Making a Scene Presents

Making a Scene - Signal Flow Made Simple: How Sound Travels from Your Mic to Your MixSo, you just bought your first microphone and audio interface. You're excited, maybe even a little overwhelmed, and you're ready to start recording songs in your home studio. But before you press record, there's one important thing you need to understand: signal flow. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - NFTs for Musicians: Beyond the HypeYou've heard the buzzword and seen the headlines. Here's the simple version, no tech talk. An NFT is a digital receipt that proves who owns a special version of something. That “something” can be your single, your album, a music video, a backstage pass, a signed vinyl voucher, or a bundle with all of the above. The receipt lives on a public database called a blockchain. Think of it like a global ledger that anyone can read but no one can secretly change. If a fan owns your NFT, the ledger shows it. If they transfer it to a friend, the ledger updates. That's it. Straightforward, public, and trackable. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - AI-Powered Vocal Cleanup: Faster, Cleaner, SmarterIf you've ever tried recording your vocals at home, you know the struggle. You nail a great take, full of emotion and energy, but when you listen back you hear more than just your voice. The hum of the air conditioner creeps in, your neighbor's dog barks halfway through, or maybe the hiss of your laptop fan makes the track sound messy. For years, fixing these problems meant either having access to an expensive professional studio or spending hours trying to clean things up with old-school tools that often did more harm than good. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - How to Use AI to Create Social Media Posts That Actually Get Fans TalkingSocial media can feel like a full-time job when you're an indie musician. Between rehearsals, recording, and life itself, finding the energy to write daily Instagram captions or TikTok scripts isn't easy. But here's the truth: your fans want to hear from you. They don't just want polished songs—they want to feel like they're part of your journey. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Doc BowlingDoc Bowling & His Blues Professors are the real deal—a powerhouse blues band built on grit, soul, and musical scholarship. Led by Doc Bowling, a seasoned vocalist and guitarist with decades of performing under his belt, the band brings together a lineup of master musicians who deliver authentic blues with fire, finesse, and heart. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - Ozone 12: How iZotope's New Mastering Plugin Is Changing the GameIntroductionIf you've ever finished mixing a song and thought, “Why doesn't this sound like the tracks on Spotify or the radio?”—you're not alone. That final polish you're missing is called mastering, and it's the step that takes a track from good to professional. For years, mastering was expensive, mysterious, and mostly reserved for big studios with racks of gear. But then came Ozone, and everything changed.Now, in 2025, we've got Ozone 12, the newest version of iZotope's legendary mastering plugin. This isn't just a minor update. It's a serious leap forward, blending powerful AI tools with hands-on control so musicians at every level can get results that sound pro.Let's dive in. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Michael AllmanMichael Allman, the eldest son of Southern rock legend Gregg Allman, has carved out his own place in the world of blues and rock with a voice and presence that carry forward his family's iconic legacy. Based in Port Richey, Florida, Michael blends the raw soul of Southern rock with the grit of modern blues, creating a sound that is both familiar and distinctly his own. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Lord BoltLord Bolt is a Swedish musician, drummer, singer, and songwriter who refuses to follow the rules. His sound cuts across blues, rockabilly, jazz, swing, country, and roots rock—always raw, honest, and full of emotion.At the heart of his music is a deep love for the blues, powered by the drive of rock 'n' roll and the soul of jazz and country. He doesn't just nod to the past—he brings it roaring back to life. His 2025 album Cookin' & Dancin' proves the point, blending the smoky grooves of '50s R&B and classic blues with bold brass and a modern swagger that makes it feel fresh and alive today. http://www.makingascene.org

PreSonus Studio One 7.2: A Deep Dive ReviewThe provided text offers an in-depth review of PreSonus Studio One 7.2, highlighting its strengths as a fast, flexible, and professional Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) suitable for various music production roles. It traces the DAW's history, emphasizing its modern, clean-slate design compared to older software and how it evolved into an all-in-one solution for recording, mixing, mastering, and live performance. The review details new features in version 7.2, such as the Sub Zero Bass instrument, Nashville Number System, and improved recording and editing tools, while also discussing the practical applications of its AI-powered stem separation. Finally, it explores the significance of Fender's acquisition of PreSonus, suggesting potential future integrations and guitar-centric workflows, and concludes that Studio One 7.2 is a robust, time-saving tool for contemporary musicians and engineers. http://www.makingascene.org

AI Mastering for Indie Artists: A Practical GuideThis document provides a comprehensive guide to audio mastering for indie artists, specifically focusing on the growing role of AI-powered tools. It begins by defining mastering and its importance in achieving a "radio-ready" sound for various listening environments and streaming platforms. The text then explains how modern AI mastering works, noting its ability to analyze and shape tracks by learning from successful masters, often using specific software examples like iZotope Ozone 11 and Audiolens. A significant portion compares the trade-offs between AI mastering and hiring a professional engineer, considering factors like speed, cost, consistency, creative input, and handling of complex scenarios such as vinyl or broadcast. Finally, the guide offers practical advice on when each approach is most suitable, including a step-by-step tutorial for using Ozone 11's Master Assistant, along with a list of popular AI mastering services and their current pricing. http://www.makingascene.org

AI Marketing for Independent Musicians: A Simple GuideThe provided text, "AI Marketing for Indie Musicians," explores how artificial intelligence can empower independent artists to grow their fanbase and manage their careers more efficiently. It emphasizes that AI acts as a smart assistant, not a replacement for creativity, by handling tasks such as personalizing fan communications, repurposing content for social media, analyzing audience data, and automating fan engagement. The source provides practical examples and tool recommendations for indie musicians to leverage AI for email campaigns, social media management, understanding their audience, and maintaining constant fan interaction, ultimately aiming to reduce burnout and foster independence. http://www.makingascene.org

Breaking Free: Decentralized Music for Indie Artists"Breaking Free: Indie Musicians and Decentralization," explores how Web3 technology and decentralization are empowering independent musicians to escape the limitations of the traditional music industry. It highlights how major record labels and streaming platforms operate like restrictive gatekeepers, offering artists meager earnings and limited control. The source then introduces decentralized alternatives like blockchain, NFTs, and DAOs as revolutionary tools that allow artists to directly connect with fans, retain ownership, and earn more fairly. It cites real-world examples of artists like RAC and Daniel Allan thriving through these new models, and outlines various platforms such as Audius, Catalog, and Royal.io that facilitate this shift. Ultimately, the text argues that decentralization fosters genuine artist-fan loyalty and is reshaping the music industry into a more equitable, community-driven ecosystem. http://www.makingascene.org

This guide provides a comprehensive overview for indie artists looking to build a home recording studio on a budget, emphasizing that expensive equipment isn't necessary for professional-sounding music. It outlines essential gear categories, including audio interfaces, microphones, headphones, and digital audio workstations (DAWs), offering specific, affordable product recommendations in each. The source also highlights what equipment can be acquired later as skills and budgets expand, drawing inspiration from successful artists like Billie Eilish who produced Grammy-winning work with modest setups. Ultimately, it encourages artists to prioritize creativity and songwriting over accumulating excessive gear, suggesting a foundational setup can enable high-quality recordings from the start. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Mary StrandI never dreamed of being a writer as a kid. Nope. I had bigger plans—like joining the Harlem Globetrotters, skating with the Ice Follies, or becoming a U.S. Senator. While other little girls fantasized about being princesses, I wanted to be king. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Johnny IguanaJohnny Iguana, along with his longtime songwriting and producing partner JQ, is the composer behind the original score for the hit FX/Hulu series The Bear. Though Chicago has been his home for decades, Johnny still carries his East Coast roots proudly. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Brings you an interview with Brad "Guitar" WilsonBrad “Guitar” Wilson is quickly becoming a standout name in the modern blues rock scene, known for his fiery guitar work, soulful vocals, and magnetic stage presence. With a sound that blends classic influences and contemporary energy, Wilson continues to build a loyal fanbase across the U.S. and beyond. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents - What is a Music DAO? How to Start or Join One and Take Control of Your CareerIf you're an independent musician, chances are you've felt that nagging frustration: the music industry is built to keep power in the hands of labels, managers, and big platforms. They control the money, the exposure, and too often, the rights to your music. For decades, artists have been left fighting over scraps while corporations cash in.But what if you didn't have to play that game anymore? What if you could gather your fans and collaborators into a community where everyone contributes, everyone benefits, and the rules are clear from day one? That's the promise of a Music DAO.Don't worry if the word sounds like alphabet soup. By the end of this article, you'll not only know what a Music DAO is—you'll also know how to join one, how to start one, and most importantly, how it can completely change the way you run your career. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - How AI Can Build Your Music Marketing Plan in MinutesBeing an indie musician today means wearing a lot of hats. You're not just the songwriter and performer—you're also the marketer, designer, and promoter. In the old days, record labels had entire departments handling those jobs. Now it often falls on your shoulders, and that can feel overwhelming. Luckily, AI is stepping in to give indie artists a serious advantage.Artificial Intelligence is like a tireless digital assistant. It can write ad copy, design social posts, schedule campaigns, and even study your fans' listening habits. What makes it so powerful is not that it replaces you, but that it speeds up the process. Instead of spending days or weeks trying to figure out your marketing plan, AI can give you a working blueprint in minutes—something you can adjust and personalize with your own story and voice. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Yates McKendreeProducer Kevin McKendree puts it best: “Because of Yates's lifelong dedication to blues and roots music, he's developed a direct line from his soul to whatever instrument he picks up. When he sings and plays, you don't just hear it—you feel it. On these recordings, you'll hear him on guitar, drums, bass, upright bass, and organ. Beyond all that talent, he's my son, and the joy of my life is making music with him. The musicians on this album are also our closest friends. We hope you feel that love in every note.” http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - AI in Mixing – The Rise of Smart Mix AssistantsMixing music has always been a blend of science, art, and gut feeling. For indie musicians working on tight budgets without access to high-end studios or pro engineers, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. How do you know where to set your EQ? Should the vocals sit louder, or should the drums punch harder?This is where artificial intelligence is starting to make a huge difference. AI-powered mixing assistants like iZotope Neutron, Waves Clarity Vx, and even tools inside DAWs like Logic Pro's Smart EQ are changing the way artists approach mixing. These programs can “listen” to your track, analyze it in real time, and then suggest fader levels, panning, EQ adjustments, or even compression settings to make everything clearer.Think of it like having a second set of ears in the room—ears that never get tired. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene - AI for Merch & Fan Product Design: Turning Ideas into Unique Fan ExperiencesMerch has always been one of the most powerful tools indie artists have. Not only does it bring in money, but it also builds identity. A shirt, a vinyl sleeve, or even a sticker isn't just an object—it's a way for fans to carry your music into the world. The problem for many artists has always been cost. Professional designers can be expensive, and trying to do it yourself often feels limited.That's where artificial intelligence comes in. Generative AI tools like Midjourney, Ideogram, and Stable Diffusion aren't here to take creativity away from artists. They're here to amplify it. Instead of thinking of AI as a replacement for human imagination, think of it as a creative partner that can unlock ideas you never would have thought possible. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's interview with Slyder SmithUK rock artist Slyder Smith returns with a powerful new single, “Nobody's Listening,” out 15th August 2025. Raw, melodic, and unflinchingly honest, the track captures the frustration of trying to be heard in a world drowning in noise.“It's about screaming for attention while everyone's too distracted to notice,” Slyder explains. “We're glued to phones, filters, and fast living — and in the process, real connection is slipping away.” http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Blind Lemon PledgeIn 2021, Blind Lemon Pledge (aka Bay Area bluesman James Byfield) released “A Satchel Full of Blues”, an eclectic and wide ranging collection of original American Roots based songs set to a stripped down combo sound with drums, bass, guitar and harmonica. Garnering a slew of rave reviews, the album went to the top of the Blues charts, landing the #9 spot on the Roots Music Report's Acoustic Blues Album Chart for 2021, and #85 on the RMR Top 200 Blues Albums.  One critic in Britain hailed it as one of the top 25 blues albums of the year. “Oh So Good”, Pledge's 10th album of originals and covers displays Pledge's impressive compositional range with tunes ranging from Blues to Folk to Jazz to Cajun, with a startling and original take on the folk and blues classic “House of the Risin' Sun”. http://www.makingascene.org

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry's middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist's journey. Whether you're an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music. HTTP://www.makingascene.org/breaking-chains http://www.makingascene.org

If you've ever recorded a song at home and then compared it to something on Spotify, you've probably asked yourself: Why doesn't my track sound as big, clear, or balanced as theirs? You might have a great performance, good songwriting, and even solid mixing, but something still feels off.That “something” often comes down to EQ—short for equalization. EQ controls how loud or quiet different parts of the frequency spectrum are. Frequencies are just the pitches of sound, from the deep thump of a kick drum to the shimmering brightness of cymbals. Professional mixes get their power because every part of that frequency spectrum is carefully balanced. Nothing is too muddy, nothing is painfully harsh, and the whole mix feels smooth and polished.The challenge is that achieving that kind of balance usually takes years of experience and a room full of expensive gear. That's why indie artists often struggle to match the sound quality of big-budget records. But here's the good news: AI-powered EQ matching tools are changing the game. http://www.makingascene.org

The music industry has always been tough on independent artists. You spend hours in the studio, pouring your energy and creativity into your songs, only to find that the money side of things feels like an endless maze. Streaming platforms pay very little, royalty checks take months—or even years—to arrive, and by the time everyone in the chain has taken their cut, there's often barely anything left for you. http://www.makingascene.org

If you're an independent musician in 2025, your online footprint is your career.  Not your latest gig. Not your new single. Not even your merch table.It's how people find you, remember you, and decide whether to care about you. But here's the problem: most indie artists are flying blind. They're throwing songs into the void of Spotify, posting random updates on Instagram, and hoping something sticks. There's no real strategy, no funnel, no way to see whether their marketing is actually working. http://www.makingascene.org

If you're an independent musician, you've probably heard this advice more than once: “Post more on social media!” And sure, it's good advice. But here's the problem—coming up with fresh, creative ideas every single day while also writing songs, booking gigs, recording music, and, you know, living your life can feel impossible. You want to keep your fans engaged, grow your audience, and show the world your music, but there are only so many hours in the day. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Matt SchofieldBritish-born and now based in the United States, Matt Schofield has spent his career redefining and expanding the boundaries of British Blues. A multi-award-winning guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, and bandleader, Schofield has been performing for more than 30 years, with over 20 years dedicated to his solo career. Widely recognized as one of the most distinctive and influential guitarists of his generation, his impact on the global blues scene is undeniable. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Andrea DawsonAndrea Dawson is an emerging Australian singer-songwriter hailing from Adelaide, South Australia, and one of the country's most powerful and dynamic female voices. After years of lighting up the local South Australian rock circuit, Dawson's career took a major leap forward when she crossed paths with internationally touring artist Gwyn Ashton following his 2020 Downunder tour. Captivated by her voice and songwriting, Ashton immediately began a year-long creative partnership with her — co-writing, engineering, producing, and playing guitars for what would become her debut album, Tales From A Dirt Road. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Eric Wilson AdamsEric Wilson Adams lit up the Prairie State's rock scene with raw authenticity and relentless energy. Growing up in Brookings, South Dakota, he was just 14 when he and four friends formed COCOON in 1969—an unapologetically scrappy rock‑and‑roll cover band that cut its teeth playing armories, bars, proms, and sock hops throughout the state from their “puke‑green” converted school busThey weren't polished—they were real. Original? Not yet. But earnest, loud, and hungry—the band's live sets featured covers of the Rolling Stones, Beatles, Cream, Animals, and more, fueled by a DIY spirit that said, “we don't care about rules—we rocked them anyhow” http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Emma WilsonEmma Wilson, a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter from England's North East, blends the raw energy of the blues with the soulful elegance of early Aretha Franklin and Ann Peebles. Her debut album Wish Her Well earned her the UK Blues Awards' “Emerging Blues Artist of the Year” in 2022, while her follow-up, Memphis Calling, showcased collaborations with Nashville Hall of Fame songwriter Gary Burr, British legend Terry Reid, and Grammy-nominated producer Scott Bomar. Known for her emotive live performances, horn arrangements, and deep connection with audiences, Emma has become a leading figure in the British blues scene, sharing stages with icons like Bernie Marsden, Mick Taylor, and Steve Hackett. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Jimmy BarnesJimmy Barnes is an Australian rock icon whose career has spanned more than four decades, delivering some of the country's most powerful live performances and unforgettable songs. Rising to fame in the 1970s as the electrifying frontman of Cold Chisel, Barnes helped define the golden era of Australian pub rock with classics like Khe Sanh and Flame Trees. Since launching his solo career in 1984, he has achieved a record-breaking 19 number one albums—more than any other Australian artist—and sold more records in his home country than anyone else. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Christopher WyzeFormed as a studio project in 2022 by Indianapolis singer-songwriter Christopher Wyze and veteran producer/multi-instrumentalist Ralph Carter, Christopher Wyze & the Tellers made a remarkable entrance onto the global blues scene without playing a single live show. Their debut album Stuck in the Mud not only landed them a coveted spot in the Roots Music Report Top 40 Blues Albums of 2024, but also produced the RMR #1 single “Back to Clarksdale.” http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Alan ArenaAlan Arena has been chasing the muse of music for over four decades, carving out a songwriting journey defined by raw emotion, grit, and a deep reverence for the roots of rock and blues. With his long-awaited album Fortune Wheel, Arena reminds us that true artistry is not bound by trends or timelines—it's a lifelong road trip, driven by the soul. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Alan Maris of  WantedFormed in the summer of 2021 in the quiet, rural town of Leonard, Michigan—just a mile east of Oxford—WANTED emerged with one loud and unmistakable mission: to bring back the unapologetic, riff-heavy, and melody-driven glory of 1980s heavy metal. Born from a shared love for the giants of the genre—RATT, Dokken, and Van Halen—WANTED isn't trying to reinvent the wheel. They're lighting it on fire and doing donuts through the digital music landscape, reminding the world what real heavy metal sounds like. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Kim FieldKim Field is a celebrated harmonica player, singer, and songwriter best known for his work with his band The Perfect Gentlemen. With a career that spans decades, Kim has toured internationally and taken the stage at major festivals including the San Francisco Blues Festival, Bumbershoot, and the Waterfront Blues Festival. His dynamic performances have earned him spots on bills alongside rhythm and blues legends such as Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Robert Cray, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Gregg Allman, James Cotton, Otis Rush, John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins, the Righteous Brothers, Walter Horton, and Big Mama Thornton. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Stephan JacquesA true artist and songwriter world-renowned for his prolific, heartfelt alt-rock love songs, Stephen has released ten albums to date, with his eleventh on the way. He is produced by Steve Albini. His body of work was culled from a lifetime of experiences, including those as an engineer, a Hollywood actor, a custom builder, and a TV host. Though Stephen lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, his family hails from New Orleans and New York. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Rusty EndsRusty Ends is the real deal—a living bridge between the gritty rock and blues of the 1950s and '60s and the ever-evolving sounds of the 21st century. He cut his teeth as a teenager playing the rough bars and taverns along Dixie Highway, from Louisville to Fort Knox. His early audiences were a wild mix of soldiers, bikers, hustlers, laborers, and working girls—a rowdy, unpredictable crowd that demanded music with soul, grit, and a beat that could keep the topless dancers moving. To survive in those rooms, a band had to play everything—blues, soul, and country—and make it groove. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an interview with the Reverend FreakchildIn the spirit of legendary Holy Blues figures like Reverend Gary Davis, Reverend Freakchild carries on the tradition—with a twist of irreverence and a whole lot of soul. These days, he mostly performs solo acoustic sets, but over the years he's recorded with an impressive lineup of talent, including Chris Parker, Hugh Pool, Mark Karan, Melvin Seals, Jay Collins, Grammy-nominated G. Love, and The Reverend Shawn Amos. His latest album of original songs, Songs of Beauty for Ashes of Realization, is a raw, spiritual, and deeply personal journey. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Clarence TiltonClarence Tilton, the Omaha-based band known for their sharp storytelling and rich harmonies, returns with Queen of the Brawl—a new album that captures the grit, soul, and heart of the American Midwest. Featuring special guest appearances by country legend Marty Stuart and Presley Tucker (bandmate and daughter of Tanya Tucker), the album blends personal history, road-worn reflections, and a deep love of place into a powerful collection of songs. As The Country Note describes it, the album “blends alt-country grit, rich, melodic hooks, and evocative” songwriting. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Bob StrogerAt 94 years old, Bob Stroger is still actively touring and earning long-overdue recognition for the decades he's spent laying down the foundation of countless blues bands. In 2024, he made history as the oldest person ever inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and won his fifth Blues Music Award for Instrumentalist – Bass. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Rusty EndsRusty Ends is the real deal—a living bridge between the gritty rock and blues of the 1950s and '60s and the ever-evolving sounds of the 21st century. He cut his teeth as a teenager playing the rough bars and taverns along Dixie Highway, from Louisville to Fort Knox. His early audiences were a wild mix of soldiers, bikers, hustlers, laborers, and working girls—a rowdy, unpredictable crowd that demanded music with soul, grit, and a beat that could keep the topless dancers moving. To survive in those rooms, a band had to play everything—blues, soul, and country—and make it groove. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Mercedes NicoleMercedes Nicole is a dynamic vocalist whose music radiates passion, soul, and emotional truth. With more than a decade of live performance experience and four acclaimed studio albums under her belt, she has crafted a sound that not only entertains but uplifts. Her voice has become a vessel for healing, hope, and the kind of high-energy connection that leaves audiences feeling inspired and seen. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Scarlet GoodbyeThe Scarlet Goodbye is what happens when two seasoned Minnesota musicians—Dan Murphy and Jeff Arundel—cross creative paths and spark something unexpected. Dan, known for his work with alt-rock legends Soul Asylum and Golden Smog, met Jeff, a smooth-voiced singer-songwriter and producer, by chance. That meeting led them to an attic studio in St. Paul, where they started writing and recording together. The result was Hopes Eternal, a record that blends gritty rock and thoughtful Americana—think somewhere between the Rolling Stones and Townes Van Zandt. The album dropped in 2023 on The Label Group/Universal and quickly became one of the most talked-about releases of the year, earning rave reviews and fueling a run of standout shows across the Midwest. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Present an Interview with Vince SantoroVince Santoro is a veteran drummer, soulful vocalist, sharp songwriter, and passionate advocate for working musicians. Based in Nashville, he's best known these days as the driving force behind the drum kit for Felix Cavaliere's Rascals, as well as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Nashville Musicians Association, where he fights for fair treatment, pay, and respect for his fellow artists. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Katy TessmanKaty Tessman is a heartfelt and inspiring singer-songwriter whose music reflects the wisdom earned through life's most powerful experiences—surviving cancer, navigating heartbreak, and embracing motherhood. With a rich, expressive voice and a rhythmic touch on guitar and mandolin, Katy delivers songs that come straight from the soul. Her sound blends Americana and folk-rock with emotionally resonant lyrics that celebrate both the struggles and triumphs of life. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Emma WilsonHailing proudly from the picturesque North East of England, Emma Wilson was born into a household that practically hummed with rhythm and storytelling. With a jazz-promoting mother and a father known for his larger-than-life charisma, Emma seemed destined for a life on stage. Today, she stands out as one of the UK's most exciting voices in soul and blues. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with "From the Dirt"!From the Dirt is a genre-blending Americana band rooted in the rolling hills of central Maryland. The group features songwriter and frontman Dan Kenny on guitar and vocals, alongside Jeff Karn on mandolin and harmony vocals, Eddie Dickerson on fiddle, and Megan Leigh adding haunting, harmony-rich vocal layers. Together, they craft a sound that is both timeless and emotionally charged, drawing on a rich tapestry of influences that include bluegrass, Celtic folk, Appalachian roots, and vintage rock & roll. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Lisa MannTwo-time Blues Music Award-winning artist Lisa Mann brings her powerhouse talent straight from the blues-rich scene of Portland, Oregon. Originally hailing from West Virginia, Mann's vocal style seamlessly blends southern warmth with a dynamic edge cultivated from mastering genres ranging from hard rock to rhythm and blues. Her songwriting showcases clever, gritty, and often humorous Americana and blues narratives, skillfully matched by her exceptional prowess on bass guitar. Her grooves deliver the undeniable solidity reminiscent of iconic rhythm sections like Muscle Shoals' Swampers or Motown's Funk Brothers. http://www.makingascene.org

Making a Scene Presents Gerry Casey's Interview with Gwyn Ashton!Gwyn Ashton, the fiercely dynamic Australian alt-blues rock guitarist, singer, and one-man band, is one of the most electrifying performers on the modern blues circuit. With a blistering new solo album Mojosoul and a brand-new single, Get Outta Town—featuring Guns N' Roses' Richard Fortus along with members of Cold Chisel and Superjesus—Ashton continues to push boundaries while staying true to the raw spirit of blues and rock. http://www.makingascene.org