Michigan Music History Podcast -- MMHP989

You've heard of the best drummer in the world, best rock, best jazz, best percussionist, etc. Did you know Michigan is home to the best blues drummer in world? Steve McCray, youngest brother to national treasure Larry, has been hitting the skins since the '70s and continues to provide his sonic element to the Michigan scene and beyond.     Known as the First Unk Of Funk, McCray's background of P-funky, Isley Brothers, and hard blues has given him a craft that is truly his own blend. McCray also adds songwriting, production, and incredible background harmonies/arrangements that have helped propel his Brother Larry's music and other Michigan Bands over the top. Steve has no problem dishing the backstage stories or the truth and details of life on the road and in the studio. He can equally be thrilled with local emerging artists as much as he can tease about Dr. John, John Lee Hooker, and his brothers Larry and Carl. Nothing is off-limits and Steve makes everyone tune in and laugh along with him. He has truly been there and seen it all! You gotta get in on this one... TURN IT UP NOW!

Drummer Dr. Ed Roth found a way to connect his music with everyone, like no one else before. The Bridgeport/Saginaw area musician studied music at Western Michigan University. And while he can't claim a gold or platinum album in his Michigan Music History, he can claim that he studies the music and how it connects to the minds of individuals, at every stage of life.    His detailed work dives into the musical dopamine from birth to hospice/end of life, covering what connects and why. Music is so important to everyone, as you will hear, that we are "all born musicians." This very special two-part series is as humorous as it is important and integral to life as we know it, and why music is the natural drug. Part two gives you some epic procedures and studies that Dr. Roth has come to know across his work.    We were so happy to have Sir Fred's nephew and this deep conversation. Tune into Episode 2 today!

Drummer Dr. Ed Roth found a way to connect his music with everyone, like no one else before. The Bridgeport/Saginaw area musician studied music at Western Michigan University. And while he can't claim a gold or platinum album in his Michigan Music History, he can claim that he studies the music and how it connects to the minds of individuals, at every stage of life.    His detailed work dives into the musical dopamine from birth to hospice/end of life, covering what connects and why. Music is so important to everyone, as you will hear, that we are "all born musicians." This very special two-part series is as humorous as it is important and integral to life as we know it, and why music is the natural drug. Dig into Part 1 now!

Army Veteran, Bluesman, Soul singer, jam Brother, Greg Nagy from Davison wears many hats in the Michigan music scene. Found in many different configurations as a guitarist/vocalist/songwriter, Nagy is kindhearted, open to being in the moments, and heavy on being real in his music. Nagy knows the legends, assists the new generation and is blazing his own path as a dominant Billboard chart topping blues artist.    Also moonlighting with Larry McCray's touring band, Nagy came to prominence in the legendary band Root Doctor. His stories from his earliest days and shows, award ceremonies, right through to his brand new album The Real You (heard on all important blues stations everywhere!) gives testimony to why Greg is your favorite player's favorite player. You won't quit listening or laughing. Here is Part two, Greg takes conversation to new heights with his ideas on pop music, Grateful Dead, Steely Dan, Dick Wagner, Ray Goodman working with Motorcity Josh, Thornetta Davis, Larry McCray and fanboying Albert King. A MUST LISTEN for the ages...

Army Veteran, Bluesman, Soul singer, jam Brother, Greg Nagy from Davison wears many hats in the Michigan music scene. Found in many different configurations as a guitarist/vocalist/songwriter, Nagy is kindhearted, open to being in the moments, and heavy on being real in his music. Nagy knows the legends, assists the new generation and is blazing his own path as a dominant Billboard chart topping blues artist.    Also moonlighting with Larry McCray's touring band, Nagy came to prominence in the legendary band Root Doctor. His stories from his earliest days and shows, award ceremonies, right through to his brand new album The Real You (heard on all important blues stations everywhere!) gives testimony to why Greg is your favorite player's favorite player. You won't quit listening or laughing. Here is Part one of two--TURN IT UP!

Where has the time gone?!!    We began coming straight out of the Covid closures in the back of Alan Garcia's garage podcast studio in Essexville in February of 2021. Now we fire up in our new comfy confines of the Bay City Historical Museum Second Floor where the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends displays can be witnessed. When we first moved to the Museum, you could hear us trying areas, tables, spaces. Now we have our own 'couch relaxed' room, boom mic'd and offering even more quality as our MMHP989 brand continues to expand by word of mouth from music lover to music lover, musician to musician, fan to DJ, author to Podcaster. We are 118 episodes deep according to Apple Podcasting--sounds about right!    Because of YOU listeners and our first class guests, we are getting requests from more music legends now to help tell their story and be featured on our show. As we roll into year four, we plan to expand the horizons and look at our show from other angles. The best is yet to come!    In our four year catch up, Dr. J dishes out the details behind our new first class operation, discusses state of the state of the amazing Michigan Rock Hall (have you visited it yet?), we talk about our joy of the show and how its reached beyond the state of Michigan, and we get a deep dive into an artist whom has passed away from Saginaw, songwriter Bob Buchanan who wrote the great Hickory Wind with the late Gram Parsons while on a train, members of the International Submarine Band. Told only as Sir Fred can, bruises and all! We are lucky to have this outlet for this story--so stick around for it. Sit back and celebrate our Fourth Anniversary with the MMHP989!

Gary Taylor is not the average 'roll out the barrel' or 'oberek' artist. Performing state wide with some regional trips since the 1960s, Taylor found himself in great company while at Handy High School in the early '60s. Able to play saxophones and clarinet, Taylor was a first call artist, getting gigs and rubbing elbows with many of the Michigan polka legends.     Taylor ran his own band coming out of the Pat Lepeak and The Starliners as the '70s progressed, headlining polka festivals and achieving freedom as a multi-talented bandleader. Always in search of 'better mixes' and perfect 'lathe cut vinyl' for his projects, Taylor was able to release one collectible 45 as a headliner as Gary Taylor & The Happy Knights. His stories start at the Art Schiell home recording studio (which ? & The Mysterians put on the map). From there, he ventured to Detroit and around studio to studio, cutting parts and searching for his sound. Having hung up his woodwinds in the '90s, Taylor is an audiophile, listening to all types of music, and reveling in the perfect polka sounds. This is his story...

Musician, Producer, Engineer, Fan--Andy Reed wears many hats in the Michigan music buffet. Known for his productions out of Reed Recording, the former Verve Pipe bassist/solo artist has pushed the boundaries of creativeness in all areas of performance. Based in Bay City, Reed is a first-call Nashville unit for artists to travel when Music City needs a hand. Having put out his own brilliant albums for years with Legal Matters and An American Underdog, Reed hit the recording bug when working his first album with the Haskels down at Brendan Benson's pad, pre-Nashville move.     Reed is humble, musical, full of power pop and harmonic ideas, and can work fast in the studio. His love of Beatles and Beach Boys goes hand in hand with his '90s music upbringing.    Here in Part 2, Andy talks favorite projects, Welcome To 1979, Beatles, Beach Boys, Grammy's, his local music family, and HIS Family. Get on this Part 2 of 2 today!

Musician, Producer, Engineer, Fan--Andy Reed wears many hats in the Michigan music buffet. Known for his productions out of Reed Recording, the former Verve Pipe bassist/solo artist has pushed the boundaries of creativeness in all areas of performance. Based in Bay City, Reed is a first-call Nashville unit for artists to travel when Music City needs a hand. Having put out his own brilliant albums for years with Legal Matters and An American Underdog, Reed hit the recording bug when working his first album with the Haskels down at Brendan Benson's pad, pre-Nashville move.     Reed is humble, musical, full of power pop and harmonic ideas, and can work fast in the studio. His love of Beatles and Beach Boys goes hand in hand with his '90s music upbringing.    This two-part series will paint a humble portrait, of a fun, musically excited family man, that embraces the national scene, while keeping it all on a local stage. Meet Andy, Part 1 of 2--NOW!

John Woolard's father Dwayne is one Michigan's first fore-fathers of country music, having been a pianist for all the Nashville and Mid-West names and albums. John himself started out with high school bands leading him to a short stint in Til Tuesday while in Florida. That road led to Nashville, both studio and touring. Coming back to Michigan and joining the armed forces along the way, Woolard took the family story to the next level in various country bands and stints from here around the globe. Upon giving his life to Christ, Woolard's stage expanded, as did his repertoire. Woolard got signed to a label and took his sounds across the Christian tour trail.    Woolard recently moved since this podcast, however he remains a man of music, as well as a Pastor in Michigan. This story is one of the deepest wells we have dove into. Tune in today!

His voice has been in your car, home, earbuds and at your favorite restaurant for over 40 years. Johnny Burke has been on air around the state of Michigan, since 1980 when he had his first Michigan job in Flint at WTRX. Known to give back to communities as much as provide a much needed morning wake-up, Burke has been broadcasting out of Flint on 103.9 The Fox (WRSR) since 2017 after over 25 years at WHNN in Saginaw. His drive to continue to be for a community rather than a corporation has been a feather in the cap to local radio, as he points out in this podcast.    From Cleveland, Buffalo, Las Vegas, to here, Burke has interviewed nearly everyone from Frank Zappa to Bob Newhart. He spills the beans on the best and worst interviews. He talks about the Michigan legends ? and Ted Nugent on how they can be relentless in their own ways on radio and how Bob Seger and Madonna have eluded him. Burke does not hold back and this podcast takes us from his beginnings to now, and where he hopes to be in ten years. Tune in NOW for some OVERTIME with this awesome on-air personality!

Michigan Rock Vocal/bassist/songwriter legend Al Jacquez is no stranger to the music business. Straddling the comforts of positivity post-Savage Grace (which formed out of The Scarlet Letter), Jacquez looks back in fondness and care at the legend that Warner Brothers once held high on its record label. Jacquez maintained the rougher elements of the final years of the band and the reunion album that was released nearly 20 years ago helped cement credibility, friendships, and the magic that the group once had. They released Savage Grace I, II and in 2006 a reunion album (III) called One Night In America.    Still at the top of the vocal game, Jacquez performed as a member of the Dick Wagner Band during Wagner's final touring years and has continued to sing the songs he was known for from the late '60s and early '70s, amongst many others. Always surrounded with great guitar partners, Jacquez still touts Savage Grace partner Ron Koss as a favorite, as well as Silver Bullet Band's Drew Abbott, whom he plays with on occasion. Jacquez was inducted with Savage Grace into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame in 2021 and performed in Bay City the day after taping this historical podcast at the MMHP Dunlop Songwriters Stage.  Al offers up live songs, the move back to Michigan, backstory on the reunion album, the abundance of his faith, the loss of Ron Koss and why his voice continues to be his most important tool--all here in Part 2 of 2. Dig in...

Michigan Rock Vocal/bassist/songwriter legend Al Jacquez is no stranger to the music business. Straddling the comforts of positivity post-Savage Grace (which formed out of The Scarlet Letter), Jacquez looks back in fondness and care at the legend that Warner Brothers once held high on its record label. Jacquez maintained the rougher elements of the final years of the band and the reunion album that was released nearly 20 years ago helped cement credibility, friendships, and the magic that the group once had. They released Savage Grace I, II and in 2006 a reunion album (III) called One Night In America.    Still at the top of the vocal game, Jacquez performed as a member of the Dick Wagner Band during Wagner's final touring years and has continued to sing the songs he was known for from the late '60s and early '70s, amongst many others. Always surrounded with great guitar partners, Jacquez still touts Savage Grace partner Ron Koss as a favorite, as well as Silver Bullet Band's Drew Abbott, whom he plays with on occasion. Jacquez was inducted with Savage Grace into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame in 2021 and performed in Bay City the day after taping this historical podcast at the MMHP Dunlop Songwriters Stage.    So Come On Down, tune in and get ready to hear this epic story, that continues to this day. Part one of two, served up HOT...hit PLAY

Mel Kanar was the supplier. He knew the bands, the songs, the CEO and the DJ's. What music fans don't know is how large of a roll he played on charting early rock and roll on radio throughout suburban Detroit and beyond. The sounds you heard, you favored, you loved, smash or trashed, Mel was the delivery man and the polisher for the companies that needed their palms greased in order to get the next big song on the radio.    You've heard it all about payola, the rags to riches, the gravity of the unknown coming to light. Mel was the lynchpin in all of it for Michigan and mid-west early rock and roll. He knew Barry Gordy, he knew the big DJs, he knew the clubs and he drove the bands.    Here in Part 2, Mel digs into payola, blues, the English music invasion, insurance sales, and his money saving toilet ideas that he has invested in. A living, walking legend from the top of the pops, to the flushing lows...it's all here! Turn it up...

Mark Farner is releasing his brand new album this Friday, Nov. 8, titled Closer To My Home. It's a musical celebration that brings the familiar sound of Grand Funk closer to the ears of Mark's crowd than ever before. Recorded with special guests and Co-Produced with Mark Slaughter (vocalist of the band Slaughter), Farner gets track by track with the MM15HC/MMHP, giving his thoughts, process, tracking, and real world wisdom.     Farner goes into detail on his Grand Funk feelings, his desire to go back, and his willingness to take his legacy to the people any way he can. This set of songs sits perfectly by the side of Grand Funk's catalog and is as highlight feather in Mark's solo music cap.  Listen in now!

Mel Kanar was the supplier. He knew the bands, the songs, the CEO and the DJ's. What music fans don't know is how large of a roll he played on charting early rock and roll on radio throughout suburban Detroit and beyond. The sounds you heard, you favored, you loved, smash or trashed, Mel was the delivery man and the polisher for the companies that needed their palms greased in order to get the next big song on the radio.    You've heard it all about payola, the rags to riches, the gravity of the unknown coming to light. Mel was the lynchpin in all of it for Michigan and mid-west early rock and roll. He knew Barry Gordy, he knew the big DJs, he knew the clubs and he drove the bands. Get in the car with Mel for Episode 1 of 2 here in the MMHP!

Sanford, MI/Midland, MI world music master, teacher, student, tone-enthusiast, and forebearer of touch and musical invitation, Bryan Rombalski is ahead of everyone else when it comes to the musical curves. Guitar teacher, former classic rocker, '80s sound designer, and jazz/fusion projecting, speaking many musical languages, Rombalski has laid more ground offering his gifts as a musician from a mental standpoint, than most musicians can put on a resume. Let's fact check: played with Leslie West/Mountain, UFO, Cheap Trick, and Van Halen (hanging out with Edward on their first tour of course) while in Couture, a touring monster, was able to grasp the Robert Fripp/Adrian Belew, Andy Summers, and Talking Heads thrivent-stylistic music while in '80s and '90s cover acts, and went on to learn from masters and teach students, while maintaining regular monthly jazz sets in Midland over the past 15 or so years. Rombalski's gentle demeanor comes from invitation to participate, rather than the 'ram-it down the throat' guitar hero's which adorned the covers of the magazines.    A YouTube video initiation showcases his genius in finger style, common thread, and quartet/quintet values. Equally at home with Wayne Shorter and Wayne Kramer, or even John Coltrane and Mark Knopfler, Rombalski's ethos as a musician knows zero bounds. His studies have taken him around the world and yet he reserves space for his art, teaching and performance as his daily bread.  There is only ONE Bryan Rombalski.     Turn it up--he's soft spoken with a huge sound.

Steve Swart was on the bandstand and in college at CMU just in time to see owner Harvey Vanier turn The Foolery into Rubbles. Mt. Pleasant has always been at the dead center of the state of Michigan when it comes to cross-over touring due to WCMU and the college music market. One quick look north from Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, Detroit and Lansing, all eyes hit the college town. The blended artistry from roots folk, to deep blues, power pop, metal, and first generation punk all huddled in this marketplace, long after the '60s Flint scene dispersed.     Yes, you could see Texas blues man Gatemouth Brown, followed by funky rockin' Fishbone, and then a tour stop for the punk legends Dead Milkmen. Or how about Blues Brother Matt 'Guitar' Murphy? Verve Pipe? Etc...this was a Michigan hub town thanks to the venues, Theatres, and WCMU radio.    While Swart notes that much remains in historical value, the word-of-mouth of the area's scene is more of a recollection and myth, than the hub it once was. North of Mt. Pleasant lies Interlochen, which seems to have taken on the persona that Mt. Pleasant used to be known for. A quick look at Traverse City, Petoskey, Alpena, or over west to Big Rapids or Grand Rapids, or even east to the Tri-Cities and you can see speckles of the majestic college town scene. Swart is taking the Mt. Pleasant music history seriously and is not only documenting it, but releasing lost shows on YouTube. Steve has compiled a fantastic episode that not only covers his music, but some of his rock/metal expeditions (magnetite)--which is not rock/metal like you think ;) Tune in and check this out too! Here is his Link List for this episode: "Legacy of Harvey's Foolery":  https://www.facebook.com/groups/38403127560/ Youtube Playlist Legacy of Harvey's Foolery https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxX1AiehvuPKAgF_VtCwzWJ6iclZIJRY1 Clarke Historical Library website at CMU: http://www.clarkehistoricallibrary.org/p/about-us.html?m=0   Michigan bands that we hosted and recorded in concert at The Broadway Theatre in Mt Pleasant: Steppin' In It Levi Rose and Hooker Man Mollie O'Brien and Jive at Five Alma College Percussion and Drum Ensemble Jeff Haas Quintet with Marcus Belgrave THOSE Delta Rhythm Kings (Lansing area) Earl Haynes and Friends (subject of the song "Mr Easy" ala Walmsley/McCray) Brian Koehler Chris Freeman (Sitar) Myk Rise Hurry The Jug YouTube Playlist - Live at The Broadway 2003-2005:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxX1AiehvuPJkLJDeREK10heB0qEAfT3o

The Michigan Music History Podcast Special Edition 2024 Hell's Half Mile Music Line-up and Film Rundown:    Hell's Half Mile music organizer Don Hessell returns for the third-annual MMHP HHM Special, along with his new assistant Spencer Biery. Also this year, past music organizer and HHM alum Jay Glysz, offers past stories and details from the origins of the 18 year Fest. (Festival ALL-STAR person Brendon Baranek (Deon) was unable to attend the taping for this event and still holds a strong hand in much of the set-up for HHM. Mr. Mike was also unable to join the MMHP crew for video archiving.)    JW Francis from New York will kick of Thursday night at Old City Hall. Bluhm from Detroit will be Friday's entertainment at MI Table. The Saturday showcase at Jefferson Building will be Sungaze from Cincinnati, Waltzer from Chicago, and Liquid Mike from Marquette.    Films such as Tallywacker and Marqueetown ring true for music fans. Also of interest is podcast film Sydney.    Here is your backstage pass and details from the past, present and future of the HHM, one of Michigan's biggest Independent Music and Film fests. Tune in now and see you this weekend! PS: Also of note--come support the Bay County Historical Museum/Michigan Rock Legends Hall of Fame with a fundraiser Wednesday-Saturday at Drydock in Bay City, walking or riding between HHM events! The perfect paring of history and current events. Music all four nights including Bobby Balderrama (from ? & The Mysterians) on Wednesday, MMHP's own Scott Baker Thursday and Friday, and DJ David Asher on Saturday.

On Episode 1 of this season, we headed over to the Juke Joint and got Robert Barclay's back story on the past 39 years of the show. Robert gave his background, college history, photography interest, and ultimately the keys to the club as we got to go backstage with the Duke of Juke. For Episode 2, Robert goes into his passion for Tom Waits, venues like The Ark, Slim Harpo, Johnny Bassett, Hasting Street and Gatemouth Brown--and then some!    Tune in Thursday morning for the wrap up with the legendary Blues DJ--and don't forget to join Robert at the Juke Joint on 89.5 FM WCMU every Sunday night at 8pm for his three hour show. Thank you all for listening and Robert for the hospitality.

WOW! Five seasons into the MMHP in the 989 and we couldn't be more thankful for our listeners! As our show grows, the grass roots word of mouth continues to ramp and bring us better numbers and more guests. We couldn't get there without you!    On Episode 1 of this season, we head over to the Juke Joint and get Robert Barclay's back story on the past 39 years of the show. Robert gives his background, college history, photography interest, and ultimately the keys to the club as we get to go backstage with the Duke of Juke. Inside stories, accidental happenings, and handshake deals go down with the Duke in episode 1!    Tune in Thursday morning for our show--and don't forget to join Robert at the Juke Joint on 89.5 FM WCMU every Sunday night at 8pm for his three hour show. Part 1 is NOW...

Michiganders Keith Hlavacs and Marlin Wilson belong in their own music collection time zone. Hlavacs not only collects artifacts of early music from 78s/cylinders/diamond discs and phonographs, but he touches upon some of the most sought after music from the earliest days of recordings--with some rare Michigan Music thrown in for good measure. Wilson was the first-call for Dr. J to help assemble some pieces in the Michigan Rock Legends Hall Of Fame and has one of the most extensive deep collections of Michigan Rock, primarily from the earliest heyday of Mid-Michigan.    One of the biggest feedback joys we get is the depth of our podcasts, the spoken word documentation. We decided to wrap Season 4 with a round table on ultimate music collecting, with a focus on Michigan pieces. Yet there is SO much more than Michigan in this episode. Sir Fred tosses in the dirty earliest printed music, Mr. Mike talks of his massive archives, and Dr. J waxes ecstatic on his collection and why he is into specifics. All of the collectors share the love of music and the desire to find the next rare, cool, unknown thing. It's not just a Michigan thing, but our state has a slew of collectibles as we will find out along the way.    Thank you for listening to Season 4--Season 5 is two weeks out and this episode is a tribute to you music lovers. Dig in!

Mad Dog--a 1970's independent touring machine, known for crossing the state and region, fuzzed out and throttling headliners like Bob Seger, has gone on to have their much-sought-after debut album '617' amongst the finest crate dig finds in many vinyl collectors realms. Straight out of Bay City, Mad Dog's '617' continues to be a highlight in the murky power/stoner rock realm through 2024.    Brother's Bob (guitar/vocals) and Joe (drums/vocals) Charlebois along with driving force and Bassist Don Langenburg, were a power trio that still gets word-of-mouth, and even had bootleggers re-releasing their album around 2005. For the first time in decades, the MMHP has pulled together the original line-up for a Q&A session that delivers a brotherhood, moment in time, and with the brilliant sonic thumbprint that got them inducted into the Michigan Rock Legends Hall of Fame in 2019.    Part 2 of 2 takes us from the NYC promo run, to the second (unreleased) album, to where the power trio is at now with Blues Mobile, The Burdons, and tribute bands with Bob Seger/Kenny Rogers backing Saginaw Sheriff Bill Federspiel. Special thanks to Outrageous Cherry/The Volbeats guitarist/vocalist, songwriter extraordinaire Matthew Smith for spearheading this idea to reunite and get the legacy behind the trio. For a deep dive, click here: https://michiganrockandrolllegends.com/index.php/mrrl-hall-of-fame/349-mad-dog

Mad Dog--a 1970's independent touring machine, known for crossing the state and region, fuzzed out and throttling headliners like Bob Seger, has gone on to have their much-sought-after debut album '617' amongst the finest in vinyl collectors realms. Straight out of Bay City, Mad Dog's '617' continues to be a highlight in the murky power-rock/stoner rock realm through 2024.    Brother's Bob (guitar/vocals) and Joe (drums/vocals) Charlebois along with driving force and Bassist Don Langenburg, were a power trio that still gets word-of-mouth, and even had bootleggers re-releasing their album around 2005. For the first time in decades, the MMHP has pulled together the original line-up for a Q&A session that delivers a brotherhood, moment in time, and with the brilliant sonic thumbprint that got them inducted into the Michigan Rock Legends Hall of Fame in 2019.    Special thanks to Outrageous Cherry/The Volbeats guitarist/vocalist, songwriter extraordinaire Matthew Smith for spearheading this idea to reunite and get the legacy behind the trio. Part 1 of 2 is served up HOT....   For a deep dive, click here: https://michiganrockandrolllegends.com/index.php/mrrl-hall-of-fame/349-mad-dog

Sadly, the Musical Mitten Podcast recently closed its podcast doors. It started up as a radio show at WOCR of the University of Olivet, hosts Maggie Brener of Bay City (now Detroit) and Breanne Wilder of Vicksburg ( now Charlotte) had put together a bevy of Michigan Musical discussion and guests that leveled up the playing field of current artists and musicians, along with classic Michigan music content. They began the show as a podcast in February of 2022 and as they say, From Mackinac To Motown, From Muskegon To Madonna, Maggie and Bree covered it all.     The Musical Mitten first touched base with Dr. J right soon after the MMHP989 began, in April of 2022. Access that here: https://themusicalmitten.wixsite.com/themusicalmi/podcast/episode/79fd1b9c/the-man-the-museum-the-legends    When the MMHP, minus Dr. J hit the road for a Detroit trip to site see the venues of yesteryear field trip style, as well as tour Third Man Records back in December of 2023, Scott had been in contact about doing an episode on The Musical Mitten for his recent album Purpose. When making contact with Maggie, it was decided to turn it into a show where two of Michigan's deepest music podcasts interview each other; the process, the work, and some stuff on Scott's albums. We decided to meet in Fenton at the Library and record a shared Podcast. The podcast for The Musical Mitten which they released can be found here. Now you can compare edit notes...HA!  https://themusicalmitten.wixsite.com/themusicalmi/podcast/episode/7b1a1952/michigan-music-podcast-squared The MMHP gives a tip of the cap to Maggie and Bree, as the Musical Mitten shows are still are available AND our time together--even though we were cut short--the listeners will enjoy the work, guest talks, and laughter as we discuss both of our shows, the impetus, and the future visions behind how we put shows together. We hope to cross paths with these wonderful hosts again someday. Dig into The Musical Mitten by way of the MMHP. Thank you Maggie and Bree! Their perma home is: https://themusicalmitten.wixsite.com/themusicalmi

"In 2016 it was the biggest rock and roll story in some time," noted MMHP and Michigan Rock Legend Hall Of Fame CEO Gary 'Dr. J' Johnson, on the Fake Zombies story ran in Rolling Stone Magazine ripped straight out of M15 in Bay City and the historic chronicles of the late '60s.     Digging for gold, Podcaster/Bartender Daniel Ralston--in Los Angeles--uncovered The True Story Of The Fake Zombies, to be aired on the iHeart network in an eight-part podcast series beginning July 11, 2024, through the Talkhouse Podcast Network. This will run on all your favorite podcast outlets. You will learn of Bill Kehoe at Delta Promotions in Bay City, two fake-Zombie touring bands (one which included members of ZZ Top--drummer Frank Beard and late-bassist Dusty Hill), hear about the fleeting fake-Archies band, the members, the ideas, the major and minor showcases, the tours, the money, and ultimately, how it effected the real Zombies and led them to their induction into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland--as well as subsequent reunion tours and albums. Ralston took over ten years to get the proper interviews, the rights, the footage, photos, chronicles, band members, folk lore and truth to set the record straight and dust the dirt off of one of the most bizarre rock and roll stories to ever happen over the past 60 years. Rolling Stone, Howard Stern Show, YouTube, Michigan Rock Legends Hall of Fame--numerous outlets--all have some backstory since 2016 if you do your own research. Ralston came to meet and interview Dr. J in Bay City, get a tour of the town, and in turn offered his story to the MMHP in the 989 last June, 2023.  We were told to leave this episode in the can....until now. An episode on Bay City itself airs July 18. PREVIEW Daniel Ralston's Trailer here: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/vu5WzQTdG77xvqdV/?mibextid=jpBbYv

Mark Sanders has been there and done that. From the '60 to his current output, Sanders has never given up on songs, creation, and finding the right tones to formulate excellent songs. Some of his first big stage tastes were opening for Ramblin Jack Elliot and The Blues Magoos after winning Battle of the bands at Daniels Den in Saginaw while in The Next Exit Blues Band. That band was coming out of another he was in, The Rogues, where he shared the stage with other luminaries of the time, including The Bossmen, ? and The Mysterians, Shadows Of Night, and ultimately a unique gig with The Animals.     From the clubs and main stages, rock, folk, and country eras, Mark is now retired from live shows, but was last playing with his wife Suzanne on keyboards & vocals in the Mark Sanders Band. Mark has four albums, he's back into blues and getting world-wide play, most recently a feature in Australia. This is a very intriguing ride and features a new song of his, 'On A Night Like That.'

The Flint Music Scene was once his stomping grounds. Then came the rest of Michigan, from Saginaw to Detroit, to Canada and into the entire mid-west. Nothing could stop Lafayette Yarborough as he briefly dominated AM Radio and was the talk of the town during his Lafayette and the LaSabres era. Weeks and sometimes months, playing up to seven nights around for a local stint, Yarborough brought the rockabilly and pre-Elvis sound to many around the state. The man never stopped and continued into the past few decades, recording four albums with his wife Vada (a former musician sometimes backing Elvis, as well as produced by Chet Atkins). His skills and stories take us on the best trip to the land of Michigan Music History. Jump on board to his special tour bus now...

If you haven't had a chance to listen to our Season 1 Episode 8 with Mike, covering record stores, free jazz, his radio show Destination Out, or his long time ensemble, Northwoods Improvisers, please start there. Then head right back here. After all, that was the first episode of the MMHP that catapulted us around the world with our Michigan Music History outlook and exposure. Mike alone was the first podcast we had that skyrocketed the listener number and remains in the top few to this day. We feel this episode just may eclipse that.    The long time listeners to WCMU know his voice. A Professor at CMU in music, as well as world renown bassist in the Northwoods Imporvisers, Johnston is a jazz writer, free music enthusiast, and a collector of all things organic and jazzy, from rock to world music and back. In this podcast, he gives background on the Improvisers 2023 release Fanfares, as well as gets to fill the gaps between his time early as a DJ, music with Faruq Z. Bey, and where the mighty new version of Northwoods is heading with the amazing saxophone front of Donovan Boxy and Dominic Bierenga, with the dual bass addition of Jack O'Brien (along with Johnston), violin from record label head Mike Khoury (Entropy Stereo) and Johnston's long time partner, drummer Nick Ashton.    Johnston also hangs around post-podcast for another 20 minutes of chat, discovery and story sharing, so please hang in there for the full show... Destination OUT of the ballpark with this episode!

Somewhere in Ann Arbor, across to Detroit, the folklore of the '60s planted seeds in south Michigan. One of the front-runners to this soapbox congregation was Andy Cohen. Spending years crafting and honoring tradition, Cohen happened upon Andrew Rogers in Ann Arbor and the 'rest is history' as has been repeated. Here is a reunion, alive with song, discussion, Cohen's mystical perspective and tales from long ago. This is more of a collective of life stories, rather than a typical q&a session. Cohen and his record label/company Riverlark continue to give a historical perspective in modern times.    Here in our final part 2 of 2, Cohen and Rogers eclipse their many reunions, discuss the performances they have shared, the album that they have been creating, and an endless fire that keeps Cohen out for six weeks and back home for six weeks all year around. 

Musician Michelle Coltrane, daughter of Alice, step-daughter of John, offers backstory on Alice's time growing up in Detroit through Michelle's own growing up time between California, New York, and visits to Detroit. Michelle has proclaimed, 'The Year of Alice Coltrane' here in 2024 (with a centennial celebration of John coming soon as well!). This Alice Coltrane year was bench-marked by a recent release from her archives, The Carnegie Hall Concert, from 1971. Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda was at a creative peak when recording this Carnegie show. Backed by two drummers, two bassists, two saxophone/woodwind musicians and two other percussion/utility musicians. Alice helped put this show together as a benefit/tribute to Swami Satchidananda, an Indian guru she first encountered in 1969 while in the depth of grief, after losing her husband, John Coltrane. This show was on the heels of an album where she also honored him, Journey In Satchidananda--released the week before this concert. Alice shared the billing with Laura Nyro and The Rascals--the draw of the evening, whose Felix Cavaliere was a devote follower, as was Nyro. Saxophonist Pharoah Sanders got second billing next to Alice's name, as he was a rising star in the jazz world, sprouting from John Coltrane's stable along side of Alice herself.     An R&B musician herself, Michelle takes us on a journey of her lifetime through her own lens, of times in Detroit, following her mother to concerts, spending time with Swami Satchidananda, dealing with her own career, and how her and step-brothers Ravi and Oran (John Jr. passed in '82) continue to grow and sprout the legacy of both Alice and John Coltrane. This

Heads up Michigan Music Fans: It's been a year since I did my last Mid-Mitten ‘15' From Harvest Canteen as a bonus episode for the MMHP—and while you patiently await Part 2 this Thursday for Zydeco Ziggy, I am prepping a one-on-one phone conversation with the one and only Mary Lee Kortes. 100% Portland, Michigan, by way of Brooklyn, New York (since a move in the early ‘80s) Mary Lee was on fire with Mary Lee's Corvette in the ‘90s and ‘00s. Some of you may recall her bills with Joe Jackson over the years. Or maybe made it to the gig when she opened for Bob Dylan? Having her youth piano bench pried open at the age of 10 to find the music and lyrics of one Beulah Rowley (written at the turn of the last century), MLK spent years awaiting for the moment to release this haunting, stark and coveted set of gems onto the world. Teamed up with the late, great, genius producer Hal Willner (Lou Reed, Mingus, Disney fans take note), Will Anybody Know That I Was Here: The Songs Of Beulah Rowley ring true today and offer a glimpse at a young Michigan songwriter who perished in a fire. Or was it something else? Three anecdotes adorn the liner notes where this April 22, 2023 on Record Store Day epic appeared on Vinyl for the first time. Mary Lee was able to bring her dreams to life from one Michigan songwriter to another, giving a voice to a lost one. Tune in next Monday for this amazing hour-long episode where we hear about Beulah, MLK's Corvette history, her dreams of Bob Dylan and the book that she wrote, and so much more. By the way—bonus points if you can catch her gig in NYC tomorrow night https://www.maryleescorvette.com/ https://maryleekortes.bandcamp.com/.../will-anybody-know...

Mid Mitten 15 From Harvest Canteen: Special One-On-One Discussions with Michigan Music Artists. MM15HC listeners: Tuesday Ep:2 debuts with Hemlock Americana musician Billy Shane Young! Our interview will put you in the driver seat of one of the most unique writers Michigan has to offer. 20 plus years of solo shows and albums (such as his band Burden in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s), a solo album pre-Covid and flying under the radar with the amazing WALLS album last fall. WALLS is 21 songs swinging between the likes of Prine and Cash, to Rodney Crowell, or even Allman Brothers to Soundgarden. At the heart is the amazing songwriting of this Mid-Michigan gem. His album could easily have been broken into 2 (country and rock) and comes across like the great Manassas 1972 debut or even a tinge of George Harrison's All Things Must Pass with its varying layout of rockers, country, jams, and ballads. In the end, it's Young's songwriting craft along side of Andy Reed's stellar production and musical additions that people will hear to put this sleeper over the top. Download it NOW on Bandcamp! https://billyshaneyoung.bandcamp.com/album/walls

More bang for the earbuds—On top of our bi-weekly podcasts (Available on all our podcast outlets pinned top post here), the Dr. J & Sir Fred Weekend Michigan Music Selections (Facebook Fans Exclusive), Mr. Mike's periodic Michigan Comes Live Friday Video Blog (Facebook Fans Exclusive), Scott is adding a periodic show for Tuesday's (Also Facebook Subscriber Exclusive) The Mid-Mitten ‘15' From Harvest Canteen! This new show (MM15HC) will be an dedicated phone interview listen between Scott & a Michigan related artist. At least ‘15' pertinent questions and backstory on careers from all over the map. If you read any of Scott's newsprint interviews, now you get to hear the whole conversation! MM15HC Ep:1 Features former Mid-Mi resident musician, artist, and promoter Patrick Jon Boyer. Mt. Pleasant and Lansing listeners will take notice! Patrick's new album Rust & Lacquer is an acoustic guitar masterpiece, born out of his Instagram Improvisations. Produced by his pal, Michigan MONSTER bassist/Jack White Band standout, Dominic John Davis, Patrick wants his hometown crowd to know, although he has moved out of state, he's back creating stronger than ever… We tackle the new album, Urban Farmer, The HERD, Steppin' In It, bouts with depression, cars, and inspiration…not to mention all the shows he booked and other bands he has been in. His first new music in 20 years!

Somewhere in Ann Arbor, across to Detroit, the folklore of the '60s planted seeds in south Michigan. One of the front-runners to this soapbox congregation was Andy Cohen. Spending years crafting and honoring tradition, Cohen happened upon Andrew Rogers in Ann Arbor and the 'rest is history' as has been repeated. Here is their reunion, alive with song, discussion, Cohen's mystical perspective and tales from long ago. This is more of a collective of life stories, rather than a typical q&a session. Cohen and his record label/company Riverlark continue to give a historical perspective in modern times. Dig into Part 1 of 2--so many songs, memories and Michigan Music History....

Loren Kranz (Ragbirds, Barbarossa Bros, Solo, +) and Sean Drysdale (Banana Convention, CDF Band, Solo) are new lighthouses on the edge of the Michigan Rock and Roll Peninsula. Both hail from the Mid-Michigan area, both uber-creative types that make every band or project they involve themselves in 200% better, just because of what they bring to the table.    Kranz is currently the drummer in The Ragbirds. He has been on keyboards and organ for many other projects offering vocal ability as well. Getting his start in Barbarossa, and currently ramping up a band as a solo artist as well, Kranz has spread his wings to the west side of the state musically, while keeping his feet in the Saginaw area. He is a teacher at Major Chords For Minors and is a first-call studio cat.    Bassist/vocalist Drysdale toured and wrote with the Banana Convention for many years, recently reuniting with them for a new album (in the works), working via state to state tracks, on the new project. He just helped wrap up the third CDF album, with John Cashman and Mick Furlo (and addition of Steven Hughey) and has recently been rapidly creating heavily in his studio a lot of new works as he approaches his own solo career. Listen to the podcast from last season with Cashman and Furlo on CDF.    The two have come together to discuss their projects and career, while noting the importance of music in Michigan moving forward. Hit the PLAY button now... >

From his beginnings following his family's roots to Michigan, Steve Lyman found his way to befriending the Quackenbush family, helping found The Fugitives. That result would catapult him into early Michigan rock and roll history within the band Scot Richard Case, later to be familiarized as SRC. The band became one of the first major label players on Capitol Records. Lyman's voice and guitar were to compliment the first two albums, while he honed his writing skills. Here in Part 2 of 2, Lyman discusses the parties with Traffic and Procol Harum, details of writing the first two albums, Peter Gabriel's love of SRC in early Genesis, and the psychedelic groove that his teardrop guitar stated. Further future reunions and life after SRC follow...even snippet's of songs! What an incredible 2-part series, wrap up.

From his beginnings following his family's roots to Michigan, Steve Lyman found his way to befriending the Quackenbush family, helping found The Fugitives. That result would catapult him into early Michigan rock and roll history within the band Scot Richard Case, later to be familiarized as S.R.C. The band became one of the first major label players on Capitol Records. Lyman's voice and guitar were to compliment the first two albums, while he honed his writing skills. Here in Part 1 of 2, Lyman describes the sights, the scene and an amazing trip to visit The Who. Tales of Iguana's, Iggy's, Bob Seger, and so many more tie into this stream.    This is essential MMHP989 material. Ease into Part 1 of 2 --don't miss a moment!

Known to roll the Cajun off his tongue so fluently, you would think he was from Louisiana. Don 'Ziggy' Zeitler strolls around the country brandishing a multi-instrumentalist pedigree with a bluesman's heart. Zig has been a mainstay from the Saginaw area. Growing up in Hemlock, Zig caught the bug early on. Now doing just exactly what he wants to do musically, you can find him popping up on Facebook live as much as hitting the road, usually with his wife Siusan Bayne O'Rourke. Performing with the TOGO Touring Artists/Smokin' Sleddog Records label, Zig has found comfort in a roux made with his Cajun/zydeco/blues ingredients and of course some Irish music with Siusan.    Here in Part 2, Zig dives into the music, styles, and future of the White Crow, as well as more live music--tune in afterwards for a bonus show wrap-up tune as well along with Sir Fred!

Known to roll the Cajun off his tongue so fluently, you would think he was from Louisiana, Don 'Ziggy' Zeitler strolls around the country brandishing a multi-instrumentalist pedigree with a bluesman's heart. Zig has been a mainstay from the Saginaw area. Growing up in Hemlock, Zig caught the bug early on. Now doing just exactly what he wants to do musically, you can find him popping up on Facebook live as much as hitting the road, usually with his wife Siusan Bayne O'Rourke. Performing with the TOGO Touring Artists/Smokin' Sleddog Records label, Zig has found comfort in a roux made with his Cajun/zydeco/blues ingredients and of course some Irish music with Siusan. Sit back for part one and get out your Gumbo dictionary. Uncle Zig is gonna lay out some tunes for us--backed by Sir Fred as well on washboard!

While Review was kicked off in 1979, under three different names, Bob Martin has manned the helm since its inception. Blending Mid-Michigan's music scene (stretching all north, over to Mt. Pleasant, down to Lansing and Flint, and into the thumb), Martin has blended political content with the arts longer than any current journalist in the area. Best of all, Review is FREE and remains to this day, free. While he does branch out on the website with more stories now, it's the perspective he shares that he has not changed since he put out the first issue. Here is his backstory, his lawyer family background, his dreams and destiny. By the end of this epic podcast, he discusses where he hopes to see Review go and how he would like it preserved. This is one for the books--tune in now!

Born the son of a 3-year-old drum prodigy, Marty Kempf was no slouch himself as a drummer and all around musician. Taking over the family business of Whitehead Music, which opened in 1919, Big Bands were the name of the game and Vaudeville-style touring was part of the job. Kempf takes us through the era's of music, unions, played and print-notation, and from wire-recordings, to reels, up to digital. Kempf is a joy to hear stories from and humorous Mid-Michigan icon. Eventually Kempf went into real estate and folded his portion of Whitehead in 1994. He is currently writing a book on it all. This.Is.History Michigan Music Lovers...crank this up! So Marty can hear it too (LOL)...

Mary Gilbert was there singing with her Uncle's Big Band when she was a child. Part of the Jessup genes have been past on to Mary, who along with husband Brent Gilbert have managed to secure a place in Mid-Michigan's jazz scene, with the likes of Easy Street & Co., Second Time Around, and their own duo, He Said She Said. Between Brent's lush guitar tones, rush Mary's unique vocal delivery, a stand out mid-state to those who love jazz as well as the likes of Crosby/Stills/Nash. Her story begins with her Uncle Dick Jessup and continues to this day. Tune in to the MMHP now to get your 40s/50's/60's swing of Sammy Davis Jr. and the Dorsey Brothers, updated to now, with absolutely incredible detail and backstory...

Daniel Bernard O'Connell is a die cast original purebred Michigan rock bassist. From being in the first band to play at the Grande Ballroom opening for the MC5 and taking The Wha? for a strut, or being courted by Alto Reed's duo mid-70s, opening for Seger and Van Halen while in Barooga Bandit (at Bay City at Central High as a landmark) and, sharing the stage with Dire Straits......or having U2 open to find themselves on the wrong end of the bill, with an album on Capitol Records. O'Connell has lived to tell the story and is still playing to this day in Firebats. This is the show you didn't know about, but need to hear. Here in Part 2 of 2, Live Bullet photo, Dire Straits Tour, a show in front of Dylan, and finding his own worth all segues into a few songs from the man himself. Don't be shy...tune in now!

Daniel Bernard O'Connell is a die cast original purebred Michigan rock bassist. From being in the first band to play at the Grande Ballroom opening for the MC5 and taking The Wha? for a strut, or being courted by Alto Reed's duo mid-70s, opening for Seger and Van Halen while in Barooga Bandit (at Bay City at Central High as a landmark) and, sharing the stage with Dire Straits......or having U2 open to find themselves on the wrong end of the bill, with an album on Capitol Records. O'Connell has lived to tell the story and is still playing to this day in Firebats. This is the show you didn't know about, but need to hear. Part 1 now, Part 2--with a live performance--in two weeks...

From his teen rock beginnings in the '60's, John Hebert was tuned into the Michigan music scenes. He had gone from playing the stages and festivals of Michigan Lore to tackling the blues in Ann Arbor into the '70s. A Tri-City boy, Hebert has spent every decade since the '60s keeping his guitar chops up to par, being part of epic bands along the way from Sheperd & The Flock, Poor Richard's Army, The McCray Brothers Band, Carl McCray Band, KMJ Band, and for over ten years, Soul Express.     Take a minute to fill your cup, for his runneth over with stories and memories from EVERY era...

From across the corn fields where the woods got heavy, Johnny Winter sounds possessed Michael 'Hooker Man' Brand. His acoustic country beginnings became electrified rock blues that elevated him across the state. Sharron 'Levi Rose' Brand was a gifted songwriter, no-rules wild child, that made her way to Mid-Michigan via Boulder, CO. When Levi & Hooker Man united, all gloves were off and original music in the midst of Michigan has been forever forged in destiny and unity. This is their story, rally cry, and hang in there to hear Levi drop a ditty on the MMHP crew as well. Tune in Thursday!

Current Band=CDF (Cashman/Drysdale/Furlo).     Forever a Saginaw music maven, Mick Furlo began a string of musical excellence that dates back to the early '80s. His band was the farm-team for many of the rock greats to leave the area, particularly two members of The Verve Pipe. A former club owner, Furlo's golden pipes have become a mid-Michigan touchstone from solo stints, to The Jitters, Savior Machines and his music continues to thrive through today in CDF Band.    Born near Detroit, John Cashman has lived around the world and has called Bay City his home for decades. Owner of Cashman's Comics, Cashman is the go-to drummer for the likes of Mirage, Round & The Distant Few, Radio Therapy, Muddy Gumbo, Savior Machines and most recently CDF with Mick Furlo. Cashman has booked artists all over Michigan and continues to write music and perform various styles of music from punk, metal, classic rock, pop, reggae, and more.     Get the rest of the story and all about the new album with Part 2 of 2 here at the MMHP.

Current Band=CDF (Cashman/Drysdale/Furlo).     Forever a Saginaw music maven, Mick Furlo began a string of musical excellence that dates back to the early '80s. His band was the farm-team for many of the rock greats to leave the area, particularly two members of The Verve Pipe. A former club owner, Furlo's golden pipes have become a mid-Michigan touchstone from solo stints, to The Jitters, Savior Machines and his music continues to thrive through today in CDF Band.    Born near Detroit, John Cashman has lived around the world and has called Bay City his home for decades. Owner of Cashman's Comics, Cashman is the go-to drummer for the likes of Mirage, Round & The Distant Few, Radio Therapy, Muddy Gumbo, Savior Machines and most recently CDF with Mick Furlo. Cashman has booked artists all over Michigan and continues to write music and perform various styles of music from punk, metal, classic rock, pop, reggae, and more.     Enjoy getting to know these gentlemen in Part 1 of 2 MMHP episodes.

We were blessed to finally land one of the greatest DJ/Michigan Music History LEGENDS to our show. After two attempts, Ric made a visit to our new MMHP digs at the Michigan Rock Legends Hall of Fame in Bay City, this past July 3, 2023. Sadly, we lost Ric to a stroke on Sept. 5, 2023. Ric shared his music passion with us, as he did many others via being a go-to DJ in the state of Michigan, as well as in Canada.  WSAM, CKLW, WKNX, and so many more had the golden microphone, as Ric was involved with radio from a passionate prospective, breaking some 30-plus hit singles over the years. Ric took to Facebook with a partner to form the Michigan Music History page on Aug. 4, 2011, which continues to some 16.9 thousand subscribers. Self-described as a 'face for radio' Ric hung with the hit-makers, broadcast with the best of the best, and over the past few years, deeply enjoyed his family and friends.    Our deepest condolences to Ric's Family. This is for Ric, you and all the listeners. Thank you for stories and wisdom, Ric. We will miss you, Friend.

Taking a step back and reflecting on three years of the MMHP989, Hosts Dr. J, Sir Fred, and Mr. Mike wanted to kick of Season 4 with the backstory on Scott's new concept album Purpose, relased this past April. The players, the reason it took two and a half years, the sounds, production, the Michigan Rock elements, the concept album elements, and everything in between. Much like Season 1 Episodes 1 and 2 on Dr. J and Sir Fred, they turn the tables to get the low down on what Mr. Mike calls, 'A masterpiece album.'     Scott gets to dive into highlights from other Michigan artists that have been peers and mentors to Scott, such as Dick Wagner, Larry McCray, and Bob Hausler, among others. Studio talk, guitar sounds, and songwriting come to this Michigan Music History Podcast episode and the listener can deep dive into Scott's catalog.    Welcome to Season 4 of the MMHP in the 989!