Podcasts about calvin valentine

This week, accomplished artist and producer Calvy P swung by the podcast to talk about the creative process behind his new project, "Weed Is Awesome". Calvin smoked all the weed and wanted you to experience the record the same way. This is the first time an artist has EVER shipped weed with his music, and we speak about a myriad of topics including breaking these boundaries, totally legally, of course. Always prolific, never compromising, Calvin Valentine's unique story is one for the books. Tap in and enjoy the conversation. Visit the website: https://www.bedroombeethovens.com/ Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bedroombeethovens

Welcome KARINA RYKMAN, bassist of Marco Benevento's trio, to Episode 046. A dynamic solo artist, skilled with both the bass and guitar, a lightning bolt of youthful exuberance, dedicated metalhead, hip-hop enthusiast, Phish kid, podcaster, quintessential New Yorker, and all-around swag factory. Karina is riding the wave of her new single/video "No Occasion", and she checks from NYC via telephone for an illuminating conversation that details her meteoric ascent from the Upper East Side towards near-total domination. Introducing KARINA RYKMAN @ 9:30 / Interview @ 12:30 The wide-ranging conversation starts with taking the temp of NYC, as the Big Apple springs to life out from under fifteen months of pandemic protocols. Karina talks about her role as co-host of the weekly podcast 3 From the 7, alongside Raffaela Kenny-Cincotta (Assistant Editor, Relix). She gives us the scoop on her solo musical endeavors, new video "No Occasion", and the evolution of her performing under her own name with bandmates Adam November and Chris Corsico. The only child of Columbia professors, we hear all about Karina's halcyon days discovering the magic of the riff, her passion for heavy metal and hip-hop alike. The origin story of picking up an axe, and where her ear, heart, and spirit led her; including NYU, where she developed her own music biz course curriculum, and later Rocks Off NYC, where she produced rock boat cruises around the island of Manhattan. In addition to her experiences making music with a once-in-a-generation-genius like bandleader Marco Benevento, we get a look deeper inside Karina's journey. From superjams with Nels Cline, John Medeski, Billy Martin and Benevento, to hanging with Anthrax and Testament on their titanic anniversary tour. Karina reflects on her hesher roots logging stage and studio time with nascent heavy bands like ShitKill, White Collar Crime LLC, as well as Crescent Moon (Dave Dreiwitz power trio), and underground kings The Sound of Urchin.  Rykman shows proper respects to her fuzz bass heroes past and present, as well as the lineage of women who've rocked before her, and her budding friendship with Laura Lee (Khruangbin). She details her special connections with mentors and gurus like Dreiwitz, Tomato (The Sound of Urchin), Alex Skolnick (Testament), among other movers, shakers, virtuosos and luminaries. Lastly, Karina touches on her relationship with Trey, Sue and the Anastasio kids, her decade-plus passion for all things Phish, and so much more. Thank you to the incredible Ms. Karina Rykman! Ep. 046 is available on most podcast platforms!   Vibe Junkie JAM "Pepper" Marco Benevento (Butthole Surfers cover, Karina on vocals)  Live from Ardmore Music Hall Sept.2018   Please support Upful LIFE on PATREON ! www.patreon.com/upfullife EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes/Apple Podcasts! Listen on Spotify ! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Thank you to DistroKid for sponsoring this episode of the podcast. Use the link below to receive 30% off your first year of DistroKid services. https://distrokid.com/?c=cable ----------------------------------------------- Calvin Valentine is a Los Angeles, California based producer, emcee, composer, and multi - instrumentalist. I chatted with Calvin about how he came up in Eugene, Oregon, creative process, different facets of expression, working with Planet Asia and more! To keep up with Calvin Valentine and the Dan Cable Presents Podcast please check out the links below. Calvin Valentine Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DZ06evO3Q7wOc?si=4d51674e948447b7 Calvin Valentine Website https://www.calvinvalentine.com/ INSTAGRAM: @calvinvalentine @producerowcafe @dancablepresents @distrokid @vrtxmag DCP SHIRTS https://www.dancablepresents.com/store DCP MUGS https://dan-cable-presents.myshopify.com/products/dcp-extra-buttered-5yr-anniversary-mug Spotify Playlists: https://open.spotify.com/user/54u8tkp1mevtd0i3cz79qbp8l?si=-4NT4PWPSlSowoXQkJhlkA

Welcome JAKE ROCKATANSKY, co-founder/co-host of Q*non Anonymous podcast to Episode 045. For 3 years, Jake & his cohorts at QAA have been investigating and unraveling the Q phenomenon, and all the various conspiracy threads that fit under the big Q tent. We'd never be able to button up the whole Q conspiracy kit n' caboodle in merely one pod ep! Instead, we take a lengthy, illuminating trek into the world of @RealRockatansky, rewind Jake's path to the podcast, explore the annals of Q-research and the QAA origin story, with our main man J-Rock at the helm. We talmbout Q?/ Introducing JAKE ROCKATANSKY @5:00 INTERVIEW w/Jake Rockatansky @15:30    Along with erstwhile collaborators Julien Field and Travis View, in QAA Jake is part of an incredible organic podcast success story. Since 2018, the trio has established their program as the preeminent place to go for a skeptical, empathetic take on this madness, and a humane look into this worldwide conspiracy scourge. These guys are globally respected, often times a reporter's first call when trying to nail down a Q or Q-adjacent story. Nobody has been as unwaveringly focused on the Q beat quite like the QAA dudes & their intrepid correspondents Annie & Liv. They're still truckin' along well into 2021, to the tune of 2 podcasts and 2 Twitch broadcasts every week, with a sizable, dedicated Patreon community that's steadily growing.  In this interview, Jake takes us thru his experiences combating Q, facing down horrific anti-Semitism, satanic panic, going under cover at Q events, interacting with Anons & influencers, and graciously gives us the QAA origin story. J-Rock reveals a beautifully human vulnerability that we've come to know thru his contributions to the pod. He unveils his process, fears, hope, and huge, swollen heart. We get a bit about his childhood in the Chicago burbs, his decamping to SoCal at 18, longtime musical faves like Weezer or Dipset, and latest raves like Beach Bunny and Denzel Curry. In between the beats and the laughs, we get pretty serious too, with regard to Q's human toll, and how we can best stay connected with those we care for that may have lost the plot or themselves amid the Qrazy. So grateful for how generous Jake was, with his time and energy, and that he showed up in this convo in all the ways that have endeared him to thousands of listeners around the world. Jake Rockatansky is a total mensch.  Follow him at @RealRockatansky on Twitter. Check out Q*non Anonymous on all pod platforms and at www.qanonanonymous.com    Vibe Junkie JAM All that jazz plus an absolutely homicidal freestyle sesh from Black Thought of The Roots, dug up from deep in the archives, 2010 Tony Touch radio show on Shade45. Over a cache of unreleased Dilla heaters, on the 4th anniversary of his passing no less, Riq is completely unhinged, spitting an endless barrage of bars that will have your head spinnin, then noddin, and eventually ringin'. Nobody can f*ck w Riq Gz on the microphone, not then, not now, not ever. Please support Upful LIFE on PATREON ! www.patreon.com/upfullife EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes/Apple Podcasts! Listen on Spotify ! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Welcome CHRIS HARFORD (Band of Changes, BlancDUBlanc) to Episode 044! What an honor & a privilege to host such an esteemed rock n' roll troubadour to the show. Prepare for a lengthy, profound powwow with more rabbit holes than you can shake a chalice at. Ep.044 also includes a short, sweet tribute to the late, great Shock G of Digital Underground, the East-Bay psychedelic funksta/hip-hop pioneer/Humpty Hump who recently passed away at just 57 years young. @ 5min: News! KRAZ Plus One + Upful Life = The Guest List  @ 9min: Shock G  R.I.P. Tribute  @ 22min: Introducing CHRIS HARFORD / @ 27min : Interview Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Chris Harford is a man of many talents, and wears numerous artistic hats. The veteran-rocker checks in from Central Jersey, and unpacks his own fascinating journey in progress. For over 90 minutes, Harford earnestly reveals an abundance of perspective. Among the more fulfilling conversations I've had the pleasure of hosting in the podcast medium.  Right off the top, we go ham singing the praises of reggae music and its medicinal, spiritual qualities, especially in times of peril. The erstwhile sound-scientist expounds on his dub reggae syndicate BlancDUBlanc, before we hop in the wayback machine to the Elektra Records era with Chris Harford & the First Rays of the New Rising Sun. Plus a special Nov.2000 Amfibian show in Burlington VT, with Tom Marshall and Trey Anastasio, one of the first JamBase reviews yours truly ever published. From Bob Marley at the Philly Spectrum in '79, to Richard Thompson and Lee Perry working on his records, from London to Boston, New Hope PA and Hopewell, New Jersey too, Chris explores what it means to be in a Band of Changes, as he details his deep, filial roots with the likes of Sir Joe Russo, Scott Metzger, Marco Benevento, Chuck Treece, Dana Colley, Dean Ween, Robbie Seahag Mangano, plus the STAX-like scene and studio coming together with these cats (and more!) in the fertile Garden State soil. One of the more unbelievable tales Chris unspools is the story behind his dub-cover EP of "Wind of Change", yep, you read that right, the titanic political power ballad from the halcyon days of the hair-band era. This is my favorite part in a conversation filled with choice nuggets. All that jazz plus a tribute to Shock G of Digital Underground, who recently transitioned, truly a gut punch in a pandemic-year that seemingly never ends. It's hard to keep up, or even grieve, with so much loss, however I felt called to send my man Shock G (Gregory Jacobs) up with his propers, and his flowers. Long Live this Son of the P!   Vibe Junkie JAM "Cometh Dub" BlancDUBlanc (The Blanc Album)   BIG THANKS to our friends at LIVE FOR LIVE MUSIC!   Please support Upful LIFE on PATREON ! www.patreon.com/upfullife EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes/Apple Podcasts! Listen on Spotify ! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Ricky Whittle made his acting debut in 2002, playing Ryan Naysmith of fictional football club Harchester United in Dream Team. What followed was a four-year stint as Calvin Valentine in the Uk's hit show, Hollyoaks. A successful stint on Strictly Come Dancing duly followed all whilst making an incredible impact in the UK with his career, Ricky harboured bigger ambitions and wanted to give Hollywood a go and in 2009, he boarded a plane to go after his dreams. Success came with his casting in the popular show The 100, with Ricky becoming a popular character, and then came the lead role in one of Hollywoods biggest shows 'American Gods' with Ricky being cast as the lead 'Shadow Moon' During this incredible episode, Founder Glenn Marsden chats with Ricky about his start into entertainment, through an undeniably incredible career in the UK through to taking a leap into the unknown that is Hollywood, to have some amazing success then cast as the lead in one of the US's biggest shows.  Not only do we hear all about his amazing work, we also get to know all about the man behind the profession, his upbringing, how he navigated his whole mental wellbeing through his younger years and how things may have been completely different had he not internally chosen himself and changed his mindset on how he looked at life.  To find out more information and to keep up to date with Ricky, simply head to his socials @rickywhittle or his IMDB at: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1340638/ (https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1340638/)   To find out more information on the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign, our global efforts and how you can get involved, simply head to our official website at imperfectlyperfectcampaign.org  *The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign is creating awareness and not a substitute for professional advice. Our episodes do touch on topics around Mental Health Struggles and Suicide. Should you need help, please refer to your nearest crisis numbers. For the United States of America; 911 for all emergencies, alternatively the national suicide hotline on 1.800.273.8255 (TALK) For Australia; 000 for all emergencies, alternatively call Life Line Australia on 13 11 14   A big thank you to our voice-over: Mike Christenson (voice monkey.com)

Episode 043 welcomes DC-born, NOLA-based NIGEL HALL (Lettuce, Jon Cleary, ex-The Nth Power) to the show for an hour-plus Vulcan Mind Probe. Nige has been a friend for about a dozen years, and I've written extensively about his musical exploits, so this convergence was a very long time in the making. The extremely gifted, Grammy-nominated keyboardist/vocalist - singer/songwriter keeps a lot of artistic irons in the fire. Nigel's dropping sophomore solo LP Spiritual on May 14, 2021, a stunning sojourn into Soulquarian waters co-produced by DJ Harrison and backed by members of Butcher Brown.    @9mins- Introducing NIGEL HALL / @16mins-"Wake Me" Nigel Hall / @20mins - Interview  In a wide-ranging convo, topics include: what's the latest in New Orleans , we get the 411 on Nigel's musical partnership with NOLA-based Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen. His motivations and inspirations behind the forthcoming Spiritual, as Nigel reveals a bit about his process and the project's native tongues. We unpack his role over the years with Lettuce, and how the keyboard chair and his contributions to the band have evolved over time. Quick detours to George Duke & J Dilla, with a funny Suwannee flashback or two to boot.  Naturally, we had to get into his time in The Nth Power, and he offers poignant, impassioned reflections that gave me chills. So did his defiant, righteous anger as a Black father to a pair of sons entering young adulthood. So many rabbit holes, with many stones left unturned. Super proud of this powerful powwow with one of the greatest to ever do it; a spiritual awakening of the soulful variety. Ladies & Gentlemen, Nigel Hall!  Vibe Junkie JAMZ - The Joe Clark Mixtape Khris Royal feat. Nigel Hall, Kidd Chocolate, Big Sam "I Can't Breathe" (2020) Nigel Hall "Gotta Go to Work" (snippet of 2nd single - 2021) DJ Harrison feat. Nigel Hall "My Favorite Things" (2020) Nigel Hall & Jon Cleary "Woman's Gotta Have It" Papoose feat. Nigel Hall "Antidote" (2020) Soulive feat. Nigel Hall & Shady Horns "Prototype" (2009) Soulive feat. Derek Trucks, Ledisi, Nigel Hall "A Change Gonna Come" (Bowlive 2012) The Nth Power "Catfish" - AURA Studios (2015) The Original Nth Power "Only Love > WAR" - Justice Comes Alive 2020 Lettuce feat. Derek Trucks, Kofi Burbridge, Nigel Hall "We're A Winner > Move On Up" (Bear Creek 2009) Nigel Hall doin Crazy Joe Clark on Jam Cruise (date unknown) music played: "Runnin Away"- Nigel Hall Band, Jazz Fest 2016, "All About Love"  DJ Harrison, Nigel Hall "Makin My Way Back Home > Do It Like You Do" Lettuce, Red Rocks 2015, "Rule the World" - Lettuce,  "LETT It GoGo" Lettuce, Rex Theatre 2019,  "Step Children" Khris Royal w/Nigel Hall BIG THANKS to our friends at LIVE FOR LIVE MUSIC!   Please support Upful LIFE on PATREON ! www.patreon.com/upfullife EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

(6:28) Intro - Legend of Zelda / (14:37) PDX Music Drops / (16:39) Milc & Tiger Valentine - Tiger Milc / (54:51) Recently Played? / (65:16) Kid Cudi albums ranked

Episode 042 welcomes JACKSON WHALAN, emcee/producer based in the Berkshire mountains of Mass. We met in NorCal about 5 years ago, and he released his latest full-length LP From the Woods in Jan 2021; Whalan's got a huge collab on the way with the legendary Blastmaster himself, KRS-ONE. Jackson also helped inspire me to start this podcast when we did a live onstage Q&A in Nevada City, CA back in 2017.  @4:00 - Welcome Back LETT & 'Mr. Yancey' live in Denver  @10:00 - Jackson Whalan intro, @15:00 JW interview  / @1hr 50min S.N.A.G. by Jackson Whalan  Our 90-min conversation touches on JW's colorful journey, from humble rural environs to the NYC underground, ashram across the world to a pot farm in Grass Valley, Cali. Other rabbit holes: being white in hip-hop, surviving as an independent artist, using social media to your promotional advantage, and a discussion that unpacks our respective brushes with the law. We finish up with an exciting career development involving the great KRS-ONE.  About Jackson Whalan: On the western edge of Massachusetts, there were very few examples of hip-hop artists from his rural hometown, but the music made its way into his life when he found CDs that belonged his older brother. When Jackson discovered the power of hip-hop, he was waking up to issues of race, class, politics, human rights and climate change. His music soon became the vehicle for addressing injustices and inspiring people. In 2012, college studies took Jackson to India and an eco-village, Auroville. In the U.S., he studied turntablism at The New School with DJ Rob Swift; he graduated in 2013 with a B.A. in music. Jackson began releasing and performing under his own name in 2014, with the release of “S.N.A.G. (Sensitive New Age Guy)”. Other releases followed: Raptivism (2015), “Cradle” (feat. Qwill), 2016, and Souled Out EP (2016). Jackson opened for Moon Hooch for over 50 dates during 2016-17.  Jackson is an accomplished hip-hop/electronic producer as well, an Ableton educator, and makes himself available to other independent artists in a variety of professional, marketing, collaborative and artistic capacities.  In 2019-2020, Jackson released singles and instrumentals every month for a full year, working closely with his co-producer and keyboardist Ian Evans. Tracks include “G.T.F.O.H.” (feat. Myka 9), “BIG FVCTS”, “The Long Game”, and a cover of John Lennon's “Gimme Some Truth”. Latest LP From the Woods dropped Jan. 2021. KRS-ONE collaboration is on deck, as you hear at the end of our convo. STREAM From the Woods HERE Vibe Junkie JAMZ Roy Hargrove feat. D'Angelo "Bullshit" (2006) The Violinaires "The Upper Way" (1972) music played: Jay-Z "Open Letter"  -- Jackson Whalan "From the Woods" BIG FVCTS" "Cuz I'm Dope" "Music is the Drug" "SNAG"  -- & Soulquarians + Femi Kuti + Macy Gray "Water No Get Enemy"   Please support Upful LIFE brand new PATREON ! https://www.patreon.com/upfullife   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com   LARGE UP to our sponsors: Path to Panacea &  Herb An' Music: The Healing of the Nations   PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Welcome San Diego's prodigal poet/songwriter/vocalist ALFRED HOWARD and SLC's badass firebrand TALIA KEYS to Episode 041 of The Upful LIFE Podcast! Placing the spotlight on a pair of phenomenal underground artists, each carving out their own path with purpose, ingenuity, and verve.  "All Praise Due" Alfred Howard/KDTU 2003 - (7:45),  Alfred Howard Intro (10:00), Interview (14:00) "I Love America" Alfred Howard (53:45) Talia Keys Intro (1:02:00), Interview (1:06:00), Vibe Junkie JAMZ (1:49:00) Alfred Howard is an accomplished, versatile lyricist, a provocative poet with humble beginnings performing spoken word; he's a dedicated percussionist, and independent record label guru. Howard's enigmatic, spirited wordplay quickly attracted musicians, poets, and fans alike, and Al became a sought-after vocalist and percussionist for a colorful assembly of bands around San Diego.  www.alfredhowardwrites.com During the pandemic shutdown, Alfred embarked on crafting two new songs a week, 100 songs in a year, in collaboration with other artists and musicians, local and national alike. Each cut is accompanied by his own patented short stories, and an original watercolor painting courtesy of Howard's mother Marian.     In 2015, Howard decided to take his passion for poetry and music to the next level, forming an independent record label contingent called The Redwoods Collective. Howard is now involved with several different bands and recording projects including The Heavy Guilt, and The Midnight Pine. During his time touring in Alfred Howard & the K23 Orchestra, he sat in with KDTU, Umphrey's Mcgee, Digital Underground, Garaj Mahal, the Slip, JFJO, ALO, and many others.     Salt Lake City's Talia Keys is a genre-crossing guitarist/multi-instrumentalist, a musical force of nature who packs a scorching brand of Soul/Funk/Rock N' Roll. Talia fronts her own solo band, plus her solo live-loop project titled Gemini Mind, and a slammin' full-band groove-train called Talia Keys & the Love. Their fantastic debut LP We're Here dropped 4/20/2018 and they have another release in the pipeline. www.TaliaKeys.com Talia is Music Director for the non-profit organization Rock Camp SLC, an empowerment camp for girls, transgender and gender-expansive youth. Women Who Rock is a new music series Talia is curating with local radio station KRCL 90.9FM presenting the showcase.    Vibe Junkie Jams  “As Serious as Your Life” Four Tet (J Dilla remix feat. Guilty Simpson) “Nag Champa” Common feat. J Dilla Music played: Alborosie- “Kingston Town”, Madlib - "Road of the Lonely Ones", “All Praise Due” Alfred Howard w/KDTU 7/4/03 HSMF,  “Don't Look Down” Nikki Bluhm (A.Howard), “One Minute to Midnight” Rebecca Jade (A.Howard), “CoAuthors” Brad Barr (A.Howard), “I Love America” Alfred Howard, “Integrity” Talia Keys & the Love   Please Support Upful LIFE on our Brand New PATREON ! https://www.patreon.com/upfullife   LARGE UP to our sponsors: Path to Panacea & Herb An' Music: The Healing of the Nations EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE    

JONNY G of lespecial hollers from the Music Cellar to discuss his influences, career, the band, and their fantastic 3rd LP ‘Ancient Homies', released Dec. 2020 on Ropeadope. Episode 040 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast*! Rest in Power MF DOOM @ 9:00  Who/Why: Jonny G of lespecial @ 12:00 70min interview starts @ 20:00 lespecial, the Nor'easter trio who blur lines and blast genres beyond recognition, are riding a huge wave of momentum after a wildly-successful NYE livestream. and the fans' jubilant reception of Ancient Homies. Their latest LP is a sonorous slab of sound-art, if I do say so myself. I'm new to this band, but their music and mystique is in my blood. Jonny G feels like my ancient homie already! We hop in the wayback machine for a properly-blazed, bi-coastal joyride thru the annals of lespecial, then burrow a bit deeper. Jonny G (gov't name Jon Grusauskas) reveals himself wise beyond his years; his inspirations run the gamut. As such, this conversation takes a number of twists and turns, historical and philosophical alike. In addition to mining the embryonic inclinations and aspirations of lespecial, and rinsing the processes and concepts behind the masterful new album, Jonny G rabbit holes include the timeless classical opus “Hall of the Mountain King”, Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, Lettuce/Break Science, White Zombie, Jackson Whalen, plus assorted homies, ancient or otherwise.   Vibe Junkie JAMS “Tonberry” - lespecial  (off latest LP ‘Ancient Homies) “Accordian” > “Meat Grinder” MF DOOM/Madlib -  Madvillainy    BRAND NEW PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/upfullife   LARGE UP to our sponsors Path to Panacea: LUMINOSITEA, and Herb An' Music: The Healing of the Nations EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Welcome the legendary MIKE DILLON to Episode 039 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* for no-holds barred story-telling and a free exchange of ideas!! Punk Rock Jazz Freak Vibraphonist/Percussionist/Singer-Songwriter/Philosopher extraordinaire!  introducing Mike Dillon @ 10mins   Interview  @ 18mins One of a kind unicorn madman, this veteran of three decades in music takes us onboard his fantastic voyage, thrilling career, wild adventures, hard lessons, and life's beautifully human journey. Mike D touches on his most recent works- 'Rosewood', and Mike Dillon & Punkadelic 'Shoot the Moon'. He poignantly revisits Garage a Trois debut at Jazz Fest 2000, opines on Beastie Boys, Bad Brains, RHCP, Art Blakey, Sonny Rollins, Art Blakey; reflects upon musical relationships w/ Les Claypool, Skerik, Matt Chamberlain, Karl Denson, and others. Plus: music school in Denton Texas, his new marriage, his own realities during the Covid-era. And an extremely personal, lengthy deep dive on the disease of addiction, heroin, sobriety, recovery, relapse, and resolve. Attitude, espresso rants, holy matrimony, junk, punk, funk,  hip-hop and all that jazz from the mouth of the world's most lovable outsider, Mike Dillon! "predictably gruesome and sublime elixir of stealthy jazz vibes, street poetry raps and post-punk sonic carnage.” –Boulder Weekly      Vibe Junkie JAM "Hurt" by Mike Dillon (Nine Inch Nails/Johnny Cash) from his most recent solo effort Rosewood. also played: 3 tracks from Mike Dillon & Punkadelic 'Shoot the Moon', Mike Dillon Band of Outsiders '7am at the Jazz Fest', 'Tchfunkta' Garage A Trois 5.4.00 Saenger Theater, NOLA. Erykah Badu "The Healer", Beastie Boys "Gratitude" and "Lighten Up"   Big Thanks to this week's sponsors, Path to Panacea: LUMINOSITEA, and Herb An' Music: The Healing of the Nations EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 038 welcomes the esteemed DEREK BERES to *The Upful LIFE Podcast* for a thoughtful, informative and inspiring conversation unlike anything you've ever heard on this program! Author / journalist / yoga-movement instructor / DJ-Producer, and co-host of CONSPIRITUALITY PODCAST.  @derekberes  - introduction @ 11min - interview w/ DEREK BERES @ 20min Derek's been a respected, leading voice in the wellness/yoga/spiritual communities for many moons, and through various channels of media, education, music, books and beyond, Beres has really stepped into this confounding, historic moment. He is a wealth of salient perspective and sobering realizations; our conversation isn't for the faint of heart, yet it felt imperative to take it there. And by there, I mean all the way: infiltration, infection, and indoctrination within the wellness/spiritual/festival culture, and that's merely the tip of the proverbial iceberg.     Topics include: the long-sewn seeds of racism, fascism, anti-Semitism, Q-Anon, anti-vaxxers, and conspiracy theories. "Red-pilled" wellness and spiritual influencers, the role psychedelics, benzos and anti-depressants play into deluded, dangerous and magical thinking. Consumerism, capitalism, and selling aspiration. The sinister roots and disastrous affects of advertising and social media - and how they've exacerbated the deeply-entrenched ideologies, prejudices, and narcissism that we see rearing their ugliest heads across all walks of 2020 life.    Derek Beres has spent nearly two decades teaching and writing about yoga, fitness, health and wellness, among numerous other interests. His latest book - Hero's Dose: The Case for Psychedelics in Ritual and Therapy - was published just last week. As a longtime world music producer, Beres co-creates a wonderful catalog of eclectic, intercontinental electro-grooves with his crew EarthRise Soundsystem. A columnist at BIG Think, a seasoned journalist across a wide swath of health/wellness expertise, and providing cutting-edge psychedelic reporting. Derek's research also explores Western medicine's over-reliance on anti-depressants, the corruption and duplicity of Big Pharma, and how it's often all interconnected. "As the alt-right and New Age horseshoe toward each other in a blur of disinformation, clear discourse and good intentions get smothered. Conspirituality Podcast attempts to bring understanding to this landscape. A journalist, a cult researcher, and a philosophical skeptic discuss the stories, cognitive dissonances, and cultic dynamics tearing through the yoga, wellness, and new spirituality worlds."  Buy Derek Beres new book HERE:  'Hero's Dose: The Case for Psychedelics in Ritual and Therapy'   Vibe Junkie JAM  "Redemption" - DIMOND SAINTS  https://dimondsaints.bandcamp.com/track/redemption   music: Applecat BM 2013, Heart Shaped Box - Amber Mark EarthRise Soundsystem Soundtribe Sector 9 w/Karsh Kale & Vishal Viad from Berkfest 2002 Big Thanks! : Herb An' Music: The Healing of the Nations NIVA - #SaveOurStages, & Headcount EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Welcome the iconic KARL DENSON to Episode 037! What an honor and a privilege to host this legendary musician to the show. Co-founder of The Greyboy Allstars, bossman/bandleader of Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, touring member of the Rolling Stones, and longtime (former) sideman/personal pal to the coolest motherfucker on the planet, Lenny Kravitz. A virtuoso saxophonist/flutist, and prolific singer/songwriter taboot, Karl D is among the hardest workin cats in show business, and has been so for the longest time. The man affectionately called “Diesel” generously availed himself for a thorough, hour-plus powwow on a plethora of salient topics. KARL D: Intro at 11min, Interview at 17min Upful LIFE thanks ROYAL POTATO FAMILY!  Please support NIVA's #SaveOurStages !! Karl Denson hops in the wayback machine for a colorful ride down memory boulevard, across the various lanes of his illustrious career. KD touches on the early days, from his solo jazz debut album to the worldwide jaunts with Lenny Kravitz, and the birth of the Greyboy Allstars. Get the scoop on the connection with DJ Greyboy, GBA's surprise rise to underground stardom, and landmark record ‘West Coast Boogaloo'. We also get into a little about the band's most recent release ‘Como de Allstars'.   Karl breaks down his initial intention & visions for KDTU, as we reminisce on the glory days of that band, as well as their most recent release ‘Gnomes & Badgers'. Denson tells a few stories about Lenny, plus takes us through joining the Stones, & how it felt to first take it to the stage with Mick, Keef & co.  Denson gets deep into tougher, more personal & political topics of the day. From the current administration, cultural climate, his relationship with Christianity, parenthood, racism, and how all of that informs his worldview & musical endeavors. Buckle up for some real talk from the Diesel, straight no chaser! We wrap things up with some Sexual Chocolate hilarity from Coming 2 America, & Denson drops dimes about the forthcoming motion picture sequel too! Deep bow of gratitude to the one & only Karl Denson for the time & the energy. Life stories, love's glories. Vibe Junkie JAMS “Always on the Run” Lenny Kravitz LIVE from Rotterdam 1991 “Once You're There” Karl Denson's Tiny Universe 2005 FM Broadcast WDET “Ruffneck Jazz” DJ Greyboy ‘Freestylin'' 1993 EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

The United States is experiencing a time of reckoning, but too often it seems like we’re all  talking past each another other rather than attempting meaningful dialogue.  In Just Us, Claudia Rankine provides a blueprint for how we talk about and experience race in America.  Listen as she and Amanda examine the emotions underpinning white privilege, shine a light on racial inequality in its less obvious forms, and explain what it actually means when a white person,  "doesn't see color." About the Author:Claudia Rankine is the author of Citizen: An American Lyric and four previous books, including Don’t Let Me Be Lonely: An American Lyric. Her work has appeared recently in the Guardian, the New York Times Book Review, the New York Times Magazine, and the Washington Post. She is a chancellor of the Academy of American Poets, the winner of the 2014 Jackson Poetry Prize, and a contributing editor of Poets & Writers. She received a MacArthur Fellowship in 2016. Rankine is the Frederick Iseman Professor of Poetry at Yale University. Episode Credits:This episode was produced by Andrew Dunn and Amanda Stern. It was edited, mixed and sound-designed by Andrew Dunn who also created Bookable's chill vibe.  Our host is Amanda Stern. Beau Friedlander is Bookable's executive producer and editor in chief of Loud Tree Media.  Music:"Books That Bounce" by Rufus Canis, "Uni Swing Vox" by Rufus Canis, "Warmer Up Here" by The Upstroke, "This Summer" by Easy McCoy, "Eugene" by Calvin Valentine, "Tidewater" by Grant Harold, "Rebuilding" by 1,2,3.

Welcome BLACK BURNER PROJECT founder ERIN DOUGLAS, and DJ WILLIAMS of Shots Fired & Karl Denson's Tiny Universe to Episode 036 of The Upful LIFE Podcast! T'was an honor & a privilege to host these inspiring individuals to this program. A pair of enlightening dialogues and Black American narratives that are at once relevant, uplifting, and above all, salient to our current cultural climate.   BLACK BURNER PROJECT Erin Douglas @ 9:00 DJ WILLIAMS -Shots Fired/KDTU  @ 54:00  Black Burner Project is a multicultural movement driving inclusivity at Burning Man. Travel, self exploration and radical expression through imagery and personal stories. Erin Douglas is a Maryland-based travel & lifestyle photo journalist, and 3 time Burner. Erin saw the desperate need to document other Burners of Color, to share their stories, to create a space where the misconception that Burning Man was just for “white hippies” could be squashed. She wanted to create a place where people of color could be seen. Erin hoped her images would inspire other people to give Burning Man a shot, give truth to what Burning Man was really about, who it was for, and show the beauty in it all... Especially with a demographic not normally associated with Burning Man. And its WORKING.  D.J. Williams is a tremendous guitarist/songwriter and a dear friend for several years. The main man behind Shots Fired, the blistering Denver-based funk rock outfit with an alternating cast of all-star musicians. Williams is also over a decade deep in the lead guitar slot of Karl Denson's Tiny Universe, and founded his own DJ Williams' Projekt in his hometown of Richmond, VA. In this brief, personal, potent powwow, we get the latest scoop on Shots Fired releases on the Color Red label, and then explore DJ's unique, intercontinental Black American story and experiences. Shots Fired on Color Red VIBE JUNKIE JAM "Dusted Compass" The Human Experience (Phutureprimitive remix) Special Thanks to PROPER CANNA NATURALS EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Welcome CHRIS LITTLEFIELD (Trumpet- Karl Denson's Tiny Universe) to Episode 035 of The Upful LIFE Podcast ! In addition to being a brilliant musician and veteran funk/R&B trumpet player, Chris is a longtime friend going back over fifteen years. It was tremendously rewarding to get with him for a riveting 90-minute conversation that is at once informative and inspiring. Chris Littlefield takes us into the reality of his surroundings, unpacking a plethora of insight and ideas. Chris Littlefield INTERVIEW @ 15:00 In lieu of the standard chat going down memory lane, instead Chris and I jump into a myriad of topics du jour. Littlefield details his day-to-day mind-frame here in the now frontier, with KDTU off the road due to coronavirus he finds himself at home with his family more than ever. Chris reveals a bit about being a father in these unprecedented, troubling times, and he explores both his own childhood in Oakland and his daughters' in Seattle, from cultural, social, and technological standpoints. Littlefield also discusses the transition to online teaching, and how his students have acclimated to Zoom sessions and digital lessons, with regard to his longtime position at Seattle Drum School of Music.      Eventually, we turn the corner and get into the stuff that's pretty hard to talk about. I am grateful for such a strong friendship bond with Chris, so I felt empowered to ask these tough questions about racial relations in the US, at this divisive, intense moment in history. Chris Littlefield leaves nary a stone unturned in this no-holds-barred discussion on race, one that extrapolates into racial components among American cities, teaching his children well about what's happening with protests and police violence, Black Lives Matter. We get into the Black Panthers legacy, intermarriage, the beauty of the people of Seattle, and more. Plus Black musical legacies, Black American music, the jazz-funk/jamband audience's role in preserving the history, and dialogues that go beyond. All that plus the 411 on Chris's main musical endeavors- he's again heard on trumpet and flugelhorn all over Karl Denson's Tiny Universe's newest album Gnomes & Badgers, and Chris opines why this record was conceptually a little bit ahead of it's time. And we get the latest from Klozd Sirkut, Littlefield's longtime electro-funk side project out of Seattle.   Vibe Junkie JAM KDTU "New Afro" ( later rechristened "Odysseus" after 12 years on the shelf)    Late Night Live from the inaugural Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in 2002, Manchester, TN   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 034 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes vocalist KIM DAWSON to the show for an important discussion. A chat as necessary as it is enlightening, with memories uncomfortable and messages inspiring. Kim Dawson is currently a solo artist on Eddie Roberts' label Color Red, a co-frontwoman of Roberts' quasi-supergroup Matador Soul Sounds, a go-to singer for any number of collectives, tribute shows, sit-ins and such. Most recently she released the R&B single "Try" with Wil Blades, and sings her heart out on "Good Thang" with Crushed Velvet & the Velveteers, on Alan Evans' own Vintage League Music. However, I invited her on the podcast to discuss important matters beyond her fantastic performances and collaborations. KIM DAWSON - intro @ 11:30, interview @ 16:00 *apologize for any minor sound issues or clicks during the interview... trust I did my best to minimize the annoyance*  Kim has been a presence within the jam/funk music community for a long time, and a mainstay on the Front Rage scene. She's an educator with Swallow Hill Music, where she works with aspiring young singers; she also mentors young women of color in the Denver metro area. Ms. Dawson was kind enough to give us an hour and a half of the medicine we need, in a wide ranging discussion of her journey as a Black American, a female of color in the performing arts, Black music heritage in the jam scene, her own experiences as a youth and just exactly the moment when she really learned what time it was with race in America. We get a peek into her reality as it pertains to intermarriage, her current situation in Denver juxtaposed with growing up in Oklahoma, and so much more. But of course, we kick things off talkin' music... because, well, that's still how we do. Thanks to the divine Kim Dawson for her gracious time & the vibe! Please listen to her remarkable patience, and compassion in speaking to the people and our greater music community from her heart, as we so dearly need it.   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week The Roots featuring Jill Scott "You Got Me" (goth arrangement LIVE from 9:30 Club, Washington DC - 2002)   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

The great Sean Jordan joins us this week! You know Sean as a hilarious stand-up and co-host (with Ian Karmel and David Gborie) of the incredible podcast All Fantasy Everything. This was a fun and breezy hang with one of our all-time favorite comedians. We talked about feeling as if we know him, taking a beating for friendship, and all the wonderful things skateboarding has brought into Sean's life. Check out All Fantasy Everything right after you finish listening and subscribing to this podcast. Music this week:"Franco" by Calvin Valentine (2:20)"Ollie Ollie Ox in Free" by NoEmotion Goldmask (14:44)"Don't Let the Bastards Grind You Down" by Magick Gardens (31:50)"Godspeed" by The Waysides (50:46)

Episode 033 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary DAVE from DOPEY PODCAST! This conversation is a couple of years in the making, and is one helluva heart-filling, harrowing, ultimately heroic story of human resilience and the magic of recovery. Dave has been a fearless leader of the Dopey Nation for a few years now, and his wildly-popular podcast just clocked it's 4 MILLIONTH DOWNLOAD about a week ago. Just an astonishing story with inspiring highs juxtaposed with some of the darkest lows, brutal losses and excruciating sacrifices along the way. Absolutely riveting 100-min conversation with Dave. Followed by a topical, personal journal entry from yours truly, we hear from KEITH GRINER, a successful music photographer also in recovery. WARNING: This episode contains graphic content with regard to drug use and addiction. Please enter with caution, big heart and an open mind. DAVE of DOPEY PODCAST intro @ 8:00  SOMETIMES IT SNOWS IN APRIL - B.Getz - 2:00:00 KEITH GRINER @ 2:17:00       Dave built the Dopey Podcast with his friend Chris, and the show has found unbridled success, though at great cost to Dave, and those around him. From Long Island, NY, he checks in for a 100-minute chat that runs the gamut of his entire journey. We touch on a number of topics, including his personal and career paths, the evolution of Dopey Podcast, his musical tastes and experiences, the tragic deaths of two people very close to him, and the descent into the abyss of his own struggle with heroin and other drugs. Before ultimately partnership, fatherhood, and 4-plus years of recovery deliver us the Dave of today, happy, healthy and radiating. Listening to Dopey Podcast every week for a couple of years, Dave has become one of the most inspiring cats in my life, real talk, and it's nothing short of an honor and privilege to give him a platform to share his story, straight no chaser. A beautifully human tale of darkness, depravity, recovery and rebirth. After Dave's interview, I took the opportunity to read a journal entry from about a month ago with regard to conquering my own demons. Titled “Sometimes It Snows In April”, its a four-year reflection written on the anniversary of the day that Prince passed away.   To wrap things up on Ep.033, I reached back to late December 2019, well before all this virus madness, to a conversation I had with rock photographer KEITH GRINER. Keith is someone I've worked with in the music media on a few epic festivals & other occasions. He also has several years in recovery, and it was wonderful to give him the chance to reflect on his own journey, personally & professionally, and share some wisdom with regard to overcoming his addiction. If you or anyone you know is struggling with substance abuse and addiction, please reach out. There are numerous resources to assist. Feel free to hit me up directly at B.Getz@upfullife.com   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week “Down In A Hole” by Alice In Chains from MTV Unplugged in 1996.   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

ADAM DEITCH B-DAY EXTRAVAGANZA! Episode 032 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is proud to welcome the one & only ADAM DEITCH to the show! It's an honor & privilege for this esteemed gentleman to slide through for a proper powwow. To celebrate his 4/26 b-day, we dig into a pair of fresh records: Lettuce's new LP Resonate (5/8), & his own forthcoming solo electronic EP The Age of Imperfection, AND check-in with his fam. Literally! His wonderful parents BOBBY & DENISE DEITCH hop on the phone to discuss all things Deitch. Bobby Deitch Band  new album dropping 5/15, so we get the scoop on that, plus loving parental reflections on Adam & his boys. Ep.032 finishes strong with the great RYAN ZOIDIS (sax - Lettuce, AD4, BrkSci Live Band). Zoid has collab'd with Adam Deitch for nearly a quarter century, he's a world-class musician & vibrant conversationalist. This episode is a family affair. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADAM! #DeitchBeatsDontQuit - ISOLATION STATION v.4 ADAM DEITCH intro - 6:00 BOBBY & DENISE DEITCH intro - 41:00  RYAN ZOIDIS intro - 1:17:30  Adam Deitch needs no introduction. He's steadily among the more celebrated drummers in the game for over two decades, laying the foundation for modern funk music. He pushes the art skyward, prolific in hip-hop, electronic, and jazz. He's been the iconic engine powering Lettuce ever since the future-funk cosmonauts first took flight, back in the mid-1990's at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Their collective trajectory has been astonishing, as has his own journey in music. In addition to slaying with LETT, Deitch has collaborated with everybody from John Scofield to Pretty Lights to Redman & beyond. The GRAMMY-nominated artist is dropping new music left & right, even on quarantine. Deitch stays perpetually in motion, getting busy with his electro-soul duo Break Science, plus his own soul-jazz group Adam Deitch Quartet (featuring Ep.024 guest Wil Blades, and Lettuce's Ryan Zoidis (interviewed later in this program) & Eric Benny Bloom (Ep.017).      Transmitting from Denver, CO., Adam brings us into the Resonate recording and mixing sessions with super-producer Russ Elevado, as well as the band's writing and studio processes. Deitch discusses how LETT creative vibes coalesce, a general modus operandi for the current squadron, and highlights Elevado's dutiful influence. The drummer teases some possible dream collabs, with insightful backstories of how & why they might just happen. Adam gets into the "Funkin from Home" project, then pivots into his own production concepts, ideas, and compositions with regard to new electronic EP The Age of Imperfection. The dude waxes philosophic about sampling traditions, newer trends in the culture, then shows love to some young gunners pioneering the wave in that lo-fi hip-hop space. He tickles the fans with some clues about a new Nigel Hall solo album in the works. Maybe more Break Science acoustic? Towards the end, AD reveals his thoughts on the myriad of emotional elements ever-present in his rhythms & compositions. Universal language inherent in so much that he studies & loves. Always humble, forever a student, yet effortlessly the teacher. Fantastic, fulfilling, & deeply informative Adam Deitch interview! Here's to another ring around the sun, shogun!  Bobby & Denise Deitch were kind enough to make time for the podcast from their home/studio in Nyack, NY, just outside the city. Topics include: how the duo is sheltering-at-home, forthcoming album from Bobby Deitch Band titled Work With Whatcha Got, due May 15. Bobby Deitch breaks down his band, process, collaborators, song ideas, themes and intentions in rolling out this new record, which features Michealangelo Carubba & Shira Elias from Turkuaz (both guests on this show in the past), in addition to living legend George Porter Jr., Lettuce's Nigel Hall, among other special guests. Denise frequently chimes in with some funny tidbits on their shared creative energy and how the couple carefully builds a song from scratch. Naturally, I asked Adam's parents for some reflections on their son, his bands, their brotherhood, and his ever-prolific output. Get the latest on Bobby & Denise Deitch music HERE                 ENTER THE ZOID VOID: The final conversation is a profound exchange with my dear friend RYAN ZOIDIS, whom I reached super late on 4/20 night at his home in Portland, ME.. Zoidis is another LETT co-founder, & part of Adam Deitch Quartet, Break Science Live Band, Soulive's Shady Horns, critically-acclaimed Rustic Overtones, & Royal Hammer (Portland roots-reggae crew). Zoid gets personal how the relationship with his young daughter has evolved and transformed during quarantine. How the virtuoso saxman has improved as both musician & teacher. We revisit Russ Elevado's Voodoo touch, how the venerable producer magically elevated the LETT sessions with poignant palette cleansing of the highest order. Zoidis pulls the curtain back on a couple of favorite Resonate joints, floats dreamy ideas for a psychedelic improv/instrumental LETT release, and how the band's recent jaunt through Europe brought the squad even closer, vibrations onstage and off. Zoid kicks knowledge & drops science on natural wines, & introduces his new 'natty-wine' distribution company Benny & Zoid Selections, with bandmate Eric Benny Bloom. Meanwhile, what's up with a rumored wild collab project with Tycoon & Jesus Coomes!? We wrap up this sesh with a string of enlightening topics, beginning with Ryan's beautiful recollections & ruminations on his relationship with the Deitch family. Zoid offers parting thoughts on Still Bill, and seminal dancehall DJ Toyan's timeless classic LP How the West Was Won. Large Up Ryan Zoidis! One of my favorite dudes on earth, hands down.  (Zoidis painting in thumbnail by Aaron Schwartz)  -Vibe Junkie JAMZ of the Week- Lettuce - 'HOUSE OF LETT' off their forthcoming LP Resonate, due May 8. Adam Deitch - 'SPACE DUST' off next EP The Age of Imperfection (date TBD) hidden track- "Judy"-WRD (Robert Walter, Eddie Roberts, Adam Deitch - Color Red Music)   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

The Upful LIFE Podcast proudly presents LIVESTREAM 101. This program intends to be a resource to the live music culture and music communities across genre, scene, and geography. Episode 031 - ISOLATION STATION v.3 will focus on blanketing the wild wild west of live-streaming, in the voices of four esteemed professionals in the digital music space, each certifiable live music lifers.  TED KARTZMAN (YouTube, co-founder of JamBase) & LIZ MOODY (digital music rights attorney, has worked wth Pandora, YouTube, Spotify, artists, festivals) - intro at 8:00, discussion at 13:00. JOSH BLAKE (iamavl, JBOT, GFE) intro at 51:00 CHRIS GELBUDA (Nashville-based songwriter/guitarist) intro at 1hr 39min  ISOLATION STATION v.3   TEDDY KARTZMAN is a huge reason why I even have a modicum of a career in the music industry. As co-founder of JamBase back in 1999, TK (unwittingly) blazed a path for me and numerous others into the world of digital music journalism. Along with his partners Andy Gadiel, Deanne Herman and others, he opened a door to chase my passion and follow my muse with sharing words about music experiences. Like so many, I am forever in his debt, and Teddy is nothing short of a pioneer. TK has been a major presence in the digital music space for two decades, having worked with Rhapsody, Google, YouTube, and a number of other tech music endeavors. For several years he managed The SLiP, among others, and has been a tireless champion for independent and underground artists. Ted Kartzman founded & remains on the JamBase Board of Directions. This roundtable discussion on the real-time realities of Livestreaming was as much (if not more) his brainchild than my own.     This podcast is honored and privileged to host a professional of the stature & resume of one LIZ MOODY. A quick Google of her name will show you just why, as she's been a major player in the digital music space for roughly 20 years, too. Currently the Chair of New Media at Granderson Des Roches, she's an attorney who has worked with industry giants like Pandora, Spotify, YouTube, and a number of endeavors that came before. As such, she's uniquely qualified to share her experiences on these salient topics of the day. When I was researching her bonafides to prepare for this dialogue, I was struck by how impactful her work in the streaming/music rights sector is. It seems any time she took a new job at a major organization, or announced a partnership or project, it was covered by the industry news agencies. Wherever she went, whatever she did, it was reported. So naturally, I was super stoked that she felt like this show was worth her time. Her perspective is as fascinating as it is informative; I believe the proof is in the pudding. Liz Moody is the EF Hutton of our current reality; when she speaks, everybody should listen.     JOSH BLAKE is another pioneer in the digital music space, as well as a thriving musician and an essential cog in the cosmic art community that makes Asheville, NC such a beacon of light in the SouthEast. He's been rooted and growing there for 23 years. Josh is a founder and partner in iamavl, the pre-eminent independent concert-broadcasting/live-streaming company of its kind, a total unicorn of sorts. Find out why that is, who they are and how they got there in this revealing, inspiring conversation. Josh Blake is a tremendous musician in his own right, and he pulls back the curtain on his latest album Nothing's in the Way, in addition to a number of other musical irons in the proverbial fire. Of course, we had to get into his OG squad, Granola Funk Express (GFE) with a brief but beautiful saunter down memory lane with Josh about his seminal squadron, a (pure) light years ahead of it's time misfit live hip-hop ensemble that was born in a Rainbow Family kitchen, a group and their music that changed the game, and people's lives. Josh Blake was kind to revisit those glory days, and a whole lot more. Check him out at www.JoshBlakeMusic.com & https://iamavl.com/   CHRIS GELBUDA is a music maker and happiness-bringer. A successful songwriter from the Chicago area who calls Nashville home, Buda packs an enigmatic personality into his music that can make you laugh and/or cry, sometimes in the same song. He's also a treasured buddy to many, a real force of nature to his friends, peers, and several music communities. Chris lets us know about some of his very special charity livestreams, and how performing in that medium feels to him. We also get a little peek into his Nashville career, big-time songwriting in the world of pop country music. Gelbuda was an essential member of Van Ghost on their magnum opus The Ghost Unit, an album recorded in Trey Anastasio's famed Barn studio in Vermont.. He's worked with and wrote songs for mega stars like John Legend, Meghan Trainor, Mike Gordon & Phil Lesh. Chris is also a fantastic follow on social media, where he lets his phanaticism fly with no-holds barred commentary about the performances of his favorite band. Naturally, we had to check in with him about the latest happenings with our beloved boys , The Phish from Vermont. Follow all things Chris Gelbuda here ---> http://www.chrisgelbuda.com/   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week 2016 Kendrick Lamar freestyle from HOT97 remixed by JD REID. A murderous flip of Notorious B.I.G.'s iconic war-dub ‘Who Shot Ya', Kung Fu Kenny given the future-Trap on steroids treatment. This is certified heatrocks. PEEP GAME.   EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

The Upful LIFE Podcast - Episode 030 : Isolation Station v.2 welcomes JAMES CASEY (Trey Anastasio Band), SHIRA ELIAS (Turkuaz) to the show for fascinating conversations. In light of the current situation at hand, this podcast has transitioned to focus on what we are living through, both collectively and in quarantine. These are our stories. In addition, we also hear from a beloved member of the music community DJ Richie G, plus the long awaited return of J.A. To lift spirits, the pod wraps up with a magical personal reflection from the host.  RIP Ellis Marsalis, Bill Withers, John Prine ISOLATION STATION v.2  DJ Richie G intro at 6:00 Leading things off is DJ Richie G, a Lettuce superfan and longtime member of the jam/funk music community. He's also a multi-genre DJ in his spare time. Richie Grossman has already contracted, battled and recovered from the corona virus, so we check in with him to hear his story, the gory details and inspiring recovery. Plus Richie's efforts livestreaming DJ sets to bring peeps together to celebrate birthdays virtually, & raise money for PPE masks for healthcare workers.  JAMES CASEY intro starts at 30mins Then we touch base with JAMES CASEY of TREY ANASTASIO BAND, who checks-in from Hawaii, where he's been quarantined for several weeks. I've known James for about a decade now and have been a big fan of his for even longer, so it was an absolute joy to get a chance to interview him, though we both wished it were under different circumstances. James was among the first people in my network warning and informing people about the oncoming pandemic, as far back as mid-February. He lets us know just why he was alarmed before most of us, and how he's dealing with the current reality. Part of that has to do with severe asthma, which stems from a near-death experience, an astonishing tale from James! Of course, he speaks about his joining TAB and his tremendous trajectory with that ensemble.  why he admires and envies Trey, and a little bit about his own music, too. Thanks to James Casey! SHIRA ELIAS intro at 57min  SHIRA ELIAS of TURKUAZ, who was a fantastic interview on Episode 013 of this podcast, jumps on the phone from the desert in Arizona. Shira tells the story of relocating her whole life from NYC to Los Angeles while the virus was taking hold in the US. She takes us through journeying cross-country, then retreating to the desert for some peace and space. We get the scoop on her forthcoming EP/project Shira Elias' Goods & Services, and the debut single “Burnin'” that drops Friday 4/10. Shira reflects on Turkuaz “None's A Ton” concert film, and why this downtime, though difficult, has been good for her in a number of ways. The Upful LIFE Podcast ADORES Shira Elias!   THE Return of J.A. - intro at 1hr 17min FINALLY. Jason Abrams has come BACK to The Upful LIFE Podcast. What a heart-filling chat with my boy back in Philly. A music-culture encyclopedia/philosopher, pro wrasslin' authority, Delaware Valley noted Phishtorian, J.A. is the most loyal and hilarious friend anyone could ever be blessed enough to have. After over a year since his last appearance, Jason comes back to the show to discuss what's goin' on right now in Philly, The Phish from VT: Island Tour revisited & Sigma Oasis, plus the music business and pro-wrasslin's future in a post-COVID entertainment industry climate. Great personal story from J.A to close out his long-awaited re-emergence.   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week Break Science “Once In A While” (acoustic) This phenomenal rework of their Seven Bridges classic is preceded by an emotional, personal anecdote from yours truly. If you make it to the end of this podcast, once in a while you're rewarded with something very special from the inner sanctums of my heart. Thanks to Borahm Lee & Adam Deitch. Yes, Indeedy! EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 029 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* switches the script in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Welcome 2 ISOLATION STATION v.1. For this episode, we'll have three shorter form interviews that directly address the fallout from the virus and it's paralyzing effect on the music culture, industry, and communities. I wanted to give people a platform and program that can communicate and connect different geographic areas, artists, activists, producers, promoters, movers, shakers, fans and the like. My intention is for this podcast to transition, and organically be in service to anyone it can reach, educate, entertain, inspire, and humor. Now is the time to live our Upful LIFE. DONATE TO BACKLINE HERE! Kendall Corso Intro @ 9:00 We kick things off by checking in with KENDALL CORSO of BACKLINE, a non-profit that connects music industry & mental health professionals. Kendall comes on to discuss Backline's Case Management Program, wherein trained mental health professionals work one-on-one with individuals to connect them with mental health resources specifically catered to the music industry lifestyle. Also : “Come Together: COVID-19 Crisis” initiative, offering bi-weekly support groups, movement and meditation sessions in partnership with like-minded organizations to help bring mental health and wellness to the music industry. Beyond the work, Kendall brings her own brand of everyday sunshine and positive energy, (as well as a sailor's vocab) to the enlightening dialogue, with a few silver linings taboot.      CHRIS PERELLA INTRO @ 30 Min After Kendall, we hear from another former boss and forever friend, CHRIS PERELLA, owner/talent buyer at Ardmore Music Hall, just outside Philly. The legendary CP, who hired me at now-defunct Philly haunt The Blockley, returns to the show to break down how he and his teams have deftly navigated the concert industry grinding to standstill. Includes very profound perspective on how things might shape up differently for independent/small businesses and regional/local concert promoters and talent buyers, once we enter a new normal, whenever that may be. Astute observations and hella hot takes from the one & only Chris Perella. DONATE to the ARDMORE MUSIC HALL STAFF FUND HERE   BILLY IUSO INTRO @ 1hr 11min Batting third is BILLY IUSO, our old friend and rock n'roll troubadour down in the great city of New Orleans. We take a few minutes to check in with Billy on how things have been for him as the virus and fallout have really put NOLA in a vice grip, on a lot of levels. Billy talks chill time, family hangs, live streams, and the foggy future, plus a good dose of positive vibes from the Crescent City. Check out Billy Iuso on Facebook for live streams, links to merch and more.   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week:   LUTAN FYAH - STILL DRE - SPECIAL FI IRIE ITES RECORDED 2003 LE MANS, FR    ISOLATION STATION. NorCal, USA EMAIL the SHOW! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 028 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes JESSICA DORE (@thejessicadore) to the show. On Twitter and Instagram, my longtime friend is a new-school tarot superstar, Jessica has hundreds of thousands of followers for her unique approach to tarot as a therapeutic tool. She's a licensed social worker, tarot practitioner and journalist/author interested in using tarot cards to help people understand the interplay between internal and external life.  I'd seen a variety of media features about her in recent months, and made a mental note that she'd be an ideal guest for this show, which came about rather serendipitously. Introduction to Jessica Dore @ 8:00, Conversation @ 12:30  Jessica and I go way back to Jazz Fest in NOLA some years ago, and we've stayed in touch sporadically. She's always been a friend on my radar, in spite of the many moons or miles between. Not long ago, we randomly bumped into one another on the streets of Oakland, and I knew it was a cosmic re-connection. Jessica was kind enough to invite me up to her idyllic treehouse studio in the Berkeley Hills for an interview that was really like a conversation between friends catching up. She has been influenced by the people and landscapes of the places she's lived and traveled including New Orleans, Jamaica, Central America, India, Northern California and New England. In just over an hour-long powwow, we share a dialogue that touches on her time in New Orleans, and Mardi Gras gone by. Plus her passion for Jamaican dancehall music, why she moved to Kingston, JA, only to subsequently leave dee-jaying behind. That narrative provides a launching point for an enlightening rabbit hole on the topics of roots, culture, family heritage, and the nature of our collective appropriation. From there, we briefly explore her daily and unwavering devotion to ashtanga yoga.  Yet the majority and priority of our conversation is focused on tracing the embryonic roots and rapid evolution of her work as @thejessicadore on Twitter and IG. She combines her knowledge from years of studying psychology, behavioral science, tarot and mysticism to support people during times of both change and stuckness. Her ideas and tarot practice have become wildly popular across social media over the past few years, and she's at the forefront of a revolution in tarot and psychology, so much so that she's out here in the Bay writing a book on the topic, contracted to a major publisher. In a language that everyone can easily understand, Dore breaks down how tarot entered her life, the connections she first discovered while working in psychology book publishing, and how they organically blossomed into @thejessicadore daily readings. How she interprets and interpolates self-help principles and therapeutic concepts into her practice and profession. The study of the soul at once ancient and brand-new. Jessica Dore's avant-garde, revolutionary tarot practice has been featured in The New York Times, New York Magazine‘s The Cut, VICE, Teen Vogue, Yoga Journal, Philadelphia Magazine, The Philadelphia Inquirer, NPR's Weekend Edition and more. Her writing has been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, VICE, and Psych Central. Jessica has studied behavioral therapies extensively and holds a level 1 certificate for essential skills in energy psychology.   PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 027 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary STEVE GORMAN (Black Crowes) for a very special edition of this program. The longtime drummer and co-founder of The Black Crowes is doing a ton of media work, podcasts and live appearances in support of his riveting rock n' roll bio "Hard 2 Handle: The Life & Death of The Black Crowes, A Memoir". I was honored and truly touched when Steve personally reached out and asked me to host/moderate his book talk in San Francisco. The event took place on January 19, 2020 and was recorded with a live audience in the SF Ferry Building Book Passage, moments after Steve's beloved Tennessee Titans lost in the AFC Championship Game.    STEVE GORMAN Live Q&A @ 20min mark I've been a fan of The Black Crowes since we covered "Jealous Again" at my Bar Mitzvah back in 1991, and saw them for the first time at the Tower Theater in Philly back in 1993, and another two dozen or so times through around 2013. Steve Gorman was a founding member of TBC, and his masterful drumming an essential component to their sound and identity as a band. He drove the train, and provided the swing that defined their swaggering grooves. He permanently left the band (again) in 2013, and they apparently disbanded in a dust cloud of sibling rivalries and greed. Only to see Chris and Rich Robinson reconstitute a version of the Crowes without him, or any previous band members for that matter, last fall.  Before the brothers could announce a Live Nation summer shed tour, and now some acoustic dates to help move tickets in the softer-selling markets, Steve dropped a bomb in the form of his fascinating book, and with it burned that proverbial feathered bridge by bearing his truth, once and for all.  As has been the case with all of his book interviews - and the book itself, Steve pulls no punches and leaves nary a stone unturned in his various recollections, delivered straight no chaser. This book talk was more of an opportunity to let Steve just tell stories, so I prepared a dozen or so questions for him, then opened it up to the audience for some of their personal inquiries, of which I edited some for length/clarity. Most of the content from the conversation is rooted in his tremendously detailed memoir, or random asides from the cutting room floor. Steve reflects on everything from Ringo Starr to Jimmy Page, recording the Crowes' legendary run of 90's albums, including 2 which never came out until many years later. Steve goes down different random rabbit holes, explores the concepts of co-dependence & closure, he sets the record straight about a number of hot topics in the Crowes community. Much like the book itself, you need not be a Crowes fanatic to enjoy this colorful interview about an American rock band that is as iconic as it is divisive, and whose catalog, legacy, and career narrative should stand the test of time. It's certainly an afternoon I will never forget! Thank You Steve Gorman!  WATCH THE BOOK TALK Q&A VIDEO! CLICK HERE    Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week: "Descending" by The Black Crowes, off of 1994's Amorica    Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on iTunes! You Can Listen on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

After a brief pause for the cause, *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is back with Episode 026 featuring Ryan Jalbert of The Motet. In late December, on the heels of The Motet's co-headline funkstravaganza at the Fillmore with KDTU, Ryan and I finally caught up for an hour in downtown San Francisco. Jalbert was on his way to a jazz show at the Black Cat, but took timeout to make sure we got the proper time for a powwow. I've been a fan of his for several years now, and Ryan has been a listener to this podcast since almost the beginning too, as such it was a pretty cool dynamic for the interview. We basically just kicked it for a while, chopped it up about his path taken, with some attention to detail and the typical musical/cultural rabbit holes. RYAN JALBERT INTRO > CONVO begins at 14:30 First, a contest giveaway! VI Jam Fest in St. John, US.VI!! Enter to win two free tickets with camping, value $630 USD! Just share this post on the Upful LIFE Facebook page,  OR LEAVE A REVIEW ON UPFUL LIFE iTUNES & send an email to B.Getz@upfullife.com After the contest information, we jump into the interview with Ryan Jalbert. This conversation covers his entire musical journey, from his childhood in Western Mass, learning the guitar, loving the blues as a kid, up through college, Phish tours, the music scene in the Northeast in the early 2000s, working with Brett Dennen, Leslie Helpert, joining The Motet, and then his 15-year odyssey that continues up through their most recent LP Death or Devotion. We finish with a little bit on his side project Jalbatross with brother Colin, as well as some of his recent favorite artists. Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week: "When You Feel It, Grunt If You Can" from the The JB's 1969 demo tape More Mess on My Thing. Recently uploaded after being vinyl-only for a couple of years. Otherworldly 22-minute excursion into the netherworlds of primordial funk, rock, and soul. Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Also available on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE        

Episode 025 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the legendary Eric Krasno to the show for a pretty sweet powwow on a number of salient topics from the guitarist/producer's illustrious career. Co-founder of Soulive, co-founder and former guitarist of Lettuce, Kraz was in the Bay Area in late September for a quick run with E3- (Eric Krasno Trio), at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, a club owned by Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead. In between soundcheck and the gig, Kraz and I sat down and chopped it up for nearly an hour, and trust it was a thrill to have this conversation after so many years of being a superfan of so many of his projects. Krasno Introduction & KRAZ "Leave a Little" at 7:30 Eric Krasno Interview at 15:00   We start chatting about the present tense, beginning with his formation of E3, a little about his bandmates and loosely defining what the mission is. From there we pivot to his brand new KRAZ project, and the album Telescope, released on Sept.27. Eric lets us in on why KRAZ is such a departure from his established norm, and what went into the creation of this new lane for the longtime Soulive shredder. Krasno also details his departure from Brooklyn after 20 years, and how that figured into the conception and realization of the concept album Telescope. We also touch on his stoke for his new digs and studio in Los Angeles, and some super funky neighbors.     Since we were at Bob Weir's club, it only felt perfect to get into the Grateful Dead. With reverence, Kraz takes us back to his first GD shows in the late 80's, all the way up through sharing the stage with Phil Lesh, Bobby and the Rhythm Devils. Kraz also tells a few stories about father and son, his own pops, & later Phil and Grahame Lesh for a couple nights out on the NOLA town over Jazz Fest. Naturally, we had to dive into two decades of Soulive, and why they were such a revolutionary band at the turn of the century. Kraz walks us down memory lane a little, but chooses to focus on how fiery the most recent Soulive performances have been. After taking the temperature of Soulive, Kraz opens up a bit about Lettuce. The guitarist reflects on the early days, their meteoric ascent, his decision to walk away (and why), and brings it full circle back at LOCK'N when LETT paid tribute to JGB with Bobby, John Mayer, Oteil and others back in August 2018. Eric then takes a few moments to explain what was behind the difficult decision to step up and perform with Circles Around the Sun, in honor and memory of his dearly departed friend Neal Casal. We finish up our riveting conversation with some guitar shop talk, focusing on the PRS Silver Sky, John Mayer signature model.     LEAH CONCIALDI Inteview begins at 1hr 11m Following that interview is a short, sweet conversation with Leah Concialdi, a saxophonist (and more) with ATOMGA and Tnertle, as well as a major cog in the wheel that is Color Red Music out in Colorado. Over the summer, we got a chance to hear all about the label, the concept and the people behind Color Red, as well as a little bit about both of her bands and her experience in the music industry for the past decade. *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* - "Telephone" by Erykah Badu.  Enjoy my look back at Badoula's 7-minute elegy to J-Dilla, written the day after his funeral, about how ODB acted as Dilla's visionary guide to the afterlife. Celebrate Tonight!    Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Also available on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 024 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes Hammond B3 organ maestro WIL BLADES to the show for a lengthy conversation about his career, Bay Area music culture, saddling up to jazz and funk legends, the Adam Deitch Quartet, Amendola vs. Blades, and beyond. From bright eyed young cat in Chicago, to one of the rising stars in jazz and groove music, he's among the more impressive organ players in the culture today. Just a few days before he was moving to SoCal, Wil invited me over to his home in Berkeley, CA to have a spirited discussion, and was game to go deep about his own journey, the nuances of Hammond B3 organ, his passion for rare groove, the oral tradition of music, the history of the Boom Boom Room, and so much more. It was an honor to give Wil a chance to really let the people know who he is and how he got to be such a respected and celebrated musician, and to shed a lot of light on historical cats along the way. 7:00 - Wil Blades INTRO 12:45 - Amendola vs. Blades "Hi Lo"  15:00 - WIL'S INTERVIEW STARTS   1:33:30 "Art Bar" - Adam Deitch Quartet      We start the conversation in Wil's youth growing up near Chicago in Evanston, IN, learning both the drums and guitar as a youngster, taking ques from his older brothers. We also spend some time talking about how we discovered music as kids in the 90's, and how that is so markedly different from how Wil's teen children find their favorite artists today. From there, he takes us back to the late 90's, moving across the country to the Bay Area to join an Oakland jamband and attend college. Wil explains how SF and Oakland were very different back in those days, and how a particular college professor with a heavy resume and unique teaching style put him on to the importance of the oral tradition in music. At the time of the interview, Wil was preparing to move to Los Angeles after twenty years in the Bay. Wil gives us a colorful reflection on the music scene when he first arrived in the Bay Area, and for much of the convo he continues to tell the tale about how the music and culture would evolve over the next two decades. Wil was/remains also a huge part of the scene at renowned SF venue Boom Boom Room, a hotbed for blues when he arrived, but later evolving into the epicenter for all things NOLA and funky here in NorCal. Wil breaks down what it was like as John Lee Hooker's Boom Boom Room, and how talent buyer Alex/Xander Andreas's vision has helped the club to continue to flourish with the funk. Wil Blades has studied with some of true legends, and talks in great detail about his time with master organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, the late iconic funk/jazz drummer Idris Muhammed, an beloved late hollow-body guitarist Melvin Sparks. Wil has spent time with and performed alongside each of these giants, and it was riveting to hear how he organically and serendipitously came to connect with such luminaries, and what a thrill it was to hear of ho w each of them put him on game.  Wil makes sure to explore the essential particulars of organ/drums relationship. Two thirds of the way through the interview, we finally arrive at the Adam Deitch Quartet, Wil's fantastic project with the Lettuce/Break Science drummer wunderkind. We play a portion of the Blades-penned "Art Bar", then return to our dialogue. Wil retraces the steps on how that relationship came together, and gets into the magic that makes it all happen with Deitch, Eric Benny Bloom (trumpet) and Ryan Zoidis (sax). We discuss the making of their critically-acclaimed LP Egyptian Secrets, and reminisce on some classic AD4 gigs thru the years. Wil spends some time discussing his tremendous Amendola vs. Blades project with Bay Area groove merchant Scott Amendola, and their new LP Everybody Wins (Royal Potato Family), and their short West Coast tour. Wil Blades finishes out this phenomenal interview by talking about what's he excited about in moving down to LA after two decades as a prodigal son of the Bay.     Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week (2:04) "11th Hour" by DROPICAL, off his new EP Circling Out (Jumpsuit Records)     Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Also available on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Episode 023 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes the one-and-only REUBEN SADOWSKY, ceabador with Guayaki Yerba Mate, close friend/former tour manager to Rising Appalachia, awe-inspiring action sportsman, festival fixture and 11-year Burner. We caught up with him for nearly an hour during Planet Home, a 3-day solutionary conference that took place in San Francisco in early September; Reuben was there on behalf of Guayaki's Come to Life program. Fascinating conversation with one of the most interesting people I've ever met. After a 5 minute poetic interlude from a dear homie, the second interview is with Beau Williams, Tour Manager/Production Manager of LETTUCE.  Closing things out, the *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* is MORiLLO's brand new single "Booty".   Reuben Sadowsky Intro at 8:30, Interview at 12min Beau Williams Intro at 1hr 13min, Interview 1hr 17min   Reuben and I start with a little about the Planet Home event, and discuss Come to Life's presence, the experience and the initiative's greater missions, before diving into his expansive role as a ceabador with Guayaki, and how that serendipitously came to be. Reuben explains how Come to Life is a “Good News Network”, and takes us around the world, following wherever the mate takes us, full-spectrum storytelling delivering a regenerative message. Reuben reflects on what it's like to work for such a progressive company that places priority on it's ideals and is so focused on fostering community, from the rainforests of South America to permaculture farms in Salt Spring Island, city to city around the globe. CLICK HERE to watch Reuben speed-flying on skis!  We take a deep dive on his relationship with the core four members of Rising Appalachia, including his time as Tour Manager (as well as their extensive adventuring together). Plus his gratitude for growing up with "cool parents" in Aspen, CO, and how that upbringing fostered a spirited zest for life, fueling a passion for action sports like skiing, surfing, paragliding, speed-flying, and beyond. An 11-year Burner, of course we had to touch on the topic of Black Rock City, as well as our meeting at Envision Festival 2014, NOLA Jazz Fest, & a number of festivals, activations, and transformative gatherings across this great land. Throughout our conversation, Reuben Sadowsky articulates and illuminates the perpetual seeking a 'flow state' and delivers a message of regeneration, community, and inspiration. Booyah!   CLICK HERE to watch Scott T bless up St. Augustine, FL before Rising Appalachia show in May 2014   Beau Williams Intro 1hr 13, Interview 1hr 17m   Also appearing on Ep.023 is Beau Williams, Tour Manager/Production Manager with Lettuce, member of the Bear Creek family, and formerly the longtime FOH engineer with Papadosio. Likewise a tough cat to nail down, Beau and I caught up for about 20 mins backstage at Suwannee Rising back in early April 2019. Lots of sweet Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park reflections, and a bunch of LETT chat too (obviously)- from the Colorado Symphony to the recording sessions for Elevate, and more! *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week*  MORiLLO's brand new single "Booty" (colibri out 10/18)   Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Also available on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 022 of *The Upful Life Podcast* w/s/g Smasheltooth is live and direkt! This celebrated, colorful, & outspoken West Coast selectah looks back on a decade in the DJ game, but of course we dig deeper into myriad topics. Ever since I first came upon her at the Haven in Nevada City, CA opening for Mad Zach in 2016, I've been intrigued by this dynamic persona. Began following her on social media and over the past few years, have become a big fan of her DJ sets and out-sized personality.     Smash was in the Bay Area for a benefit concert for my dear friend Greg who'd lost his leg in a tragic hit & run on his motorbike. We linked up in an Oakland warehouse recording studio for a lengthy, spirited, and emotional powwow. As she reminds us throughout our chat, everyone has a story. And rest assured, hers is one worth telling. SMASHELTOOTH INTERVIEW STARTS AT 11:45    Ashley leaves nary a stone un-turned as she reflects on her fairy-tale marriage to The Pirate & reveals quite a bit about how motherhood has reshaped her life and worldview. From there she ruminates on the circle of life & death - with regard to the Ghost Ship tragedy, and giving birth to her son Johnny Ryder in the immediate aftermath of that deadly fire. Smash invites us into what it's like being a confident female in a male-dominated industry, details her overcoming sexual and emotional trauma thru pornography and Trap music, pontificates on the allure of pussy-power, the carnage from substance abuse, and beyond. We discuss the omnipresence of the Grateful Dead, finding one's self within festival culture, curating an original vibe on the dancefloor, empowering women on the dancefloor, a deep dive on the late, great Bay Area hip-hop icon Mac Dre, and more DJ-related content. Towards the end of this 90-minute interview, I pose a rather serious and emotional question to Ashley: is she conflicted supporting LGBT & lionizing Sizzla Kalonji? The supernaturally-gifted yet uber-controversial Yardie legend who's militant Rasta intolerance of homosexuality is a divisive topic among fans. This particular segment is a good talk. All in all, a riveting dialogue beginning to end, with the one and only Smasheltooth Tiger!     CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 'SOUND OF THE SEA by STICK FIGURE Real talk, this is among the best interviews I've ever conducted. Ashley was a natural and we went places in the dialogue that quite frankly I never imagined . When it was over, I was HIGH off the conversation. On the way home, I actually had to pull over, get out of the car and walk it off for a few mins. THANK YOU MADAME SMASH!!  Check out all things SMASHELTOOTH on Soundclou   Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week: "Dirty Daddy"- Great Dane (OAKK Remix)        Email the show! B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Also available on Spotify!  Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 020 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* returns in its new every-third-week scheduling, back in the saddle with a revealing interview with very special guest Ms. Anna Moss, one half of the quirky, funky, folky, jazzy, and downright intoxicating musical duo Handmade Moments. The group, whom I've worked with a couple of times in the past few years, were coming through the Bay Area for an exquisite gig in a redwood grove at UC Berkeley's picturesque botanical gardens. In between soundcheck, their masterful performance, and a quick departure northbound for the iconic Oregon Country Fair, Anna Moss was kind enough to carve out some time for me: both before their set and after. Please enjoy a heartfelt conversation on a their unique path taken, tragedy and healing, overcoming adversity, and what the future may hold for the enigmatic singer and multi-instrumentalist, her partner Joel Ludford, and their magical musical project, Handmade Moments. ANNA MOSS Intro > Interview @ 17min 30secs We begin with a brief discussion of our stunning environs and the towering redwoods in which we would enjoy their concert at UC Berkeley, before embarking on a trip into the way-back machine and their humble Ozark beginnings. The Eureka Springs, AR-bred singer/songwriter/saxophonist takes us into her formative years with two influential godmothers, progressive women way ahead of their time, who introduced Anna to the likes of Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong. From there she discovered Nina Simone, Etta James, and one begins to understand just what and who inspired this young woman to emanate a wisdom, voice and aura far beyond her years. Moss then takes us to the moment when she first met Joel Ludford, and how their musical relationship and artistic dynamic took flight. Anna recalls the early days with the rock-band precursor to Handmade Moments, a larger ensemble called Don't Stop Please. Moss reflects on how she and Joel evolved into a new endeavor from the ashes of this band, and how one can trace the DNA of Handmade Moments to this embryonic project.  From there, we get into the thick of things, as Anna details how Handmade Moments made their bones on a 5 year grind of touring, traveling, busking, writing, gigging, and just keeping their proverbial nose to the grindstone. Yet on one fateful May 2016 afternoon in glorious Northern California, their beloved bio-diesel bus- that they spent six months laboring to build, and lived, toured and gigged in for nearly a year- was struck by two vehicles in a devastating head-on collision. In an instant, everything changed. In our conversation, Moss takes us through this experience in harrowing detail. The resulting wreck required a Medivac for Ludford, who was severely injured from the waist down. He spent a month in the hospital, three more in a wheelchair. Moss herself had a concussion, two other passengers were injured as well, and all four called themselves lucky to be alive. At this point in our interview, Anna must excuse herself to soundcheck and then play their gig in the Redwood grove in the UC Botanical Garden. For the pause in the conversation, please enjoy Handmade Moments' exquisite cover of Aaliyah's timeless "R U That Somebody?", and then we return to the interview after their performance. After the riveting set, Moss was kind enough to finish up this story and share a little bit more about herself and the group. In the immediate aftermath of this accident, she and Ludford retreated into the nurturing bosom of Nevada City, CA to recover, and begin the healing process the only way they knew how, through music. Over the next three months, these meditations and ruminations fueled the writing, recording, and realization of Paw Paw Tree, their third full length LP, and first for Jumpsuit Records.  From there, Moss takes us up into the present, including the pair relocating to the great city of NOLA, their tours of Europe, South America, and a recent coast-to-coast stateside excursion as direct support for their pals Yonder Mountain String Band. She exudes excitement for both Oregon Country Fair and Northwest String Summit. To close out this fascinating powwow, Moss touches on some of her favorite, best-kept secrets in the music scene back in Arkansas, making sure to shine a light on some friends, peers, and collaborators back home. She also gives us the scoop on their plans for the future, beginning with a long-awaited Handmade Moments covers album, and Anna's goal for a New Orleans jazz release, something she'd like to create and record right there in the Crescent City.  Anna Moss is a very special artist and human being, and I feel lucky to be in her orbit, and Joel's as well. As I'm fond of saying, 'twas an honor and privilege to sit and share these conversations with her in such marvelous, majestic surrounds. Keep eyes and ears peeled for all things Handmade Moments, this duo is destined for greatness.    HILARY GLEASON Interview @ 1:10:35   Another inspiring female in our extended music family, Hilary Gleason is CEO of Level, a philanthropic consulting firm specializing in humanitarian efforts. Hers is a story of humble beginnings as well, and Gleason was kind enough to take a half-hour out of her extremely busy professional schedule, meet me in the lobby of SF's posh Park 55 hotel, to speak to Upful LIFE. (Please excuse the crowd noise, we did the best we could) Among her myriad goals, Hilary intends to inspire others to seek out their passions, and to take on missions that really matter, not just to ourselves, but to society, to the culture, and to humanity. Her various benevolent endeavors including traveling to Africa and working with neurosurgical teams in Uganda, and also boots-on-the-ground efforts with US-based non-profit organizations like Headcount.org, as well as WinterWondergrass, among others. Gleason also shares a very cool story about how she first got connected with the very same music scene that brings so many of us together: the extended Lettuce/Soulive/Royal Family, taking us back a few years to when she initially landed in Brooklyn and found herself at Brooklyn Bowl's Bowlive, and how kind folks like guitarist Eric Krasno (Soulive) unknowingly helped Gleason identify her path and passion in life. Now she is in turn becoming a facilitator for others, leading by example and being the change; Gleason has dedicated her professional life to this mission. Hilary is a shining example of what can happen when you follow your heart AND the funk, only to find your purpose in life along the way. Keep shining, Hilary Gleason!     *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week*    The white-hot Austin, TX-based project Black Pumas unveil "Colors", recorded live at Studio 1A earlier this summer. What a powerful slab of emotion, an aesthetic and an undeniable vibe that feels not just authentic, but is nothing short of cathartic for the listener. WARNING: Goosebumps!! Shoutout to Randy Bayers at FunkitBlog and John Speice IV (Brownout, Grupo Fantasma) for putting me onto these phenomenal cats outta Tejas. Stoked for what the future holds for this group, but for now, sink into "Colors." The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 019 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes our good friend LUKE QUARANTA to the show for another long and winding discussion, the last interview I conducted over two weeks in NOLA during Jazz Fest 50. I first encountered Luke and his band TOUBAB KREWE at Bear Creek Music and Arts Festival, at Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, around 2008 or 2009. Ever since, I've been a big fan of his percussion magic, and of course the amazing Toubab Krewe, who released their latest LP Stylo in 2018. Toubab Krewe is always very active over Jazz Fest, and the members play in a lot of other bands as well, not the least of which is Luke himself. Nonetheless we were able to track him down at the end of our stay in NOLA, and he more than delivered with a fascinating interview that was at once informative and entertaining. LUKE QUARANTA Intro>Interview at 11 Mins Quaranta takes us on a lengthy journey of his inspiring career as a drummer, starting with his humble beginnings growing up in New Rochelle, NY and spending some time in the Bronx as a young adult. He discusses formative influences on him as a youth, and how he developed an interest in the different drums he employs when creating with Toubab Krewe. Originally and primarily based in Asheville, NC, Toubab Krewe members came together in organic fashion, shared a passion for West African instrumentation and it's music, and a strong curiosity to make it something new and evolved of it, yet still in tribute to the traditions. Over time, Luke began working with Djembe, Congas, Dundun, Sangban, and KenKeni drums, and he explains how he came in contact with these instruments and where he picked up knowledge and understanding of these ancient drums along the way. From there, Quaranta describes the context of these instruments, music from Mali, Guinea, and the Ivory Coast, and how he/his bandmates internalized it, and then repurposed it as their own creation, with permission and a blessing. Quaranta discusses mentors and friends from his travels in West Africa. I asked him how he was able to get together and study at length with master drummers in Africa and in the US, to such depth and understanding. He describes several trips to Africa to live with and make music among the people in Mali, Guinea and Ivory Coast. Quaranta explains how they received blessings from the master teachers to take this music to the West; they were invited to live with them and their families, spending a month a time, on more than one occasion, to get a proper orientation from the musicians who know it best. We talk a bit about Toubab Krewe in the early days, and Luke appears to have a fond time reminiscing on the start of this band and it's journey in the early 00's, he takes great detail in the narrative of how the music was instilled in them in Africa, how they hosted master drummers here in the States and traveled extensively with them and traditional dance groups too, and how it all tied together with the embryonic phase of Toubab Krewe.   Luke explains how Toubab carries echoes of African greats like Ali Farka Toure, Orchestra Baobab and Salif Keita, but are ambassadors of the music into the future, they are not bound by the same traditions, and the Krewe was encouraged to play this music from their own hearts.  From there, Quaranta explains the etymology of the name "Toubab Krewe", how it pertains to non-Africans AND is a nod to the heartbeat of jazz music, New Orleans, where our conversation was taking place. Which brings us to the discussion around current Toubab Krewe drummer Terrence Houston, who's been George Porter Jr's drummer for several years and is very admired in the local community and around the US. Quaranta explains how Houston came into the Toubab picture, and how his inclusion has informed the sound of the band in their modern era, most specifically with regard to the material found on STYLO. We finish up the conversation on Toubab with discussing their newest LP STYLO, including the writing and recording processes for both studio and live efforts past and present. After a lengthy powwow on all things Toubab, we take some time to talk about the incredible Weedie Braimah, who appeared on Episode 004 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast*, a master djembefola whom Luke has studied with, collaborated with, and befriended for many years. They both live and work in New Orleans, and the two have united for some amazing musical endeavors, not the least of which is Weedie Braimah & the Hands of Time. Quaranta takes a few minutes to flesh out the concept for this group and explain the nature of their music in a language everybody can easily understand. This is a powerful collection of world music masters and it was quite informative to hear about what goes into making the Hands of Time happen. A little bit about Jazz Fest, and the myriad of side bands that come to life in NOLA that Weedie, Luke, and collaborators include Raja Kassis (Antibalas), and Terence Higgins (Mad Skillet, Ani DiFranco). We touch on Luke's role in some of those bands, such as Pirate's Choice, Wahala Boys, FuFu All-Stars, and MEGAWATT, a project spearheaded by Kassis that include's musicians from outside of NOLA, such as Lettuce's Adam Deitch, Break Science's Borahm Lee, among others. Blake Quick/Rachel Murray (THE QUICKENING) Interview at 1hr 11mins  After Luke's chat, we pivot to a NOLA-based buzz-band I'm very fond of, The Quickening, with a sweet 22-minute interview with founder/guitarist/vocalist Blake Quick and vocalist Rachel Murray. Their 2018 LP Begin Again made Upful LIFE's Favorite 18 Albums of 2018, and we've had our eyes and ears on The Quickening for a couple years now. Enjoy a peak behind the scenes of a Crescent City band cutting their teeth in that great environment, and some perspective on the hard work and grueling efforts it takes to make or break a band in this crowded, vibrant, and often cut-throat music scene. Both Quick and Murray also shout out some of their favorite underground NOLA musicians. Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week   Garage-a-Trois debut EP, vinyl only, "Mysteryfunk". Fog City Records, 1999. I just let the whole 24mins EP ride out. 3 full songs and a minute-long outro. This features the original lineup of Stanton Moore, Charlie Hunter, and Skerik, Produced by Dan Prothero. You may think you know these guys as players, or even GAT, but you likely haven't heard them quite like this. Almost an electronic album, Moore unfurling boukou trip-hop breakbeats and drum & bass jungle riddims, underneath the kaleidoscopic eccentricities of Hunter and Skerik in full bloom. The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Tonight, on Proper Propaganda: New tracks from Bas & JID, Kota the Fiend, and Calvin Valentine, but first, new from El Capo featuring Rick Ross & Marc Scibilia, “State of the Union.” “State of the Union” El Capo feat. Rick Ross & Marc Scibilia “Children of the Ghetto” Diamond D feat Styles P. Xzibit & Ashtin Martin “Fried Rice” Bas & JID “For Colored Boys” Kota the Friend Interlude: BG Music: “Round Midnight” by Pete Rock “Cal Val Venis” Calvin Valentine “Casualties of a Dice Game” (Remix) Big L “Free” Malik Turner “Neck Deep” Intellect “Safe” Sage feat. Kesha & Chika “From the 718” Pete Miser “We Trying to Stay Alive” Wyclef Jean “Times Up” O.C. Interlude: SNL “Gotta Get Mine” MC Breed feat. 2Pac “F.T.P.” X-Clan “White Man” Macy Gray “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)” Marvin Gaye “Keep it Locked” Pete Miser “What More Can I Say” Jay-Z

Episode 018 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* returns with very special guest JON PHILLIPS, founder of Silverback Music, a management company based in Southern California. Jon is the former manager of Sublime- going back to the early 90's - and currently works with George Porter Jr., Fishbone, Dumpstaphunk, The Grouch and Eligh, Slightly Stoopid, among other successful contemporary artists. Jon and I have a little bit of a personal friendship and professional relationship over the past few years, but I don't really know him well at all. As such, it was like a class in session, as Jon took me back to the beginning of his long, strange trip in the music industry. Jon tells the tale of how he has carved his own lane in the game, doing so based on super-solid relationships, an ear for what's next, his penchant for putting the artist first, and he reflects on a humble and efficient approach to managing his eclectic roster at Silverback. Episode 018 begins with a short tribute to JamBase.com on the occasion of their 20th anniversary. Just wanted to take a few minutes to reflect on the impact that JamBase had on my life, my career, the culture, and so many other fantastic individuals who were crucial to La Costa Nostra for many moons. JamBase remains a crucial part of chronicling the culture and it was an absolute joy to celebrate their two decades of covering various jam scenes. JON PHILLIPS INTERVIEW STARTS AT 17:00 We begin with a bit about the city of New Orleans, and Jazz Fest, as that was where and when this interview was taking place. In addition to his personal history going to NOLA, Jon touches on the cosmic connection between Grateful Dead culture and New Orleans, from the Neville Brothers to getting busted on Bourbon and many points between. We also spoke a bit of the evolution of Jazz Fest as an event, and a culture unto itself. This was an interesting launching off point that connected our talk to Fest culture and NOLA funk, but allowed us to branch out as the conversation rolled on. We would return to NOLA a few times throughout the convo. Jon's experience in the music business had humble and serendipitous beginnings in SoCal, as he first connected with Bradley Nowell and Sublime. Jon was a major cog in the young band's operation as they rocketed towards success. He was personally asked by Bradley to be their manager, and he made it his personal mission to get Sublime signed, after much effort they made it happen at Gasoline Alley. Phillips was somebody who helped light the fuse for Sublime's meteoric rise to stardom, a gargantuan level of success, not just unprecedented but also something that Bradley sadly didn't live to enjoy. From the magic of the early days, to the special nature of his relationship with Nowell, to the warning signs and demon fears, when KROC first played “Date Rape” to Sublime trying to refuse to play the song at the KROC Weenie Roast, Jon takes us all down an emotional memory lane. Inevitably we discuss Bradley's tragic death from an overdose in May of 1996, and Jon is brutally honest about the way it all unfolded. Jon keeps it classy and places a focus on the triumph of the music that cannot and will not ever be denied. This is a powerful segment from someone who saw it all from the front lines. He pulls no punches yet at the same time shows such reverence for his fallen friend and his musical legacy. This is some of the realest shit this show has ever spoken. Rest in Power Bradley Nowell. From there he embarks on his life's work with Silverback Music, creating the company, signing the legendary Fishbone, and then setting out to develop another young band's career, this time with Slightly Stoopid, who came out of the Sublime diaspora. What Jon has overseen with the evolution of Stoopid is remarkable, and he explains a little bit of the grassroots nature of how the band built an empire, while the rest of the music industry chased it's tail in changing times. Stoopid has stayed ahead of the curve in developing their scene, their brand, and their culture, by staying true to themselves as fads come and go. Jon pulls back the curtain a little bit on how this band has set the bar for independent music, in so many creative ways.   We also discuss his NOLA clients like Dumpstaphunk, and his long-standing relationship with Ian and Ivan Neville. And of course we had to touch on George Porter Jr, who Jon has been working with for several years as well. Jon takes us through the blow-by-blow of how Foundation of Funk with Eric Krasno beckoned Phil Lesh to jam at the House of Blues in NOLA, and what Phil was like to hang with late night at Jazz Fest. Not to mention a bit about the Funk & Co LOCKN set that featured George, Zigaboo, Ivan and Cyril Neville. Finish strong with a quick reflection on his clients The Grouch & Eligh, a West Coast underground hip-hop institution. Large up to Jon Phillips of Silverback Music for the phenomenal history lesson and engaging storytelling.   SAM D'ARCANGELO of CANNABIS VOTER PROJECT : 1hr 11mins   From there we transition to SAM D'ARCANGELO, Director of the Cannabis Voter Project, an arm of Headcount.org. Sam is a journalist and activist, and a Masters student at University of Texas in Austin. Sam also is a Louisiana native, and spent many years of his life in and around NOLA. Sam and I discuss Austin and the Crescent City early in the convo, before transitioning to the political process, cannabis law, and of course cannabis politics. Sam breaks down Headcount's Participation Row, and his role in the Cannabis Voter Project, which is on the road with Dead & Co, and has worked with Lettuce, among others. He and I have a spirited discussion around legalization that doesn't go precisely how you'd think. Stoked to be able to offer a platform to people like Sam, and organizations like Headcount and Cannabis Voter Project.   *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* I received the news of Dr. John's passing just before this podcast went live. Scrapped the original Vibe Junkie JAM and instead we will have a tribute to Mac Rebennack, aka the Night Tripper. Please enjoy "Gris Gris" live from the Piknic Dutch Festival in Velsen, 1970. Condolences to Dr. John's family, friends, and millions of fans around the world. His music and legacy shall live on in the hearts and minds of all who were blessed to enjoy his myriad gifts.  Malcolm John Rebennack (November 20, 1941 – June 6, 2019)   Upful LIFE says *THANK YOU* to the great CITY OF NEW ORLEANS!   The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

  Episode 017 of *The Upful Life Podcast* gets Big Easy-busy with two crucial members of the Crescent City committee, as I sit down with NOLA-based rock n'roll troubadour Billy Iuso (BIRN) for a lengthy powwow, and chase that with 40 minutes of pure, uncut Eric Benny Bloom (of Lettuce.) Super stoked to continue riding high on N'awlinz and Jazz Fest with these two fascinating pals.   BILLY IUSO interview starts at 9min 30sec Billy Iuso is Ep 017's featured guest and we set up shop in his uptown NOLA backyard hang, for a lovely conversation. Early on, Billy touches on our shared love for the Grateful Dead, and how he found his way from touring with them to stepping on stage himself. We go back to late 90s jam scene in the NorthEast, his late friend Jaik Miller, and Iuso's path to New Orleans b/o Athens, Ga. Billy recalls how Deadheads were fairly few and far between upon his arrival, and how he was always labeled "a Dead guy" around this town, and somewhat still is. Nonetheless, since he planted the Iuso flag in the Crescent City, Billy has done plenty in NOLA to establish his own name and voice. This recognition didn't come easy, nor happen overnight, and not without the benevolence of some living legends. So I set out to have Billy Iuso tell his story. Billy pulls back the curtain on his amazing relationship with George Porter Jr., their shared history, and the ways that Billy has worked for/helped out/learned from GPJ. We also discuss Billy's time with Anders Osborne, before really delving into his life's work with BIRN aka Billy Iuso & Restless Natives. Every step of the way, Billy breaks down the band members and the music, all the while schooling us on the realities of being a working musician, making original music, based in New Orleans, in 2019. Kudos to Billy for keeping it 100 and doing so with dignity and respect. We close out with a powerful passage between Billy and I on addiction, kratom as medicine, and a new lease on life. Moving, engaging, powerful stuff from a super solid cat in Billy Iuso. Check out his website HERE.    ERIC BENNY BLOOM Interview Starts at 1hr 08mins    Down the road, Upful Life will have a full-length feature interview with Eric Benny Bloom, where he gets his own episode, however I just had to share this 40 minute gem that was recorded in mid-April in SF. On the heels of a heady AF wine-tasting AND an epic supper at Statebird Provisions, Benny and I retreat to the calm serenity of his posh hotel room for a brief, hilarious, and informative discussion: including John Scofield collaborating with Lettuce, obviously a quick-but-deep dive into NOLA- the music and the vibe of calling the Crescent City home. Benny expounds on why he supports Nick Payton's BAM mission, and how playing jazz is different than jamming funk, as evidenced in his solo project(s) which he briefly discusses. We delve into (still) being the "new guy(s)" in Lettuce, a little bit on the new LETT LP Elevate, dropping June 14. We geek out on why Russ Elevado is the secret weapon for the glorious sound of the new album. Plus staying inspired on the road, The Lettuce Horns (EBB and Ryan Zoidis) passion for natural wines, finishing up the convo with their exciting new business endeavor Sauvage Selections.   *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* “Sexual Healing”, “Grapevine > Heavy Love Affair”. The Nth Power & Friends- Marvin Gaye Tribute Time to Get it Together. Jazz Fest late night, One Eyed Jacks's, 4.27.19. Plus a few words from the host on this unforgettable performance, another instant classic from the OG squad and familia. LARGE UP Randy Bayers & Funk It Blog for the sound. #TheNthPowerLovesYou     Upful LIFE says *THANK YOU* to the great CITY OF NEW ORLEANS! The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Episode 016 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* features a thoughtful conversation with stalwart keyboardist ROBERT WALTER, founding member of The Greyboy Allstars, leader of his own Robert Walter's 20th Congress (RW20), and of late, Mike Gordon. I was lucky to track down Robert at his rented crib in the Lower Garden District in NOLA, during the comparatively mellow 'daze between' Jazz Fest weekends. The interview actually took place the day before his 49th birthday, and Robert was in a great mood and eager to share some memories and perspective. Since it was Jazz Fest and (naturally) he had a crawfish boil to get to, and then two late night gigs after that party. As such we kept the convo fairly short, about 40 minutes, which ended up being a perfect length for this kinda chat while down at the Jazz Fest.    ROBERT WALTER INTERVIEW STARTS AT 14 MINS  Since we were talking in NOLA, it was obvious where we should start the dialogue. Robert recalls his earliest trips to NOLA and how he became fascinated with the music and culture of the Crescent City. He touches on the different connections he shares with musicians down here, and how those relationships bear thrilling, kaleidoscopic fruits each and every year at Jazz Fest. He speaks about the humble beginnings of his collaborations with Galactic drummer Stanton Moore, and how that friendship has spiraled into a variety of fascinating endeavors. Specifically, we visit his projects Frequinox and Worship My Organ, both annual Jazz Fest special events that Robert is a major cog in. From there we rap a little bit about NOLA Jazz Fest booking trends, and the evolution of the Jazz Fest late night show. Plus the Cali ---> Crescent City funk connection, by way of Dan Prothero & Fog City Records, back in the mid-to-late 1990s.   After getting the 411 of how Robert made his way from punk rock and hip-hop of the late 80's and early 90's to rare-groove and jazz-funk of decades earlier, I was sure to ask Robert how the Greyboy Allstars first came together, and the roots of their connection with DJ Greyboy, and of course the San Diego scene that gave birth to both. Robert retraces that history and gives us a peek into how the Greyboys set a whole retro-jazz-jam-funk scene into motion, and how these pioneers then created their individual "sidecar projects" including his own Robert Walter's 20th Congress. We talk a bit about the different incarnations of RW20, including the most recent lineup for his Spacesuit album from 2018. Robert is candid about his admiration for current 20th Congress drummer Simon Lott, and he offers a bit of insight into his creative process when writing for RW20 versus his own solo endeavors. Robert and I finish up with a look into his "jam" explorations, beginning with a deep cut of the Grateful Dead's "Dark Star" that was recorded back in 1999 during the Money Shot RW20 sessions, and (appropriately) found on last year's Lagniappe Sessions. It was a natural transition to discussing his role and contributions in Phish bassist Mike Gordon's band. Robert was really open about how he sees this project, and why it's evolved into a true collective, instead just fulfilling a bandleader's singular vision.  JESSE PAIGE INTERVIEW BEGINS AT 54 MINS   Then we take about a half-hour to drop in with JESSE PAIGE, owner/operator of the NOLA nightclub Blue Nile, located in the heart of the Frenchman Street madness. The Blue Nile has always been a crucial part of my Jazz Fest experience for as long as I can remember, but in the past couple of years, since Jesse has owned the joint, it's become essential. So has his work with Backbeat Foundation, in promoting a diverse late-night musical menu every year during Fest. Jesse has always gone the extra mile to make sure that musicians, fans and staff are all properly taken care of, not just during the craziness of Jazz Fest, but year-round. His reputation and relationships speak for themselves, and it's not uncommon to meet some musical heroes when hanging out with Jesse at his club. After the 50th Jazz Fest finally wrapped up, I stopped through the Blue Nile and got a few minutes to discuss Jesse's journey from Blue Nile bouncer to owner, and to geek out on his favorite band, Jamiroquai. LARGE UP to Jesse Paige for making the time, and for all that you do for NOLA musicians, out-of-town talents, and international music fans alike.   *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week*   THE QUICKENING: Use the Breeze (Pawty Remix) Upful LIFE says *THANK YOU* to the great CITY OF NEW ORLEANS! The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Episode 015 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* features the one and only EDDIE ROBERTS, guitarist/founder of New Mastersounds, and more recently, of Matador! Soul Sounds. Eddie is also one of four men at the helm of Color Red, a record label/brand based out of Denver, Colorado. For well over 20 years, Eddie has been an omnipresent force in the jazz/jam/funk scenes from the UK to the Bay Area and all points between. During a mid-February three night stand at Boom Boom Room in SF (with The Eddie/Logic Project, and his own Eddie Roberts' West Coast Sounds), Eddie made himself available for a long-form interview at the exquisite Queen Anne Hotel in San Francisco.   EDDIE ROBERTS INTERVIEW STARTS AT 16 MINS    We start out talking about his charity organization Eddie Roberts' Payback, which was initially created to help the plethora of suffering people in the Tenderloin neighborhood of his former home in SF. He explains how the org continues to do the good work in his new residence (of four years) in Denver, CO. However, Eddie's roots are in Leeds, England, and he briefly takes us back to his youth, when he was originally a pianist, before he became infatuated with electric guitar and at 10 years old he begged his parents for an axe. Eddie grew up idolizing Jimi Hendrix and then really fell hard for the late jazz guitar great Grant Green. ENTER COLOR RED's NEW MASTERSOUNDS CONTEST & WIN A 7" 'Shake It' PRIZE BUNDLE A favorite of mine as well, Grant Green gives Eddie and I an opportunity for a short detour about the legendary guitarist, and how Eddie arrived at the tremendous tribute show he has often put together to honor Green. From there we go back across the pond to Eddie's early days tailor-making bands and DJ nights in Leeds, and the earliest incarnation of his band, The Mastersounds. He riffs on his organ trio The Three Deuces, before explaining how he put together The New Mastersounds around 1999. We talk a little bit about “Acid Jazz” as a bad word, and the scene in England where Eddie Roberts style truly took root. Other topics include when the Greyboy Allstars visited England in 1995, and when The New Mastersounds returned the favor ten years later in Chicago. Analog recording techniques and the low-fi vibe, why Eddie's records sound so authentic, plus the origins of the “shitty is pretty” aesthetic. Roberts reaches back for some humorous memories of Bear Creek in the early days, and explains his original idea and vision for the Suwannee Rising festival that took place earlier this month.     I had to get the scoop on the Color Red label, as Eddie details the humble beginnings of the brand, and a little about his partners, including Sunsquabi bassist Josh Fairman. From studio equipment to musical connections, brand recognition and art-design continuity, Eddie expounds about why they are not exclusive to Colorado artists. Also a bit on the importance of making original music and why Color Red pays attention to remix culture. We also had to rap about the magnificent Matador! Soul Sounds project with Alan Evans, Chris Spies, Kim Dawson, Adryon de Leon, and Kevin Scott. How that band took shape, with regard to Soulive's Evans and the pair of singers, as well as what's on the Matador docket moving forward. I would be remiss if I didn't ask Eddie about his penchant for fashion. We are talking about a sharp dressed man here. Naturally, I had to find out what was at the root of Eddie Roberts' patented look, and just give him some props for always carrying it with dignity, class, and panache. Unfortunately I had to go to work this particular afternoon, and that (plus some technical difficulties) caused me to cut the interview a little shorter than I'd like, but we left a lot on the table for a sequel. Thank you kindly, Eddie Roberts, for this enjoyable chat! JAZZ FEST AFTER DARK Preview (1hr 11mins)   A very brief rundown of some of the hottest night shows in town, as we approach this year's musical Mecca. This is my blessed 17th year heading down to the Jazz Fest, and I thought it would be beneficial to offer a few options for folks on the proverbial fence about which gigs to hit after they leave the Fairgrounds, or on the days between. This preview is STRICTLY AFTER-DARK OPTIONS! And only a few suggestions, there's plenty more I do not have the time to touch on. Check it ALL out at Jazz Fest Grids. Ghost-Note checks in at 1hr 35min Photo- Jeffrey Dupuis   Backstage at the inaugural Suwannee Rising festival at Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, I was lucky to snag a few minutes with Robert "Sput" Searight and Nate Werth of Ghost-Note, and both formerly of Snarky Puppy. These GRAMMY-Award winners have embarked on a serious new endeavor with Ghost-Note, so it was only appropriate to catch them at SOSMP, where I was first introduced to Snarky Puppy at Bear Creek nearly a decade ago. Sput & Nate were both amped to return to the music park, but even more stoked on NOLA Jazz Fest and their huge SWAGISM show on second Saturday at One Eyed Jack's. So for about twenty minutes, we retraced the making of their album in NOLA, and then they set the proverbial table for what's to come next week in the Crescent City. An abbreviated, print-version of this same interview is available to read on L4LM here! *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* Piano Prince of New Orleans! James Booker: "Slowly But Surely"  SPECIAL THANKS to Path2Panacea Tea Blends! The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

  Episode 009 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is back with Brooklyn, NY-based Mayteana Morales, singer/percussionist with Pimps of Joytime, and leading an exciting new project Walk Talk. Ms. Morales has been wowing audiences with the Pimps for many years, and it's been a joy to observe her blossoming as a singer, on the congas, and now as a songwriter in her new endeavor. Mayteana was out in NorCal pulling double duty, playing a pair of gigs with the Pimps of Joytime (Oakland and Lake Tahoe) as well as three shows with Walk Talk. As such, I was lucky and grateful to get Mayteana for a few minutes before band practice one afternoon. PLEASE EXCUSE THE TRAFFIC NOISE ! Time crunch and had to get the convo in where we could. MAYTEANA INTERVIEW STARTS AT 15 MINS Seated outside in an industrial-like area of Oakland, Mayteana takes us back to her humble beginnings studying music theater in school, and how she fell in love with singing, and one day just knew that would be her path. It was during these fertile years that she was introduced to a wide swath of music that would shape and influence her, everything from Nina Simone to Jeff Buckley. Slowly Mayteana found her way to the stage, and then spread her wings to fly. Before getting into her career arc, we take a lengthy detour into her recent trip to Cuba, where Mayteana regales us with tales of the cultural explorations she enjoyed, and makes plans for a return to sink even deeper into the Cuban traditions.  Ms. Morales then gives us the lowdown on how she came to be a long-tenured member of Brooklyn electro-funk syndicate Pimps of Joytime, a collective headed up by the enigmatic Brian J. We discuss how the electronic element and onstage sampler, once a formidable component of the band's DNA, is no longer a part of their onstage performance, as they've evolved into more organic instrumentation.      A brief chat about some PoJ lineup changes, making sure to love on longtime KDTU drummer John Staten, who did a tour of duty with the Pimps after leaving Denson's brigade. Mayteana touches on her new project with PoJ bassist David Bailis, they call it Walk Talk, and it's fantastic. She details how her creative muse is able to blossom freely into colorful expressions in this new musical paradigm. We finish up with some reflections on first Brooklyn, and then New York City. We geek out on how revolutionary Antibalas was when they hit the scene, and how they've influenced and evolved through their two decades. Some favorite NY spots of yesteryear, the cultural impact of the music scene, and how it's mutated and coalesced, and been reborn again and again, over the past fifteen or so years. A fascinating powwow with an amazing artist and lovely human spirit, Ms. Mayteana Morales.   From there, I couldn't help but take a moment to address an unfortunate incident that transpired at a concert in Oakland last weekend, a short story, a diatribe and heartfelt appeal to look out for and respect each other, to treat all people with dignity on the dancefloor, and other golden-rule isms. I wasn't sure I was gonna go there, but I guess I just had to. Then we segue back into some positive vibrations, and introduce one of the best people I know, Ms. Maria Herrera, a journalist, activist, community organizer, and cannabis business consultant. Maria is one of my most loyal, trusted and treasured friends in this life, an unwavering and unconditional connection unlike any other I've shared. She is also a brilliant woman on the front lines of the legal cannabis revolution taking place in Northern California. MARIA HERRERA INTERVIEW STARTS AT 1Hr 22Mins Maria checks in on the heels of the Emerald Cup in mid December, to share some fascinating experiences from a variety of perspectives: political, personal, community, business, and beyond. She's worked extensively with the Nevada County Cannabis Alliance, hosts her own women-in-cannabis radio show on KVMR Higher Frequency. Maria's got boots on the ground at City Council meetings and commiserates with mayors and farmers alike, and she headed up the opening team at Elevation 2477, the first cannabis dispensary in Nevada County, CA. Meanwhile, she continues to consult with numerous boutique cannabis brands and labels throughout NorCal. If you are wondering what legal weed is like, and how it is all happening beyond retail shopping in a dispensary, then this conversation will be quite interesting to you. Maria may even inspire listeners to get involved in this movement and/or industry in their own backyards, or take action in their community as the legislature continues to evolve and the laws follow swiftly behind. I am honored and proud to know Maria professionally, and eternally grateful to call her a best friend. Look forward to future appearances on the podcast from Maria, on this topic and much more. *Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week* : D'Angelo "Unshaken" from Red Dead Redemption II OST The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE

Episode 008 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes Community Organizer/Permaculture Educator RYAN RISING of Permaculture Action Network to the show for a profoundly informative chat on a gang of salient topics. Ryan was kind enough to invite me over to his beautiful Berkeley backyard garden, where we linked up and sat down for a lengthy conversation. For several years, Ryan has been a force of nature in the music community, leading the Permaculture Action Network in various collaborations with musicians and festivals; his work with The Polish Ambassador in 2014 on the groundbreaking Pushing Through the Pavement Tour and documentary film Pushing Through the Pavement: A Permaculture Action Story was essential to the burgeoning Permaculture movement in live music/festival culture, as is the Permaculture Action Hub which he helps organize and produce at various international events. It was at this time that The NOHM Co.'s Jill TrAshley, a trusted friend and the person that first put Permaculture on my radar, was adamant that Ryan Rising was doing big things; that's precisely why I pegged him as a "person of interest" so many moons ago. Finally, I had the chance to ask about his journey, how this important organization and movement was launched. Before Ryan Rising, first a shout-out to our friends at Disc Jam Music Festival; and take a stroll through the NYE-week run of shows in the Bay Area (4mins 30secs), including CloZee/Goopsteppa, Erykah Badu, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe featuring Z-Trip, Thievery Corporation, and Dave Tipper. Ryan Rising Interview Starts at 23:50   Rising starts off with the upcoming Oakland Permaculture Action Day, Sunday January 20th, at 319 105th Ave, Oakland, CA.  The Action Day will be at the Sogorea Te' Land Trust & Planting Justice Nursery, where the indigenous women's land trust is building the first ceremonial arbor that has been on Ohlone land in 250 years. Sogorea Te' and Lead to Life are at the helm, and so is Planting Justice, who started a nursery in West Oakland using an economic justice model that Rising details in a language that we can easily understand. He explains just why Sogorea Te' is the organization he's most honored to work with, and delivers passionate downloads on what Lead to Life is all about. It was empowering to find out about all these righteous organizations doing good work right here where we live, and Ryan explains how we can plug in here in the East Bay and get involved. But the work Ryan does and his plethora of relationships and collaborations extends well beyond the Bay Area. He's been involved in Atlanta, Georgia (with Lead to Life), and Permaculture Action Network's varied Action Days across the country, including a few I was honored to participate in. Ryan Rising explains how Permaculture Action Network got connected with Rising Appalachia and some of the collaborations they have undertaken, and what that work has lead to over the past few years.      Permaculture Action Network and Rising Appalachia collaboration. #ActionDay Ryan Rising talks about his evolution from being a "weird kid reading anarchist books in math class", to how he found himself inside of punk rock. His life's work begins volunteering with Food Not Bombs and various organizations, and evolves into demonstrating at George W. Bush's second inauguration in Washington D.C., all the way to Rage Against the Machine's legendary township rebellion at the Democratic National Convention in 2008. From there Ryan details his path as a Community Organizer and his involvement in Occupy Wall Street, how Occupy informed his organizing and direct action tactics and concepts, and how he brought them to the West Coast. Ryan takes us back to his time living and learning with the Zapatistas in Chiapas, Mexico, and how he brought those ideals and lessons back to the States. We both were turned on to the plight of these people through the music of Rage Against the Machine, and we discuss how we were individually awakened by singer Zach de la Rocha poignant lyrics at a fertile time in our respective youths. Ryan explains how punk music was at the core of his belief system at a very young age, and how the DIY ethos informs his ideals and way of life. Naturally, we take the opportunity to geek out on some music ish, talking hip-hop, punk, and later Drum & Bass and Tipper.     Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week (1hour 47mins) Karl Denson's Tiny Universe's lusty, timeless chestnut "Groove On" from October 2002. Happy 62rd Karl!   Check out all things *PERMACULTURE ACTION NETWORK* here! The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE     Thanks to all for tuning in!  ~bg~ www.upfulLIFE.com  

  Episode 006 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* is proud to welcome Random Rab to the show for what is an enlightening conversation, a free exchange of ideas cutting a wide swath over his magical journey and meteoric career. But first, shout-outs to scene stalwarts JamBase and Silverback Music Management, a look toward New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, before we kick things off. A rundown of what's on the horizon for Upful LIFE coverage in December, including DJ Williams/Shots Fired, Dimond Saints, Thriftworks, the annual Favorite Albums listicle, and much more. We take a moment to discuss how people can get involved, donate and help out with the devastating Camp Fire in Northern California. Snap-judgements/hot-takes on Anderson .Paak's highly-anticipated third full-length LP Oxnard, as we examine the oft-putting casual misogyny that runs throughout the record. We discuss and have a listen to .Paak's "Cheers" (featuring Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest), a touching eulogy-in-song to dearly departed emcees Mac Miller and Phife Dawg. Photo by Zipporah Lomax List of organizations to donate to help victims of the Camp Fire.  We met up with Random Rab in early November in his "White Whale", an old-school Sprinter van that he uses as a trusty mobile-dwelling on the road, this was the cozy confines for our dance down memory lane. Rab was in the midst of a Fall tour up the West Coast, and was teaming with longtime pals Dirtwire for a sold-out engagement at the Cornerstone in Berkeley CA. As such, the host caught Rab for about 30 minutes before the show, and another half-hour as Dirtwire was finishing up. Before diving in to the hour-long dialogue, I take a minute to recite my own 2017 artist bio of Random Rab, to further familiarize listeners with our very special guest. (SHAMELESS PLUG: Need an artist bio? HMU! B.Getz@UpfulLIFE.com ) Random Rab segment begins at 30:30, Interview starts at 36:00 In this heart-filling interview, Rab brings us back to his humble beginnings in Fort Wayne, Indiana as a classical-music student on the trumpet, and his heavy metal adolescence on guitar, before taking us on a cross-country jaunt that relocates him on the West Coast after a brief stint in Mexico. Most notably, he breaks down the origins of the seminal El Circo troupe, and Rab spends several minutes beautifully eulogizing his friend, the late Tiffa Novoa, a pioneering fashion designer and matriarch in Burning Man culture who tragically passed away in 2007. Rab reflects on what Tiffa meant to him and El Circo, and on being asked to master the ceremonies at her funeral. We both explore how this avant-garde collective and halcyon era would sew a myriad of embryonic seeds that continue to flourish inside and out of festival culture so many years later. Tiffa Novoa 1975-2007 (photo: social-creature.com) Random Rab at El Circo camp, Burning Man 2009 Click HERE for Upful LIFE's RANDOM RAB Playlist  From there, Rab and I touch a number of topics and tales from his lengthy career : seminal songs and records, his masterful mining of sorrow for authentic artistic expression, harnessing other emotions as he's both become a father and matured as a musician. About his 20-year consecutive Burning Man streak, how his legendary sunrise sets were born on the Playa, and how they have grown to otherworldly levels of grandeur for eight consecutive blissed-out years at Envision Festival in Costa Rica. (At one point, Dirtwire's David Satori knocked on the door of the van so we took a minute to chat with him off air. We also break so Rab can perform to a sold-out room, before Dirtwire takes the stage.) To break up the split in the interview I play my favorite Random Rab song "Kloud Kings" (1:02:10) from ARose, then we return to the conversation (1:07:00). Rab recalls how a fan once proposed to his partner at a sunrise set (I was present for this magic), and how that same benevolent man gave Rab maybe the greatest personalized gift he's ever received. We talk about how Rab's music has fundamentally changed from 2000's Epicycle to 2017's Formless Edge, and how he's approaching songcraft, guitar playing (and instrumentation in general) in 2018. Rab explains why when recording with fellow musicians, it's essential for him to actually get in the studio in person, and how friendship and collective conviction are at the root of nearly all of his numerous collaborations. All of that jazz and a whole lot MOUR in this candid and open-hearted pow-wow with the whimsical wizard Random Rab.   After we wrap up with Rab, (1:37:00) I felt compelled to share some personal reflections regarding my guest's ever-looming influence in my own life. This powerful interview led me to open up considerably, with regard to when Rab and I first met outside the Fractal Planet sound camp at Burning Man 2013, and how that fateful morning interaction and his eventual co-sign (of a festival media application) steered me (and JamBase) towards Symbiosis Gathering 2013, which were the first pages of the next chapters of my musical life, and career as a journalist. From there I was driven to dig even deeper, and unpack something we touched on in the interview, this time in far greater and more intimate detail. Click HERE for RANDOM RAB'S MOURNING MIX   My father Lloyd Getz passed away in April 2015, at a time when I was incarcerated, and I revisit how Random Rab's music reached me in my darkest hour of need, even there in the custody of the State of California. My story then takes us back to Black Rock City, to the Temple at Burning Man in 2016, when I finally had the chance to honor my father's death on my own terms. Again, Rab organically and cosmically becomes embedded into this narrative, and I only chose to reveal this extremely personal reflection because it's so closely interwoven with my guest; I hope that both Rab and I can serve to bring others a measure of comfort and inspiration if they are going through similarly dark times. The Temple burns at Burning Man 2016 We conclude with the Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week, "Cloaked" by Tipper, (2:35:00) a ebullient and emotive piece of music Dave Tipper composed and released on the day of his own father's death in 2017. I thought it appropriate to include this mystical track at the tail end of Episode 006 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast*.  Rest in Power Lloyd L. Getz, ~bg~   The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

  Episode 005 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes New Orleans artist/activist/parade-maker KATRINA BREES to the show for a lengthy convo that takes a long, winding, interesting path in a plethora of colorful and emotional directions. I first met Katrina Brees in the early 2000s when I first started going to Jazz Fest, long before she'd taken that moniker, back when she was partner to a dear friend of mine in NOLA. Even though we were a bunch of "hippie bros" in that era, I was most definitely attuned to the kaleidoscopic vibration that was emanating from Karina way back then. We shared a few conversations that stuck with me through the years, and in that time I've paid attention as she's evolved into a tremendous artist and inspiring activist. Hers is a story that is at once entertaining, engaging, hilarious, and at times gut-wrenching. As such, I was sure to include some lighthearted music discussion at the front end of this episode.  Katrina Brees segment begins at 50:00mins, Interview at 55:00   But before we go deep with Ms. Brees, the host runs thru a few community thank yous, I take about 15 minutes to detail the past couple of weeks musical adventures, including Kruder & Dorfmeister's 25th Anniversary Tour stop at the MidwaySF. Then we circle back to noted Delaware Valley Phishtorian J.A. who checks in from Philadelphia, PA for the second time (25:00). Thanks to The Phish from VT and their ever-evolving tradition, Jason recently returned from yet another Halloween celebration in Las Vegas. This year's prank, which saw Phish performing I Rokk, an album from (a fictional!) Scandinavian band Kasvot Växt, was one for the ages. Usually pretty jaded regarding modern Phish, I really love the material performed in costume this year, and wanted to hear more from J.A. on the shenanigans in Sin City. Katrina Brees has spent 15 years co-producing over 200 parades. In 2003, she introduced New Orleans to the Mardi Bra,™ her first of hundreds of eco-conscious, parade art pieces as seen in films, commercials, television, events, and parades. Brees was motivated to found The Bearded Oysters Parade Club in 2004. The women's parade club is now the largest in the country with a current membership of over 850 women. Moved by the BP Deepwater Horizon tragedy, Brees used her powers of parading to affect change. In 2012, Brees founded the Greening of the Gras conference, a platform to connect Louisiana residents with solutions to the devastating impact that petroleum-based Mardi Gras beads are having on the ecology, economy, health, culture and global community. Brees founded I Heart Louisiana as the sustainable future of Mardi Gras and works with Carnival producers to source local throws, costumes, floats, and live entertainment. Brees continues to expand The KOLOSSOS Bike Zoo, an interactive visual and performance experience featuring her unique, kinetic sculpture collection of eco-friendly art-bike animals that showcases the majesty of animals without their exploitation. Brees also was a major cog in Fantastic Casket, where she created fabric caskets made with soft  upcycled materials that she quilts and sews to form the coffin. Photo: NOLA.com Katrina and I detail her long path in NOLA from fledgling fashion designer to DIY artist, careening through her colorful career and all the aforementioned endeavors, and much more. Towards the end of our lengthy and engaging chat, the topic turns tragic.  The remainder of this interview contains some disturbing and emotional content. Please proceed with sensitivity.   On June 26th of this year, Katrina's mother Donna Nathan, who'd suffered from mental illness for her entire life, decided to end hers suddenly one day without warning. In addition to mourning her mother, setting up funeral arrangements, and surrounding herself with family and loved ones, Katrina was tasked with accepting the gun back from the police department after the case was officially closed. In the aftermath of Donna Nathan's suicide, her courageous daughter Karina is working hard to see that it the laws are changed to reflect this short-sighted legislative judgement.    At the end of that powerful powwow, Episode 005 wraps up with the Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week. Check out "Wait a Minute" (2:28:00) coming to you from future superstars MZG, an electronic music producer duo destined for greatness. Formerly from Northeast Florida (Duval County to be exact), Zach and Charles Weinert have relocated to the Front Range and have set up shop in Colorado, smack dab in the middle of the current-day Mecca of stateside electronic music. The Upful LIFE has been big fans of these twinzies for nearly a decade, and wanted to throw some proper shine on the boys and end Episode 005 on an uplifting note Episode 006 will feature the wizard himself, Random Rab! Via Con Dias, ~bg~ www.upfulLIFE.com   The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE    

Episode 004 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* welcomes master djembefola Weedie Braimah to the show for an enlightening chat, in the aftermath of his seismic seance at Music Box Village in NOLA this past May during Jazz Fest. The performance remains one of the most exhilarating and emotionally-connected artistic expeditions that i've ever had the privilege of experiencing. I wrote at length about Weedie Braimah & the Essence of Time in my annual Jazz Fest reflection on L4LM and thankfully FunkIt was there to capture it live on video for all to enjoy. Weedie explains his mission as an artist and a purveyor of love & light, as he details how his music seeks to Edutain, Inspire, and Spiritually Move the Crowd. We get a rundown on the narrative that his ensemble wove with ethereal riddims and melodies that have circulated the globe, how the African Diaspora, and Afro-African music has traversed into and throughout different cultures and environments, mutating into a myriad of styles that define and continue to inform contemporary and underground music. A thrilling conversation with a humble master and shamanic wonder of the drum, in anticipation of his forthcoming tour as Weedie Braimah & the Hands of Time (read more HERE) Interview was originally intended for L4LM feature, but Weedie was simply too engaging not to release the convo in it's entirety. Hence we present it in full on The Upful LIFE Podcast, five months after it was conducted. WEEDIE BRAIMAH segment at 29:00 and interview starts at 37:00   But first, we take a look in the rearview mirror with #SnapJudgements from last weekend's monumental Suwannee Hulaween 2018! A brief rundown of the host's favorite and most treasured moments including Jamiroquai's massive electro-funk throwdown featuring Lettuce's Shady Horns, TroyBoi detonating the the Amphitheater Stage, MZG, Justin Martin, Janelle Monae, Chris Karns, Dave Tipper, Break Science Live Band, Vulfpeck, Vlad the Inhaler, The Polish Ambassador & Diplomatic Scandal, The Fritz and much, MUCH more. And a special personalied message from yours truly for the benevolent HULA gods. That plus the Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week, (24:00) appropriately TroyBoi "Do You" after big homie torched the Amp into Rachet Town USA at HULA on Saturday at sundown. The show ends with an EXCLUSIVE listen (1hr 07min) to the aforementioned Jamiroquai feat. Shady Horns at Suwannee Hulaween, as we unveil the two songs they collaborated on "Hey Floyd" and "Starchild". Don't forget to email at B.Getz@upfulLIFE.com with feedback OR leave a review on iTunes please. Big Love to Weedie Braimah, Paul Levine, and Michael Berg!  Over & Out from NOLA and Spirit of Suwannee Music Park! ~bg~ The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE    

Episode 003 of The Upful LIFE Podcast features drummer SCOTTY ZWANG, currently of Ghost Light. Scotty has been an enigmatic persona in the Northeast jam/jamtronica scenes for well over a decade, and is a fixture on the Philly musical landscape. The erstwhile rhythm wizard goes deep in this interview, taking us back to his humble beginnings in New York, learning the drums and joining alternative rock bands as a youth (Code Anchor). We then embark on the lengthy discussion of his entire career arc, including his stint in Sonic Spank, which is when I first encountered him at The Blockley in Philadelphia.     From there we touch on a variety of projects and endeavors, including the mentorship of KJ Sawka, Scotty joining (and leaving) Greenhouse Lounge and Dopapod, and the creation of his current project Ghost Light, which was formed by JRAD's Tom Hamilton, and includes pianist Holly Bowling, among others. We also take a lengthy and hilarious detour into his history with The Disco Biscuits and affiliated projects. Scotty's story is one of success, failure, and rebounding to bigger and better things. Scotty closes things out with his thoughts on taking a step back from the rock n'roll and EDM party scenes (and the activities that go along with them), as well as his recent choice to go Vegan. We play a little Ghost Light jam in the intro, so Scotty's interview starts around 12:30 and lasts about seventy minutes. This episode's Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week is a look back at the astounding collaboration between Jamiroquai's Jay Kay and the debut performance of The Fearless Flyers, a Vulfpeck side project. This magic took place late night the Sunday before Labor Day, at an official afterparty for North Coast Music Festival.     PLEASE RATE & REVIEW PLEASE RATE & REVIEW on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE    

Episode 002 of The Upful LIFE Podcast, featuring a long-form interview with Chris Perella, of Philadelphia-area jam hub Ardmore Music Hall (AMH). Before assuming the reigns (and ultimately heading up a team to buy) at Ardmore Music Hall, Chris was manager and talent buyer at storied, infamous Philly club The Blockley, which operated (as CP details, by the seat of it's pants and skin of it's teeth) for about five years. I had the pleasure and privilege of working for Mr. Perella at The Blockley for a year and a half or so, during this time period Chris both befriended me and peeled back the curtain of the Philly music scenes/industry. Beginning in June 2012 through August 2013, Chris Perella hired and employed me through some very dark personal times; I was not back in Philadelphia by choice, I moved back from Florida because my father had become very ill, and my mother was overwhelmed caring for him. It was during this time that I came to know CP both professionally, and personally' and since then he's been among the finest humans I've been lucky to call a friend in this life. As such, I was anxious to get him onto The Upful LIFE Podcast to discuss his career arc, as well as any number of music culture topics. Chris Perella interview starts at 10:30 mark CP and BG take a trip down memory lane, discussing the five years that AMH has been doing the damn thing. Chris really opens up about his former club, the infamous/legendary Philly nightspot #TheBlockley, where I had the pleasure of working for him in 2012-2013. Perella wrestles with what made The Blockley both the dream venue, and his personal nightmare, and we laugh at a few classic nights of yore (including the sold out LETTUCE show in May 2013!). Perella offers insights as to why The Blockley ultimately failed, and how he mined the lessons from that experience to find great success at AMH. Chris also details his own path from green AF rookie band manager almost overnight to big-market talent buyer, running the hottest room in town with virtually NO experience. He talks about what he's looking for when booking a new band, and why. We reflect on some gambles he's taken on young bands years ago. Also sheds light on how he became co-manager of Everyone Orchestra. We get his thoughts on the legacies of Grateful Dead, New Orleans music, The Disco Biscuits and how these entities have affected and influenced Philadelphia's vibrant music scene, of which he is a major cog. We conclude with an honest and raw exchange about loyalty in this industry. A fantastic (HOUR LONG!) powwow with CP! Episode 002 ends with the debut segment *VIBE Junkie JAM of the Week* (1:15:25), where I will be placing a spotlight on a excessively dope piece of music every episode. Sometimes I'll play just a song, other times I'll discuss it at length. This week's segment focuses on Lettuce recently busting out D'Angelo‘s “Brown Sugar” (9/20 Berkeley CA), which was a very special moment for the host, and many others. You'll have to listen in to find out why! ~bg~ The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Pilot episode of The Upful LIFE Podcast, hosted/curated by B.Getz, a music-culture reporter and historian. We're lucky to have our first guest TURKUAZ drummer MICHELANGELO CARUBBA for a long-form sitdown, which took place during High Sierra in NorCal back in early July. (The early part of the interview takes place while a band is playing nearby, please excuse the background blues; we eventually relocated to a quasi-suitable quarters for the majority of the convo.). Mikey talks ‘Kuazology, their live album 040717, Denny Laine and playing with heroes, his lifelong connection to Tower of Power drummer David Garibaldi. After the music nuggets, Mikey takes a turn for the serious, heartfelt, and inspiring, no-holds-barred recounting the circumstances that led to his sobriety, We spend time detailing his budding relationship with a Vermont-based singer/songwriter. Turkuaz is slated to drop Live in the City, a brand new studio LP, on September 28th. The episode's second half features a spirited segment with J.A., one of the host's lifelong friends going back three decades. J.A. and B.Getz first met in the press box at a KISS show on the Hot in the Shade Tour in 1989. Turns out they both went to Bret Harte Elementary School in Cherry Hill, NJ, and have been best buddies ever since. J.A. is an authority on everything from glam metal to pro wrasslin', as well as Springsteen and The Rolling Stones. Jason is a noted Delaware Valley Phishtorian, so for this first segment, the old friends get on the phone to chop it up about the state of the union and all things The Phish from VT. ~bg~ The Upful LIFE Podcast is available on iTunes! Theme Song: Mazel Tov by CALVIN VALENTINE  

Tracklist : M.E.D & Guilty Simpson – Face Down Jay Worthy, King Most & LNDN DRGS – Westside Party D.R.U.G.S – 41 Pac Div – Players of the Year Nolan the Ninja – Phoenix ft Ashley Rose Evidence ft Slug – Powder Cocaine Fly Anakin & Ohbliv – Weedman ePP & Calvin Valentine – Seats... Cet article Les Collaborateurs #92 – The Indie Tape by Dj Correct est apparu en premier sur Radio La Fabrik.

Full show: http://kNOwBETTERHIPHOP.com Artists Played: Willie Evans Jr., conshus, Laurenn, Fakear, Noraa, Prof, Yoke Lore, Common, Robert Glasper, Karriem Riggins, Brandy, Keys Zuna, Volatile, TOKiMONSTA, Yuna, DaM Funk, Sango, Romaro Franceswa, Dave B, Chris Orrick, LOrange, QQ Beats, WordChemist, Shinobi Stalin, Millatron, ADaD, Tensei, Dessa, Apathy, Calvin Valentine, Mad Sexual Genius, Keys N Krates, Tory Lanez, Mankind, SciryL, !LLumiN@TE, Amerigo Gazaway, J Dilla, Frank N Dank, OutKast, GOODie MOb, IMAKEMADBEATS

Family Matters. Whether your family is big or small, given or chosen, they are a big part of who you are. That is why this episode of SHE CAST celebrates family! SHE CASTers interview special guest: Michele Jones Galvin; the great great grandniece of Harriet Tubman. “Ms. Jones Galvin and her mother Joyce E. Jones began collaborating on a historical novel. Told from the perspective of a relative, Beyond the Underground: Aunt Harriet, Moses of Her People portrays the life, times and accomplishments of the famed abolitionist.” Get your copy at mosesofherpeople.com. SHE CAST is a project of {she crew}. Find out more at shecrew.org This episode features SHE CASTers: Pinkie, Lone Jedi, Super, Just, Burr, Venus, and Snow. Produced and edited by: Meredith Montgomery & Jessica London-Shields Featured Music: "Brother" by Sam Trump ft. Add-2, produced by Calvin Valentine. jvst x — Kodak Grey [Instrumental] Moo Latte — 9th Floor (Memo, the Beat Tape Album) Light-foot — Consider it swung Sappheiros — Embrace LAKEY INSPIRED — Going Up Special Shoutouts To: Michele Jones Galvin: mosesofherpeople.com/michele-jones-galvin Sam Trump: samtrumponline.com Subscribe to our Patreon for She Cast exclusives! www.patreon.com/shecast

Sat 1/20/18 Illa J + Frank Nitt Show 196 Show 196 features 2 of Detroit's finest, the one any only, Illa J x Frank Nitt aka Yancey Boys! It was truly a pleasure sitting down with these cats and chopping it up on all things music. 10 years went by in a flash and it was then he released his debut album, The Yancey Boys and album comprised of all Dilla's beats which were released from the archives of Delicious Vinyl. Over that 10 year period, Illa has dropped his sophomore album, Illa J, Sunset Blvd. with Frank as Yancey Boys and his 3rd solo installment, Home produced by Calvin Valentine. Illa J also gave us a nice break down on his progression of his duel threat skill set in singing & rapping. The two also revealed an extensive tour schedule which features them traveling for over a month across Europe. We hope you enjoy this one! Featuring new music from: Moods, Children of Zeus, Soia, Gyvus, Space Captain, Soia, Kiefer, Mac Ayres + Many more 1st Segment - Mza 01 The Seshen-Spectacle 02 Bubblerap-Millionaire 03 Soia x Moo Latte-Switch Switch 04 Sampa The Great-Dutch Spring 05 Moods-Comfortable feat. High Hoops 06 Space Captain-Easier 07 Kiefer-Miss U 08 Illa J-Sam Cook 09 Love and Balance-Distant 10 Catching Flies-The Stars 11 Mac Ayres-Next To You 12 Illa J-Never Left 13 Taser-Perdido No Raciocinio Da Loucura 14 Roane Namuh & Reva DeVito-Should Have Known (Tall Black Guy Remix) 15 Soosh-Too Soon (fLako Remix) 16 Mammal Hands-In The Treetops 17 Grooveman Spot-Pretending 18 Amel Larrieux-Get Up (Gyvus Remix) 19 Children of Zeus-Don't Say A Word 20 Morpheground-The Most High 21 Badbagnotgood-Can't Leave The Night 22 Dexter-Sounds Great Les 23 Mass Influence-2 Tha Left 24 Natalie Oliveri-No Matter What (prod by D-Felic) 25 Reginald Omas Mamode IV-Music Is My Heaven (feat. Tenderlonious) 26 Grap Luva-Rocking with Elegance (One For Damu) 27 Daniel Crawford-T.R.O.Y. 2012 (Tribute) 28 Freddie Joachim-Train Stations 29 Tom Misch -Raise Your Hands feat Illa J 2nd Segment - Illa J + Frank Nitt Interview Soul Circle Radio Live Worldwide Hosted by: DJ Mza & Crew www.soulcircleradio.com Every Sat 12-2p PST This show is FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY. We do not own or claim to own the rights to these tracks. "Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use."

BANG! @southernvangard #radio Ep 101! Now that we have broken the triple digit barrier - we’re gonna switch things up a bit….ok, not really, it’s more of what you expect from DJ Jon Doe & Eddie Meeks every week - a fly mix of all the latest and greatest hip-hop from the past week, and an interview session on Thursday! This week we head east to Wilmington, NC and chat with Fuzz Jaxx & Sam Brown, who together are known as LegSweep Specialist! On top of that we have an exclusive track from them on this weeks mix that has never been heard before. You know the drill - snippets at the end of this weeks mix, the full interview drops Thursday…and we continue to serve up that #smithsonian #grade #twiceaweek  // southernvangard.com // @southernvangard on #itunes #podcast #stitcherradio #soundcloud #mixcloud // #hiphop #rap #underground #DJ #mix #interview #podcasts #ATL #WORLDWIDE Recorded live January 8, 2016 @ Dirty Blanket Studios, Marietta, GA southernvangard.com @southernvangard on #itunes #podcast #stitcherradio #soundcloud #mixcloud twitter/IG: @jondoeatl @southernvangard @cappuccinomeeks @beatlabusa Inst. Beds by Seige "LegSweep Vs. MindsOne" - LegSweep Specialist feat. MindsOne "Faded" - LegSweep Specialist "Born In GA" - LegSweep Specialist "Smoke With Us" ** EXCLUSIVE ** - Leg Sweep Specialist "Shrimp Burrito" - Saipher Soze & Daniel Son (prod. Vic Grimes) "Worldwide (Muneshine remix)" - Rodney P ft Skinnyman & Mr 45 "Ready For War (DJ Concept Remix)" - U.G. "Saturday Night Special" - Born Unique feat. DJ Case "Black of All Trades (V2)" - Substantial "Reality" - Big Twins (prod. Skizz) "Chance" - Boog Brown feat. Eddie Meeks "Nothing's Changed" - illmac x Calvin Valentine feat. Phonzy "Cruisin Down Buford" - Dillon & Paten Locke "Super Hero (L'Orange Remix)" - Kool Keith feat. MF DOOM "Danbury Shakes" - Mach-Hommy x Denmark Vessey x THAGODFAHIM "Old Man" - sham tha insOMNIac feat. Joe Stu (prod. sham tha insOMNIac) "Frontlines" - Louis. & J Sales (prod. The Valedictorians) "Life Or Death" - Ekundayo X Spitzwell "Frontlines" - Louis. & J Sales (prod. The Valedictorians) Interview Snippets - LegSweep Specialist (Fuzz Jaxx & Sam Brown)

BANG! @southernvangard #radio Ep 073! Summer time, summer time, sum-sum-summertime! You know it’s summer in the A when it rains and the temperature drops, but the humidity in the air makes is feel hotter than it actually is - but we embrace it! Lots of great joints this week, seems like folks are turning it up now that summer is here - and we’re doing the same. What’s that? Interview with who? Thes One from the almighty People Under the Stairs?!?! You got it - check out snippets at the end of this weeks mix, the full interview session drops on Thursday and you know it’s nothing but that #smithsonian #grade! // #download #stream #listen // southernvangard.com // @southernvangard on #itunes #podcast #stitcherradio #soundcloud #mixcloud // #hiphop #rap #underground #DJ #mix #interview #podcasts #ATL #WORLDWIDE Recorded live June 6, 2016 @ Dirty Blanket Studios, Marietta, GA southernvangard.com @southernvangard on #itunes #podcast #stitcherradio #soundcloud #mixcloud twitter/IG: @jondoeatl @southernvangard @cappuccinomeeks Inst. beds by Calvin Valentine "Customer Service" - Jurassic 5 "Tres Passing" - Pro Era "Pain" - De La Soul feat. Snoop Dogg "Graffiti on a High School Wall" - People Under The Stairs "Listen to Jazz" - DJ Skizz feat. Your Old Droog "The UNderstanding" - The UN "All Day" - Ghostnaut feat. Raashan Ahmad "Nightrunners” - People Under The Stairs "Creepy Scrubs" - Convinced, ADAD, Skeem Price & Punchline "Mold" - Camp Lo "Status Symbol 2" - Nipsey Hussle feat. Buddy "Premium Dope" - Snak The Ripper feat. Kxng Crooked (prod. Marco Polo) "Power" - Big Twins X Rozewood X Hus Kingpin (prod Twiz The BeatPro) "Whole Food" - Gensu Dean & Denmark Vessey "GT Performer" - Smoke DZA feat. Action Bronson & Green R Fieldz "Ten Paces" - Blueprint & Aesop Rock "Belt Off" - The Bad Seed (prod. Nottz) Interview Snippets - Thes One of People Under The Stairs

G_Force on WTTN Feb 2014 pt1

G_Force on WTTN Feb 2014 pt2

TxE on WTTN Nov 2013

TxE on WTTN Dec 18 2012

Calvin Valentine on WTTN June 2012 pt2

Calvin Valentine on WTTN June 2012 pt1