Mike Braniff has been playing Western Canada's bar circuit since Halloween night 1982 — and four decades later, he's still at it. In this episode, Terry sits down with the Edmonton music veteran to trace a career that spans six-nighter grinds from Grand Prairie to Vancouver, a 25-year run as Party Hog, thousands of hours of hand-programmed MIDI backing tracks, and merch that included hot sauce, beer case cowboy hats, and t-shirts too colorful to describe in polite company.Mike opens up about the birth of Tushfest, the charity concert series that raised nearly $85,000 for cancer patients, and what it felt like to watch it run its course. And now, after thinking he was winding down, he's suiting up again — this time for Stars and Stories Live's tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, hitting stages including the Edmonton and Calgary Jubilees this November.Key TopicsThe evolution of the bar circuit and six-nighter gigsThe story of the Party Hog persona and merchandiseThe technical setup of a one-man show with backing tracksMemorable stories from the Edmonton music sceneTransition from local gigs to tribute performancesThe impact of Ozzy Osbourne on Mike Braniff's careerThe challenges and rewards of live performance and audience interactionThe role of technology in solo performances and tribute showsThe legacy of Tushfest and community-driven music eventsFuture plans and the passion for performingTakeawaysDecades of experience in the Edmonton music scene.The importance of adapting and evolving as a performer.The value of community and tribute events in supporting musicians.How technology can enhance solo live performances.The significance of storytelling and audience connection in shows.The dedication required to sustain a long career in music.The fun and chaos of performing in small venues and bars.The importance of respecting the audience and maintaining professionalism.The joy of passing on musical inspiration to younger generations.The personal journey of balancing performance, health, and passion.guest namehttps://www.facebook.com/mike.braniffwww.reluctantlypodcast.com @ZoneOnePodcast @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @DistilleryDiscovery
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
