Seth Mireles and his brother Matt started the band as teenagers covering Nirvana in their parents' house. Now, after years of lineup changes, DIY touring, and grinding through a Houston scene dominated by hardcore and shoegaze, they've put out Observe, a debut album with hooks that sound like they belong in stadiums. Seth talks about what it's actually like to book your own tours blind, perform for empty rooms, and keep writing honest music when your local scene isn't checking for you.

In this conversation, we get into:

1. Starting a band with your brother and learning to write songs from scratch in the garage
2. Why Houston's scene doesn't match their sound, and why that doesn't matter
3. The nightmare gig where the monitors blew and they had to play on muscle memory alone
4. How depression and early childhood trauma feed the songwriting without defining the person
5. His advice to young bands: find people who genuinely believe in what you're building

About Zegovia:

Zegovia is an alternative rock band from Houston, TX. Songwriter and vocalist Seth Mireles’s lyrics take a look at the darker corners of the human condition, while overall having a musical style rooted in punk, power-pop, and many other timeless genres. This is especially seen on the bands debut album “Observe”, released on February 12, 2025. Zegovia is Seth Mireles (vocals) Matt Mireles (drums) Alex Larson (bass) Quincy Cotton (guitar).

Connect with Zegovia:

Website: zegovia.com

Instagram: instagram.com/zegoviaband

TikTok: tiktok.com/@zegoviaband

Spotify: open.spotify.com/album/1wPIEgICwhZmDzPcghflvp

Latest single "Prefab": zegovia.com/prefab

Latest release: distrokid.com/hyperfollow/zegovia/above-the-roof--in-the-tree

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. "Prefab" — Zegovia
2. "Flies" — Zegovia
3. "Agree to Disagree" — Zegovia
4. "High Society" — Zegovia

Albums & Projects:

1. Observe — Zegovia

Artists & Bands:

1. Zegovia
2. Nirvana
3. Alice in Chains
4. Foo Fighters
5. Green Day
6. Blink-182
7. ACDC
8. Creed
9. Foghat
10. Title Fight
11. Superheaven
12. The Paradox
13. The Warning
14. Hum

---------------

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting: https://www.wildwavepodcasting.com

In this conversation, we get into:

1. How "Drunk on the Mic" went from a Hennessy-fueled voice memo to a Kylie Jenner co-sign
2. What a manic episode actually looks and feels like, and why weed was the trigger every time
3. The Tony Robbins quote that made her realize she had a job, not a business
4. Why 99% of artists are in no man's land, and what the other 1% are doing differently
5. Her honest take on quality vs. volume, horizontal networking, and the thousand true fans model

About Mickey Shiloh:

Mickey Shiloh is a multi-platinum songwriter, artist, and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. She began her music career at just 15 with her first publishing deal and, by 17, signed with Grammy-winning producer Darkchild, quickly establishing herself as a powerhouse songwriter. Over the years, she’s written for icons including Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, LL Cool J, and many more. As CEO and founder of HRDRV, an artist development company, Mickey helps artists build sustainable careers through mentorship, creative guidance, sync opportunities, and priority support. As an independent artist, she’s released over 40 albums across multiple genres since 2011, showcasing her relentless creativity and versatility. Beyond music, she’s deeply committed to entrepreneurship, mental health advocacy, and designing systems that empower creatives to thrive on their own terms.

Connect with Mickey Shiloh:

Instagram: instagram.com/mickeyshiloh

Website: mickeyshiloh.com

Substack: mickeyshiloh.substack.com

HRDRV (artist development): instagram.com/hrdrv

Sound Economy (education community): skool.com/soundeconomy/about

Latest release: hr-drv.lnk.to/DoULikeGirls

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. "Drunk on the Mic" — Mickey Shiloh
2. "Tissue Box" — Mickey Shiloh
3. "Shades of Blue" (feat. Mickey Shiloh) — Vic Mensa
4. "New Bay" (feat. Mickey Shiloh) — Vic Mensa

Albums & Projects:

1. 16 Shots — Vic Mensa

Artists & Bands:

1. Mickey Shiloh
2. Darkchild (Rodney Jerkins)
3. Britney Spears
4. Janet Jackson
5. LL Cool J
6. Pitbull
7. Wiz Khalifa
8. Kylie Jenner
9. Drake
10. Justine Skye
11. Vic Mensa
12. Chloe x Halle
13. Jill Scott
14. Erykah Badu
15. Missy Elliott
16. Eminem
17. Nirvana
18. Crossfade
19. Alter Bridge
20. Russ
21. Derek Sivers

---------------

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting: https://www.wildwavepodcasting.com

In this conversation, we get into:

1. Why her songs "Sometimes I Hurt Myself" and "Make Myself Sad" are more healing than they sound
2. The moment after her divorce when she decided to stop putting music on the back burner
3. How performing for four people taught her something no big crowd ever could
4. The real tension between wanting to be known and being uncomfortable with celebrity culture
5. What she'd tell her 13-year-old self over coffee

About Elle Indigo:

Elle Indigo is a singer-songwriter from the West Coast who makes moody, operatic pop for the people who feel a little out of place. She's also a speculative fiction and comic writer (L. K. Indigo) and poet (Leanne Kathleen Indigo), with a debut poetry book, Blank Canvas, out now.

Connect with Honey Gold Jasmine:

Website: elleindigo.com

Instagram: instagram.com/elleindigo.singer

TikTok: tiktok.com/@elleindigo.singer

Facebook: facebook.com/elleindigo.singer

Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/6h1svILkmdEh41xUFjpu4F

Bandcamp: elleindigo.bandcamp.com

SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/elle-indigo

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCjlg10sZ1fc9z6buNE6tmGQ

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. "Sometimes I Hurt Myself" — Elle Indigo
2. "Make Myself Sad" — Elle Indigo
3. "Happy Mistake" — Lady Gaga (covered by Elle Indigo)
4. "Wicked Game" — Chris Isaak (covered by Elle Indigo)
5. "Zombie" — The Cranberries (covered by Elle Indigo)
6. "I Will Always Love You" — Whitney Houston
7. "I Want You to Want Me" — Cheap Trick

Albums & Projects:

1. Blank Canvas (poetry book) — L. K. Indigo

Artists & Bands:

1. Elle Indigo
2. The xx
3. Sarah Brightman
4. Lady Gaga
5. Renée Rapp
6. Dua Lipa
7. Evanescence
8. Chapel Roan
9. Whitney Houston

----------------------------------------

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting: www.wildwavepodcasting.com

In this conversation, we get into:

1. How a second-grade teacher who followed her students for three years changed everything
2. The moment a bombed talent show made her want to get better, not quit
3. Why being unapologetically yourself means owning your shadow, not just your light
4. What actually scares a fearless artist… and it's not the silence
5. Her vision for a traveling festival that's part Renaissance fair, part concert, part carnival

About Honey Gold Jasmine:

Honey Gold Jasmine is an artist who, through every breath & heartbeat, sees a new opportunity for artful action & intentional impact. The multifaceted Hip Hop Soul singer-rapper, actress, & event curator has a vision to help create a more imaginative, inclusive world. HGJ's head can be in the clouds, but she's down to earth & truly gamed up by The Bay Area, a magical product of her hometown Vallejo and Soultown Oakland.

Connect with Honey Gold Jasmine:

Instagram: instagram.com/hi.honeygoldjasmine

Website: honeygoldjasmine.com

---

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting: www.wildwavepodcasting.com

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. "Frequency Up" — Honey Gold Jasmine
2. "Candy Rain" — Soul for Real

Artists & Bands:

1. Honey Gold
2. Jasmine Jojo
3. Bow Wow Rico
4. Nasty Masego
5. Coco Jones
6. Kehlani
7. E-40
8. Mac Dre
9. LaRussell
10. Sly and the Family Stone
11. Con Funk Shun
12. TLC
13. Nipsey Hussle
14. Russ
15. Soul for Real

We Chat About:

1. Developing your artistic voice as an independent musician
2. Building Brandon Land as a concept album and creative world
3. Genre-bending music without chasing trends or eras
4. Why mindset is harder (and more important) than technique
5. Vocal mentorship, confidence, and learning your true range
6. Mental Detox: clearing emotional clutter and creative blocks
7. The “seven-second rule” for interrupting negative thoughts
8. Why artists need to learn how to sit with themselves
9. Creative energy, spirituality, and trusting your instincts
10. Choosing fulfillment, joy, and longevity over burnout

About Brandon J Marks:

Producer, Songwriter, Genre-Bending Artist, Brandon J Marks is taking the industry by storm. Born to a family of singers and musicians, Brandon has been singing, recording, and performing professionally since the tender, formative age of fourteen. Brandon has performed with some of music’s greatest talent, from Kim Burrell to pianist and super producer Rodney East. His creative approach to music is vast, rooted in gospel legacy and represents the perfect merging of R&B, jazz, and pop. After years of brand strategy, marketing, and garnering partnerships such as Sony Animation and the Oprah Winfrey Network, Brandon commenced his solo artistry in 2020 with the release of his debut song, Black Man. The release was recognized and endorsed by the Houston mayor for its activism and riveting performance. As a BMI songwriter, Brandon continues to develop a growing catalog of music and is set to pen for some of music’s greatest artists and motion picture soundtracks. A beacon through sound, each song sheds light and shares love.

Connect with Brandon J Marks:

Listen on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gh/artist/brandon-j-marks/1541380334

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5F4SnF9qpUSZQe1j6f2qiQ

Listen on TIDAL: https://tidal.com/artist/22280794

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonjmarks/

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. Roller Coaster — Brandon J Marks
2. Cotton Candy — Brandon J Marks
3. Smoking Mirrors — Brandon J Marks
4. Carousel of Love — Brandon J Marks
5. Black Man — Brandon J Marks

Albums & Projects:

1. Brandon Land — Brandon J Marks
2. Hotter Than July — Stevie Wonder
3. Jungle Fever (Soundtrack) — Stevie Wonder
4. 808s & Heartbreak — Kanye West

Artists & Bands:

1. Stevie Wonder
2. Kanye West
3. Daft Punk
4. Music Soulchild
5. Amy Winehouse
6. Bruno Mars
7. Adele
8. Janelle Monáe
9. Leon Thomas
10. Lucky Daye
11. Samara Joy
12. Jamala Roberts (American Idol)
13. John Legend

We Chat About:

1. Returning to music with a totally different mindset (and why the new work feels more “him”)
2. How A.B. accidentally discovered traction through TuneCore, and what he would’ve done differently with the data
3. Why vulnerability and relatability became his lane (even when he resisted it)
4. “Belief in yourself” vs. belief built through evidence, feedback, and real-world proof
5. Using business principles in music: targeting, systems, and doubling down on what actually works
6. Why you can’t force creativity, and what to do when you hit a mental wall in the studio
7. The difference between buying “things” and investing in relationships + shared experiences
8. The only advice that really lands: have fun, don’t take yourself too seriously, and double down on what works

About That Boy A.B.:

That Boy A.B. is a story-telling hip-hop artist from New Jersey who makes relatable music about life and relationships. His song Enough, detailing a relationship gone bad, exploded on streaming services in 2015. A.B has found a way to bridge the gap between old school hip-hop and new school rap. Influenced by artists like J. Cole, Fabolous, Drake, and Big Sean, he has mastered the art of story telling and reflecting while providing the listener with memorable wordplay and catchy hooks.

Connect with That Boy A.B.:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7w3T6KxU9UdcNaUcJl31Zx

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamthatboyab/

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. “Enough” — That Boy A.B.
2. “Shut Up” — (Julian + A.B. collaboration, referenced)
3. “Big in the Bag” — (Julian + A.B. collaboration, referenced)
4. “Welcome” — (Julian + A.B. collaboration, referenced)
5. “Monaco” — Bad Bunny
6. “Swimming Pools (Drank)” — Kendrick Lamar
7. “Bohemian Rhapsody” — Queen

Artists & Bands:

1. That Boy A.B.
2. Bad Bunny
3. Jay Balvin
4. Kendrick Lamar
5. Queen
6. Joe Budden
7. Stephen Bartlett / Diary of a CEO
8. Fetty Wap
9. Post Malone
10. Joji
11. J. Cole
12. Fabolous
13. Drake
14. Big Sean

We Chat About:

1. Why emo metal / post-metalcore gives Quinn the full emotional spectrum he needs to write
2. The “Find Him / Keep Seeking” mythos and what it actually represents
3. Being an outcast, and choosing to build a home instead of trying to fit in
4. The difference between art and the music business (and why merging them breaks people)
5. How PARIAH grew fast: storytelling via short-form + digital ads that amplify momentum
6. Surviving the “deafening silence” between releases (and why most artists quit there)
7. Why touring is expensive audience growth (and what Quinn’s focusing on first)
8. Redefining success: arenas vs. spending most of your time doing what you love

About PARIAH:

All who seek will find. PARIAH is the solo project of Quinn McGraw — a sonic exorcism born from grief, addiction, depression, and spiritual collapse. Blending alt-metal, post-metalcore, and cinematic dark pop, PARIAH creates a sacred space to fall apart, for the faithless, the lost, and those still screaming in silence. It’s ‘heavy music for heavy hearts,’ as Quinn states. Already featured on Revolver Magazine and official Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and VEVO playlists , PARIAH is quickly amassing a devoted following known as ‘Seekers’ that are drawn to the project’s raw catharsis and brutal honesty. With every track, we are invited to find our voice again and to find the light when we wander in the dark. He is waiting. Find Him.

Connect with PARIAH:

Start here (all links in one place): Find PARIAH on Linktree

Follow + join the Seekers on Instagram: @findthepariah on Instagram

Watch + subscribe on YouTube: PARIAH on YouTube

Catch the short-form content on TikTok: @findthepariah on TikTok

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. Swan Song — PARIAH
2. The Wanderer — PARIAH
3. It’s Escaping Me — PARIAH
4. Pendulum — PARIAH
5. Wanderer (feat. Trevor / Heal the Hurt) — PARIAH (feature discussed in convo)

Albums & Projects:

1. Swan Song (EP) — PARIAH
2. The Black — Eminence

Artists & Bands:

1. PARIAH
2. Eminence
3. Trench
4. Heal the Hurt
5. Sleeping Giant / Holy Name
6. Metallica
7. Creed
8. Linkin Park
9. Post Malone
10. Fetty Wap

We Chat About:

1. Creating On One as a “love letter to pain” and making positivity feel authentic, not corny
2. Why art doesn’t need suffering to be meaningful, and the danger of the tortured artist myth
3. How burnout became the catalyst for healing, reflection, and realignment
4. Pairing the album with an Inner Compass workbook to support growth beyond the music
5. Falling in love with hip-hop after hearing Biggie for the first time
6. Dropping out of college, betting on herself, and breaking into Philly’s live music scene
7. Networking, likability, and saying yes before feeling ready
8. Starting over in LA and building a career from the ground up again
9. Working at the highest levels of the industry and why “making it” didn’t bring peace
10. Separating excellence from perfectionism and learning to get curious instead of self-critical
11. Listening to your body, honoring rest, and redefining discipline
12. Redefining success as enjoying your life, not just achieving outcomes

About AMACULENT:

Ali “AMAC” McGuire (AMACULENT) is a platinum-selling mix engineer, artist, speaker, and creative mentor who blends music, storytelling, and self-development to help people achieve the dream — enjoying their lives. After years of success in the music industry, working with artists like Joji, Post Malone, and Kelly Rowland. AMAC hit a major burnout and turned that experience into a framework and music album focused on healing, growth, and alignment.

Connect with AMACULENT:

Check out her YouTube

Follow her on TikTok: @amaculent_mindset

Friend her on Snapchat: @amaculentmind

Follow her Instagram: @amaculent

Listen to On One

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

This podcast is managed by Wildwave Podcasting

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

1. “Big Poppa” - The Notorious B.I.G.

Albums & Projects:

1. On One – AMACULENT

Artists & Bands:

1. The Notorious B.I.G.
2. Joji
3. Post Malone
4. Kelly Rowland
5. Fetty Wap
6. PMB Rock
7. Lizzo
8. Murda Beatz
9. Grandmaster Caz
10. The Notorious B.I.G.
11. Joji
12. Post Malone
13. Kelly Rowland
14. Fetty Wap
15. PMB Rock
16. Lizzo
17. Murda Beatz
18. Grandmaster Caz

We Chat About:

1. The story and symbolism behind Leaves and Soil, and why fall felt like the perfect creative container
2. What his production process actually looks like
3. Collaborating with musicians like saxophonists and other producers while still protecting his solo “world”
4. How grief and heartbreak influenced the emotional tone of his recent music
5. The feeling he wants listeners to walk away with: inspiration, reflection, and a real emotional impact, even without lyrics
6. Why promotion is the hardest part, and how he’s learned to make marketing feel fun
7. Consistency, planning ahead, and refusing to compare yourself online
8. Turning “no” into fuel, building patience through the long grind, and why most people quit right before the breakthrough
9. The mission behind The Proven Knowledge Podcast and how storytelling can teach creatives there’s more than one path

About Anthony Church:

Anthony Church a music producer with over 9 years of experience working with over 50 different independent artists from around the globe. He creates instrumentals that fall somewhere between Hip-Hop, R&B and Lo-Fi in style. In 2020 he began self-releasing his own music which has led him to put out several instrumental albums, work with artists on full bodies of work, and craft an upcoming compilation album slated for 2026. In 2020 he also began his weekly show titled "The Proven Knowledge Podcast" where he speaks with amazing creatives about their journey and what makes them the people and artists that they are today. This has allowed him to make many amazing connections and open doors he may not have gotten through making music alone. He’s very blessed to be entering his sixth year of podcasting in 2026!

Connect with Anthony:

​​Follow Anthony on Instagram: @anthonychurchmusic

Check out his music on Bandcamp

Listen to The Proven Knowledge Podcast

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Albums & Projects:

1. Leaves and Soil – Anthony Church
2. Mural of a Sober Introvert – Anthony Church (upcoming instrumental album)

Artists & Bands:

1. Anthony Church
2. Timbaland
3. Kanye West
4. Hit-Boy
5. Apollo Brown
6. The Alchemist
7. Terrace Martin
8. Robert Glasper
9. Planet Asia
10. OC
11. Stalley
12. Shane Noir
13. Beyoncé
14. Nicki Minaj
15. 50 Cent
16. 21 Savage
17. Taylor Swift
18. Strappa
19. Cess Flow
20. Jalen Williams

We Chat About:

• Reclaiming her voice after chronic illness and the emotional weight of starting over
• Why her music is equal parts healing, truth-telling, and rebellion
• The unseen reps, bad gigs, and failures that shape a seasoned live performer
• Writing anthemic songs that still feel intimate and vulnerable
• Collaboration, vocal training, and building a sound that refuses to live in one genre
• Navigating burnout, rebranding, and shedding the pressure to be “put together”
• How grief, family, and loss continue to inform her artistry
• What success really looks like beyond streams, followers, and industry validation

About Louissa:

After nearly losing her voice to chronic illness, Louissa has been on a powerful journey of reclamation. Her music is her truth, her healing, and her rebellion. Now in the midst of a rebrand, she is committed to showing up as her most unmasked and fully realized artistic self—inviting listeners to do the same and discover their own truths within her songs. Louissa has already made her mark, performing at Virginia Beach’s inaugural Pulse Fest and being handpicked to appear at Pharrell’s Mighty Dream Forum. Her collaborations span Grammy winners, Billboard-charting producers, and multi-platinum talent—yet her voice and vision remain unmistakably her own.

Connect with Louissa:

​​Follow Louissa on Instagram: @louissamood

Follow on Threads: @louissamood

Explore Louissa’s official site + info: Visit louissamusic.com

Connect on Facebook: Louissa Mood

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Louissa’s channel

Follow on TikTok: @louissamood

Access Louissa’s press/music files: HardDrive

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Love Cycle – Louissa
• 999 – Louissa
• Bitter Truth – Louissa
• Clarity – Louissa
• Money Moves – Louissa
• Down – Louissa
• Magenta – Louissa
• Fix You – Coldplay
• Unwell – Matchbox Twenty

Albums & Projects:

• Da Vinci – Louissa (upcoming project)
• The Vault – Louissa (EP)

Artists & Bands:

• Louissa
• Coldplay
• Celine Dion
• Matchbox Twenty
• Alessia Cara
• Mýa
• Cynthia Erivo
• Timbaland
• Mario
• Shania Twain
• Hall & Oates

We Chat About:

• Growing up in Philadelphia and building a life rooted in music
• Touring with major artists while still loving small, local rooms
• The personal history and emotional excavation behind Funeral Tickets
• Writing songs that challenge ignorance, faith, and cultural myths
• Turning trauma into clarity without softening the message
• Why he considers himself a writer before a songwriter
• Concept albums, dystopia, and his upcoming Beggartown project
• Fatherhood, partnership, and balancing art with real life
• Creative stamina, obsession, and learning when to push (and when to pause)
• Why flawed, human-made music matters more than ever

About Bright Kelly:

Bright Kelly is a Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter whose voice lands somewhere between gravel and velvet: soulful, cinematic, and impossible to ignore. Fronting the alt-soul outfit The Great Enough and carving out a striking solo catalog, he’s shared stages with bands as varied as Imagine Dragons and Judah & the Lion, earning a reputation for raw, articulate songwriting that cuts close to the bone. From the hushed confessional of The Quiet Ones to the emotional megaphone of Funeral Tickets, Kelly blurs the lines between folk, soul, and rock with an instinct for melody and truth that feels both bruised and luminous.

Connect with Bright Kelly:

Listen on Spotify: Bright Kelly on Spotify

Support on Bandcamp: brightkelly.bandcamp.com

Follow on TikTok: @brightkelly19

Follow on Instagram: @brightkelly19

Follow on Threads: @brightkelly19

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Jesus Is a Socialist” – Bright Kelly
• “I Remember Everything” – Bright Kelly
• “Hello Good Morning” – Bright Kelly
• “Better Than This” – Bright Kelly
• “In Your Eyes” – Peter Gabriel
• “Eight Days a Week” – The Beatles
• “The Weight” – The Band

Albums & Projects:

• Funeral Tickets – Bright Kelly
• The Quiet Ones – Bright Kelly
• Beggartown (upcoming) – Bright Kelly

Artists & Bands:

• Bright Kelly
• The Great Enough
• Imagine Dragons
• Mike Shinoda
• Judah & the Lion
• Eve 6
• Fuel
• Sister Hazel
• The Wallflowers
• Hozier
• Peter Gabriel
• Jack Garratt
• Damien Rice
• Elliott Smith
• Glenn Hansard
• Nirvana
• Bob Dylan
• Bruce Springsteen
• Tom Petty
• Bob Seger
• The Beatles
• Sam Cooke
• Otis Redding
• Wilson Pickett
• OneRepublic
• O.A.R.
• American Authors
• The Band
• Levon Helm
• Neil Young
• Joni Mitchell
• The Staple Singers
• Michael Jackson
• Goo Goo Dolls
• Phil Collins
• Bon Jovi
• Roger Waters
• Taylor Swift

We Chat About:

• The making of their self-titled debut album
• Why Daydreaming feels like the band’s breakout “universal” song
• Songwriting without boxing yourself into a genre
• Growing up, shedding ego, and learning to collaborate better
• The shift from “frontman persona” to authentic presence
• The band’s renewed approach to professionalism and performance
• Music discovery, rap influences, and why everything inspires them
• Navigating promoters, labels, and what “making it” actually means
• Timeless songwriting vs. trend-driven production
• Why connecting directly with fans matters more than ever

About The High Nines:

The High Nines are an alternative indie rock band from the North West of England, drawing influences from the likes of The Verve, The Music, and The Stone Roses. ‘Walrus Bar’, released May 2025, got to number 6 in the iTunes Alternative Chart. Their self-titled debut album, self-funded and independently recorded, produced, and mixed, was released October 2025.

“This debut isn’t just a strong start. It’s the kind of record that could cement The High Nines as one of the most important new bands in the UK — a group with the songs, swagger and soul to step up from sticky-floored clubs to the festival main stages.” – This Is The Music Blog

“If this is only their first swing, then the rest of the indie scene might want to start stretching before they try to keep up.” – Manchester Music Group

The High Nines are:

Dean Ashton – Lead Vocals

Steve Cornell – Vocals/Guitar

Trevor Curley – Lead Guitar

Pete Fell – Bass

Lee Summers – Drums

Connect with Dean & The High Nines:

Listen on Spotify: The High Nines on Spotify

Follow on Instagram: @thehighnines

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Let the World Decide – The High Nines
• Daydreaming – The High Nines
• The People You Love – The High Nines
• Your Love Will Bring Me Down – The High Nines
• Walrus Bar – The High Nines
• Do You Know What I Mean – Oasis
• Rockin’ All Over the World – Status Quo

Albums & Projects:

• Marshall Mathers LP – Eminem

Artists & Bands:

• The High Nines
• Oasis
• Joy Division
• The Stone Roses
• Kasabian
• Pixies
• U2
• Robbie Williams
• 50 Cent
• Eminem
• Dizzee Rascal
• Fontaine’s D.C.
• Michael Jackson
• Rod Stewart
• The Donnas
• Blue Tones

We Chat About:

• How Stella Ruze evolved from a folk quartet into a seven-piece “folky funk” band
• Letting long arrangements and solos breathe instead of chasing radio-length songs
• The story and layered grief behind “Blue” and Katie’s first writing credit with the band
• Recording Origin mostly live in one room to finally capture their onstage chemistry
• Balancing motherhood, day-to-day life, and staying connected to music you still “need”
• Why playing “bad gigs” and corner bar shows is crucial for developing as a musician
• Katie’s advice for younger artists on building confidence, taking every rep, and doing it for love, not just for money

About Stella Ruze:

Stella Ruze is an award-winning folk rock band from Philadelphia known for rich vocal harmonies, infectious rhythms, and bold horn arrangements. Formed in 2014 by Brendan Johnson and Katie O’Donnell, the group expanded from a quartet to a seven-piece, earning acclaim from WXPN and Radio 104.5 and winning the 2019 PHL LIVE Folk Award. They have played major festivals including XPoNential, Philly Music Fest, and the Philadelphia Folk Festival, and shared stages with acts like Pete Francis (Dispatch), Kuinka, and Blue Water Highway. Their 2020 album The Greater Dog followed earlier releases So Here and a self-titled EP. With new music slated for 2025, Stella Ruze continues to evolve their genre-bending sound.

Connect with Katie & Stella Ruze:

Follow Stella Ruze on Instagram: @stellaruze_

Follow Katie on Instagram: @katieburkeodonnell

Dive into Stella Ruze’s music and tour dates: Visit the Stella Ruze website

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Black Submarine (The Black Keys cover reference)
• Pinch of Salt – Stella Ruze
• Blue – Stella Ruze
• Pass That Bottle – Stella Ruze

Albums & Projects:

• Origin – Stella Ruze
• The Greater Dog – Stella Ruze
• So Here – Stella Ruze
• Self-titled EP – Stella Ruze
• Ganging Up on the Sun

Artists & Bands:

• Stella Ruze
• Guster
• The Black Keys
• Led Zeppelin
• The Beatles
• Lucius
• The Staves
• Boygenius
• Pinegrove
• I’m With Her
• Sabrina Carpenter
• Olivia Dean
• Ray / RAYE
• The Chats
• Sarah Farrell 
• Madison Cunningham
• Pete Francis (Dispatch)
• Kuinka
• Blue Water Highway

We Chat About:

• How Taylor, Taylor, Taylor became a space where guests can “expect the unexpected”
• Why her solo “Sunday Spiral” episodes resonate so deeply with listeners
• The mission to support English schools in Bangladesh and why it matters to her
• The episode she’s most proud of so far and what made it different
• Lessons from working in Philly radio and taking the training wheels off
• Her research process and the advice she gives young women in media
• Growing up in a music-heavy household and releasing her own song “Parking Lot”

About Taylor Brooke:

Taylor’s got the charm of your funniest friend, the wisdom of someone who’s Googled it at 2 a.m., and the guts to spill the tea on her own life, embarrassing moments and all. Whether she’s interviewing intriguing guests, sharing industry secrets, roasting pop culture, or riffing on whatever’s trending, she’ll have you hooked faster than you can say “Taylor” (three times, obviously). It’s equal parts laugh therapy, real talk, and the kind of chaos you didn’t know you needed in your life.

Connect with Taylor:

Listen to her podcast: Taylor Taylor Taylor Show

Check out her other links: Linktree

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Bowling Alley” – Audrey Hobert
• “Parking Lot” – Taylor Brooke
• “Female Robbery” – The Neighbourhood
• “Chocolate” – The 1975
• “Love in an Elevator” – Aerosmith

Albums & Projects:

• Taylor Swift discography
• Lily Allen’s voice-memo-inspired EP

Artists & Bands:

• James Taylor
• Audrey Hobert
• Sabrina Carpenter
• Gracie Abrams
• Maisie Peters
• Lily Allen
• The 1975
• The Neighbourhood
• Aerosmith
• Bruce Springsteen
• Tom Petty

We Chat About:

• The night Joe announced Bin Laden’s death onstage in Key West
• How a looping guitarist in Australia changed the trajectory of Joe’s management career
• The song A Soldier’s Memoir (PTSD Song), and the veterans who said it saved their lives
• Writing Sex, Drugs & Country Music as his final personal album
• The Philly cover scene and why it’s unmatched in the country
• Leaving the mortgage industry to play 5,000+ shows worldwide
• Building Vacation Jams and curating destination festivals
• The faith, family, discipline, and integrity that shape Joe’s songwriting
• Why he says country music is “three chords and the truth”
• What he believes is the next major genre to explode

About Joe Bachman:

Joe Bachman is a country singer/songwriter with more than 5,000 live shows behind him, a 25+ year career, and a reputation for writing music that hits straight to the heart. After early years gigging the East Coast club circuit, Joe moved to Key West, then Nashville, building relationships with mentors like Lee Brice, Big Kenny Alphin, Cliff Cody, Kenny Chesney, and Florida Georgia Line. His debut single “Lookatchu” broke into the Top 30, but Joe’s most meaningful work has always been his music for the military, including the viral hit A Soldier’s Memoir (PTSD Song), a video with over 5 million views and life-changing impact for veterans around the world. Today, Joe lives with his family at the Delaware beaches and runs Dream Big Dreams Management and Vacation Jams, managing artists like Carl Wockner and curating destination music festivals that blend community, travel, and unforgettable performances.

Connect with Joe:

Facebook: Follow Joe on Facebook

Instagram: Follow Joe on Instagram

YouTube: Watch on YouTube

Twitter/X: Follow on X

Spotify: Listen on Spotify

Apple Music: Stream on Apple Music

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “A Million Times” — Carl Wockner
• “She’s the Driver” — Carl Wockner
• “A Soldier’s Memoir (PTSD Song)” — Joe Bachman
• “Sell Him Out a Beer” — Joe Bachman
• “Back Home” — written by Cliff Cody, performed by Joe Bachman
• “Drinkin’ to Stay Sober” — Joe Bachman
• “Gettin’ Down With a Country Boy” — Joe Bachman
• “One Step Closer” — Linkin Park

Albums & Projects:

• Sex, Drugs & Country Music — Joe Bachman
• One — Joe Bachman
• Freedom — Joe Bachman
• “Rock Boat” (Sixthman Cruise) — featuring Sister Hazel, Needtobreathe, Bowling For Soup

Artists & Bands:

• Carl Wockner
• Cliff Cody
• Florida Georgia Line
• Lee Brice
• Kenny Chesney
• Sister Hazel
• Pat Monahan (Train)
• Chris Kirkpatrick (NSYNC)
• Muse
• Sleep Token
• The Warning
• Metallica
• Linkin Park
• The Killers
• Dave Matthews Band
• Needtobreathe

We Chat About:

• How Black Sonic Revolver built a decade of underground momentum
• The unexpected origins of the band name
• Why comparisons to other artists make Leon shy
• The balance between embracing inspiration and refusing to be pigeonholed
• The therapeutic side of songwriting and why inspiration can’t be forced
• The chaos of early shows, including being thrown into a drum kit mid-set
• What it means to build community, not just an audience
• The tension between being an artist and being a content creator in 2025
• How the band captures their live sound on record
• What “success” looks like in the short term and the long term
• The legacy Leon hopes the band leaves behind

About Valentina Sounds:

Award winning Valentina Sounds (Valentina Raffaelli) is an Italian born/Philadelphia based singer-songwriter, performer, voice coach, and music director. Valentina’s music is catchy and creative, blending pop melodies with her background in jazz and composition.

Connect with Valentina:

Visit her website: valentinasounds.com

Listen on Spotify: Valentina Sounds on Spotify

Buy her music on Bandcamp: Valentina Sounds on Bandcamp

Find her on Apple Music: Valentina Sounds on Apple Music

Follow her on Instagram: @valentinasounds

Join her on Facebook: Valentina Sounds on Facebook

Watch her videos on YouTube: Valentina Sounds on YouTube

Follow on TikTok: @valentinasoundsmusic

Track her live shows: Valentina Sounds on Bandsintown

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Eat the Chocolate” — Valentina Sounds
• “I Don’t Feel Like Doing Anything” — Valentina Sounds
• “Wake Me Up” — Valentina Sounds
• “Monsters” — Valentina Sounds
• “10 Years a Piano” — Valentina Sounds
• “FUN” — Valentina Sounds
• “Deep Red Bells” — Neko Case
• “Lover Girl” — Laufey

Albums & Projects:

• Bring On the Fire — Valentina Sounds
• 10 Years a Piano – Valentina Sounds
• Deep Red Bells appears on Blacklisted — Neko Case

Artists & Bands:

• Billie Eilish
• Adele
• Radiohead
• Early Coldplay
• The National
• Offspring
• Green Day
• Aretha Franklin
• Stevie Wonder
• Laufey
• Ray
• Cecilia Ferronborg
• Nico Case

We Chat About:

• How Black Sonic Revolver built a decade of underground momentum
• The unexpected origins of the band name
• Why comparisons to other artists make Leon shy
• The balance between embracing inspiration and refusing to be pigeonholed
• The therapeutic side of songwriting and why inspiration can’t be forced
• The chaos of early shows, including being thrown into a drum kit mid-set
• What it means to build community, not just an audience
• The tension between being an artist and being a content creator in 2025
• How the band captures their live sound on record
• What “success” looks like in the short term and the long term
• The legacy Leon hopes the band leaves behind

About Leon Kenny & Black Sonic Revolver:

Black Sonic Revolver are an underground indie rock band from Manchester, England who fuse elements of 1960’s and 1990’s British guitar music elements in to their psychedelic, garage rock sound. Started in 2013, the band recorded an 11 track album in a friend’s kitchen in early 2014 called “BSR (The Kitchen Album)” before following up later that year with their 10 track, self titled debut, which gave the band nationwide exposure early on, leading to support slots with well known British acts including Cast, Northside, The Others and Proud Mary.

The band’s 2nd album, January 2018’s “Life on a Different Knife Edge” saw a transitional period of the band with a line up change and national tours to support the album. Again, the band had to regroup during the COVID 19 pandemic, again rearranging the line up and releasing the 5 track “Rules EP” in December 2022, as a precursor to the band’s 3rd full length album, 2024’s “For Those In The Know” which is a nod to the band’s followers given their underground status. Hailed by British music critics, featured in the published book “Grass Routes” and well respected by much more successful peers of the British indie rock scene, BSR remain firmly under the radar, which is very much embraced by the band themselves. In 2025 the band has built its own studio and rehearsal space with the view of releasing multiple new albums over the next few years.

Connect with Leon:

Listen to their Spotify

Check out their Instagram

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Calling My Name – Black Sonic Revolver
• Leave It for Another Day – Black Sonic Revolver
• Future – Black Sonic Revolver
• Live Tonight Sold Out – Nirvana

Albums & Projects:

• BSR (The Kitchen Album) – Black Sonic Revolver
• Black Sonic Revolver (self-titled) – Black Sonic Revolver
• Life on a Different Knife Edge – Black Sonic Revolver
• Rules EP – Black Sonic Revolver
• For Those In The Know – Black Sonic Revolver

Artists & Bands:

• Cast
• Northside
• The Others
• Proud Mary
• Nirvana
• Jane’s Addiction
• Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
• Blur
• Kasabian
• Stevenson Ranch Davidians
• Fosterchild
• Buckcherry
• Fuel

We Chat About:

• How The SeanGeek and Fast Fret Podcast became a way to stay connected with his brother
• Growing up surrounded by music and learning from his family’s legacy
• Turning grief into creativity after losing his father and bandmate
• The story behind Dome’s concept album We Are Machine
• Why you don’t need pain to make great art
• What it means to “geek out” on life, family, and the things you love
• His predictions for the next big wave in rock and metal
• The advice he’d give his 20-year-old self, and today’s aspiring musicians

About Sean McGinity:

Sean McGinity is a Canadian musician, writer, and lifelong creative whose love for rhythm and storytelling began in a family of performers on Canada’s East Coast. After years performing with his father and brother in cover bands and original projects, Sean co-founded the rock band Dome, known for its narrative concept album We Are Machine. Following the passing of his father and bandmate, Sean launched his show, SeanGeek and FastFret Podcast as an outlet for connection, creativity, and mental wellness. With over 500 episodes and multiple side-series, the show explores music, pop culture, and the power of family through honest, funny, and heartfelt conversations.

Connect with Sean:

Listen to the podcast: ​​Podlink

Instagram: @seangeekpodcast

Threads: @seangeekpodcast

Facebook: facebook.com/seangeekpodcast

Bluesky: seangeekpodcast.bsky.social

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Female Robbery” – The Neighbourhood
• “Knowing Me, Knowing You” – ABBA
• “House of the Rising Sun” – The Animals

Albums & Projects:

• We Are Machine – Dome
• Bros Before Gin – Sean and Todd McGinity
• Sleep Token – latest album
• Tool – Fear Inoculum
• Ghost – recent releases

Artists & Bands:

• ABBA
• The Beatles
• The Doobie Brothers
• Ghost
• Sleep Token
• Tool
• Devin Townsend
• Castle Rat
• Magnolia Park
• Poppy
• The Neighbourhood
• The 1975
• Foo Fighters
• Olivia Rodrigo
• Jim Croce
• Mahalia Jackson
• Crash Test Dummies

We Chat About:

• The evolution of Arlo Wells and how the lineup changes strengthened their sound
• Navigating post-hardcore, metal, and emo influences without over-engineering the music
• What it’s like balancing creativity, production, and band management
• Why delegating early can keep your art from burning you out
• The cost of chasing a dream and the balance between passion and stability
• How local scenes and IRL connections still matter more than algorithms
• The difference between short-term hype and long-term success

About Arlo Wells:

Time and time again, bands get carried away trying to build themselves up as something bigger than their predecessors. When it comes to Arlo Wells however, their message is as plain as day: no gimmicks, no bullshit, just great songs and the drive necessary to build a career in music. Arlo Wells was formed by William Langlais, Austin Smith-Greaves and Alex Chapman in 2017, after parting ways with their former projects Air Combat and After Our Juliet. Understanding their place in the scene, Arlo Wells' approach has been to write songs they connect with, with little concern for trying to reinvent the wheel. If it speaks to them, that's where they take it. The band played their first show in late 2018. The positive feedback they received was the push that propelled them to take their show on the road. After a few more local shows and their first tour, Arlo Wells hit the studio in 2019 to track their debut EP "Rosewood". Teaming up with producers Tim Creviston (Misery Signals, Spiritbox) and Jordan Chase (Secret & Whisper, Stutterfly), the band spared no expense in building an unforgettable first impression. Reminiscent of nostalgic post-hardcore, with hints of their external influences poking through their arrangements, Arlo Wells paints a picture of heavy alternative music, while keeping it new and exciting. It's all about taking your craft seriously, and Arlo Wells are no exception.

Connect with Arlo Wells:

Website / Links: linktr.ee/arlowells

Instagram: @arlo_wells

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• Siren – Arlo Wells

Albums & Projects:

• Rosewood – Arlo Wells (EP)
• Fresh Cut – Arlo Wells (upcoming EP)

Artists & Bands:

• Arlo Wells
• Sleep Token
• Architects
• Alexisonfire
• House of Protection
• Poppy
• Spiritbox
• Amy Lee / Evanescence
• Magnolia Park
• In Flames
• Kings of Leon
• The Latency

We Chat About:

• How Vickyta turned heartbreak into one of her most powerful songs
• The story behind her new project and why it’s split into two volumes
• Why she believes “music is therapy” and helps us meet new versions of ourselves
• Finding a producer who understood her vision and reignited her passion
• Balancing pop, funk, and reggaeton influences while staying authentic
• Her earliest memory of music (watching Thriller at age nine!)
• What it’s like to be an independent artist in Madrid’s music scene
• Why confidence and self-trust are the hardest and most important parts of the creative process

About Vikyta Rya:

Vickyta Rya is a pop singer-songwriter from Madrid, Spain, known for fusing global pop energy with heartfelt storytelling. Her music channels the sounds of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s — an era she’s always felt connected to — creating a vibrant blend of dancehall, reggaeton, funk, and modern pop. Each song is an emotional reflection of her personal highs and lows, inviting listeners to experience the world through her heart.

Her debut project, a two-volume body of work, showcases her evolution as an artist and woman: fearless, joyful, and deeply authentic. Beyond music, Vickyta has worked in ice skating for nearly a decade, balancing her creative passions with a grounded perspective on life.

Connect with Vikyta:

Instagram: @vickytarya

Threads: @vickytarya

YouTube: Vickyta Rya

Apple Music: Vickyta Rya

Spotify: Vickyta Rya

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Puerta Pa Me” – Vickyta Rya
• “Raway” – Vickyta Rya
• “YOLO” – Vickyta Rya
• “Leosoul” – Vickyta Rya (upcoming release)
• “Thriller” – Michael Jackson
• “I Wanna Be Where You Are” – Michael Jackson

Albums & Projects:

• Volume 1 (upcoming album) – Vickyta Rya
• Volume 2 (upcoming project) – Vickyta Rya
• History (DVD album) – Michael Jackson
• Ava (film soundtrack)
• Grease (film soundtrack)

Artists & Bands:

• Michael Jackson
• Beyoncé
• Amy Winehouse
• Destiny’s Child
• Whitney Houston
• Britney Spears
• Christina Aguilera
• TLC
• Mark Knopfler

We Chat About:

• The “Feast or Famine” mindset and how it shapes a musician’s career
• His 50-Fan Model and why you don’t need thousands of followers to thrive
• Turning creativity into financial freedom (without selling out)
• The role of vulnerability, discipline, and emotional awareness in success
• Building community and relationships that actually sustain a career
• His evolution as a musician and the creative direction behind INʄIИ∆
• Balancing fatherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship
• How to redefine abundance and quit living in scarcity

About David M Wilkerson:

David Wilkerson is a multi-faceted creator and entrepreneur based in Austin, TX. He is the founder of Wilkerson Media, a consulting business that helps musicians escape the “famine” cycle and build profitable careers with fewer than 50 fans. He also hosts DemoNation Live, a weekly music review and competition show where independent artists go head-to-head in a gamified “fantasy football for music” format that brings fans and musicians together. On stage, David is known as h3ritic, the bass player, producer, and co-vocalist of the alt-metal/rap-metal band INʄIИ∆, a project that blends nu-metal energy, hip-hop grit, and cyber-punk storytelling into a unique world of sound and lore. Whether he’s guiding artists through his consulting programs, spotlighting underground talent on DemoNation, or pushing boundaries with INʄIИ∆, David is dedicated to one mission: proving that musicians can build reliable, respectable, and profitable careers on their own terms.

Connect with David:

Instagram: @davidmwilkerson

Spotify: Listen here

Musician’s Feast or Famine Playbook: https://www.amazon.ca/Musicians-Feast-Famine-Playbook-full-time-ebook/dp/B0FRYC4XQK

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Follow the Bunny” – INʄIИ∆
• “Kaiju” – INʄIИ∆
• “The Awakening” – INʄIИ∆
• “Professor Heretic Snow of Chicago” – David Wilkerson (h3ritic)
• Unreleased INʄIИ∆ track featuring Eminem (Bandcamp exclusive)

Albums & Projects:

• Attempt to Fail
• A Dying Ultimatum Radio
• Professor Heretic Snow of Chicago

Artists & Bands:

• David M. Wilkerson (h3ritic)
• INʄIИ∆
• Eminem
• Rage Against the Machine
• Korn
• Nine Inch Nails
• Periphery
• Polyphia
• Sleigh Bells
• SevenDust
• Tyler, The Creator
• Born of Osiris
• Taylor Swift

We Chat About:

• How To Feel Alive became her most personal, heart-centered record to date
• The evolution from break-up songs to full-on self-exploration and healing
• Why looping vocals live still feels like a magic trick
• Hosting monthly meetups for women in music and backyard festivals with her band
• What it was like getting added to WXPN’s rotation while she was performing on a cruise ship in Europe
• Her thoughts on being political without being preachy
• Navigating life as a full-time artist while supporting aging parents
• The power of music as a processing tool—both personal and collective

About Emily Drinker:

Emily Drinker is an independent, award-winning singer-songwriter from Philadelphia. Her soulful brand of folk, pop, and rock goes down smooth, whether she’s performing with her powerhouse band, the Funky T, or in a more intimate format, incorporating live looping. Emily is an artist who has found a way to do what she does using every weapon in her considerable arsenal. Emily has been featured by NPR Music, Philadelphia’s WXPN, and played at many regional festivals including Firefly, Musikfest, and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. In the last few years, Emily has opened for Pat Benatar, Rufus Wainwright, JD Souther (Linda Ronstadt, Eagles, James Taylor), Switchfoot, Joey Dosik (Vulfpeck) and Bakithi Kumalo (Paul Simon’s Graceland). In addition to a busy performance schedule in Philly and its surrounding areas, Emily enjoys working as a session vocalist doing sync work for national TV shows, performing in half a dozen local bands, and hosting a festival in her backyard with her band/housemates.

Connect with Emily:

Website: emilydrinker.com

Instagram: @emilydrinker

YouTube: Emily Drinker

Facebook: Emily Drinker Music

Twitter: @emilydrinker

Spotify: Emily Drinker on Spotify

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “To Feel Alive” – Emily Drinker
• “Something’s Coming” – Emily Drinker
• “Enough is Enough” – Emily Drinker
• “Turn Your Face to the Sun” – Emily Drinker
• “Fifth Ave” – Emily Drinker

Albums & Projects:

• To Feel Alive – Emily Drinker (2024)
• Starting to Feel – Emily Drinker (2020)
• Run the Race (EP) – Emily Drinker (2017)

Artists & Bands:

• Pat Benatar
• Rufus Wainwright
• Switchfoot
• Ladysmith Black Mambazo
• Paul Simon (Graceland)
• The Beatles
• Grace Potter
• Rob Tate
• The Funky T
• WXPN / XPN Fest

We Chat About:

• The story behind The Devil You Know and why VLNTYN leans into darker themes
• How divorce and rock bottom transformed his songwriting process
• Recording “Your Talking Dog” in one take, and why it still hits years later
• Writing from discipline vs. inspiration
• Creating a cohesive artist persona that still feels human
• What he’s learned posting content 3-6 times a day for 8 months straight
• Why collaboration is his next big frontier, and how it ties into the male loneliness epidemic
• Balancing emotional openness with artistic consistency
• His best show of the year, and why unplugging made it unforgettable
• The number one way to support indie musicians today

About VLNTYN:

VLNTYN is the moniker and indie rock project of Milwaukee’s Jorge Vallentine. Taking inspiration from the emotional lyricism of Bright Eyes, Elliott Smith, and the Mountain Goats and combining it with the raw energy of 2000s garage rock, VLNTYN builds a world of contrasts – light and dark, hope and despair, quiet and chaos, love and loss.

Connect with VLNTYN:

Website: http://www.vlntyn.com/streaming

Instagram: @vlntyntheband

TikTok: @vlntyntheband

YouTube: @vlntyntheband

Threads: @vlntyntheband

Facebook: VLNTYN

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Trouble” — VLNTYN
• “My Limit” — VLNTYN
• “Talking Dog” — VLNTYN
• “Bottom Out” — VLNTYN
• “Happy New Year” — VLNTYN & John Beltran
• “Just Like Heaven” — The Cure (cover performed by VLNTYN)

Albums & Projects:

• The Devil You Know
• VLNTYN’s acoustic EP (Spotify-exclusive release)

Artists & Bands:

• Bright Eyes
• Elliott Smith
• The Mountain Goats
• The Cure
• Adele
• Taylor Swift
• Bon Iver

We Chat About:

• The DIY origins and evolution of Morning Wars
• Creating Prospect Gallery after a five-year hiatus
• How live performance shapes his relationship to music
• The role of perfectionism in his creative blocks
• Why he’s finally open to collaborating with outside producers
• What a flute solo taught him about trusting the song
• Advice for other artists navigating self-doubt and slow growth
• Why resilience, not luck, is the real key to success in music

About Marc Ramos of Morning Wars:

Morning Wars is the indie rock project of NYC-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Marc Ramos. Blending widescreen arrangements with slice-of-life lyrics, Ramos writes like a documentarian of modern twenty-something life— capturing the emotional volatility of coming of age in a hyper-connected world. Since emerging in NYC’s indie scene in 2022, Morning Wars has built momentum through word-of-mouth and authentic fan connection. The project has crossed the 100,000 lifetime streams mark on Spotify, with over 7,000 combined playlist adds and saves. Ramos has earned editorial recognition with features on Spotify’s Fresh Finds playlists and a standout performance at TikTok’s New York Headquarters on the platform’s official livestream. 

With a growing reputation for explosive and emotionally immersive live shows, Morning Wars has taken the stage at respected NYC venues including Knitting Factory Brooklyn, Rockwood Music Hall, Arlene’s Grocery and others. Ramos’ DIY discipline is baked into the songwriting itself. Raised in a Puerto Rican family grounded in the spirit of the American dream, he writes songs that— no matter the subject— move toward resilience. The result is undeniable, arena-ready indie rock with heart, bite, and lift. Songs like “Breathing Underwater” have become fan favorites, praised for their soaring scope and lyrical honesty. Following a 2018 debut LP release and string of singles between 2019 and 2020 that helped the project cultivate its core audience, Morning Wars now approaches its self-released sophomore album poised for a defining leap— expanding its team, sharpening its vision, and building on a foundation of true organic growth. A deeply human, high-potential indie act with the voice and drive to go the distance.

Connect with Marc:

Instagram: @morningwars

Spotify: Morning Wars on Spotify

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “New Prospect” – Morning Wars
• “Pipe Dream” – Morning Wars
• “Breathing Underwater” – Morning Wars
• “By the Side” – Morning Wars
• “Don’t Hold This Against Me” – Morning Wars
• “Long Way Down” – Morning Wars
• “The Grid Is Going Dark” (lyrical reference from “By the Side”)
• “McCartney III Imagined” (feat. Dominic Fike, Phoebe Bridgers, etc.) – Paul McCartney

Albums & Projects:

• Prospect Gallery – Morning Wars (2025)
• Long Way Down – Morning Wars (2018)
• McCartney III Imagined – Paul McCartney (2021)
• Hot Fuss – The Killers (2004)

Artists & Bands:

• Morning Wars
• The Killers
• Cage the Elephant
• The Beatles
• Thin Lizzy
• John Legend
• Brandon Flowers
• Dominic Fike
• Phoebe Bridgers
• Paul McCartney
• Dave Grohl

We Chat About:

• Why he didn’t promote Flashbulb Memories after release—and what changed
• Degenerative hearing loss and how it shaped his attention to production
• The inspiration behind songs like “Living a Lie,” “Coffee,” and “Breakfast”
• Rewriting identity without substances, and how coffee became a metaphor
• The moment music went from chore to calling (shoutout to Mr. Gonsi)
• Making music that’s both deeply personal and weirdly universal
• Rejecting genre rules and still writing bangers
• Navigating vulnerability, rejection, and being “enough” without performing
• How songwriting often starts with… ice cream cake debates
• The myth of the starving artist vs. creating from a place of wellness
• Why the next wave of pop might sound like it was made in a bedroom

About Matt Fell:

Born outside Philadelphia in 1993, Matt has been involved with music since he was young. Through grade school he picked up piano, trumpet, drums, guitar and bass. In high school, Matt discovered his love for recorded music and has been writing and producing since and has appeared in various bands and acts through the years. In 2022, Matt released his debut solo album Flashbulb Memories, which he co-produced with close friend Matt Weber. In 2023 Matt released a song called Keep Going alongside Luke O’Brien that has been featured on WHYY. Also in 2023 Matt composed the film score for the movie I Think I’m Sick with co-writer John Wiater, which has gone on to win many awards at The Rhode Island Film Festival, New York Film Festival, and Philadelphia Film Festival to name a few. In 2024 Matt released a new single called Living A Lie and opened for singer/songwriter Marielle Kraft on tour. Matt Fell is currently busy working on album two, and multiple other collaborations to come!

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @mattfellandcantgetup

Spotify: Matt Fell

Apple Music: Matt Fell

TikTok: @mattfellandcantgetup

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Living a Lie” – Matt Fell
• “Keep Going” – Matt Fell & Luke O’Brien
• “Holding On” – Matt Fell
• “Wild Soul” – Matt Fell
• “Coffee” – Matt Fell
• “Breakfast” – Matt Fell
• “Emergence” – Sleep Token
• “Miracle” – Michigander (mentioned)
• “Corner Piece of Mind” (unreleased lyric idea)

Albums & Projects:

• Flashbulb Memories – Matt Fell
• I Think I’m Sick (film score) – Matt Fell & John Wiater
• Upcoming Album Two – Matt Fell
• Latest Michigander album (mentioned)

Artists & Bands:

• Matt Weber (collaborator)
• Luke O’Brien
• Marielle Kraft
• Michigander
• Sweet Pill
• John Bellion
• Rex Orange County
• Role Model
• Dijon
• Mk.gee
• Justin Bieber
• Young the Giant
• Bruce Springsteen
• The Lumineers
• Taylor Swift
• Post Malone
• Drake
• Sleep Token
• The 1975
• Alex G
• McClure

We Chat About:

• How in my range came together and why visual storytelling matters
• Making a cohesive project vs. dropping random singles
• Why his EP i’ll be here all summer feels like a full album
• The fear of “losing the sauce” and how he works through it
• Recording vs. performing—and why he loves the studio most
• Building an authentic brand and why visual identity matters
• Advice for artists struggling with self-doubt or creative burnout
• Why his ultimate dream is to develop other artists under his own label
• The balance between confidence and humility in an artist’s journey

About mcgwn:

Hailing from Maryland, 18-year-old mcgwn is a genre-blending artist and writer, creating a sound that is as youthful as it is uniquely his. With roots in rap and a flair for experimentation, his style seamlessly pairs with diverse instrumentation, ushering a refreshing depth to modern hip hop and R&B.

Connect with mcgwn:

Instagram: @mcgwn_

Spotify: mcgwn on Spotify

Apple Music: mcgwn on Apple Music

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• In My Range (ft. Grange)
• Nothing at All
• Goodbyes – Post Malone ft. Young Thug
• Havana (Remix) – Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug

Albums & Projects:

• I’ll Be Here All Summer – mcgwn

Artists & Bands:

• Young Thug
• Kendrick Lamar
• J. Cole
• Drake
• Nas
• Migos
• Run DMC
• Fred again..
• Mike Dean
• Kanye West
• Camila Cabello
• Post Malone
• Phish

We Chat About:

• The songwriting philosophy behind his EP Cheating Death
• How his song “Dancing Bears” uses metaphor to explore fear, control, and human nature
• Why he believes music should be boiled down, not watered down
• Touring the country before building a local fanbase—and how that worked
• His DIY approach to booking shows, building an audience, and staying in the black
• Balancing authenticity and accessibility as a pop songwriter
• The power of relatability in short-form video (and how he accidentally went viral)
• What keeps him centered as an artist, dad, and creator
• His side project podcast This One’s a Doozy, made with his wife
• The mission of Good Life Records and how to support independent musicians

About Kevin McClure:

Kevin McClure has two criteria for his music: the lyrics must be written earnestly and the instrumentation must be ambitious- utilizing a broad scope of music theory, timbre, and genre. Whether it’s music written for a quiet night at home or for blasting loud while driving down the highway, his songs are for people who want profound lyrics and eclectic musicality. This Omaha-based artist brings an exciting, high-energy live show that invites the crowd to something deeper than passive observers: he builds community. For fans of The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Switchfoot, Bright Eyes, and Ben Rector.

Connect with Kevin:

Music + Links: https://Linktr.ee/KevinTMcClure

Podcast: https://pod.link/1628724505

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Cheating Death”
• “Dancing Bears”
• “Before the Sun Rises”
• “All Is Right”
• “Shadows” (from Scenic)
• “We Can Be One” (from Scenic)

Albums & Projects:

• Cheating Death (EP)
• Scenic (former band project)

Artists & Bands:

• The Beatles
• Bruce Springsteen / E Street Band
• Switchfoot
• Bright Eyes
• Ben Rector
• Billy Joel
• Local Natives
• Manchester Orchestra
• O.A.R.
• 311
• Sister Kill Cycle
• Letdown
• Sick Puppies
• Enfielder (Good Life Records)

We Chat About:

• Why she’s not trying to be a “starving artist” and how business fuels her passion
• The power of warm, booming vocals and emotionally honest lyrics
• Her ever-evolving creative process (and why your trash songs matter)
• Staying grounded during high highs and low lows
• How live performance makes her feel most like herself
• Why she wants her music to empower the “girls, gays, and theys”
• Making music for people who feel everything
• Her goals for 2025: a new project, festival stages, and an East Coast tour

About Brookelyn Rose:

Brookelyn Rose is a singer/songwriter and a force in the music industry. Pulling from her own experiences, Brookelyn’s music breaks genre boundaries by mixing pop/rock sounds with country influence to create music that is powerful and honest. She writes hard hitting melodies with deep, meaningful lyrics that her fans can relate to. Brookelyn and her band rock the stage with heavy guitar solos, high energy and commanding vocals. She makes a sincere connection with everyone in the audience and leaves them wanting more. Brookelyn is a true performer and seeing a Brookelyn Rose show is an unforgettable experience.

Connect with Brookelyn Rose:

Instagram: @brookelynrosemusic

Spotify: Brookelyn Rose

YouTube: Brookelyn Rose Music

Facebook: Brookelyn Rose

TikTok: @brookelynrosemusic

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Sour Candy”
• “Hymns”
• “Does She Know”
• “Worst Part of Loving You”
• “Novacaine”
• “Turn Off the Light”
• “Not Coming Back”

Albums & Projects:

• New LP/EP coming soon (in progress with Bobby Danzy)
• Early catalog available on Spotify & SoundCloud

Artists & Bands:

• Earth, Wind & Fire
• Diana Ross
• Michael Jackson
• Chicago
• Alanis Morissette
• The Beatles

We Chat About:

• The story behind her debut album The 11th Hour
• How soulful, genre-fluid music is making a quiet resurgence
• Why she records everything, from jam sessions to her grandma’s voice
• The healing power of vulnerability in songwriting
• Crafting emotionally complex songs in Audacity and sending them into the world
• Navigating suicidal thoughts, grief, and creative block through sound
• What she learned from SZA, Tyler the Creator, and Travis Scott
• The importance of intimacy in live performance, and how she brings the whole room into her set
• Her message to anyone feeling overwhelmed, alone, or creatively stuck
• Why she believes music (and life) should leave you with one clear truth: you’re gonna be okay

About IMVNI:

IMVNI (IMANI) means FAITH. IMVNI (IMANI) is a genre bending artist born on an unknown Planet, Planet X. Her style is a fusion of experimental R&B, Soul, Jazz , and Rock with a sad edge. Her family left planet X in the 90s and moved to Louisiana. Her love for southern Hip Hop influences her sound with heavy bass and robust drums. IMVNI’s hypnotizing vocal style ranges from soft and angelic to gritty and diabolical. She credits her lively stage presence, which includes vignettes of inspiration, to being brought up in a small southern church. On her debut album, The 11th Hour, IMVNI talks to her Grandmother (Grammy) as they explore love, loss, and heartbreak.

Connect with IMVNI:

Instagram: @imvni.music

Spotify: IMVNI on Spotify

Apple Music: IMVNI on Apple Music

YouTube: IMVNI on YouTube

Tidal: IMVNI on Tidal

Website: imvni.com

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Rollin” – IMVNI (inspired by Erykah Badu’s “On & On”)
• “Hello” – IMVNI
• “Maybe” – IMVNI
• “Evil Ways” – IMVNI (inspired by Santana’s “Evil Ways”)
• “Wish I Never Met You” – IMVNI
• “Do the Impossible” – IMVNI
• “Make Love” – IMVNI
• “Before You Let Go” – IMVNI
• “St. Chroma” – Tyler, The Creator
• “Empire Ants” – Gorillaz ft. Yukimi Nagano (of Little Dragon)
• “You Belong With Me” – Taylor Swift
• “Double Up” – Nipsey Hussle
• “Ain’t No More Neptunes So Peace” – Malice (referenced)

Albums & Projects:

• The 11th Hour – IMVNI
• The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill
• Plastic Beach – Gorillaz
• Album by Yukimi Nagano (lead singer of Little Dragon — specific title not mentioned)

Artists & Bands:

• IMVNI
• Erykah Badu
• Jill Scott
• Alicia Keys
• H.E.R.
• Janelle Monáe
• SZA
• Daniel Caesar
• Lauryn Hill
• SZA
• Taylor Swift
• Tyler, The Creator
• Little Dragon
• Mélody’s Echo Chamber
• Tame Impala
• Gorillaz
• Kings of Leon
• Arctic Monkeys
• Cage the Elephant
• Black Keys
• Mumford & Sons
• MGMT
• Passion Pit
• The Neptunes (Pharrell & Chad Hugo)
• Nipsey Hussle

We Chat About:

• His journey from film composer to front-facing pop artist
• Why he waited over a decade to release his own music
• Letting go of imitation and learning to write honestly
• Building a music career while raising a family
• The magic of creating songs that feel “happy, cool, and earnest”
• How Sweet Tea and Matt capture real friendship and nostalgia
• The tension between chasing perfection and letting go
• Why confidence (and not playing it cool) can change your whole approach
• The beauty of building slow, sustainable momentum

About RIMENY:

Who is RIMENY? RIMENY is the alt-pop alter-ego of Zak Engel. Hi! It’s me, Zak. I’ve spent over a decade behind a desk scoring films, mixing, and geeking over sound design. Songwriting and performing have been stuck in the backseat–RIMENY puts them at the wheel. The Sound I’ve been listening to The 1975, Mk.gee, Dijon, Bon Iver, Bleachers, Holly Humberstone, Jack’s Mannequin, Brand New, Miles Davis, Paul Desmond, Charli XCX, Armlock, Small Pond…and…yeah they’re all in the RIMENY sound. But I’m in this music more than any “band” I’ve ever had. I’m a late bloomer, and I feel like I’m finally hearing my influences in my songwriting without having them dominate the whole sound. It’s new. I’m figuring it out :) 

What’s Out Now: Three singles: Matt, Sweet Tea, and Treat Me Like a Stranger, are streaming. They are a taste of the debut album, set to drop in a few months. One more single is coming in a few weeks. Some of these songs are old…like ten years old…and are finally getting the attention they deserve–in some cases reworking an intense imitation track into something much more honest. Time…this all takes time. 

The Team RIMENY has already had a stellar crew of collaborators: Molly McDevitt, Justin VanDommelen, Sam Kyzivat, John Waugh, Leo Egan, Dave Weingarten, Ruairi O’Flaherty, Jared Hazelton, and Joe Murphy. Secret sauce and helping hands behind RIMENY’s sound. What’s Next Once the album’s out, I want to get in front of YOU. Hit the stage…dance…you know. Put something together that’s somewhere between a Bleachers show and a Mk.gee show. :)

Connect with RIMENY:

Instagram: @_rimeny

TikTok: @_rimeny

Spotify: RIMENY

Other Resources:

Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX

“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBg

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

Music Mentioned in this Episode:

Songs:

• “Matt” – RIMENY
• “Sweet Tea” – RIMENY
• “Treat Me Like a Stranger” – RIMENY
• “3AM” – Matchbox 20
• “MMMBop” – Hanson
• “Vera” – Pink Floyd

Artists & Bands:

• Bon Iver
• Mk.gee
• Jack’s Mannequin
• Brand New
• The 1975
• Bleachers (Jack Antonoff)
• Miles Davis
• Foo Fighters
• Green Day
• Blink-182
• Charli XCX
• Holly Humberstone
• Armlock
• Small Pond
• Matchbox 20
• Peter Gabriel
• Enya
• The Beatles
• Van Morrison
• Jesse Rutherford
• Artemis (UK)
• The Neighborhood

We Chat About:

• How to market your podcast and attract the right audience
• Strategies for booking celebrity guests and making authentic connections
• Why energy and integrity are non-negotiables in business relationships
• Turning nostalgia into a unique brand advantage
• Lessons from setbacks and walking away from the wrong opportunities
• Balancing creativity with the business side of media
• Building resilience after personal loss and finding peace of mind

About Quia Morgan-Hill:

Quia Morgan-Hill is a seasoned multi-media connector and founder of Quia’s Communication LLC. Born in a small town in Kentucky and raised in Columbus, Ohio, she has built a career rooted in dedication and hard work. Her journey began over a decade ago as an on-air personality, working with several radio stations including Power 1075/1063FM, WTMH Radio, and WNCI 97.9FM. She also gained valuable experience behind the scenes at television stations such as ABC6/FOX28 News and NBC4 News, where she contributed to daily news production.

Her company, Quia’s Communication LLC, has evolved into a comprehensive multi-media firm. It offers a wide range of services including content creation, brand management, event planning, podcast launching, and social media strategy. The company is committed to delivering high-quality representation for every client, ensuring excellence from start to finish. Services also include logo and graphic design, website development, and event hosting. Additionally, the company provides modeling opportunities and features an online booking system to streamline scheduling and avoid location-based conflicts.