. Next? Did nothing short of taking the music world by storm. Some highlights along the way include HADESTOWN on Broadway to a recent streaming production of THE LAST FIVE YEARS from Out of the Box. Next up: a secret movie project.

Today's friend of the podcast delivers a wonderful blend of raw, singer-songwriter blues with the epic soundscapes of the classics. About a year ago she pulled a Hail Mary and jumped coasts to Nashville. Over the course of 12 days she brought her latest album “Alligator” to life – which is truly one of the strongest albums I've heard front-to-back in some time.    So without further ado, please welcome – one of my favorite songwriters out of Seattle and fellow lyric hoarder – Katie Kuffel.  The episode is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major podcast providers

Today’s friend of the podcast was a triple threat from a young age, heavily involved with dance, piano, and musical theatre – pretty much living and breathing performance. Inspired by the likes of Stevie Nicks, Aretha Franklin, George Harrison, and other greats she founded Vaudeville Etiquette (https://www.vaudevilleetiquette.com/) - a band that expertly blending western grooves with intricate vocal work and evocative lyrics. They have released 2 full length albums, 2 EPs, generating millions of plays on Spotify alone, and touring the US and Europe. So, without further ado, please welcome, a DIY touring guru, phenomenal vocalist, and songwriter - Tayler Lynn! The episode is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major podcast providers (link below)

Today’s friend of the podcast hails from Nashville, Tennessee by way of Troy, Michigan. She may be one of the most well-rounded guests we’ve ever had – starting piano by the age of five, orchestra by elementary school, professionally trained as a vocalist in high school and was the lead in the WORLD PREMIERE of “EMMA! A Pop Musical”.    She went on to study Commercial Voice at Belmont University, interned for Haley & Michaels, and is now pursuing her Masters of Music Business at the Berklee College of Music.    So, without further ado, please welcome an extremely talented musician, singer-songwriter, and businesswoman – the latest addition to Grit & Magic Entertainment – Tegan McCormick!   The episode is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major podcast providers

Today’s friend of the podcast is an insane vocalist, singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Inspired by her desire to help others explore their emotions and a love for singing, she dove head-first into the music realm.    Halfway through her journey to a math degree, she pivoted to a Bachelors in Music Production and Engineering from Berklee College of Music. I could go on-and-on about her musical prowess, but really you owe it to yourself to check out the string of covers she’s been rolling out – which demonstrate her uncanny ability to deliver a real, lived sound in her vocal delivery and production.    So, please welcome a world traveler, true one-woman production team (from the music to the art), the frontwoman of Turtlnck – Brittany Rogers.    The episode is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major podcast providers (link below) ———————————————————————— Song: “Worthwhile” by Turtlnck ————————————————————————   Solo Material Website: https://www.brittanyrogersmusic.com/  Facebook (http://facebook.com/brittanyrogersmusic) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/brittanyrogersmusic/) (@brittanyrogersmusic)  Music: Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/artist/3s8ccB3tOGyA2kmlkpxaFw?si=k286u7ZtTne4xr9IXqAhrw) Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/artist/brittany-rogers/628136311) YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQuI1Bu67r0UKtWQA9E4-lg) Turtnck Website: https://www.turtlnck.com/  Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/turtlnckmusic/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/turtlnck/) (@turtlnck)   Music: Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/artist/3C9Xm36TsaxeL8912zrM1I?si=DOq45QVGRZ-HnOxouAJ9MA) Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/artist/turtlnck/1505823069)

Today’s friend of the podcast has a heart as big as his impossibly large workload. I promise this episode will leave you inspired. We chat about his initial pursuit of sports journalism, his experience with homelessness, interning for Macklemore​ and Ryan Lewis​, his band All Star Opera​, (NEW SINGLE “PUPA” OUT NOW), founding the Seattle World Tour​, and a lot of the other amazing work he’s doing. So please welcome, one of the hardest working men in Seattle, Seth McDonald of All Star Opera and Real Don Music​ The episode is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major podcast providers (link below)

Today’s friend of the podcast hails from Kent, Washington, getting started on the saxophone around age 10. And boy, when I say that was the beginning – it was truly just the beginning. This Berklee School of Music cat plays just about any instrument that can make a sound – making him one of the finest collaborators around.  Not only is he busy cooking up tracks, but the guy has been an actual chef for nearly 12 years. Working out of his studio Catalyst Labs – he’s worked with the likes of Hentei, Kung Fu Grip, Macntoj, Karma Knows, and former podcast guest Nobi. Those two are actually fresh off the release of which is now available on all major platforms. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, he also began working at House of Breaking Glass with Phillip Peterson, where they are already at the forefront of innovation for the future of music among these challenging times.  So, please say hello to Jake Hillard (aka Jake, of theDGTL. 

Today’s friend of the podcast hails all the way from Detroit, Michigan! While she doesn’t come from a musical family per se, she started writing songs at just 8 YEARS OLD! Arriving in Seattle circa 2017 after graduating from University of Michigan, she finally fused her love for music and writing – kickstarting her own music blog, covering the Seattle music scene. While only a few years old there are already more than 30 contributors.  She also kickstarted their new podcast Unwritten and helped launch “Work From Home Seattle” – launched by Robbie Christmas.  So, please welcome – the founder of Dan’s Tunes – our favorite American Idol tattoo touting Michigander, Dan Ray. Dan's Tunes Website (https://danstunesseattle.com) : https://danstunesseattle.com Senator Call Script Artists relief (https://danstunesseattle.com/2020/04/04/caller-script-call-your-senator-to-support-local-music-venues/?fbclid=IwAR1YnfipTNA52bIn8zrmwF_qKvl1DUKZ3nmlkZOrIQowxxjYNrNqQmgBBvY) Article: Seattle venues fighting to stay afloat amid COVID closures (https://danstunesseattle.com/2020/04/18/were-still-making-noise-seattle-venues-fight-to-stay-afloat-during-covid-19-closures/) "Feel My Love" single premiere: "Positive escapism during an immensely stressful time" (https://danstunesseattle.com/2020/04/23/premiere-deifys-rock-single-feel-my-love/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/danstunesseattle) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/danstunesseattle/) (@danstunesseattle) Unwritten Podcast (https://open.spotify.com/show/4i7tDbTHaq4HQ76nLhqOxX) Work From Home Seattle Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/WFHseattle/?ref=br_rs) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/workfromhomeseattle/) : @workfromhomeseattle Artist Submission (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf65LFG3KDPMmsKjBIjGStKyi-jmsmRgGOctFnieEFjyO7thw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0bBGK4IElpk4lpNkNCJ9_9qU3nwWHpnxuVy220wgQIeHbADEpheP2eDZM)

HE’S BACK! Had a wonderful conversation with Marshall Hugh (of Marshall Law Band) about the work he is involved with to better the lives of artists amid and beyond the COVID crisis, as well as how he's staying creative during these crazy times. One of the biggest pieces being the Seattle Independent Artist Sustainability Effort (SIASE) - visit their site at http://artistsustainability.org/.  As always, he’s just a phenomenal presence to be around (even if virtually, while socially distancing), so please enjoy the return of Made for Music, and DM Marshall Law Band for a copy of The Hawaii EP Song: “Give Me Something to Believe In” by Marshall Law Band Marshall Law Band Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarshallLawSeattle/ Twitter: @marshalllawband - https://twitter.com/marshalllawband?lang=en Instagram: @marshalllawband https://www.instagram.com/marshalllawband/ Marshall's Personal Pages Twitter: @marshallofmlb https://twitter.com/marshallofmlb?lang=en Instagram: @justmarshall22 - https://www.instagram.com/justmarshall22/

Welcome to Made for Music! Today’s friend of the podcast hails from Mason City, Iowa. From a young age she was an “Archaeological music digger,” spending many late nights watching MTV sessions. She escaped the cornfields for college in Minneapolis where she got involved with the college radio station, and went on to book shows and write for various music publications.  After a detour to Glasgow, Scotland, she became a true marketing/PR hustler at Saddle Creek Records. During her time overseas she was interviewing new Scottish bands for Radio K, writing for The Pop Cop, and that, ladies and gentleman, is just the prelude.  She landed in Seattle just over four years ago, working at Sonic Boom Records, and immediately began volunteering at KEXP on the Morning on Mondays, while also interning with the Business Support and Underwriting Department. This led to her OWN SHOW every Wednesday. So, please welcome – the host of Variety Mix on KEXP – the manager of Actors and Tiny Deaths, Abbie Gobeli.

We cover everything from her start in music at KEXP, to her time managing bands (e.g. The Maldives, Brent Amaker and the Rodeo, and Evening Bell), co-founder of Sound & Vision Music, founding the Macefield Music Festival, her consulting work, and Womxn in Music to provide education and resources to womxn in the Seattle music community   Say hello to the Marketing Manager of Seattle's beloved Tractor Tavern, Leigh Bezezekoff.

Today’s friend of the podcast is a bona fide music connoisseur in the purest sense, spending her entire childhood around radio DJs. At just 14 years old, she was organizing shows, which led to music photography, tour support, and full-blown management and marketing. Fast forward to age 23 and she started her own marketing agency, which just transitioned from a services approach to a coaching model in 2018. Now, that sounds like quite the resume, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg. So please welcome, the founder Kittenteeth, co-founder of Womxn in Music, and owner the cat featured in Eden (now streaming on Netflix), the woman helping artists turn their passions into their livelihood - while creating an equitable space in the music world - an absolute business badass, Nikki Barron.

Danny Schwartz is the founder of ShowGround, an application that serves up all the ShowGround's mission is to create value, opportunity, and community for artists, venues, and fans across the music industry. We chat about how music played into Danny's life early-on, how he came into music via the tech sphere, and so much more!

Levi was born and raised in Tacoma, WA – and has been a part of some HUGE records – including those of August Burns Red, Pearl Jam, Mother Love Bone He also mastered the Sleepover EP from former podcast guests DATENITE. He’s a genius mastering engineer that primarily works on analog equipment that has been either custom built or modified. He’s an absolute delight to work with, and sure to bring out the best in your recordings. So, without further ado, please welcome, the owner of Black Belt Mastering – the first junior Olympian on the podcast – and a true black belt, Levi Seitz. Closing song: "Return of the Frog Queen" by Jeremy Enigk.

Today’s friend of the podcast kickstarted her career in music PR as an intern at the beloved Seattle indie label, Barsuk Records while in college. Post-graduation, she made her way to Tiny Human PR as a publicist, supporting national and local acts alike. We talk about her journey from beginning to present, what music PR is, and how PR plays into the bigger picture for artists. Closing song: "Your Friend, Again" by Treasure Jansen.

Welcome to Made for Music. Today’s friend of the podcast truly approaches music from ALL angles. She’s a singer, songwriter, producer, videographer, photographer, AND fellow podcaster. She just put out a 3 song EP “Chill Lightening Rainbow,” which may be one of the greatest titles of all time, and is actively working on her next album. Inspired by a wide range of artists, from vocal powerhouses to EDM greats, she channels her eclectic musical taste into relaxing, yet upbeat tunes. So without further ado, please welcome the first ‘Master of Theology’ here on Made for Music, the host of the Wilde Musicians podcast, Seattle’s own, Cha Wilde.

Today’s friend of the podcast grew up in an extremely musical family - his oldest brother a producer, the other brother a rapper. He recalls freestyling as early as age 4! Since jamming to AC/DC and Motley Crue in the kitchen, he’s come a long way and just put out his second single “Crazy” with episode 12 guest, Jake Crocker. Together, they bring the grit of underground hip hop with the pristine production that can only be likened to the chart topping hits of Post Malone. So please welcome, the man inspired by that crazy gal we all know, the emcee with the self-proclaimed feet of a former ballet dancer, and one of the vibey-est artists in Seattle, Vrillah!

Today’s friend of the podcast got started on the drum kit at age 5. Plot twist – French Horn was his first instrument in school band! He continued to pursue music through higher education at Alma College in Michigan. During his time there, he won “outstanding soloist” at the Notre Dame Collegiate Jazz Festival – one of the most esteemed jazz festivals around, where he soloed on drums, marimbas, and vibes during a single 30-minute set. The man moved to Seattle just over 6 months ago and has quickly – albeit quietly – become one of the busiest drummers in the scene. Please welcome - from Alma, Michigan - the jazziest hip-hop loving sky diving Michigander I’ve had the pleasure of knowing, Cyrus Zerbe.

Today’s friend of the podcast began playing music at age 7, music production at age 14, and was on tour with the #1 most added song to Billboard’s CHR Radio charts before he’d even graduated college. Wielding empathy as his greatest songwriting tool, and the desire to simplify underlying truths, this man is a pristine songwriter, incredible front-man, and savvy music businessman - not to mention a light production extraordinaire. So please welcome, a self-proclaimed “Major, major, MAJOR Star Wars fan,” and the lead singer/guitarist of Becoming Bristol, Britt Espinosa.

Today’s friend of the podcast has been teaching ‘The Art of Scraeming since 1979, and has been the go-to for the talent of many agents and record labels and alike due to her technical prowess as a vocal coach. She holds multiple collegiate degrees from Fortright College and Cornish College of the Arts, with advanced studies at the University of Washington and time as an understudy for Timonthy Leon out of Los Angeles. Her impressive clientele includes Alice in Chains, Macklemore, Drowning Pool, and The Head and the Heart. She’s a successful artist of her own, a published author, an accredited actress - appearing in multiple shorts and syndicated TV series - including an episode of Gilmore Girls. So please welcome the woman who can sing in 6 different languages, and coached some of the greatest vocalists to come out of Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle - Susan Carr.

Today’s friend of the podcast kicked off her musical career at age 5 on the piano, and picked up the guitar a year later. She attended the University of Utah as a Piano Performance major, where she joined a shoegaze band and subsequently dropped out to pursue music full time – which took her to LA. After the band split, she joined her current band Tiger Rider, and made the move to Seattle, where she also got a Business degree from the University of Washington. She handles all the bands’ business operations, merchandise, finance, and social media. So please welcome, the woman who earned 46 stitches to the head, 20 of which came from the dangerous combo of being a pretend unicorn and having a glass front door – a fantastic bassist, piano player, producer, and business bad-ass – Heather Dickson.

Welcome to Made for Music. Today’s friend of the podcast has the largest catalog of any guest we’ve had on the podcast, from his numerous features on Acropolis Records to his cult classic debut Baby Dragons & King Cobras, and his group Bullet on Portland Eastside Records his group Bullet. In 2010 he founded his own record label, Razor Tongue Music – home to his sophomore solo album “The Gateway Drug”, hip hop podcast Razor Tongue Radio, and Lone Wolf and Kub’s eponymous debut album – his group with his son Nobi, who I interviewed in episode 32. Please welcome, one of Tri-Cities finest – a classic and honest emcee, gardener, avid comic collector AND CREATOR – Shao Sosa.

Today’s friend of the podcast hails from the Tri-Cities and is a tour-de-force in the northwest music scene. He wrote his first song when he was just 8 years old – alongside his siblings Yel and Topp. The brotherly collaboration is still alive years later – as he and Topp just dropped a new single “Welcome”. With an eclectic set of influences – from Royce Da 5’9” to Grizzly Bear, and Johnny Cash to Aretha Franklin, this guy may have the tightest flow in the entire Northwest. If you don’t already know him – it’s time to get familiar. He will be joining New Track City at The Crocodile, Saturday July 20th. One of the fiercest emcees around – the man who can make a dope bar out of anything – from today’s tragedies, to mortal combat – one half of the father-son duo Lone Wolf and Kub, and phenomenal solo artist, say hello to Nobi.

Today’s friend of the podcast hails from Mayville, Wisconsin and has an incredible story of grit and perseverance. He kicked off his music career with his band “Faintly” in Wisconsin. After booking the band’s first six shows, he had to cancel all of them for open heart surgery in 2008. For those of you who don’t know – this requires the collapsing of both lungs. As a result, he had to re-train them to sing again. Fast forward a few years and some lineup changes, the band relocated to Seattle and took on the name “Among Authors”. Gearing up for a HUGE year, including a national tour, NPR Tiny Desk appearance, and headlining The Crocodile June 29th, please welcome the man with the golden voice – often likened to Jeff Buckley – with the compositional genius of the prog rock greats, and brother of season 1 guest Jason Ketterer, Ian Ketterer of Among Authors.

Welcome to Made for Music. Today’s friend of the podcast is someone I’ve known for quite some time. He began drumming at the age of 3, and has been tearing it up on the kit going on 14 years now. He joined his first band when he was only 10 years old, and has been performing around the greater pacific northwest ever since. In high school he performed in his school’s symphonic wind ensemble and jazz band (for which he was first chair) – and even won “best soloist” at the East Shore WMEA Jazz Festival in 2015 for his performance of ‘Foom, Foom, Foom’. His band is currently gearing up to release its debut studio album and embark on its first ever tour this summer. Please welcome, one of The Weeknd’s biggest Stans – winner of Bellevue Christian’s “Most Improved” in 2013-2014 – the drummer and cover art artist for Deify – my ADHD brother and bandmate Jared Byargeon.

Today’s friend of the podcast entered the Northwest music scene by way of Pacific Lutheran University, where he majored in Exercise Science and minored in music. The man is always on his grind – coming through today after back-to-back shows last night. Your bound to run into him at a jam session in the greater SeaTac area. Please welcome, a member of soul/funk group Weather Experts and founder of the bending jazz quintet 322 – the man who will whip your ass into shape over at Olympic Athletic Club in Ballard – BrandonLee Cierley.

Today’s friend of the podcast may be one of the single most well-rounded individuals to come on the podcast. He started with piano at age 5, and has only expanded his repertoire since. He plays bass, keys, guitar, drums, trombone, percussion, and sings. Think of a type of band, and he’s been a part of it – jazz, church worship, rock, youth symphony, the list goes on. He’s also a producer and founded his very own studio, Irongrove Studios. Currently, he’s the bassist for Becoming Bristol (formerly The Exchange) – for whom he also runs live sound for. And man – let me tell you, these guys put on a SHOW! Something I definitely want to dig into later. If you’re still not sold on this young man’s musical prowess, I don’t know what else to say. Please welcome former hardcore jazz enthusiast and current hater of cheese, Issaquah’s own Tyler Mays.

Today’s friend of the podcast has accomplished a LOT in a very short period of time. She kicked off her performance career a few years back during a high school talent show, and the stages have only gotten larger since. In the past year alone, she performed in the opening slot for Ryan Caraveo at the Neptune Theatre, Neumos for Capitol Hill Block Party, and Bumbershoot. She’s partnered with season 1 guest Jake Crocker to produce her debut project – who also happened to set her up with her boyfriend, Zak. Together, they released her debut single “In Bloom,” which dropped this past November, her second single Narcissus and much more to come this year. Say hello to a self-proclaimed “hopeless romantic”, former minor league concession star, terrible cook but wonderful baker, and extremely talented singer-songwriter, Tinsley.

Today is a special episode consisting of not one, not two, but THREE friends of the podcast. Hailing from Federal Way, these guys become the epitome of hustlers in the music game. On top of that, they’re experts at delivering an energetic live show. The other day I saw them execute an amazing, impromptu freestyle at the Ayo Dot & The Uppercuts show. What may be most impressive is how air tight they are as a collective – not only on stage and in the studio, but regarding their brand. They’re currently preparing for a slew of out-of-town gigs. April 7th, they’re hitting “Your Mom’s House” in Denver, May 18th – Til 2 in San Diego. They’ll be bringing it home May 31st at Nectar Lounge, opening for The Pharcyde. Definitely don’t miss these guys when they come to town – we’re talking about NEW TRACK CITY.

Today is a special episode consisting of not one, not two, but THREE friends of the podcast. Hailing from Federal Way, these guys become the epitome of hustlers in the music game. On top of that, they’re experts at delivering an energetic live show. The other day I saw them execute an amazing, impromptu freestyle at the Ayo Dot & The Uppercuts show. What may be most impressive is how air tight they are as a collective – not only on stage and in the studio, but regarding their brand. They’re currently preparing for a slew of out-of-town gigs. April 7th, they’re hitting “Your Mom’s House” in Denver, May 18th – Til 2 in San Diego. They’ll be bringing it home May 31st at Nectar Lounge, opening for The Pharcyde. Definitely don’t miss these guys when they come to town – we’re talking about NEW TRACK CITY.

From a touring vocal jazz choir and a brief stint rapping, this walking jukebox is amidst an incredibly unique and intriguing roll out of his second EP “Easy” - inspired by the likes of D’Angelo, Justin Timberlake, and The Neptunes - which drops March 4th.

Today’s friend of the podcast has been playing piano since age seven, studied classical voice starting at 14, classical and jazz vocal performance – as well as choral conducting - in college, musical theatre for a decade, and if that’s not impressive enough for you – she was part of Pocket Panda – an established indie rock band. Say hello to the insanely talented, oh-so-melodic, Anna St. Lee.

This week’s friend of the podcast got is start free-styling with his friends. When he returned to Seattle from school in Pittsburgh, he started a rap duo with a random roommate who turned out to be a saxophone player, leading to frequent jam sessions and collaborations. After a year of scheming, he came out with Marshall Law Band, playing over 30 shows over the course of the year and is preparing to deliver Seattle’s first-ever “Hip Opera”. Say hello to a lover of crime podcasts, all things basketball related, and a guy with a knack for developing outside-the-box concerts, Marshall Hugh of Marshall Law Band.

Visiting with Made for Music on her first ever tour, the night after playing Black Lodge in Seattle, this LA singer-songwriter dropped by to chat about busking in Ireland, her debut release, tour management, and more great DIY music tips. She also just recently started working with episode 3 guest, Evan Johnson! So without further ado, please welcome a lover of Cloud Nothings, Frankie Cosmos, and Great Grandpa - a talented photographer, taco connoisseur, and frontwoman of Blushh, Shab Ferdowsi.

From trombone in middle school to selling out rap shows at Neumos, this guy has had quite the musical journey. 8 years ago, upon his return to Seattle he founded hip hop group The Bad Tenants, who recently dropped an amazing new single "Switch" with prior pod guest, Nick Weaver. We chat about The Bad Tenants journey to selling out Neumos, being a new father, and how he and his wife manage to balance it all as they chase/support each others’ dreams. Please welcome this groovy lyricist, black belt, chocolate hater, and little spoon lover, Casey G.

Today's friend of the podcast kickstarted her career in music, producing music-focused DVDs. From there she become part of the Film and TV Music department at Bug Music. Since then, she's moved into the music publishing space seeking to create a more boutique experience for independent musicians. She does it all from music and TV music pitching, to setting up songwriters with co-writing sessions. Please welcome, the president and co-founder of Superior Music Publishing - a multi-time LA County Fair jelly and jam ribbon recipient, Mara Schwartz Kuge.

This week's friend of the podcast is a musician, engineer, and producer. Throughout his career, he’s worked with artists such as Rickie Lee Jones, Ben Harper, Ryan Adams, Charlie Musselwhite, and many more – including Seattle’s own, Tobias the Owl. So please welcome – hailing from Los Angeles, by way of Seattle and San Francisco – Grammy award winner, Sheldon Gomberg.

Today’s friend of the podcast comes from an extremely musical family. Growing up on Jeff Buckley, Radiohead, Manchester Orchestra, and the music of his family this artist got his start on bass guitar. He took up the saxophone in grade school band, and has since graduated to guitar. He moved to Seattle from Wisconsin back in 2013 where he joined his brother’s band Faintly - which later became Among Authors. Last summer (August of 2017) they released their debut record. Please welcome – the man striving to open a venue by 2020 – Jason Ketterer.

This week's guest is keeping himself busy! Not only is he writing and producing his own music, he's launching his own record label in Los Angeles, "Kickback Collective Audio". Hailing from Los Angeles, by way of Seattle, please welcome the man I'll always remember as my younger brother's junior high prep school buddy, Jordan Decker.

This week's friend of the podcast is an incredible vocalist, songwriter, and business woman. She released her debut EP "Long Night" in 2016 and is currently collaborating with Jake Crocker on her next project, which features a transition from soul to pop. She also launched the app "Parke Ave" - a music business networking platform. Say hello to the woman with the platinum voice, a creative powerhouse, and someone who shares my fear of dark water, Scarlet Parke.

This guy started producing content just over 2 years ago, but has been cranking out content ever since. Inspired by Deadmau5 and Madeon, he just released his third record in less than three years, Restart (featuring yours truly). Say hello to the man who’s career was kick-started by a New Years' Resolution, with a pancake truck as his backup plan, Marin County's own Marc Gleckman.