Each week we interview independent musicians about their career, the Music Business and their views of what is happening in their genre.
Amanda Fish, a Kansas City native, formed her Blues Rock band in 2014 and quickly gained recognition with her debut album “Down In The Dirt.” She released “Free” in 2018, earning awards and acclaim. Her latest album “Kingdom,” released in July 2024, continues her trajectory of success, marking her extensive touring history.
SWEET is a celebrated British rock band with over fifty years of influence across continents. Andy Scott is pivotal in preserving the band’s musical legacy and ensuring high-quality performances. The current lineup includes Paul Manzi, Bruce Bisland, Lee Small, and Scott, continuing to deliver the iconic high-energy sound of SWEET.
Making a Scene features an interview with Joel Leviton of December Friend, a band formed during the pandemic. Collaborating remotely with friends Jeff Victor and John Wlaysewski, Leviton emphasizes the importance of meaningful songwriting, aiming for songs that resonate deeply with listeners without any filler.
Bobby Messano is a renowned guitarist and blues artist with a prolific career, releasing nine solo albums and contributing to over 70 albums. Notable works include “Love & Money,” “BAD MOVIE,” and “MUSIC & OTHER SUNDRIES.” His music spans various media, earning accolades like the Blues Blast Award nomination and the Best Americana Album award at the World Entertainment Awards.
The Cold Stares, a dynamic duo known for their intense live performances, expanded their lineup in 2023 to embrace a power trio format. Following the success of their acclaimed album “Voices,” they recorded “The Southern,” set for a 2024 release. Their music has gained significant recognition and feature placements across various media.
Dallas Orbiter, formed in 1999 in Minneapolis, evolved from previous bands, focusing on melodicism and improvisational freedom. They released multiple albums, including ‘There Are Machines for That’ and engaged in creative projects, notably a monthly single release from 2011. Recently, they recorded ‘Spaceman Things’ in 2023 and plan to share past jams under the alias Laser Bats from Mars.
Emily Duff, a NYC-born artist, blends Sweet & Sour Rock & Roll with Country Soul in her music, reflecting themes of heaven, hell, romance, and regret. Since 2015, she has released six albums and a four-song EP, touring in the US and UK and hosting a monthly residency at NYC’s COWGIRL.
Sarah Pierce, born in Rockford, Illinois, to a family of cattlemen, began singing in her stepfather’s band at 12. Despite her medical science degree, she pursued music, touring globally and appearing on MTV. With multiple acclaimed albums, including “Barbed Wire” and “Blessed By The West,” she remains a prominent figure in country music, gaining CMA awards and IWMA nominations.
Gerry Casey interviews Rusty Brown of Electric Mary, exploring the band’s journey following their inspiration at Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Lady Studios in 2003. From extensive Australian and European tours to releasing albums and EPs, Electric Mary returned in 2019 with their significant album “MOTHER,” showcasing their deep-rooted rock and blues heritage.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Andy Peake Andy Peake has been surrounded by music since his formative days. His mother held a bachelor’s degree in music and sang and played professionally as a church support person. His influences included jazz, Broadway, classical and the pop music of the 1950s forward. He […]
Jared McCloud transitioned from hard rock to a solo career, adopting a more substantive musical style. He found success with his indie debut “Romance Of The Atlantic” and continued to rise with “Painful Words Of Loving Grace”. After a difficult divorce, he crowdfunded his album “To Live And Die In Your Arms”, which achieved significant acclaim.
Gerry Casey interviews Sky Wood from The Blues Chapter, a band with an unstoppable combination of emotionally charged blues and pulsating rock ‘n’ roll. Tune in to hear their story and enjoy four dynamic tracks that showcase their powerful musical talent. Don’t miss this electrifying episode!
Chris Daniels & The Kings with Freddi Gowdy celebrate 40 years with live performances and two new albums, “40: Blues with Horns Volume II” and “BLUES WITH HORNS Volume I.” With frequent international tours and a distinguished history of collaborations, they continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their dynamic horn-driven sound.
Randall Bramblett, a seasoned musician revered for his contributions to American roots music, showcases a blend of past experiences and present reflections in his thirteenth album, Paradise Breakdown. Celebrated for his lyrical prowess, Bramblett collaborates with renowned artists, offering a mix of soulful tracks and a testament to his enduring creative spirit.
Gerry Casey interviews Boone Froggett of OTIS, a blues-based rock band from Kentucky, known for their deep musical roots in country-rock, bluegrass, gospel, and folk. Influenced by legends like Muddy Waters, they gained fame after meeting ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons, leading to wider recognition and inclusion in a 2020 film soundtrack.
Michael Reynolds, former lead vocalist/songwriter for Pinmonkey, stepped away from music a decade ago but continued to write songs. His surprise return with the album “Tarnished Nickel Sky” under Blue Élan Records showcases a poetic and evocative style. This album features 11 self-penned tracks, reflecting his journey, emotions, and growth.
Interview with Reverend Freakchild highlights his solo acoustic performances, collaborations with top musicians, albums “The Bodhisattva Blues” and “Supramundane Blues,” and past band involvement. He’s performed at iconic venues, his music featured in media, and he currently studies divinity in Colorado, proclaiming music as his path to transcendence.
Carolyn Shulman, a Denver-based folk singer-songwriter, started her musical journey in childhood and performed extensively throughout her education and adulthood. Balancing music with a legal career and parenthood, she returned to music full-time in 2014. Her acclaimed debut album “Grenadine & Kerosene” led to significant recognition. Carolyn is set to release her new album, “Heart on a Wire,” in September 2024, exploring deeper themes with rich production.
The Sons Of Liberty, a prominent Bristol-based hard rock band, have solidified their reputation through extensive touring and electrifying live performances. Their highly praised third album, “The Detail Is In The Devil,” includes hit singles like ‘Time To Fly’ and ‘Turn This Tide.’ They have also garnered accolades, including being voted 2020’s #4 band by the New Wave Of Classic Rock fan group.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with March to August! March to August (M2A) is a Folk-Americana, original music duo whose songs offer audiences snapshots into the human condition, while encompassing the myriad of emotions that coincide with it. Hailing from diverse musical backgrounds, Derrick and Jodi Mears bring a unique blend of […]
Piper & the Hard Times, a dynamic blues and roots music group from Nashville, won first place at the 2024 International Blues Challenge. Led by Al “Piper” Green, their debut album “Revelation” was released in August 2024, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart. Known for their intense live performances and musical versatility, the band members bring significant experience and diverse influences, creating a captivating and lively experience for audiences.
Veteran LA violinist and songwriter Chris Murphy’s diverse musical journey blends genres and centuries, inspired by his Irish-Italian heritage and iconic musicians. Educated in Turkish and Indian music, he’s performed across the US and Europe, releasing over 15 albums and 500 works. Murphy views music as a fluid, transformative art form.
Gerry Casey interviews Chase Walker, a highly acclaimed modern blues roots rock and soul musician from Southern California. An accomplished songwriter and guitarist, Walker has earned recognition in prestigious competitions and publications. His second album, recorded at 16, received multiple award nominations. He continues to write and produce music, gaining industry praise.
As Trevor B. Power works on his third album, produced by NY Blues Hall of Famer Dave Fields, they aim for a live feel while recording at Farm189 Studios. Featuring drummer Steve Holley, the album blends heartfelt lyrics with powerful music. Trevor also hosts a weekly radio show and actively performs, maintaining his undying passion for music.
Amanda Ann Platt & The Honeycutters, an Asheville-based band, blend nuanced, lyrically driven country roots music. Platt’s empathetic and witty songwriting delves into life’s emotions, from heartache to hope, drawing from her experiences and others’. The Honeycutters include Matt Smith, Rick Cooper, Evan Martin, and Kevin Williams.
Anthony Geraci, born in 1954 in New Haven, CT, is a renowned pianist and composer who began playing piano at age four. Influenced by blues legends and a close friend, he rose to fame, recording with numerous artists. His celebrated albums include “Fifty Shades of Blue” and “Daydreams in Blue.” He has garnered multiple Blues Music Award nominations and wins, with his latest album “Tears in My Eyes” set for release in spring 2024.
In a Making a Scene interview, Doug Duffey and his band BADD, a Louisiana-based quartet, are highlighted for their original Blues, Delta Soul, Bayou Funk, and Swampadelica music. With a lineup of accomplished musicians, the band delivers energetic performances, taking listeners on a Southern Blues journey from Memphis to New Orleans.
“PROTEST – A Revolutionary Rock Opus” honors women activists who made significant impacts across various causes such as civil rights, climate change, and more. Originating after George Floyd’s murder, it features new and classic protest songs by numerous artists and aims to inspire societal change through music during COVID-19.
Gerry Casey interviews Kyle John Suckling of The Retro Kings, highlighting Kyle’s exceptional vocal talent reminiscent of iconic singers like Ian Gillan and Ozzy Osbourne. Teaming up with Errol Andrew, Kyle formed Retro Kings, delivering outstanding classic rock performances. Experience their remarkable musical synergy and powerful vocals firsthand.
Christopher Wyze, frontman of a blues band for 20 years, has emerged as a notable lyricist and stylist, gaining recognition from the Nashville Songwriters Association International. His debut album, recorded in Muscle Shoals and Clarksdale, blends blues, rock, Americana, and country, delivering rich narratives and diverse musical styles alongside an ensemble of accomplished musicians.
Diane Durrett, an acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer, is set to release her 10th album “Sweet Georgia Blues” with her band Soul Suga’. Featuring soulful storytelling and guest appearances, the album honors late bandmate Yonrico Scott. Recently elected as President of the Atlanta chapter of the Recording Academy, Durrett’s career is marked by notable accolades and heartfelt, spontaneous music.
Gerry Casey interviews Jeff Pitchell, a renowned singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose album “Heavy Hitter” reached #7 on the Billboard Charts. Pitchell, who won “Best Guitarist” in Connecticut at age 15, has toured internationally and shared the stage with music legends. He leads the award-winning band Texas Flood.
Tom Craig is an accomplished Blues, Soul, and R&B artist with over 40 years of guitar playing and jazz vocals training. He has released two critically acclaimed albums, toured extensively, and earned Independent Blues Awards nominations. His third album, ‘Get to Work,’ showcases his growth and features top musicians.
Brandon Hudspeth, a guitarist, singer, teacher, and songwriter from Oklahoma, founded Levee Town, a band with significant achievements including top placements in blues competitions and successful charting albums. Hudspeth has toured internationally, opened for renowned artists, collaborated with notable musicians, and taught guitar for over 25 years, specializing in blues.
Andrew Knightley of AK & The Red Kites reflects on forming the band during the pandemic, inspired by the Chiltern Hills’ scenery. With producer Mike Krompass, they crafted 16 tracks blending rock, blues, country, and more. Their upcoming releases and live performances aim to offer a rich, melodic experience, poised for success in 2024 and beyond.
Making a Scene presents an interview with The Name Droppers, featuring former Johnny Winter band members Bobby “T” Torello and Scott Spray. Their 2023 album “Blue Diamonds” debuted at #3 on the Roots Music Report. The band has performed widely, and members have illustrious careers, including Hall of Fame inductions and Grammy awards.
Heather Kathryn, a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Phoenix, began her music career early and moved to Los Angeles at 17. Initially a pop artist, she transitioned to pop punk. She has performed at iconic Sunset Boulevard venues like The Viper Room, Whisky A Go-Go, and The Troubadour.
Making a Scene presents an interview with Niall Kersey from the Brighton rock band Stone Angels. Known for their high-energy performances, the band blends grunge and hard rock. Discover their sound and insights in this informal conversation with band member Niall Kersey.
Mean Old Fireman, led by slide guitarist Ned Bollé, blends New Orleans grooves, southern rock, and R&B with blues roots to create Americana music. Influenced by artists like Duane Allman and Robert Johnson, their album “Dumpster Fire” topped Blues-Rock charts. Their sound is an eclectic mix aiming for a diverse musical experience.
Julian Junior Marvin, from Kingston, Jamaica, has had a distinguished music career starting with acting in The Beatles’ film *Help*. He played in various bands, joined Bob Marley & The Wailers, contributing to the famed *Exodus* album, and later led his own version of The Wailers, achieving notable recognition for his guitar work.
Gerry Casey interviews Tom Killner, a 27-year-old award-winning vocalist and guitarist known for his soulful Blues, Southern Rock, Country, and Americana. Tom, who signed with Cleopatra Records, released two albums and gained critical acclaim for his independent works like “Get Back Up” and “Home,” receiving international airplay, including on BBC radio.
Jeff Pitchell, an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and guitarist, gained major recognition with his album “Heavy Hitter,” which reached #7 on the Billboard Charts. Starting from winning “Best Guitarist” in Connecticut at age 15, he’s recorded with legendary musicians and garnered numerous awards, including for songwriting.
Billy Price, a celebrated blues vocalist, gained national fame with guitarist Roy Buchanan. He has released 20 albums and won a 2016 Blues Music Award for This Time for Real. Price’s band, based in Pittsburgh, won the Pittsburgh City Paper Reader’s Poll twice. His latest album is Person of Interest.
Preacher Stone, founded by guitarist Marty Hill and lead vocalist Ronnie Riddle, gained recognition with their song “Not Today” featured in “Sons of Anarchy.” The band’s lineup includes Ben Robinson, Johnny Webb, Jim Bolt, and Wyatt. Known for their powerful, groove-driven live performances, Preacher Stone embodies southern rock with swagger.
Stephen Jacques, renowned for his heartfelt alt-rock love songs, has released ten albums with an eleventh on the way, produced by Steve Albini. Influenced by his diverse life experiences and musical heritage, Jacques’s work is popular, with “Send Them Love” playing on over 300 radio stations. “Groove Atlantic-O” debuts summer 2023.
An interview with Kid and Lisa Andersen highlights their pivotal roles at Little Village, producing over 60 albums. Their double CD debut showcases Kid’s surprising vocal talent and Lisa’s powerful lead singing, both supported by the Greaseland All-Stars. Featuring special guests, it celebrates their remarkable contributions to the music scene.
Georgina White, a British/Austrian RADA-trained actor and singer-songwriter, has a prolific career both on stage and screen. She’s performed in major roles including in the West End and theaters across the UK. Known for portraying darker characters, she created the musical play ‘Villainess.’ Recently, she toured with “Operation Julie” and “Dido’s Bar.” Georgina also works as a vocal coach and performs with the trio “The Sass Sisters.”
Hans Halstead discovered his songwriting talent after a breakup, creating music by combining guitar riffs and phone-recorded vocals. Encouraged by a friend, he added lyrics, focusing on personal themes. At college, he met Jason Orris at The Terrarium Music Studios and began collaborating. His style blends modern Country with timeless storytelling influenced by his Northern Minnesota roots.
Curtis Salgado is an acclaimed vocalist, instrumentalist, and songwriter known for his dynamic performances and soulful music. Having overcome significant health challenges, he has won multiple Blues Music Awards and gained international fame. His latest album, “Fine By Me,” showcases his versatile songwriting and powerful voice, blending blues, gospel, R&B, and more.
Grammy-nominated guitarist Rick Vito, renowned for his work with Fleetwood Mac, has excelled as a solo artist and collaborator with legends like Bob Seger and Bonnie Raitt. He earned a Grammy nomination and W.C. Handy Blues Award, and designs guitars for Reverend Guitars. His 2023 album “Cadillac Man” is out now.