More Than Music

Sam Vecchio is hilarious and is such a fun time! You will definitely want him to be your best friend after listening to this episode. Since before he could walk or talk or certainly sing, Sam Vecchio has been obsessed with music. With appreciation of all genres, Sam has studied music and artists since the first time he played a vinyl record. With influences ranging from The Beatles and Hall and Oates, to Billy Joel and Paul Carrack to recent acts like I Don't Know How But They Found Me and Lord Huron. Sam started his professional music career in college by replacing a local pub DJ that let him fill in one night and lost his spot when the patrons demanded Sam's return. In March of 2020, Sam had some extra time on his hands due to a worldwide Pandemic (COVID-19) and found himself in isolation for nearly a month without any contact with the outside world. He picked up his guitar, that hasn't seen much action from Sam in years and he started to play “Rain King” by the Counting Crows, the next night Sam played a few songs and returned every night for nearly one hundred nights consecutively (he promised his Facebook friends that he would play every night until the pandemic was over (a little ambitious on THAT promise). What he found, in turn, was not only did it help him try to get through a difficult time, but it was appointment viewing for a lot of his friends, family, and co-workers. Even though he always thought he'd be a Rockstar from age nine, he is getting to live a small part of that dream many years later. He doesn't take himself too seriously and finds it most difficult to talk about himself in the third person. Because he wrote this bio! Sam is currently working on some original music, he performs a cover of "Drive" by The Cars. Make sure you don't miss one of Sam's Facebook live's, like or follow him on Facebook. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Kendal Conrad is an amazing woman, empowering, confident, a leader, fierce, a feminist and so much more. Kendal is a singer-songwriter from Pottstown, PA. Her single Leader of the Pack garnered over 25 million views on Tiktok and over 1 million plays on Soundcloud. She sang a duet onstage with Keith Urban at Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA. She also opened for 32 of the country's hottest artists, including Blake Shelton at the Dick's Sporting Goods Open to a crowd of 18,000, Alabama at the Santander Arena, and Kane Brown. She has performed the National Anthem for the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, NASCAR, etc. We'll take a listen to her badass song, "Leader of the Pack". Listen to more of Kendal's music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Soundcloud, or anywhere you listen to your music! Follow Kendal on her social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Kendal plays gigs every week. Check the Events tab on her Facebook page. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing you to the humble, kind, and incredibly talented, Steve Romer. Steve is a Cortland-based musician and is inspired by the 90's grunge and pop-rock scene. He started in music because his friends talked him into trying out a local open mic night and the next week, he had his first show! He's been on tour with Ten Man Push as the opening act. He's also opened for national acts such as Kevin Griffin of Better than Ezra, Ed Kowalczyk of Live, The Black Moods, Andrew Leahey, and the Homestead. Make sure to listen to Steve's song, "Maybe" during the podcast. Follow Steve Romer on Facebook and the duo, Steve Romer and Bradford Allen. You can also stay up to date when he will be playing live! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing the youngest guest of the podcast so far, but one of the oldest souls! At 17, New York native, Sydney Irving is in the early years of her music career, but she has already been named the 2020 young adult artist of the year by the International Singer-Songwriters Association. At only 14, her debut album, “Hello Stranger” was released. Irving has been fortunate to have had the opportunity to be direct support for Starship featuring Mickey Thomas at the 2019 Spiedie Fest in Binghamton, NY, and perform at the 2019 Dio Day event in Cortland, NY. Later that year, Sydney attended a Barns Courtney concert. She had the chance to meet him before the show and then during the show, Courtney called her up on stage to sing his hit song “You & I” with him! She has also had the privilege to open for artists like Matt Rogers and Mikele Buck as well as be the youngest artist to have a residency at the largest casino in New York State. Sydney Irving, who has been nominated for best singer/songwriter at the Syracuse Area Music Awards three times, has been writing songs since she was twelve with her guitar. Sydney is a proud Breedlove Guitar endorsed artist. Along with being named the 2020 Female Artist of the Year by Music Mafia Radio, now at 17, Irving is gearing up to release her fifth studio album, "Relax With Fiends" which is set to be released in December 2020. With a fresh, indie rock sound, Sydney is following her dreams of pursuing music. We feature Sydney's brand new single, What Have You Done. It's available on a limited edition CD on Sydney's website, sydneyirvingmusic.com and there's only 100 available! They are hand-signed and numbered. Listen to more of her music on her website, iTunes, Amazon Music, YouTube, and Spotify. You can follow along with her music career on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Also see her live and in-person in the summer in New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing, Gary Carpentier! Gary is a 29-year-old singer/songwriter from Oswego, NY. He has been performing since 2014 as a solo act, a member of the McConnell, Caruso, Carpentier trio, and as a member of the Silver Arrow Band out of Syracuse, NY. Carpentier won a SAMMY Award this past year for Best RnB Album, was nominated as Best Lead Actor in a Musical for his role in the Baldwinsville Theater Guild's production of Bright Star, and, most notably, was on the cast of the 13th season of NBC's Emmy Award-Winning program, “The Voice,” as a member of Team Adam Levine. With original music and covers ranging from Bruce Springsteen to Lorde, Gary has been traveling and entertaining crowds across New York and the country. His voice is a mix of soul, pop, and crooner style. Gary writes in the contemporary, singer/songwriter style, but with a twist of modern pop. We'll take a listen to a song called "9 to 5" off of Gary's EP, "Lucid". Listen to more of Gary's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and anywhere you find or listen to music! Follow Gary on all social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter all @garycarpentiermusic. You can also email Gary at garycarpentiermusic@gmail.com Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Chris Merkley is so inspiring with all that he's accomplished in his career so far. He's definitely a great person to get advice from and someone who has done a lot in the music business. He sings, plays harmonica and guitar, and a stompbox. His style is blues, Americana, and rock. Chris has performed over a thousand shows from the streets of Paris to venues throughout Europe and across the United States. He has released nine albums with a variety of groups which include songwriting duo Merkley & Morgan, acoustic American roots rock band The Crooners, and the swampy blues-rock trio of Digger Jones. In addition to an extensive career of recording and touring, Merkley has composed and produced an extensive catalog of original music for TV and has songs featured in several independent films. In 2008, he created a number of original compositions for HBO's critically acclaimed series, 'Generation Kill', and has since collaborated with Free Man Music and fellow Old Boy artists to compose custom original music for Cinemax, HBO Latino, and Max Latino. Merkley is currently performing solo, as well as with Merkley & Morgan, The Crooners, and Digger Jones in the New York area. He is also in the process of converting a school bus into an eco-minded tour bus for touring and recording. Visit the bus page at Old Boy Records or connect on Twitter to follow the progress. At the start of 2020, Merkley started American Vintage Productions. It went from being a live event production company to a virtual event production company. Eventually planning to move to a hybrid format of live and virtual audiences and incorporate it into the programming to establish Rose Hall and The Orchard as regional music venues. Rose Hall is a former church space at 19 Church Street Cortland that Merkley organized programming with the Dan and Rose McNeil Foundation. The Orchard is 28 Main Street Cortland, the former Mullen's Office Outfitter building, which Merkley is in the process of developing into a mixed-use bar/restaurant/music venue as part of Cortland's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (NYS Grant Program). Follow Chris on Facebook and Instagram. You'll hear Chris's song, The Great Unknown in the episode. Hear more of his music on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and ChrisMerkley.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

A unique, new take on female pop country with a Northeastern twist. Tezza was born and raised in upstate New York where she grew up with a love of horses, performing, and country. She attended Berklee College of Music and then made her way to NYC to work on NBC's Saturday Night Live. Now residing in Nashville, Tezza has had the opportunity to tour across the U.S. and open for acts such as Hunter Hayes, Granger Smith, Chris Young, and Charles Esten, just to name a few, and play world-renowned venues such as The Bluebird, Bitter End, and Nashville's annual CMA Fest. Her single "Mercury Rising" took the world by storm, hitting 2 million streams, racking up features on CMT, All Access, iHeart Radio, Fox News, and earning a spot on Spotify's hottest Editorial playlists such as Hot Country, New Boots, Wild Country, Breakout Country, and Pop-Co. “Mercury Rising” is available on all streaming platforms! Tezza talks about her childhood in upstate New York and how it has influenced her music. She also talks about her experience as a student at the Berklee College of Music and her job after at NBC's Saturday Night Live. All of which, have helped shaped her into a better and well-rounded independent artist. You'll hear her new song, "Mercury Rising" during the podcast. The song has reached over 2.4 MILLION streams in just under 3 months, been featured by CMT, and earned a spot on some of Spotify's hottest country playlists such as: Hot Country, New Boots, Wild Country, Next From Nashville, PopCo, and Fresh Finds Country. Official Music Video is available now on YouTube. You can listen to Tezza's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Make sure to follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every other Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We're taking it back to season one and listening to all the episodes! This one is with Rob McCall of All Poets and Heroes. Rob McCall is a singer/songwriter and front man for All Poets and Heroes. The band recently released their first full-length album Occhiolism, which has drawn comparisons to Jeff Buckley, RadioHead, and Death Cab for Cutie. Michelle Bruton from The Alternative wrote, All Poets and Heroes breathes new life into ambient rock with a folk twist. He talks about the stories behind some of the songs he's written, the process of creating and the band's first full-length album, and the two-year process it took to make. We also talk about the name of the band and how the name "All Poets and Heroes" came to be. You'll hear the song, "Wine Song", off their most recent album, Occhiolism. Listen to All Poets & Heroes music on all streaming services, including Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Pandora, and more. See the band's lyric videos on YouTube. Make sure to follow All Poets and Heroes on Instagram and Facebook. You can also visit the band's website at allpoetsandheroes.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Check out the first episode from season one featuring Rachel Beverly! Rachel Beverly is a Cortland-bred musician based in Ithaca, NY, who brings her own approach to a wide variety of cover songs, as well as original music. Rachel's pure, yet gutsy, vocals come from a heartfelt desire to bring her audience a fresh new twist to songs old and new. With a unique sound ranging from singer-songwriter, folk, and alternative; she has been incorporating her original music throughout each one of her shows. She attributes her success so far to the help and promotion of local artists and venues. She talks about her new EP, new songs, and new music videos. We also dive deeper into her songwriting and how her career began.  Listen to Rachel's music on all streaming services, including Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Play, iTunes, and more. See her music videos on YouTube. Make sure to follow Rachel on Instagram and Facebook at Rachel Beverly Music and stay up to date when her next live show will be on her website rachelbeverlymusic.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every other Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Rachel Beverly is a Cortland-bred musician based in Ithaca, NY, who brings her own approach to a wide variety of cover songs, as well as original music. Rachel's pure, yet gutsy, vocals come from a heartfelt desire to bring her audience a fresh new twist to songs old and new. With a unique sound ranging from singer-songwriter, folk, and alternative; she has been incorporating her original music throughout each one of her shows. She attributes her success so far to the help and promotion of local artists and venues. She talks about her new EP, new songs, and new music videos. We also dive deeper into her songwriting and how her career began.  Listen to Rachel's music on all streaming services, including Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Play, iTunes, and more. See her music videos on YouTube. Make sure to follow Rachel on Instagram and Facebook at Rachel Beverly Music and stay up to date when her next live show will be on her website rachelbeverlymusic.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every other Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Hi everyone!  We will not be having an episode this week. I am enjoying sunny California! We will be back next week! In the meantime, listen to past episodes from season two and if you missed season one, go back and listen! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Tanya Winch sometimes feels she's living a double life. By day, she is an Investment Advisor at Winch Financial, a full-service fiduciary advisory based in her home state of Wisconsin. By night, she is a vocal coach, guitar instructor, and live musician performing with two bands, Dirty Mercy Band (original music) and the Sarah McSweeney Trio. Tanya began playing violin at age 5, taking lessons on many additional instruments throughout her youth – piano, clarinet, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone. Music and dance have always played a large part in making life exciting. Tanya enjoyed years of the independent musician experience while in Los Angeles, where she had the chance to sing back-up vocals on the Tonight Show, take home LA Music Awards and study songwriting with Grammy winners. Looking for a more balanced life, she moved to Austin in 2006, where she started teaching songwriting and vocals with GirlGuitarAustin.com, leading to private coaching in voice, guitar, piano, and songwriting. Tanya believes that a huge benefit of studying music is that it can teach tenacity and focus through solo practice. And yet, music is communal; making music with others can lift you from loneliness and fatigue to sharing inspiration and joy. Tanya believes that “music is a tread that connects us all”. Just her energy made my day better! We also were able to listen to Tanya's song, Cupid Gave Me Courage. Make sure to support Tanya's music by listening on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, or all the streaming platforms. Stay up to date and in touch with Tanya on Instagram, Facebook, or check out her website. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Today I'm talking to Zak Seeley, he is a singer/songwriter and in the band called, Eluding The Keepers. Eluding the Keepers is an alternative rock band from Ithaca NY that's composed of, Jeff DaBella, music and production, Jon Slater (also known as Slater) on the guitar, and of course, Zak Seeley with the singing and lyrics. We hear the song, By Your Side by Eluding The Keepers, which Zak wrote for his daughter before she was even born! The way he describes it is perfect and you'll need to listen to the episode to understand. Eluding The Keepers music can be found on YouTube, ReverbNation and make sure to follow the band on Facebook. You can check out the band's music and lyrics videos on their YouTube page. The band doesn't have any upcoming shows, but it working to assemble a kick-ass band after the EP is released. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We have a really cool guest on the show today. His name is Jordan Loretz and he's a singer-songwriter and saxophonist from Endwell, NY. He draws influence from jazz, folk, rock, and the blues, and has performed across New York State and around the world in countries like Europe, Ecuador, China, and Taiwan. Jordan currently plays in a duo project with Kevin Ludwig and is getting ready to play a bunch of live shows in the area. We get to hear his song called, "Celebrating" on the podcast. To see past videos of Jordan and more that he's uploading, subscribe to his YouTube page. You can follow Jordan on Facebook and Instagram and follow his duo with Kevin Ludwig on Instagram as well. Make sure to go support Jordan at his live shows! - Friday 9/10 at Stone Fox in Binghamton from 6-9 p.m. - Friday 9/17 at Stu's Place in Endicott from 7-10 p.m. - Sunday 9/19 at Stone Fox in Binghamton from 12-3 p.m. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We have a Cortland native on the podcast today and it was a wonderful time interviewing him. From the long family line of legendary Cortland musicians comes the latest Cosimo to follow his passion for music. Dimitri Cosimo inherited his Grandfather Pat's tattered and worn guitar as well as his love of music. The fact that every single spot of wear on that family heirloom came from his Grandfather's hands, decades of dedicated playing, thousands of road miles, and hundreds of songs was not lost on his grandson. After hundreds of his own hours on that guitar, Dimitri has dedicated his life to exploring his own music. While absorbing every bit of influence from the Cortland area music greats including of course the Cosimo Brothers, and especially the classic rock artists for which the area is so well known, these textures are evident in Dimitri's music. When Dimitri began writing and was ready to cut his first EP, his family shared some wisdom and advice to work with someone who can help to nurture his songwriting and music skills. He approached Lonnie Park, a music producer and owner of Barncastle Studios in Freeville NY. Lonnie has a successful career not only as a music producer but as an artist himself and occasionally works with budding regional artists. The two started working together and the “musical chemistry has been excellent” says Park. Dimitri is planning a 2021 release of this long-awaited EP but has decided to release a single which demonstrates what people can expect with the 2021 release. Dimitri's music is a new twist on a classic sound. You can hear so many notable influences in both the themes and the production. Both Dimitri and Lonnie dug deep to explore that classic sound from the songwriting to the choices of instrumentation. While the music is a clear tip of the hat to Dimitri's genetically embedded history, there is no doubt that this is something new. Dimitri's voice flashes hints of familiar voices like maybe Jim Morrison, but truly his sound is significant and unique. His guitar playing is raw and completely rooted in feeling. With Lonnie assisting on the writing and arrangement as well as production, the collective sound is polished yet raw, sweet yet raunchy, and sure to be the next chapter in the family's rock and roll story. Listen to Dimitri's song, All I Know, again and more of his music on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Tidal, TikTok, Youtube Music, and all other major streaming services. You can follow Dimitri on Facebook, Instagram or visit his website. Go see Dimitri live on Saturday, September 4th at Cortland Beer Company in Cortland, NY from 8 to 11 p.m. with a full band. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Today we are talking to Cody Daniel. At the risk of sounding cliche, Cody was born into the music industry. His father, a college disk-jockey turned entrepreneur of a Mobile DJ wedding business, blessed him with an insurmountable top 40 catalogs of over 20,000 songs. Being around pop music from birth, Cody would literally take in melodies, chord progressions, and arrangements from his crib. Teaching himself to play guitar at the age of 16, Daniel's began performing in various bands eventually realizing that he felt more comfortable composing songs on his own. He ventured solo on his own in 2014 and has since collaborated with many other talented musicians, producers, and songwriters. He is also very involved in the production of his music videos and content. We hear Cody's most recent single called, "Can't Wait". Listen to more of his music on his website, you can also stream or download any of his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon, GooglePlay, YouTube, etc. You can also follow Cody's musical journey on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. If you're in North Carolina, you can see Cody on: - August 27 at the World of Beer in Charlotte, NC - September 11 at Overtime in Raleigh, NC - September 17 at Woody's in Cary, NC Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Today I'm introducing you to Gitaruman. Gitaruman is a musical artist from Ohio who combines his love of pop melodies, relatable lyrics, and modern electronic production into his own unique sound. Growing up on the classic melodies of bands like The Beatles and The Beach Boys, he developed a love for the harmony and melodic sensibility of their music. Now he combines that with modern electronic production techniques to create a sound that is uniquely his. He has a passion for creating and listening to music. He first began studying his art form at the age of 5. He learned piano, violin, and guitar, then progressed to advanced studies in music theory. In December 2012, with more than 25 years of music under his belt, Gitaruman took his training, creativity, and passion for music and began writing and recording music. 2017 was an extremely difficult year in Gitaruman's personal life, but it left him with a well of emotional experiences that fueled his release of “Better Man”, a deeply personal song about his battle with depression. He followed up “Better Man” with the even more ambitious, “Hiraeth”. Gitaruman produced the track and sang the vocals to what was his most emotional release yet. After 3 years of introspection and refining his craft, Gitaruman is back with his raw and vulnerable single "Good Enough". The sincerity and authenticity with which Gitaruman writes allow fans of all genres to connect to his music. Expect more honest and emotional music from him and the same in this interview. Listen again to Gitaruman's single, Good Enough, and more of his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Tidal, and more. You can also follow him on Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Today we talk to Matt Ebbers. He is a Binghamton, NY musician and audio engineer. He plays drums with an alternative rock band called Tom Jolu and operates a studio in downtown Binghamton called Side Room Sounds. Matt hopes to use his experience as a performer and audio professional to be a resource for musicians and to help contribute to the growing artistic scene in Binghamton and beyond. We hear the first single from the band Tom Jolu's upcoming album called Fool's Friends, and the Great Beyond. To learn more about Matt's studio head to sideroomsounds.com, you can also follow the studio page on Facebook and Instagram. Matt currently has open bookings for recording and mixing projects with Side Room Sounds, and mastering with Valley View Masterworks. Tom Jolu, the band Matt plays drums in, has an album release show at the Bundy Museum on October 8th, tickets are on sale now. Follow Tom Jolu on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Brian Wolff is a guitarist, singer, songwriter, and podcast host based in Austin, TX. His musical style draws influence heavily from Classic Rock, 90's Alternative, and Blues. His hard-hitting playing style has been described as “tasteful, yet aggressive.” His guitar playing, along with his powerhouse vocals, led the band Fair City Fire for 7 years as they produced two LPs, The Simple Truth and Shake Your Bones, and embarked on five national tours. He also hosts a podcast, Greetings from Wherever, on which he interviews artists across a variety of mediums to discuss the creative process. As a solo artist, Brian live-streamed weekly concerts throughout the pandemic, switching between acoustic and electric sets. His five-song debut EP is due out in Fall 2021. It will be available wherever you listen to your music. We hear one of his singles, played acoustically, called, Hope You Stay. To hear more of Brian's music and to see videos of him performing head to his website brianwolffmusic.com. Also check out his YouTube channel, Instagram, and Facebook.  See where he could be playing new you by clicking here.  Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook, and the podcast on Instagram at @morethanmusicpod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on social media or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Raised in a smoky kitchen, where acoustic guitars and harmonicas filled the air, it isn't hard to understand the origins of Kevin Ludwig's raspy vocals. From theaters and stages on the East and West coast to American Idol, Kevin has put miles on the soles of his shoes and soul in the hearts of those who have listened. Ludwig has opened for Tim Reynolds (DMB), Boyd Tinsley (Formerly of DMB), Drake White, moe. , Driftwood, and Aqueous. He's played at Orpheum Theater, Westcott Theater, Grassroots, Sterling Stage, MOVE Music Festival, etc. He even made the top 100 of American Idol's 2020 season. Ludwig did have a self-scheduled tour, “Cleaner Oceans Tour”, stretching from Alabama to the Florida Keys, and then back up the East Coast. It was a month and a half tour consisting of beach cleanups, community outreach (homeless shelters, food pantries, soup kitchens, animal shelters, community programs/big brother programs), and live performances. Unfortunately, the pandemic ended that tour and hopefully, it will make a comeback. We'll listen to Kevin's song, Moonshine on the podcast today. To hear more of his music you can listen on any streaming service and just search, "Kevin Ludwig". Also, follow him on Facebook. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Raised in Hardin County, KY (about halfway between Louisville and Nashville), Kevin grew up in “mid-shift” of what is defined as country music. He has served as a supporting act for several BIG names in country music; such as Chris Young, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, David Lee Murphy, Joe Diffie, Maddie & Tae, Reilly Green, Ryan Hurd, and several more. He has played at several popular venues/festivals across the country, including CMA Music Festival, the 2019 NFL Draft, Kentucky Derby Festival, KY Bourbon Festival, Freedom Hall (Former Louisville Cardinals Men's Basketball Arena), Blake Shelton's Ole Red (All Locations), and Tootsie's Orchard Lounge. ​Because of this, his influences span several generations. From the boot-scootin', honky-tonk sounds of Brooks and Dunn, George Strait and Hank Jr., to modern-day hits of Thomas Rhett, Eric Church, and Keith Urban. His songs combine his songwriting, performing abilities, and work ethic, along with his genuine love and appreciation of country music as a whole, and you have someone who can compete with Nashville's finest. 2018 got momentum started for Kevin and his own music career. Kevin independently wrote his first single, “Hell of a Good Time”, which captures the memories of Kevin and his buddies growing up through late high school and college. It is the first single off his debut EP, Lookin' For A Party; and the song reached #15 on the New Country Artists Charts. On November 29, 2019, Kevin released "Lookin' For A Party", his second single and title track of the debut EP. “[Lookin' for a Party] is the life of a musician on the road-- a life I've lived since I was 16," Kevin says. "When you are out there, and you're going city to city... You see a lot of things... and a lot of interesting people. Literally, Class A's to the bottom of the barrel-- the rough ones! This song puts them all in one room together. Some are just there for the beer and some are lookin' for a party. That is how it goes in the dives and the clubs! You see all of them." The success of this single led to it being a JMA nomination for Song of the Year in 2020, and Kevin was also nominated for Rising Artist of the Year. His debut EP was released on Sept 1, 2020. On the same day, Kevin released his third (and current) single, "Hook, Line, and Sinker", which is a record-breaking single in its own right! Within 24 hours of release, the song had tens of thousands of streams and continues to climb as his most-streamed single to date. Kevin is currently working on the currently untitled EP #2 and is set to release the first single off it this summer. We listen to his song, Hook, Line, and Sinker for this episode. Find more of his music on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, Tidal, etc. Follow along with Kevin's musical career on all social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok. You can also visit his website. Kevin is planning a tour all over the country, which includes dates in New York, Orlando, Chicago, Gatlinburg, Lexington, Hershey, Las Vegas, and more! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Rylee Lum is a 14 year old singer/songwriter from Gilbertsville, NY. He has been performing since the age of 9, at local fairs and basically any event that he could set up and play his guitar and sing. Rylee formed his own band at the age of 11 " The Rylee Lum Band" performing shows all over New York state! Rylee has been blessed and widely accepted in the country music industry. Also, at the age of 11, he was inducted into the New York state country music hall of fame. He has opened shows for major recording artists such as, William Michael Morgan. Randy Houser, and even traveling to Arkansas to be an opening act for the Kentucky headhunters, at the Wolverton Mountain Music festival. Rylee makes at least 2 trips a year to Nashville to perform and meet people in the music business, in 2019 Rylee was invited to perform at Tootsies, Rippy's and Honky Tonk central on Broadway Nashville during CMA fest. Last June, Rylee Recorded his first Ep of all original songs in Nashville at Misstyx studio. This year Rylee is geared up to take another step in his musical journey, he has a new band, with some of the area's top musicians, and a bunch of traveling to different shows, in different states. Rylee hopes to someday be a Famous Nashville recording artist. You'll be listening to Rylee's song, Back To The Hard Times. Stream the rest of his music on Spotify, Amazon Music, iTunes, and more. Follow his musical journey on Facebook. Find his upcoming shows on his website. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Dennis Winge is a professional guitarist living in Ithaca, NY who is actively involved in teaching and performing in a variety of musical settings throughout the Finger Lakes. For live musical entertainment at parties, weddings, cocktail hours, and events of all kinds, Dennis brings decades of musical experience, a genuine desire to create a win/win situation for venues, patrons, and musicians, a wide versatility of styles/bands/musicians so that he can customize the perfect musical setting for each event/venue, the know-how to create those situations, a free consultation or potentially a free trial performance at your venue. Dennis is involved in multiple different bands including The Way Rock Cover Band and Blue Train Blues Band. Dennis Winge has performed at Carnegie Hall, the L.A. F.A.M.E. Awards, Grassroots Festival, and many other prestigious venues over his 30+ years as a freelance guitarist. Having started to learn guitar at age 7 and bass at age 12, Dennis has studied with some of NYC's finest jazz and rock guitarists including Ron Parmentier and Jack Wilkins. Winge played his first bar gig when he was 16, and has been a bandleader since his early 20s, when he headed the main campus function band “The Institutionalized” while attending Manhattan College. Later, he became the musical director for Ikonographics Videos, Inc. Some of the names he has played with in the rock world are Jon Cobert (who played with John Lennon, Bruce Springsteen); Cheetah Chrome (who played with the Dead Boys); Clifford Carter (who played with Paul Simon, James Taylor, Dolly Parton). In jazz he has worked with Bill Crow (who played with Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan); Gene Bertoncini (who played with Buddy Rich, Tony Bennett); Shunzo Ohno (who played with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock); Bob Meyer (who played with Joe Lovano, John Abercrombie); David Budway (who played with Jeff ‘Tain' Watts, Regina Carter). As for off-Broadway productions, Dennis has played in the pit on Les Misérables, All Shook Up, Footloose, 13, Smokey Joe's Café, as well as portions of Rock of Ages, Wicked, Aida, All That Jazz, Jekyll & Hyde, and In the Heights. We hear Dennis' song, Monkey Cage. Hear more of his music on his website and follow him on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Bradford Allen is a multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, and music producer from Central Upstate New York. His love for both live performance and recording is evident in his songs, crafted from triumph, tragedy, and everything in between. The respect and reverence for the art of music is clear in all his work, but Brad is not the kind to take himself too seriously. Onstage, he's not one to shy away from a bad joke or the chance to cheers a beer or three! Performing live has become a way of life. Whether solo or as an ensemble (duo w/ Steve Romer, The Freeloaders) he has averaged 100 shows a year over the last half-decade (well, let's not count 2020). This musical journey has seen Brad perform at the most esteemed venues (Carnegie Hall) to the best local watering holes, like the St. Charles. He has also opened for and shared the stage with many prominent and diverse musicians. We got to hear his song, Used To Think So. It's a powerful song that Brad was inspired to write after the murder of George Floyd. You can help make a change and support the black community by donating, sign and contact, educate yourself and much more. Visit the Black Lives Matter website to learn more. To hear more of Brad's music and stay up to date with shows coming up, head to his website, bradfrodallenmusic.com or on Instagram. You can also steam his music on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We have another country artist on the rise on the podcast today. His name is Jake Dodds. Jake Dodds grew up listening to country music, tuning into the Grand Ole Opry, and watching The Statler Brothers Show on TNN with his grandparents every Saturday night. Growing up in the 90s, Jake got hooked on Garth Brooks tv specials and country radio listening to Tracy Lawrence, Tim McGraw, and Tracy Byrd. In high school, it was Brad Paisley and Kenny Chesney who helped a shy kid through those awkward teenage years of girls, football practice, and mowing lawns. Over the last 8 years, Jake has turned a dream of being a country artist into playing hundreds of shows a year across the country, opening for 27 national touring acts all as an independent artist. We'll listen to Jake's song, Prettier In Michigan. You can watch the lyric video on YouTube. You can also listen to that single and others on Apple, Spotify, Etc. anywhere digital music is sold. Follow Jake on social media including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Go see Jake live! Upcoming shows are posted on his website. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

These women I've had on the podcast just kill it and my next guest is no different. Lindsay Diles is the lead singer in The DC Transit Band, a high-energy cover band performing at weddings and events featured across the greater DC metropolitan area. With over 20 years of experience, her featured venues include the National Mall, Entertainment and Sports Arena, and Capitol One Arena. In addition to performing acoustically, using her piano and voice to inspire and empower others, she has performed the National Anthem for the Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics, and Capital City Go-Go. She is honored to have the opportunity to share her passion for music and singing with everyone she has the pleasure of coming in to contact with. This interview was really powerful, and I can't wait for you all to hear it. You'll hear Lindsay's original song, Unshaken, during the podcast. The song is about the sexual assault Lindsay went through. Proceeds from this song are donated to the NO MORE organization. NO MORE is dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness, inspiring action, and fueling culture change. You can find Lindsay's music on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other outlets. Also, follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You can also visit her website for more information. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We could listen to Matt Rogers talk and sing all day, his voice is like honey! Award-winning songwriter Matt Rogers has one of the most unique sounds in country music. With an extensive tour schedule playing venues across the country and sharing the stage with some of country music's hottest names including Clint Black, Clay Walker, Jake Owen, Cole Swindell, Chris Stapleton, LOCASH, Jimmie Allen, Walker Hayes, Brothers Osborne, Chris Janson, and Michael Ray, Matt has built a devout fan base with his electrifying stage presence. When Rogers isn't on the road, he is writing music with some of Nashville's best songwriters. His song, "Coal," has won several songwriting awards from NSAI/CMT, Music City Songstar, American Songwriter, Songwriting University, Great American Song Contest, Dallas Songwriters Association, and Mid-Atlantic Song Contest. He achieved the top award from Music City SongStar for his song, "She Was Everything" as well as a finalist slot in the USA Songwriting Competition. Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and CMT selected his song “I Was Raised” for a songwriting achievement award. It went on to be selected by NSAI as a Top 40 song. The Georgia native has caught the attention of thousands of fans as well as country music legends like TG Sheppard, “[Matt's] the real deal…the total package. [He's] a great singer, a great picker and a great songwriter.” Rogers also received a commendation from industry tastemaker, Robert K. Oermann. Oermann selected the title track of Matt's EP, Richest Place On Earth, for Music Row's DisCovery Award. Oermann praised the track saying, “Extremely well written and sung with fire and conviction. Play this.” Throughout his career, Rogers has created a connection with his listeners through his emotionally gripping lyrics and unmistakable melodies. In 2019, his song, “Burn the Boat,” was selected as a “Top Ten Country Jam” by Buzz Feed. The release followed Matt's third appearance at CMA Fest where he performed on several stages, including Hard Rock and Wildhorse Saloon. He also met fans from across the world inside Fan Fair X where he signed autographs at the Durango Boots booth. Matt was one of the first Brand Ambassadors for Durango Boots. “Matt has a rich, unique and bold style to his music that authentically connects to his fans which is the type of artist that represents our brand perfectly,” says Erin DeLong, Durango Marketing Manager. Breedlove guitars and 64 Audio also sponsor Rogers. Matt's touring schedule is continuing to grow, spanning across the country. “I'm really excited to reconnect with my fans that have been supporting me for so long and to get the chance to connect with some new fans along the way,” says Matt. “I can't wait to get on stage and share my new music I've worked so hard on with them.” “If you don't know the name Matt Rogers then you need to write it down. He's going places,”- Hit Songwriter/ Author/ WSM 650 AM host, Devon O'Day. To listen to more of Matt Roger's music, see upcoming shows, and much more, head to, mattrogerscountry.com. Follow Matt on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Gabriel Meadows is an 18-year-old singer/songwriter from a small town in Virginia. He has been writing music since he was an early teenager and continues to write from his personal experiences going through life. His alternative rock music sound has been influenced by FINNEAS, Panic at the Disco, Fall Out Boy, Queen and David Bowie. His first EP, Working Progress features 6 songs and he recently released a single called, In the Clouds. Gabriel does every single part of the music production, from writing to recording to mixing to releasing and advertising. We'll hear his original song, The Vampire, a song about a breakup. Follow Gabriel's musical journey on Facebook, Instagram and check out his website at https://gabrielmeadows.carrd.co/. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We've had some amazing female artists on the podcast and our next guest is adding to the list of them. Elizabeth – or e Stuelke is a singer and lyricist for SOLID. An energetic, female-led alternate roots-rock band. On the road, of life, from no-name Baltimore dives to CBGBs, through self-production, to re-discovering a new voice… Originally from Delaware, e. met her artist-husband after her latest-band split up. Together they moved to NYC, he went back to med school, they had kids, she got a Masters Degree from The New School For Social Research, they moved out of the city and are now “at home” in Ithaca. Where e. is glad to continue. She is finding NOW the most creative time of her life."e" has been writing for a long time, beginning in the confines of her parents' perfect home in the idle Delaware woods. From her first attempt at adulthood and the bands they made in Delaware and Maryland, through college, through and in love, while parenting, she arrives here in Ithaca: SOLID. Her music explores territory familiar to all: loss, protection, meaning, beauty, relevance, sadness, and love. With her talented bandmates, she puts the songs out there as a way to communicate those underlying feelings, and mostly to say “I am here.” Choosing the ways of happiness that work for you, that maybe help others in their process, and that leaves the world a better place because you've been there, are hopes eternally condensed and broadened through the philosophy of music. Listen to more of SOLIDs music on solidmusic.org and any platform you listen to music on.  You can also follow the band on Facebook. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

We have another badass babe joining us on the podcast today. She hails from the small town of Binghamton, NY and her name is Brittany Rose. Brittany is a vocalist, producer, and songwriter. With what she dubs an 80's fempop air, her sensual, strong, and fiery voice often draws comparisons to Pat Benatar and Ann Wilson of Heart - that mixed with her grunge bedroom pop infused rock sound, Ms. Rose creates an atmosphere that screams laid back confidence with gold rings wrapped tightly around your fingers and a string of pearls around your neck. Make no mistake, behind her darker pop anthems like Pray Me Away (ft. A: M) and From The Trees, Brittany's light and bubbly personality shine during her live shows, effortlessly making jokes with the crowd as she swiftly flies through a catalog of original music inspired by the likes of Elton John, Lorde, Joan Jett, and Taylor Swift. Though an obscure list to pick from, all elements are noticeably present in her production, songwriting, and vocal skills. Hear more of Brittany Rose's music on any streaming service. You can also go to her website at brittanyrose.org. You can also follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

When Jordan Paul, now known as Ellis Meek released ‘Strange,' there was no indication it would turn out to be a quarantine anthem, with a spot on BBC in the South West, and in Le Soundtrack's ‘Best New Canadian Indie Releases.' The track is a call for compassion and empathy, and feels as though it was a direct reaction to the week of April it was released on; just as a global pandemic was peeking its head out to the whole world. In actuality, it was written when Jordan Paul was 17—a young empath just coming to terms with the often dark nature of things, and the fear-based responses people can resort to in lieu of love and connection. October 30th's follow-up “Archetype X” only furthers the singer-songwriter's sentiments, as Paul's oft-layered lyricism is pointedly laid bare in a song that explores the act of journeying inwards for therapeutic release. “Archetype X” was written in a self-processed act of therapy, and comes as the ultimate evolution in Hamiltonian Jordan Paul's distinctive musical style. The song boasts notes of delicate and exploratory alt. folk/rock, taking an expansive journey well beyond its subtle indie-folk roots. After Paul belts out the final refrain in the electrified coda, “Archetype X” fades into a chattering of hazy distortion and thrumming space echo—the welcome and careful calm to ease us back to reposeful contemplation before the song fades into the ether. “Jordan Paul's voice shines like an otherworldly, sophisticated diamond, hypnotic and sure. And with his newest single, he gives us another taste of something we can't get enough of.” Brent Jensen, radio personality, author, and host of No Sleep ‘til Sudbury “Archetype X” is the third release of 2020 from Jordan Paul, recorded at Jonathan Anderson's (Andy Shauf, Aidan Knight, Said the Whale) Protection Island Studios in Maple Ridge, BC, and mastered by Noah Mintz (Marcy Playground, Broken Social Scene, Matt Mays). We'll hear Ellis Meek's song, Archetype X, during the podcast. Find more of his music on Spotify, YouTube, and other streaming platforms. Follow his musical journal on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

My next guest, I have known for a long time. Just about ten years. I wanted to have him on the podcast because has a lot of experience in the music culture. Nick Stark is a 35-year-old singer and songwriter from Cortland, New York and as we'll learn in the interview – he's was not in the Cortland area for some time before returning and getting more into the local music scene. Nick is the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for Chasing Neon. And was formerly the lead singer of a band called Small Town Shade. He is a three-time SAMMY award winner. Two awards for the People's Choice Best Band and one award for Best Country Album. And we can't forget to mention the greatest accomplishment of it all, he's a dad to four-year-old son, Max. You'll hear more about the relationship with his son. We'll hear Chasing Neon's song, Shoot Your Shot during the episode. Find more of Chasing Neon's music on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and more. You can also find the band on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Another amazing artist born and raised in Central New York. His name is Tom Nitti and he's a traditional country music artist. Tom picked up a guitar at a young age through musical influences such as Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles. After graduating high school, Tom joined the United States Army as a 19D Airborne Cavalry Scout. While deployed in Afghanistan, Tom earned the Purple Heart award for his bravery in taking mortar fire rounds. Tom has since returned home where he is now employed with the New York State Police. In late 2019, Tom formed his first full piece band, "The Tom Nitti Project”. Tom later released his debut single “Babe”, which hit the Music Mafia Radio chart at #3. Tom is currently in the process of recording his first full EP scheduled to be released in 2021. Today, you can catch Tom performing all over the east coast opening up for acts such as Tucker Bethard, Hunter Hayes, Chris Janson, and more. He plays his song, "Babe" on the show. Find that song and more on Apple Music, Spotify, and tomnittimusic.com. To see where he'll be playing live, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Sam Vecchio is hilarious and is such a fun time! You will definitely want him to be your best friend after listening to this episode. Since before he could walk or talk or certainly sing, Sam Vecchio has been obsessed with music. With appreciation of all genres, Sam has studied music and artists since the first time he played a vinyl record. With influences ranging from The Beatles and Hall and Oates, to Billy Joel and Paul Carrack to recent acts like I Don't Know How But They Found Me and Lord Huron. Sam started his professional music career in college by replacing a local pub DJ that let him fill in one night and lost his spot when the patrons demanded Sam's return. In March of 2020, Sam had some extra time on his hands due to a worldwide Pandemic (COVID-19) and found himself in isolation for nearly a month without any contact with the outside world. He picked up his guitar, that hasn't seen much action from Sam in years and he started to play “Rain King” by the Counting Crows, the next night Sam played a few songs and returned every night for nearly one hundred nights consecutively (he promised his Facebook friends that he would play every night until the pandemic was over (a little ambitious on THAT promise). What he found, in turn, was not only did it help him try to get through a difficult time, but it was appointment viewing for a lot of his friends, family, and co-workers. Even though he always thought he'd be a Rockstar from age nine, he is getting to live a small part of that dream many years later. He doesn't take himself too seriously and finds it most difficult to talk about himself in the third person. Because he wrote this bio! Sam is currently working on some original music, he performs a cover of "Drive" by The Cars. Make sure you don't miss one of Sam's Facebook live's, like or follow him on Facebook. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Kendal Conrad is an amazing woman, empowering, confident, a leader, fierce, a feminist and so much more. Kendal is a singer-songwriter from Pottstown, PA. Her single Leader of the Pack garnered over 25 million views on Tiktok and over 1 million plays on Soundcloud. She sang a duet onstage with Keith Urban at Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA. She also opened for 32 of the country's hottest artists, including Blake Shelton at the Dick's Sporting Goods Open to a crowd of 18,000, Alabama at the Santander Arena, and Kane Brown. She has performed the National Anthem for the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, NASCAR, etc. We'll take a listen to her badass song, "Leader of the Pack". Listen to more of Kendal's music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Soundcloud, or anywhere you listen to your music! Follow Kendal on her social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Kendal plays gigs every week. Check the Events tab on her Facebook page. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing you to the humble, kind, and incredibly talented, Steve Romer. Steve is a Cortland based musician and is inspired by the 90's grunge and pop-rock scene. He started in music because his friends talked him into trying out a local open mic night and the next week, he had his first show! He's been on tour with Ten Man Push as the opening act. He's also opened for national acts such as Kevin Griffin of Better than Ezra, Ed Kowalczyk of Live, The Black Moods, Andrew Leahey, and the Homestead. Make sure to listen to Steve's song, "Maybe" during the podcast. Follow Steve Romer on Facebook and the duo, Steve Romer and Bradford Allen. You can also stay up to date when he will be playing live! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing the youngest guest of the podcast so far, but one of the oldest souls! At 17, New York native, Sydney Irving is in the early years of her music career, but she has already been named the 2020 young adult artist of the year by the International Singer-Songwriters Association. At only 14, her debut album, “Hello Stranger” was released. Irving has been fortunate to have had the opportunity to be direct support for Starship featuring Mickey Thomas at the 2019 Spiedie Fest in Binghamton, NY, and perform at the 2019 Dio Day event in Cortland, NY. Later that year, Sydney attended a Barns Courtney concert. She had the chance to meet him before the show and then during the show, Courtney called her up on stage to sing his hit song “You & I” with him! She has also had the privilege to open for artists like Matt Rogers and Mikele Buck as well as be the youngest artist to have a residency at the largest casino in New York State. Sydney Irving, who has been nominated for best singer/songwriter at the Syracuse Area Music Awards three times, has been writing songs since she was twelve with her guitar. Sydney is a proud Breedlove Guitar endorsed artist. Along with being named the 2020 Female Artist of the Year by Music Mafia Radio, now at 17, Irving is gearing up to release her fifth studio album, "Relax With Fiends" which is set to be released in December 2020. With a fresh, indie rock sound, Sydney is following her dreams of pursuing music. We feature Sydney's brand new single, What Have You Done. It's available on a limited edition CD on Sydney's website, sydneyirvingmusic.com and there's only 100 available! They are hand-signed and numbered. Listen to more of her music on her website, iTunes, Amazon Music, YouTube, and Spotify. You can follow along with her music career on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Also see her live and in-person in the summer in New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia! Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Introducing, Gary Carpentier! Gary is a 29-year-old singer/songwriter from Oswego, NY. He has been performing since 2014 as a solo act, a member of the McConnell, Caruso, Carpentier trio, and as a member of the Silver Arrow Band out of Syracuse, NY. Carpentier won a SAMMY Award this past year for Best RnB Album, was nominated as Best Lead Actor in a Musical for his role in the Baldwinsville Theater Guild's production of Bright Star, and, most notably, was on the cast of the 13th season of NBC's Emmy Award-Winning program, “The Voice,” as a member of Team Adam Levine. With original music and covers ranging from Bruce Springsteen to Lorde, Gary has been traveling and entertaining crowds across New York and the country. His voice is a mix of soul, pop, and crooner style. Gary writes in the contemporary, singer/songwriter style, but with a twist of modern pop. We'll take a listen to a song called "9 to 5" off of Gary's EP, "Lucid". Listen to more of Gary's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and anywhere you find or listen to music! Follow Gary on all social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter all @garycarpentiermusic. You can also email Gary at garycarpentiermusic@gmail.com Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Chris Merkley is so inspiring with all that he's accomplished in his career so far. He's definitely a great person to get advice from and someone who has done a lot in the music business. He sings, plays harmonica and guitar, and a stompbox. His style is blues, Americana, and rock. Chris has performed over a thousand shows from the streets of Paris to venues throughout Europe and across the United States. He has released nine albums with a variety of groups which include songwriting duo Merkley & Morgan, acoustic American roots rock band The Crooners, and the swampy blues-rock trio of Digger Jones. In addition to an extensive career of recording and touring, Merkley has composed and produced an extensive catalog of original music for TV and has songs featured in several independent films. In 2008, he created a number of original compositions for HBO's critically acclaimed series, 'Generation Kill', and has since collaborated with Free Man Music and fellow Old Boy artists to compose custom original music for Cinemax, HBO Latino, and Max Latino. Merkley is currently performing solo, as well as with Merkley & Morgan, The Crooners, and Digger Jones in the New York area. He is also in the process of converting a school bus into an eco-minded tour bus for touring and recording. Visit the bus page at Old Boy Records or connect on Twitter to follow the progress.  At the start of 2020, Merkley started American Vintage Productions. It went from being a live event production company to a virtual event production company. Eventually planning to move to a hybrid format of live and virtual audiences and incorporate it into the programming to establish Rose Hall and The Orchard as regional music venues. Rose Hall is a former church space at 19 Church Street Cortland that Merkley organized programming with the Dan and Rose McNeil Foundation. The Orchard is 28 Main Street Cortland, the former Mullen's Office Outfitter building, which Merkley is in the process of developing into a mixed-use bar/restaurant/music venue as part of Cortland's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (NYS Grant Program). Follow Chris on Facebook and Instagram.  You'll hear Chris's song, The Great Unknown in the episode. Hear more of his music on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and ChrisMerkley.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

A unique, new take on female pop-country with a Northeastern twist. Tezza was born and raised in upstate New York where she grew up with a love of horses, performing, and country. She attended Berklee College of Music and then made her way to NYC to work on NBC's Saturday Night Live. Now residing in Nashville, Tezza has had the opportunity to tour across the U.S. and open for acts such as Hunter Hayes, Granger Smith, Chris Young, and Charles Esten, just to name a few, and play world-renowned venues such as The Bluebird, Bitter End, and Nashville's annual CMA Fest. Her single "Mercury Rising" took the world by storm, hitting 2 million streams, racking up features on CMT, All Access, iHeart Radio, Fox News, and earning a spot on Spotify's hottest Editorial playlists such as Hot Country, New Boots, Wild Country, Breakout Country, and Pop-Co. “Mercury Rising” is available on all streaming platforms! Tezza talks about her childhood in upstate New York and how it has influenced her music. She also talks about her experience as a student at the Berklee College of Music and her job after at NBC's Saturday Night Live. All of which, have helped shaped her into a better and well-rounded independent artist. You'll hear her new song, "Mercury Rising" during the podcast. The song has reached over 2.4 MILLION streams in just under 3 months, been featured by CMT, and earned a spot on some of Spotify's hottest country playlists such as: Hot Country, New Boots, Wild Country, Next From Nashville, PopCo, and Fresh Finds Country. Official Music Video is available now on YouTube. You can listen to Tezza's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Make sure to follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Rob McCall is a singer/songwriter and front man for All Poets and Heroes. The band recently released their first full-length album Occhiolism, which has drawn comparisons to Jeff Buckley, RadioHead, and Death Cab for Cutie. Michelle Bruton from The Alternative wrote, All Poets and Heroes breathes new life into ambient rock with a folk twist. He talks about the stories behind some of the songs he's written, the process of creating and the band's first full-length album, and the two-year process it took to make. We also talk about the name of the band and how the name "All Poets and Heroes" came to be. You'll hear the song, "Wine Song", off their most recent album, Occhiolism. Listen to All Poets & Heroes music on all streaming services, including Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Pandora, and more. See the band's lyric videos on YouTube. Make sure to follow All Poets and Heroes on Instagram and Facebook. You can also visit the band's website at allpoetsandheroes.com. Be sure to like, subscribe and give the More Than Music Podcast a review wherever you listen to the podcast and share us with a friend! We release shows every Wednesday and look out for a bonus episode every now and then. Find me, Kara Conrad on Facebook and the podcast on Instagram at More Than Music Pod. If you want to talk to me or suggest a guest just send me a message on Instagram or email me at karaaconrad@gmail.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support

Join host Kara Conrad as she has candid conversations with up and coming musicians, singers, and songwriters local to Central New York and across the country. What inspired them to start a career in music? What have they overcome and are still overcoming? What makes the music? More Than Music launches on December 16, 2020. New episodes released every Wednesday. Make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and leave a review to let us know how you like it!  Connect with Kara on Facebook or karaaconrad@gmail.com and with the podcast on Instagram. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/morethanmusicpod/support