Rock And Roll Confessional

Formed in Los Angeles' lengendary Sunset Strip in 1985, Guns N' Roses quickly rose from the gritty club scene to become one of the biggest acts in rock music - achieving massive commercial success and becoming a top live draw in under three years. Along the way, their meteoric rise was matched by no shortage of controversy, internal conflict, and headline-making moments.  In the book "Guns N' Roses at 40", acclaimed rock historian and author Martin Popoff explores 40 priotal moments that shaped the band's legacy - from their formation and  breakout success to major tours, iconic releases, creative partnerships, internal struggles, and everthing in between.  We were thrilled to be speaking with Martin Popoff about his new book. With over 100 titles to his name on topics ragning from hard rock and heavy metal to classic rock and vinyl collection, Martin's work includes Rush" The Illustrated History, Led Zeppelin: Song By Song, Pink Floyd: Album by Album, Bowie at 75, AC/DC at 50, KISS at 50 and more. He also contributed to the award-winning docuemtaries Rush: Beyond the LIghted Stage and ZZ Top: That Little Ol' Band From Texas.   

This interview we welcome an old friend back into the studio - someone who's been part of the soundtrack of our lives for decades, It's JR Richards, fromerly of Dishwalla. JR began his career as the lead singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the iconice alternative rock band Dishwalls. The bands' debut album "Pet Your Friends" dropped in 1995, and it didn't take long for them to make waves. In 1996, The Richards-penned 'Counting Blue Cars" hit #1 earning JR a Billboard Music Award for Top Mainstream Rock Track of the Year. But that was just the beginning. JR has been producing music since the '90s not only for Dishwalla but also for this own solo projects and a slew of TV shows. You might've heard his work on series like One Tree Hill, How I Met Your Mother, Criminal Minds and he even contributed twenty songs to the reboot of Baywatch in 2017.  Now, JR is gearing up to release his 10th studio album (5th solo), "My Darkest Hour", expected in the next few months. So we're thrilled to sit down and talk about it, along with his journey through music and all the incredible milestones along the way.

A pioneer and one of the first aritsts ever inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, Dion DiMucci first rose to fame with his group Dion & The Belmonts, before becoming a solo sensation with iconic hits like The Wanderer, Runaround Sue and many more. His influence on American music spans more than six decades - and he's still going strong.  Earlier this year, Dion co-authored a powerful and deeply personal new book with his longtime friend Adam Jablin. It's titled: Dion - The Rock N Roll Philosopher: Conversations on LIfe, Recovery, Faith 7 music. In it, Dion opens up about his incredible journey - his struggles and triumphs, his faith, and his unwavering passion for music.  In our conversation, we'll talk about the new book, his decision to give up his seat on the plane with Buddy Holly, his path to sobriety, wisdom he gained from Sam Cooke, and the lessons He's leanred across a lifetime in music. Check out our show notes at; www.rockandrollconfessional.rocks  

One of the greatest rock bands in our generation was REO Speedwagon. At the beginning of this year, we received word that REO was officially no longer. But that doesn't mean that guitarist, song writter and lead vocalist Kevin Cronin is stopping. We had the opportunity to speak with Kevin not only about his upcoming tour (with many of the REO family members), but we spoke about his dad being in World War II, why REO broke up, how Stephen Stills is one of his all time heroes and a hint of his new book. 

ZZ Ward was born in 1986 and is an American Singer-Songwriter from Roseburg, Oregon. She signed with Hollywood Records to release here debut EP, Criminal in 2012, which preceded the release of her debut studio album, Til The Casket Drops, that same year. Her second studio album, The Storm was released in 2017, which peaked atop the Billboard Blues Albums Chart. Her third studio album, Dirty Shine (2023), was released independently and met with cricital acclaim. On Friday, March 14 (2025) ZZ will be releasing her next album which is on the famous blues label: Sun Records, titled Liberation. 

This show is our amazing interview with Rick Springfield. You may remember Rick who played Dr. Noah Drake on General Hospital, Pastor Charles on American Horror Story or even playing himself (naked) on Californication. But did you know he is also an amazing musician, singer & songwriter??? There is WAY more to Rick than "Jessie's Girl".  Hang tight for a great ride with this show. We talk about how he coped with the recent fires in Los Angeles, his new CD/vinyl box set: BIG HITS: RICK SPRINGFIELD'S GREATEST HITS, VOLUME 2, along with plans for his future and his most prized collectibles. 

We are back with our good friend Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Since the last time we interviewed Kenny, he has released a follow up album to "Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol 1" iornically titled, "Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol 2".  In addition to the new album, we talk about Kenny's experience actually playing Jimi Hendrix's "Woodstock" guitar and his upcoming tour, plus 2 new albums set to release in 2025.  Kenny is a five-time-Grammy-nominated guitarist. The new album was recorded  at the Legendary Fame Stuios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. This project chronicles Shepherd's journey of musical evolution, touching on stories of loss, redemption, and memorable melodies. All crafted by an elite team of songwriters. Born in Louisiana, in 1977, Shepherd's own life has never followed the script. Steeped in classic blues and rock 'n' roll from an early age by his dad - a respected Lousiana radio personality and promoter - Kenny soon reached for his first Fender stratocaster and found he didn't require lessons to make it cry and wail. Long before Warner Brothers subsidairy Giant Records offered a deal, Shepherd had toured in clubs which he was too young to drink in.    Please also check out our precious KWS interview released: October 7, 2023.

Formed in Toronto in 1968, Rush became one of the most popular and best-selling bands in rock history, thanks to their tireless effort and imaginative, ever-evolving music. This richly illustrated and entertianingly written book from Rush expert and music journalist Dan Bukszpan pays tribute to the trio on the 50th anniversary of their debut album by curating and examining 50 of the most significant milestones in the bands career. Daniel covers everything down through the decades. And in this interview we talk with him about : The band's formation by bassiest Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson in the suburban Toronto and their early gigs and tours opening for the likes of KISS. We also talk about the breakthrough in the United States thanks to a Cleveland DJ. Plus, the role of co-founding drummer, John Rutsey. Plus much more. In examinging 50 touchstones, Bukszpan presents a unique look at Rush's Career from Toronto bar band to international mega-platinum stadium fillers. Every page is illustrated with stunning concert and candid offstage photography, including gig posters, 7 - inch picture sleeves, ticket stubs and more.

As one of the founding members, lead singer, lead guitarist, and wrote more than 90% of the Grand Funk Railroad music catalog, Mark Farner has always been known as the energetic driving force on stage, the engine that pulled the original Grank Funk Railroad to the top of the charts. From his soulful voice and power rock riffs, to fueling the Funk with his atomic stage presence. His story and his imprint on music starts with Flint and since 1969 from his humble beginnings and a blue-collar outlook, Farner has captained a global crusade for love, peace and freedom and became a rock 'n' roll icon. Mor the 60 years later - he commands the stage with the same intensity performing epic hits that defined a generation - "I'm Your Captian (Closer to Home)", "Bad Time", "Some Kind of Wonderful", "Foot Stompin' Music", "Heartbreaker", "Rock & Roll Soul", "Locomotion", "Mean Mistreater" and  "We're An American Band" Mark will be releasing his latest solo album, "Closer To My Home" on November 8th , and we had the opporutnity to speak with him regarding the album along with his musical career.

Joanne Shaw Taylor, discovered at 16 by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, quickly ascended as one of the world's leading rock guitarists. Championed by legends like Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, and Joe Bonamassa, her powerful songwriting and distinct vocals first captivated audiences with here 2009 debut, White Sugar. Over the years, Joanne has released numerous acclaimed albums, including the UK Top 20 hit Reckless Heart and the #1 Billboard Blues Chart toppers The Blues Album and Blues From The Heart Live. Her most recent studio album, Heavy Soul, launced under Bonamassa's Journeyman Record earlier this year.

Joe Bonamassa is not a household name. But if you ask any musician one of their top favorite guitarist, Joe will surely be included. Only in his 40s, Bonamassa has become a living legend with an astounding multi-genre catalogue. Collectively, Joe has over 40 albums to date with studio and live recordings, collaborative albums with blues sensation Beth Hart and his adventurous side projects: Black Country Communion and Rock Candy Fund Party. A prolific writer always on the hunt to expand his eclectic musical horizons, Bonamassa has a limitless work eithic whether it's in a studio, on the road or working with other artists to spur new music. The New York state native opened for B.B. King when he was only 12 years old and has since played alongside such artists as Eric Clapton, Stephen Stills, John Lee Hooker, Warren Haynes, Steve Winwood, Peter Frampton and Buddy Guy, among others. B.B. King might not have guessed it at the time, but that 12-year-old prodigy would go on to become an industry powerhouse. Building on their 30-year parnership, Joe and manager Roy Weisman created their own record label, management, marketing and concert promotion company called J&R Adventures almost two decades ago. Together, the two mavericks devised a 360-degree independent business model that has survived and thrived during one of the music industry's most uncertain eras. 

Since their debut in 2011, Orange County's Robert Jon & The Wreck have captivated audiences worldwide, turning the Southern Rock sound on its head and making it distinctly their own. With Robert Jon Burrison's lead vocals and guitar, the band's synergy on stage is undeniable. As they embark on this next phase with their new release: Red Moon Rising coming out June 28, they invite both longtime followers and new listeners to join in the celebration of their ongoing evolution and the invincible spirit of rock 'n' roll. The band has toured in the past with Joe Bonamassa, Peter Framption, Buddy Guy and Rival Sons. Their current tour is extensive and goes through December including dates in the U.K. Robert Jon & The Wreck just recently signed to Joe Bonamasssa and Roy Weissman's label: Journeyman Records.

Rock 'n' roll at it's finest. This episode is with the legendary Buck Dharma of Blue Oyster Cult. The band started as BOC in 1967 and has been releasing albums and touring ever since. They have a new album titled "Ghost Stories", which features rare and unreleased music from as far back as the late 70's. These songs, for the most part were never offically released and have been sitting in a vault since they were originally preformed. Now, with the help of A.I., the music has been cleaned up and put onto this one special album. Buck is one of the original founding members, guitarist and vocalist and performs such hits as "Don't Fear The Reaper", "Godzilla" and "Burnin' For You". He shares his history with the band along with insight to how this new album was created.

This episode is with rock and blues legend George Thorogood.  George is celebrating his 50th year in music. He has released 15 studio albums, toured extensively over the years with great bands like, Muddy Waters, ZZ Top, Jonn Hammond, The Rolling Stones, Johnny Winter, BB King and he played at Live Aid in 1985. George and the Destroyers will be touring this summer with John Fogerty.  George has always given praise to some of his musical heros by recording their rare songs and bringing them into the publics eye. Plus he has written such classic tunes like: Bad To The Bone, I Drink Alone and You Talk Too Much. George talks about his musical influences along with some of his DJ friends from the past years in radio.  For reference, George talks about Jim Ladd. Jim was best known for being a Free Form DJ in the Los Angeles radio market starting in the 70s. Both Rita And CW worked with Jim for many years. Jim passed away in December of 2023.

This episode is with the band Venice. We were able to reconnect with the band at this year's NAMM show. Venice is known mostly for their amazing harmonys, ones you might hear from Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, The Eagles or Steely Dan. But they have made a mark for themselves in the music world. Following their sisters (and Aunts) the Lennon Sisters, this band has been together since the 80s, impressing the likes of Jackson Browne, David Crosby & Steely Dan. They have worked with such great as Cher, Stevie Nickes, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Brian Wilson, Sting & Phil Collins. Infact they were chosen as the backup vocals for Roger Water's The Wall tour from 2010 - 2013. The band has a new album titled "Stained Glass" which features 16 new songs written by the band and recorded in Micahel Lennon's backyard during the pandemic. We were lucky enough to get all 4 members on this interview: Marky, Kipp, Michael & Pat! Please enjoy, and if you do like it, find two previous episodes - a two part with Kipp Lennon back in 2020. 

This episode is with C.F. Martin, IV, or "Chris" as he prefers, who is the Executive Chairman of the world-renowned C.F. Martin & Co. and 6th generation of the Martin family to run the business. Martin acoustic guitars are prized worldwide for their exceptional tone, design, crafsmanship and attention to detail. Under Chris Martin's direction, the Company has maintained its integrity and industry wide respect while growing and prospering to unprecedented manufacturing and sales levels. Martin Guitar was founded in 1833 and is headquartered in Nazareth, PA. In this interview, Chris talks about some of the famous Martin guitars belonging to Willie Nelson, Joan Baez, Post Malone, Eric Clapton and more. Plus we talk about some of the new models that have just be released or re-issued.

This episode of Rock And Roll Confessional features the original drummer and founding member of Foghat; Roger Earl. The band was formed in 1971 after Roger and Lonseome Dave left Savoy Brown. Over the years, Foghat earned eight Gold Records, one Platinum Record and one Double-Platinum record. With such incredible songs like: Fool For The City, Slow Ride, Honey Hush, I Just Want To Make Love To You, and Drivin' Wheel. Now the band has just released their 17th album: Sonic Mojo. Which by the way, just became number one on the Billboard Blues Album chart: The album is full of great Americana blues sound with 6 new songs and 6 remakes from some of the great master songwriters and performers.

This episode is with founding Ides of March member and founding Survivor member, Jim Peterik. Jim has written hundreds of songs for some of the biggest bands including: Cheap Trick, The Doobie Brothers, 38 Special, Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. Jim latest band: "Jim Peterik and World Stage", have a new album being released on January 12, 2024, titled " Roots & Shoots". The first single (which is out now); Dangerous Combination features Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon. Jim talks about the new album along with a possible Ides of March 60th anniversary reunion show, a World Stage tour, playing with Led Zeppelin & Janis Joplin, plus what the "dungeon" is all about. 

The Holiday season is here, and what a better way to celebrate than with rock and blues legendary guitarist, Gary Hoey! Gary just released a new album for Record Store Day (2023): Hark the Ho Ho Hoey Hits. Plus he has begun his holiday Ho Ho Hoey tour. This episode of our show is all things Christmas and holidays, with a little added spice by Gary.  In 1993, Gary Hoey got well known with his remake of Focus' "Hocus Pocus". He then followed that with the Endless Summer 2 soundtrack and in 1997 with one of his first big Christmas hits: "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch". Gary one time auditioned for Ozzy Osbourne, when Ozzy was searching for a replacement for Jake E. Lee, but the job went to Zakk Wylde. Now after 30 years and 24 albums, Gary is still considered one of today's most acclaimed guitarists.

Felix Cavaliere is one of the founders of Grammy winning and Rock And Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, The Rascals. The band had #1 songs like "Good Lovin", "Groovin", "A Beautiful Morning", "I've Been Lonely Too Long", "People Got To Be Free" and "How Can I Be Sure". Felix still infuses the same enthusiam he used to perform those past songs, when he is talking about the language beyond words: Music. His work has never been bolder as it is in his new album "Then And Now". Felix and the Rascals are members of; The Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, Musicians Hall of Fame, Grammy Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame and many others. "Then and Now" is Felix' frist solo album since 1993. 

This episode is with five-time-Grammy-nominated guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Kenny's new album: "Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol 1" is scheduled to be released on November 17th, and we were lucky enough to catch him for the interview right before his tour started. The new album was recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The project chronicles Shepherd's journey of musical evolution, touching on stories of loss, redemption, and memorable melodies, all crafted by an elite team of songwriters. Born in Louisiana, in 1977, Shepherd's own life has never followed the script. Steeped in classic blues and rock 'n' roll from an early age by his dad - a respected Louisiana radio personality and promoter - Kenny soon reached for his first Fender Stratocaster and found he didn't require lessons to make it cry and wail. Long Before Warner Brothers subsidiary Giant Records offered a deal, Shepherd had toured in clubs he was still too young to drink in. 

This episode is with author Daniel Bukszpan. Daniel has been a freelance writer for over 25 years. He has written for such publicantions as Fortune, CNBC, Conde Nast Traveler, and many more. He is the author of The Encyclopedia of Heavy Metal, The Encyclopeida of New Wave, Woodstock: 50 years of Peace and Music, and the book we are talking about today: Ozzy @ 75. Ozzy @ 75 explores the history of the godfather of heavy metal through seventy-five career accomplishments and life events. It's a captivating and comprehensive tribute to the legendary rock icon, celebrating the remarkable life and career of one of the most influential figures in rock history. 

This episode is with Collective Soul's bassist Will Turpin. Will is one of the busiest musicians on the planet. He is promoting the latest Collective Soul album: Vibrating, his current solo album: Serengeti Drivers, his recording studio: Reel 2 Reel and he is even teasing the next Collective Soul album which is almost finished. The band has many exciting thing happening in 2024 as they celebrate their 30th anniversary, including at least one new album and a documentary that is scheduled to be released mid-year. Will talks about the 30th anniversary of the band, playing at Woodstock '94 & '99 and recording at Elvis' home. 

The episode is with the one and only Mark Volman. Mark is one half of Flo & Eddie and one of the original members of The Turtles. Mark has just set out on the 2023 Happy Together tour which runs until the beginnning of September. He talks about this year's touralong with great antidotes including haning with Keith Moon, his time working with Frank Zappa, and singing with Bruce Springsteen. Many people don't realize how many bands Flo & Eddie sang with including John Lennon, Ozzy Osbourne, T-Rex, Roger McGuinn, Ray Manzerek, David Cassidy, Keith Moon, Alice Cooper, Blondie, The Knack, Psycadelic Furs, Sammy Hagar, Jefferson Airplane, The Ramones, Duran Duran and so many more. Plus Mark tells about the infamous story of Flo & Eddie , Frank Zappa and how the song "Smoke On The Water" came about for Deep Purple, Yes, Mark was there!

This episode is with rock and blues artist Sass Jordan. Sass started here solo career in 1988. Her second album which was the first release in the U.S., featuered the hit: "Make You A Believer". She has just released her 12th album titled "Live In New York - Ninety Four, and features Taylor Hawkins on drums. This tour was the first big break for Taylor as he joined Sass for the '94 tour. Sass talks about Taylor playing drums and what she felt Taylor was going through leading up to his death. Also we get the story of how she "audtioned" for Van Halen, how how grueling touring is. Plus much more. 

This epsisode is with Bobby Colomby, founding member and drummer for the band: Blood Sweat & Tears. The band has just released a new film in theateres titled: What The Hell Happened to Blood Sweat & Tears. The film features interviews and archival footage from the controversial tour, which resulted in the band suffering backlash from fans. Although the decision of the tour may not have been the best, Bobby says they really had no other choice. Bobby talks about the film, where the archival footage was found after 50 years, plus other great rock 'n' roll stories including the band playing at Woodstock and his letter from Tina Turner. Plus much more!

Our latest episode is with Chris Epting. Chirs has been a music journalist for decades, writing for Ultimate Class Rock dot come, Loudwire and many others. He has also written many books including subjects on Baseball, Travel Landmarks and Rock 'n' Roll. HIs music repertoire includes books on Phil Collen (Def Leppard), John Oates (Hall & Oates), Brian Wheat (Tesla), Leif Garrett, The Doobie Brothers and his soone to be released book (5/10/23) Dave Mason: "Only You Know and I Know". Chris talks about what it's like working with an artist and writing about their history and  actually working with earch to cature their essence in the writings. He also tells many rock stories including trying to sell Girl Scout cookies to Keith Richards.  

This episode is with David Leaf. David has had an extensive career producing films like: "The Night James BRoan Saved Boston", "The U.S. vs. John Lennon" and "Beautiful Dreamer: Brian Wilson and the Story of Smile". David has also written many books including: "KISS-Behind The Mask", "The BeeGees - The Authorized Biography" and his latest book, which he is discuiing in this episode: "God Only Knows - The Story of Brian Wilson, The Beach Boys and the California Myth". David originally released this book back in the 70's, but has since updated it with over double the content. Plus David talks about some of his favorite concerts that he did and didn't get into. 

This episode is with Jerry Pompili. Jerry worked at the Fillmore East, Fillmore West, Winterland and many other venues under the direction of famous concert promoter, Bill Graham in San Francisco. For years Jerry hosted shows with The Who, Jimi Hendrix, The Band, The Rolling Stones and many more. He went on tour with the Stones in 1971. He talks about the concert business in San Francisco during his career along with many antidotes about the business and his experiences with the bands. Plus what happened when he hung with Emerson Lake & Palmer in Salt Lake City. 

This episode is with one of the original founding members of The Kinks, Dave Davies. Dave has been the lead guitarist since the bands inception in 1963. The band has released over 24 studio albums along with Dave releasing 7 solo albums. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the albums; "Muswell Hillbillies" and "Everybody's In Show Biz"- The Kinks have recently released a new box set featuring 11 discs, a hard cover book, a dvd featuring film footage that brother Ray shot during the recording period and much more. In our interview, Dave talks about how important country music was to the band and why the original recording of the box set albums were so meaningful to the band. We also talk to Dave about being banned in the U.S. for many years, his two releases coming on Record Store Day in November and his thoughts on saving the planet.

Spencer Proffer is our latest guest. Spencer has over 120 film and TV credits including: Producer, Music Consultant, Music Supervisor, Music Director, Composure and more. His passion for music put Quiet Riot on the map along with many other artist he worked with including: Cheap Trick, Heart, Eddie Money, The Beach Boys and more! Meteor 17 is Spencer's production company and they have just released the new documentary - "The Day The Music Died - The Story of Don McLean's American Pie", which is now streaming on Pramount Plus. The documentary focuses on the highly successful song and with Don McLean's help, the meaning behing the lyrics of this iconic song. We also talk with Specner about his upcoming documentary; "Elvis and Steve" and how he put Quiet Riot on the rock 'n' roll map!

Bill German, for many years wrote, researched and published his "fanzine" Beggars Banquet about the Rolling Stones. It led him to hang out with members of the band for over 17 years. He was invited to parties with Keith and Woody, went on tour with the band and so much more. He wrote a book a few years ago which has just been updated for the 60th anniversary of the Rolling Stones. The new version incluides updated information including an interview that Bill did with original band member: Ian Stewart. The book is titled: "Under Their Thumb - How A Nice Boy From Brooklyn Got Mixed Up With The Rolling Stones. 

Walter Trout, guitarist, singer/songwriter, has been playing the blues his entire life. With tips from B.B. King, Walter became one of the best blues guitarists today. He has had his ups and downs, with drugs & alcohol and even coming within hours of loosing his life. Walter has just released his 30th album titled: "Ride" - and this album honestly gives you a ride. Walter starts off the interview with one of the greatest cofessions we have ever had. It's an exclusive story that he has never told to the general public. Followed by many wonderful stories about his love of his family to some of the great artists and bands he has pllayed with.  If you aren't yet a Walter Trout fan, listen to the interivew and check out his new album and we promise you won't walk away disapointed!

This episode of Rock And Roll Confessional is with our good friend Gina Iorillo - Corrales. We met Gina at the radio station back in the 90s. Gina grew up in the music business with her family owning and managing the famous Agoura Ballroom in Cleveland, Ohio. She worked for Mercury/Polydor music and MCA Records, and was the first female vice-president of Rock Promotions of a record company. 

Lit's founding members and brothers Ajay & Jeremy Popoff join us for this episode. Lit had one of the biggest mega hits in the 90's: "My Own Worst Enemy", along with many others. The band's last album was a shift to country music, but their lastest album: "Tastes Like Gold" is back to the bands original roots - great party music! The album will be released on June 17th and features the songs: "Yeah Yeah Yeah" and "Kicked Off The Plane". 

This episode is with Grammy award winners, Mark Linett and Alan Boyd, who are part of the team that is releasing the new Beach Boys remastered compilation: "The Sounds of Summer: The Very Best of the Beach Boys"! It features 80 remastered tracks and is available in two formats: 3 CD set or 6 vinyl LP set. The release date is June 17, 2022 - just in time for summer. Mark & Alan have been working with the Beach Boys archives for over 30 years and they come to us with many great stories about the box set and working with Brian Wilson and the band. 

Matt Sorum drummer for Guns 'N' Roses & The Cult, has a new book titled; Double Talkin' Jive (named after one of the GNR songs from the Use Your Illusion I album) and it has just been released. It's all about his life starting with his childhood through his current years. Matt talks about the CRAZY times while in Guns 'N' Roses, The Cult, Velvet Revolver along the story of how he met his wife, Ace. The book is a fantastic read and the interivew is even better. 

Elliot Kendall is one of our favorite friends! Rita and CW met Elliot when he was the Director of Radio and Tour Promotion, Sales & Marketing for Universal Music. He now has his own promotion company: "Film & Music Promotion". Elliot has worked with many big names including: The Who, KISS, Nirvana, Iron Maiden, The Kinks, Brian Wilson, Peter Frampton, Styx and many more. He tells us his story of his career along with some very cool rock and roll stories with Ringo Starr, Smokey Robinson, Joe Satriani and more. 

Dorothy Martin from the band Dorothy began here career by attending the Musician's Institute in Los Angeles. She started her band in 2014 and in 2016 was signed to Jay Z's Roc Nation label. The band is no about to release their 3rd album: "Gifts From The Holy Ghost", which comes out on April 22nd. The band has opened for acts like Heart, Joan Jett, The Struts, Lita Ford, Halestorm and co-headlined a tour with Greta Van Fleet and was a part of the Lollapalooza tour in 2018. 

Singer / Songwriter Beth Hart joins us in our latest interivew. Beth rose to fame in the 90s wth her blues/rock vocals and her amazing piano playing. She suffered many years with mental illness and addiction (which she talks about in the interview), but has learned to live with some of her past demons. Beth has released 10 solo albums not including 4 with Joe Bonomassa. Her new albums: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin comes comes out on 2/25/22 and features 9 of her favorite Zeppelin tracks which are emphazised with Beth's unique vocal talents. Beth's raw vocals put her into the category of one of the best female vocalists of all time.

The Boxmasters, Billy Bob Thornton and JD Andrew return for our Holiday Special show. They talk about their new album: "Christmas In California" which features 10 songs, 8 of which are newly written holiday (soon to be) classics! The guys also talk about the many albums they have been recording during the pandemic along with a tease of the new release. Plus we have a very special guest that joins us in the show! 

World Famous DJ Richard Blade joins us for this episode. Richard started in radio in England followed by Bakersfield, Long Beach (CA), and finally KROQ in Los Angeles. He was one of the top rated jocks during his career. Richard has a new book titled: "The Lockdown Interviews" featuring interviews with some of the hottest band from the 80s including members of Duran Duran, Sparks, Spandau Ballet, The English Beat, The Alarm, Dramarama and more. The interviews were recorded from Richard's SiriusXM Radio show during the pandemic. The book was just released in November of 2021 and is available in paperback and Kindle version at Amazon.

Brad Tolinski was the Editor-in-Chief of Guitar World magazine for over 25 years. Chris Gill was the Editor-in-Chief of Guitar Aficionado magazine. The two have joined forces to put out the new book: Eruption, Conversations with Eddie Van Halen. They have a combined total of over 50 hours of unreleased interviews with Eddie that are now being shared in this great book. It is a major biography by two music journalists who knew him best. The heart of ERUPTION is drawn from these intimate and wide-ranging talks, as well as conversations with family, friends, and colleagues, including other major guitarists including Tony Iommi, Steve Vai, Steve Lukather and bassist Michael Anthony. 

Henry Diltz is one of the most iconic rock and roll photographers of today. He has shot over 200 album covers and countless photographs. The Doors, Morrison Hotel is one of the most famous works of art, which he named is gallery after (Morrison Hotel Gallery). The gallery features the works of over 125 famous music photographers with their photographs for sale. Henry tells  us some of the stories behind his photography, like hanging on the set with the Monkees, touring with David Cassisdy, shooting James Taylor and so many more.  

Our latest guest is John Waite. Founding member of The Babys & Bad English. John joins us for an interview to talk about his new album: Wooden Heart - Acoustic Anthology (Volumes 1, 2 & 3) along with his upcoming tour. He also talks about the music that influenced his writing, his love for Jimi Hendrix, his upcoming documentary and a new musical he is writing with long time friend Neil Giraldo. 

For all the years they worked in radio, Rita & CW had the opportunity to go backstage at concerts and events. Now they tell some of the stories of the good times and the not so good times while in the backstage world. Plus they dig up some of their old items and tell how they got autographed. 

James JY Young is back with us. Known for his fantastic guitar playing and his deep voice, he is returning to talk about the new Styx album: "Crash of The Crown". The album was released in July of this year, and this is one of the first interviews the band has done with it. Although the songs were written in 2019, the album explores the life and times that we the people have been experiencing over the past few years. The album highlights they key element that give Styx their signature sound. JY was kind enough to speak with us during a short break in the bands touring schedule.

Night Ranger has been around since the early 80s. They have had monumental hits such as; "Don't Tell Me You Love Me", "Sister Christian", "You Can Still Rock In America" and many more. The band has a new album that was just released, titled" "ATBPO" - "And The Band Played On". And it features all new music by Night Ranger that kicks butt! This interview is with one of the founding members, vocalist and bassist, Jack Blades. Jack was also part of the Shaw Blades band and the Damn Yankees.

John Notto, guitarist for Dirty Honey joins us on this episode. Dirty Honey's debut album (titled: Dirty Honey) captures the sound of what described today as classic rock. They originally released an independent EP which went to number 1 on the Billboard Rock charts - being the first independent rock record to every hit #1! This past April, the band released their full length album. They have opened for The Who Guns N' Roses and are now on tour, opening for the Black Crowes! 

Happy birthday to MTV. 40 years ago this August 1st MTV changed the way we listened and watch music. It all started with 5 VJ including our latest guest, Nina Blackwood. Nina was on the network for over 5 years before moving over to Entertainment Tonight. Nina tells us how she auditioned for the job, some of her favorite and not so favorite interviews and how MTV all began.

This episode is with Steve Berlin who plays saxophone, flute, percussion & keyboard, and is one of the members of the band, Los Lobos. Los Lobos is an iconic East Los Angeles band that has been together for almost 50 years. With hits like "Will the Wolf Survive", "Come On Let's Go", "Don't Worry Baby" and "LaBamba" they have followed their roots all the way to their new album; "Native Sons". This new album is a collection of the most influential Los Angeles based bands that have impacted Los Lobos throughout their career. Including Jackson Browne, War, Buffalo Springfield and many more. Steve talks not only about the new album, but some of the bands highlight over the years.