Podcast Episodes
That Is A Wrap 2025: Michigan Music Recap
In this episode, Jeff and Ryan recap their year of the podcast and the Michigan music news. They talk about some of the interviews they had with musicians such as Mike Ward, Spencer LaJoye, Rebekah Jon, Kylee Phillips, Chris DuPont, and Kyle Joe. They talk about the venues that closed and opened or will open soon, such as Acrisure Amphitheater, The Big Room, and Kalamazoo State Theater. Of course, they discuss some of highlights in live music they experienced in the past year. Finally, they touch on what is in store for the podcast in 2026.
Empress Eyes: Dream Pop with Fairy Wings and Some Witchy Stuff
This episode features a relaxed interview with dream pop musician, Empress Eyes. We had the opportunity to talk to her about on the day she released new music on her latest EP, Press Reverse. We learned more about her lyric writing and why she wears those fairy wings in live performances.
She noted new music coming in January with collaboration with Arden from Ethereal. The conversation veered down an unexpected turn as she discussed how her witchy ways are influencing her recent songwriting. Take a listen to hear more about this dream pop musician from Grand Rapids, MI.
Ken Freestone and David Purnell, From Ukulele to Guitar and Everything in Between
In our episode today, we talk with good friends Ken Freestone (UKEn) and David Purnell from West Michigan.
Ken began playing ukulele at the age of 61. He has built a lot of connections, like he does with all things he is involved in, with folks across the world due to this late life skill.
Dave is a guitar teacher who provided some early lessons on the ukulele. Dave also talks about his love of audio and video which drove him to start his own company DP Creative Audio and Video.
The pair share a lot of great stories and the many experiences they are a part of in West Michigan. It is a fantastic conversation with two guys enjoying life.
Live from Sounds of the Zoo: Artist Insights
In this episode, we explore the vibrant music scene at the Sounds of the Zoo Festival, featuring interviews with two bands and one photographer, including The Blue Pines, Sophia McIntosh and the Sages, and Stacey Griffin from Dreamwave Photography. The discussions delve into the artists' backgrounds, their creative processes, and the unique experiences of performing at the festival. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit and the diverse musical influences that shape the artists' work.
Exploring the Sound of Basic Comfort
We had the opportunity to talk with Kalamazoo's alternative pop band Basic Comfort at the Sounds of the Zoo festival. The band has been playing music for over a decade. We discussed their music creation process and upcoming releases. The band shares insights into their collaborative approach and the evolution of their sound, highlighting their latest single 'Aurora' and plans for future music.
Overdrive Orchestra: Progedelic Rock
An interview with Overdrive Orchestra at Bells Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo! The members of Overdrive Orchestra discuss their latest album 'Restless Star', the creative process behind their music, and their influences, including a nod to Pink Floyd.
Erin Monro & Celestina y Los Sanchez
This episode consists of two interviews with women vocalists, Erin Monroe and Celestina Sanchez, that we came across while at the Sounds of the Zoo Festival in Kalamazoo.
Catch and Play Songs with Chris Simpson
In this episode, Chris Simpson, founder of Catch and Play Songs, discusses his journey from musician to music marketing expert. He shares insights on the importance of community building, artist development, and the evolving landscape of music marketing. Chris emphasizes the need for artists to engage with their audience authentically and the benefits of a dedicated fan base.
Pretoria: Indie Rock Journey From Michigan Roots to Chicago Beats
In this episode, dive into the story of Pretoria, the indie rock band that began in Michigan and is now gigging in Chicago. Discover why the band chose to relocate to Chicago and how it has impacted their music and opportunities.
PleTHorA: Comedy Rock Band Mixing Medieval Themes & Superheroes
In this episode, the comedy rock band PleTHorA shares their unique journey, blending medieval themes with modern superhero culture. They discuss their origins, the challenges of album production, and their vibrant performances at the Renaissance Festival.
Jon Hayes: Crafting Soundscapes and Stories
Jon Hayes, a talented singer-songwriter from Michigan, shares his musical journey, influences, and the evolution of his career. From his early days of learning guitar to his transition into a full-time musician, Jon discusses the challenges and triumphs he has faced along the way.
Inside Rebekah Jon’s Journey – Loss, Growth & Musical Connection
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Spencer LaJoye, a queer indie folk singer-songwriter with roots in Hastings, Michigan. Spencer shares their journey through Michigan, Denver, Boston, and back, reflecting on how each place shaped their music and identity.
Spencer LaJoye: Creating Queer Indie Folk Music For Everyone
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Spencer LaJoye, a queer indie folk singer-songwriter with roots in Hastings, Michigan. Spencer shares their journey through Michigan, Denver, Boston, and back, reflecting on how each place shaped their music and identity.
Rising from the Fall: Jacob Betts' Journey of Overcoming a Traumatic Brain Injury
Jacob Betts, The American Hotel System, shares his profound journey following a traumatic brain injury during college, detailing how it transformed his life and led him to songwriting.
Journey of The Stratton Setlist: A Music Blog
In this conversation, Lori Stratton discusses her journey in the music scene, the inception of her blog 'The Stratton Setlist', and her passion for promoting local artists in Michigan.
Super Fans: Ralph & Deb
We had the opportunity to interview passionate music fans Ralph and Deb, who share their experiences and insights about the local music scene in West Michigan.
They discuss their favorite bands, the importance of supporting local artists, and the vibrant community that surrounds live music.
The conversation flows through various topics, including personal stories, musical influences, and the evolution of music venues, creating a rich tapestry of the music culture in the area.
Zach Dubay
Drummer Zach Dubay shares his journey through the music scene, discussing the formation of his band, Candid Antics. He reflects on winning the Walk the Beat competition, his unique experiences subbing for various bands, and the challenges of filling in for gigs.
Zach also delves into his musical influences, the importance of practice, and his upcoming move to Nashville, where he hopes to expand his opportunities in the vibrant music scene.
The discussion highlights the differences between the music culture in Nashville and Grand Rapids, emphasizing the importance of connections and community in the industry.
Jeeto / Michael Byrd
While we were at Michigan Music Alliance's Music Econ Summit earlier this year, we had the opportunity to interview singer songwriter, Jeeto, and author and music industry professional, Michael Byrd..
Jeeto discusses his journey in music, the creative process, and the importance of authenticity. He shares insights on overcoming the fear of failure and the significance of getting feedback quickly. Jeeto emphasizes the raw and authentic sound he aims to achieve in his music, which is influenced by his personal experiences and trauma.
Michael Byrd, 37th Music Market, provides valuable insights into the business side of music, highlighting the importance of understanding the industry to succeed. We discuss Byrd's upcoming book, 'Fix It in the Mix,' which serves as a guide for musicians navigating the music business.
Widetrack
Ryan and Jeff chat with Ron and Zach from the band Widetrack, exploring their unique father-son dynamic in music, the evolution of their sound, and the creative process behind their albums, including their latest Galatea.
The conversation also delves into the theme of perfectionism in art, emphasizing the balance between striving for quality and knowing when to let go.
The band Widetrack discusses their creative process, the significance of their song titles, and the impact of Zach’s experiences at Berklee College of Music.
They explore the challenges of releasing music, the importance of community in musical growth, and their future performance plans. The discussion also touches on the use of AI in art and music, emphasizing the balance between innovation and authenticity.