Shows
My Backstage PassSon of Elvis Part 2 - John Smith Presley Say's His DNA Proves He's The Son Of Elvis & Talks About His New Movie & Netflix SpecialJoin Billy Hubbard and his wife Sarah on this part 2 special episode with Singer Songwriter John Smith Presley, a man who has presented DNA and other convincing evidence to prove he is the son of Elvis Presley, and his attorney friend/band mate Tony Petty. John was born in 1961 and adopted and raised by an uncle and aunt of Elvis, Ira Dee and Etta Smith.John is the subject of a film about his life currently in the works based on Rich Carlburg’s book Let The Boy Sing. John is also part of a new Netflix do...2024-12-0900 min
My Backstage PassMichelle Malone Discusses Her Latest Album Featuring an Array of Special GuestsMichelle Malone joins hosts Billy and Sarah Hubbard for a fun conversation about her 16th studio album, Southern Comfort! The record features a collective of all star special guests including Buddy Miller, Randal Bramblett, Will Kimbroug, Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke, Rick Richards and Joey Huffman of the Georgia Satellites, and features five songs co-written with legendary songwriter Dean Dillon! Learn more about Michelle Malone at https://www.michellemalone.com Podcast producer and host Billy Hubbard is an Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a company that published a...2024-12-0250 min
My Backstage PassPaul Kelly's Fever Keeps Burning To Light A Decades Long CareerPaul Kelly is one of the leading artists making music in Australia and given his remarkable legacy — consisting of some 29 albums and a career that extends back nearly four decades — he rightfully deserves his place on that pantheon. His new album, Fever Longing Still, marks his first new collection in six years, not counting the various compilations and collections that have helped to reinforce his status as a remarkable singer/songwriter worthy of international repute. Recorded in tandem with longtime collaborators — Peter Luscombe (drums), Bill McDonald (bass), Dan Kelly (guitar), Cameron Bruce (keys), and Ash...2024-11-2526 min
My Backstage PassRachael Sage Shares Thoughts On Her New AlbumRachael Sage sometimes seems like a force of nature. A distinctive and expressive artist, she could also be considered as one of the individuals at the forefront of the women's movement, having founded her own record label, MPress, being named a six-time Independent Music Award winner, as well as a John Lennon Contest Grand Prize winner. She’s shared stages with an eclectic array of other artists, performed at the Edinburgh Fringe festival, SXSW, and toured internationally. Her brand of provocative alt-folk is both adventurous and appealing, as illustrated by the fact that her 2020 album Character brought her a ch...2024-11-1838 min
My Backstage PassJim Gaines - The Road Out Of MemphisNote from My Backstage Pass producer and host Billy Hubbard - After hearing the sad news of the passing of our legendary producer/engineer friend Jim Gaines on November 9th 2024, I wanted to re-release this episode of our conversation from May 2023 in Jim's honor.In a recording career spanning some fifty years, bridging a range in time and style that reaches from the early days at Memphis’s Stax Records to Carlos Santana’s eight-Grammy year in 2000 and beyond, producer Jim Gaines has operated the mixing board for some of the greatest artists in American music. Jour...2024-11-1143 min
My Backstage PassWarren Haynes Talks About His New Solo Album, Million Voices WhisperIt’s little wonder why Grammy Award winning guitarist, vocalist, producer, and band leader Warren Haynes has been hailed by every major publication worldwide. As a solo artist, member of the Allman Brothers Band and leader of the group Gov’t Mule, his accomplishments have been stirring the senses of audiences for better than 40 years. His new solo album, Million Voices Whisper, is already ranked as one of the best efforts of his career, and it's little wonder why. His passionate performances on each and every track offer a call for unity and optimism that’s sorel...2024-11-0434 min
My Backstage PassGrayson Capps Discusses The Origin Of His InspirationGrayson Capps is an intuitive songwriter, but on his latest album — his seventh to date — he backtracks to his earliest influences with an affecting set of covers that he became enamored with early on. Titled Heartbreak, Misery & Death, the album finds the Alabama based artist culling classic tracks from the likes of Gordon Lightfoot, Jerry Jeff Walker, Doc Watson, and Randy Newman while apply his own Southern Gothic verve and vitality that’s become a keynote touchstone of his music over the course of his career. While the title may seem somewhat intimidating, it aptly describes the themes shared in the...2024-10-2829 min
My Backstage PassWilly Braun Of Reckless Kelly Offers Insight Into What Makes His Band DistinctiveReckless Kelly boasts an indomitable career all their own. Led by brothers Willy (vocals/guitar) and Cody Braun (vocals/fiddle/mandolin/harmonica), they’re often referred to as an “alternative country-rock” outfit, but in truth they’re much more than that broad description otherwise implies. The group first formed in Stanley, Idaho in February 1996 and then moved toAustin, Texas, where they quickly became one of the leading lights of that fabled music scene. The Brauns, who got their start by touring with their dad in his Western swing band, Muzzie Braun and the Boys, also include lead guitaris...2024-10-2132 min
My Backstage PassReckless Kelly’s Cody Braun Lets LooseCody Braun is one of the guiding lights in Reckless Kelly, a band long known as one of the beacons of Austin’s much fabled music scene. Along with his brother Willy, he’s played an essential role in the 17 studio albums the band’s released over the course of the past 30 years, all in addition to being an astute producer and multi-instrumentalist as well. It’s little surprise then that the band’s new album, The Last Frontier shows off his skills to the fullest. As always, it’s fueled by earnest intent in the form of fiery rockers and...2024-10-1431 min
My Backstage PassA Fun Late Night Conversation With Hit Singer Songwriter Billy Droze & Manager Donna Sue RobertsJoin hosts Billy and Sarah Hubbard for a fun late night hangout with Billy Droze and his manager Donna Sue Roberts for a conversation filled with laughter! Born in Lafayette, Louisiana in 1986, the 10th of 12 children, Billy Droze grew up in Alabama knowing that music was his life as far back as he can remember. “It’s as if I was inserted with a computer chip that made my life revolve around music.” But the reason is just as likely the influence of his late father, Bob Droze, a dedicated country, gospel, and bluegrass musician who performed into h...2024-10-071h 03
My Backstage PassRalph Stanley II Makes His Father ProudThere’s an old saying, “Like father, like son.” Nevertheless, being the child of a famous parent can be a double edged sword. Certain doors may be opened but the expectations can run very high. That would especially seem the case when it comes to Ralph Stanley II and his famous father, a bluegrass pioneer. Nevertheless, the younger Stanley has proven that he’s well capable of carrying on his dad’s legacy. The elder Stanley groomed his son to carry on from an early age, and now, nearly 30 years after Ralph 2 first began working professionally with his father...2024-09-3031 min
My Backstage PassRandall Bramblett Shares His Captivating CareerBy any description, Randall Bramblett can claim a varied career. Aside from the fact that he’s released no fewer than 15 solo albums, as a solo artist, he’s also been a much in-demand session player, having worked with Gregg Allman, Bonnie Raitt, Robbie Robertson, Elvin Bishop, Steve Winwood, Widespread Panic, and any number of others. That’s hardly surprising considering the fact that he’s a multi-instrumentalist who’s adept on keyboards, saxophones, flute, guitar, mandolin, and harmonica.Bramblett’s career dates back to the early ‘70s when he played a major role in the band Sea Level, a j...2024-09-2342 min
My Backstage PassRuthie Foster Makes The Most Of Her "Mileage"The milestone tenth studio album from folk-blues luminary Ruthie Foster, Mileage finds the singer-songwriter reflecting on a life that’s been full of professional triumphs, courtesy of a musical journey that took a self-described “little Black girl with a guitar” from singing at churches in rural Texas to chalking up multiple Grammy nominations. With this album in particular, Ruthie shares a collection of songs that was inspired by heartfelt conversations with producer Tyler Bryant and Rebecca Lovell, Bryant’s wife and one-half of the duo Larkin Poe. In that regard, Mile...2024-09-1638 min
My Backstage PassY&T Records Founder Rich Ulloa Shares His Passion For His Pursuit Of MusicRich Ulloa has always been passionate about music. That was evident early on when he established one of the most important independent record stores in the nation with Miami's Yesterday and Today Records. That led to the founding of Y&T Records, which gave birth to the Mavericks, Mary Karlzen and other seminal Florida artists that got their start courtesy of the label. In recent years, Y&T has achieved even greater prominence through several high profile releases, including an all-star tribute album saluting the legendary Eric Andersen and an ongoing series of unreleased Badfinger efforts offered through the...2024-09-0941 min
My Backstage PassTalented Teen Wyatt Ellis Talks About A Rapid Ascent To SuperstardomWyatt Ellis shares his backstory and music from his debut album Happy Valley. Born not far from the Great Smoky Mountains, Wyatt Ellis' first recollection of hearing the mandolin was Bobby Osborne’s iconic solo on the Osborne Brothers’ bluegrass classic “Rocky Top.” Hearing the Tennessee bluegrass anthem echo throughout the early years of his childhood is what led Wyatt to set his sights on learning to play mandolin. With his schedule packed with school, Boy Scouts and team sports, it was hard to find time for music. The COVID lockdown began just as he wa...2024-09-0227 min
My Backstage PassSon of Elvis Part 1 - John Smith Presley Say's His DNA Proves He's The Son Of Elvis & Talks About His New Movie & Netflix SpecialJoin Billy Hubbard and his wife Sarah on this special episode with Author/Screenwriter Rich Carlburg and Singer Songwriter John Smith Presley, a man who has presented DNA and other convincing evidence to prove he is the son of Elvis Presley. John was born in 1961 and adopted and raised by an uncle and aunt of Elvis, Ira Dee and Etta Smith. (Note - Billy misspoke on the introduction saying John was raised by Gladys) John is the subject of a film about his life currently in the works based on Rich Carlburg’s book Let The Boy Si...2024-08-2738 min
My Backstage PassCharlie Overbey Talks About His New Album And Continuing An Outlaw EthicCharlie Overbey, once labeled the “Punk Rock Spy In The House Of Honky Tonk" by none other than Lemmy of Motorhead, has redefined the outlaw ethos of Americana music. That’s never been more evident than with the release of his new album, aptly titled In Good Company. A revisit to decades of writing and recording sessions from studios around the world, it is, in effect, the perfect summation of a career that stretches back nearly 30 years, with guest contributors that include such superstars as Nils Lofgren, Marcus King, Jaime Wyatt, Charlie Starr, Rami Jaffee, Jimmy Vivino, Duane Betts, Eddi...2024-08-1938 min
My Backstage PassGraham Sharp of The Steep Canyon Rangers Talks About The Peaks They've ClimbedSimply stated, Steep Canyon Rangers rank among the upper echelon of today’s most prominent bluegrass bands. They’ve extended their musical template far beyond any confined parameters and into the realms of mass appeal, courtesy of songs that resonate with immediate accessibility and all the elements needed to ensure populist appeal.The band's new album, Live at Greenfield Lake, is a perfect summation of their strengths and a true compendium of all the band has achieved in their career thus far. Recorded before a hometown crowd in Wilmington North Carolina, it finds the band — drummer, multi-instrumentalist and pro...2024-08-1235 min
My Backstage PassSteve Forbert Talks About His Newest Album 'Daylight Savings Time'Grammy nominated artist Steve Forbert, best known for the classic "Romeo's Tune," is a true American musical treasure, a fact underscored by his newest album Daylight Savings Time, to be released on September 20, 2024 via Blue Rose Music. Like all his recordings of new songs, it's saturated with what renowned rock journalist Robert Christgau discerned as his "omnivorously observant" songwriting, marked by Steve's gift for finding the more profound meaning and magic within the spectrum of everyday moments of human existence and the character of the world around us as well as his abundant melodic and poetic enchantment."...2024-08-0535 min
My Backstage PassJohn Oates Talks About Moving Forward Into the FutureAlthough many people still think of him as the “And Oates” in the extraordinarily successful Hall & Oates, one of the best-selling duos of all time, John Oates stands on his own as a prolific singer, songwriter, producer, and solo artist. Not only was he responsible for writing or co-writing any number of the pair’s major hits — “Sara Smile,” “She’s Gone,” “Out of Touch,” “You Make My Dreams,” “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do),” and “Maneater,” among them — but he’s a an assured solo artist all on his own. Over the course of the past twenty years or so, he’s released a...2024-07-2936 min
My Backstage PassAndy Hall Of The Infamous StringDusters Talks About Their New Album 'Songs from the River'The GRAMMY® Award-winning Americana quintet—Andy Falco [guitar], Chris Pandolfi [banjo], Andy Hall [dobro], Jeremy Garrett [fiddle], and Travis Book [double bass]—have musical influences that truly run the gamut, but their common denominator is certainly bluegrass -- the sound that has in essence defined the course of their career.The Infamous Stringdusters stand out as the rare group who can team up with contemporary artists on late night television one night and headline the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre or perform alongside The Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh the next, and have recently emerged as proprie...2024-07-2250 min
My Backstage PassJon Langford Reflects On His Multi-Media AbilitiesJon Langford was originally the drummer for the punk band The Mekons when it formed at the University of Leeds in 1977, but he later took up the guitar as other band members left. Since the mid-1980s he has been one of the leaders in incorporating folk and country music into punk rock. He has released a number of solo recordings as well as recordings with other bands outside of The Mekons, most notably the Waco Brothers, which he co-founded after moving to Chicago in the early 1990s. He is also involved with the Chicago-based independent record label Bloodshot.2024-07-1544 min
My Backstage PassUncle Lucius Frontman Kevin Galloway Talks About Their ReturnPassion and persistence are key traits when it comes to finding success in today’s music realms. The band that goes by the name Uncle Lucius took that fact to heart after going on hiatus in 2018 and regrouping five years later. “We started getting this thing rolling in late 2005,” lead singer and songwriter Kevin Galloway tells Lee and Billy . “We put out our first album in 2006 and we had a great run through the year 2018. I set the band down and I said ‘You know what, I just think it's time to move on for 100 different reasons.’ And we talke...2024-07-0433 min
My Backstage PassJohn McEuen Gets Down To The Nitty Gritty & Shares News About 'The Newsman'There are some who still think of multi-instrumentalist John McEuen as the lively multi-instrumentalist who helped found the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in the mid ‘60s and then remained at the band’s helm for some 50 years. Nevertheless, after parting ways with the group in 2017 due to various personal and professional disagreements, he’s managed to carve out a vigorous and varied solo career — one which includes an autobiography, a role as host of the Acoustic Traveller radio program on Sirius/XM, a notable contribution to pal Steve Martin’s number one, Grammy-winning album The Crow: New Songs for the 5-Stri...2024-07-0244 min
My Backstage PassSue Foley Talks About Her Acoustic Tribute To Female Pioneers Of Guitar - 'One Guitar Woman'Three time Blues Foundation Traditional Female Artist award winner, Sue Foley’s new album 'One Guitar Woman' is a heartfelt tribute to the female pioneers of the guitar - including Memphis Minnie, Lydia Mendoza, Maybelle Carter, Ida Presti, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. The album showcases the dexterity of Foley’s acoustic nylon string guitar skills as she expands on her blues playing into other genres like Piedmont fingerpicking, traditional country, flamenco and classical.“These are the women who were expressing themselves through the instrument as far back as the 1920’s, at the inception of radio and recorded music. T...2024-06-2543 min
My Backstage PassLucinda Williams Shares Her Songs And Stories In A Conversation With My Backstage PassFew artists have achieved the kind of acclaim and achievement garnered by Lucinda Williams over the course of her career. Having composed the oft-covered song “Passionate Kisses,” often described as “an Americana classic,” she went on to release any number of landmark albums, among them, Sweet Old World and Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, all of which have made her one of the most celebrated performers of her time. She’s garnered three Grammys over the course of her career as well as 17 nominations, ranked high in practically every critic’s poll there ever was, received two Americana Awards, achi...2024-06-1931 min
My Backstage PassGuy Clark Stories With Verlon Thompson & Shawn CampAlthough both Verlon Thompson and Shawn Camp claim notable credits as both singers and songwriters — with combined credits that include Willie Nelson, Barbara Mandrell, Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Anne Murray, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Del McCoury, Sam Bush, Trisha Yearwood, George Strait, Garth Brooks, and many more - each man played an important part in the career of the legendary seminal Texas icon, Guy Clark. Not only did they spend years in Clark’s company, as constant musical companions on tour and in the studio, but they played an essential role in h...2024-06-1051 min
My Backstage PassJesse Dayton Mines The Various Hues Of The Blues In A Conversation With My Backstage PassWith three decades of experience playing and touring with Outlaw Country and SoCal Rock luminaries like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson, Social Distortion, and X, Jesse Dayton takes a sonic synergy between Texas and Chicago Blues, courtesy of his new album, The Hard Way Blues. In Jesse Dayton’s reckoning, the Blues are anything that keeps you from your home. Whether that be a place, a person, or a state of mind. But the music of the Blues is what helps you navigate that journey home. It chronicles your hardships and heartaches, and when you ultimately succeed in...2024-05-3131 min
My Backstage PassBluegrass Beckons When Irene Kelley Shares An Exclusive Interview With My Backstage PassIrene Kelley’s love of music has been imbued in her memory practically from the very beginning. She became wholly entranced by it while hearing it for the first time in her dad’s basement TV repair workshop as a young girl. After hearing it around the house, the music became so imbued in her that she began writing music early on and joined her first band at the age of 15.In 1981, she made her big career leap when she was invited to join the bluegrass band Redwing as lead singer. She soon found herself performing at any...2024-05-2729 min
My Backstage PassWillie Nile - A Relentless Rock and Roll WarriorBorn and bred in Buffalo New York and a later transplant that calls Manhattan home, Willie Nile is the epitome of an urban warrior, a no-nonsense rock and roll loyalist whose urban sensibility evokes the fierce spirit of the city’s punk scene and its insurgent sensibility. Over the course of 14 studio albums and a near brush with widespread fame and notoriety that came courtesy of an early association with Arista Records, Nile admittedly had his share of setbacks, but his devotion to the relentless spirit of pure rock and roll has never wavered.Nile’s latest offe...2024-05-2747 min
My Backstage PassThe Young Fables (TYF) Reveal The Story Behind Their New Single "Second Time Around"The Young Fables (TYF) create music with storytelling weaved into Americana roots music with pop sensibilities. East Tennessee (Maryville) natives, Laurel Wright and Wes Lunsford are influenced by timeless treasures like Patsy Cline, Bonnie Raitt, Glen Campbell and Chet Atkins. The duo’s unique sound has resonated with audiences around the globe as live performances have become stages from which The Young Fables discuss themes and topics typically saved for the therapy couch. Strong advocates for mental health awareness, The Young Fables are focused on helping to erase the stigmas surrounding the topic. Recognizing the duo’s advocacy, the pair...2024-04-1926 minMy Backstage PassDanny McCloskey Co-Founder/Publisher of The Alternate Root Magazine, Record Business Veteran and Entrepreneur Shares Secrets of His SuccessLee and Billy welcome Danny McCloskey, Co-owner of The Alternate Root music magazine, Desert Roots Music and a thirty-year-plus veteran of the music industry. From 1979 to 1985 he wrote and developed radio shows, developed programming and organized the yearly local music event ‘The Rock and Roll Rumble’ for legendary radio station WBCN in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1985, Danny joined Atlantic Records, handling services for Island and Virgin Records when under the Atlantic umbrella, as promotion manager for the Boston / New England region where he remained until 1990. Moving on to San Francisco in 1990, Danny managed a publicity firm, The Madera Group. He star...2024-03-1753 minMy Backstage PassSinger Songwriter Amelia White Shines A Light On Her CareerAmelia White’s reputation as one of Nashville’s most captivating singer songwriters has increased substantially with each and every new release. And for good reason. Assured and emotive, White’s songs come across with an authority and determination that gets straight to the heart of her sentiment and intents. Her new album, Love I Swore, offers a discourse revolving around bracing emotional issues — the struggle to maintain core relationships, dealing with loss and loneliness, and, in particular, the difficulties and diversions encountered by road-weary musicians. Taken in tandem Love I Swore is a testament to White’s powers of persuasi...2024-03-1031 minMy Backstage PassCruz Contreras Shares His Thoughts About Breaking From the Past While Working His Way Towards the FutureDespite a storied career that found him firmly at the helm of the highly acclaimed East Tennessee-based band The Black Lillies, and prior to that, the primary back-up for singer Robinella, Cruz Contreras, in effect starting anew. His debut solo album Cosmico, finds him stepping out on his own and taking his music into a decidedly new direction. Borne from a personal perspective that is, by turns, both ethereal and emphatic, music conveyed through tone, texture and melodies that immediately crawl under the skin and then linger there in a perpetual haze. In this episode Cruz sits...2024-03-0146 minMy Backstage PassJim Parker - Hit Songwriter & Creator/Host of Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series ®Within a year after getting his first guitar donated by his sister’s boyfriend, Jimmy Gilmer of Sugar Shack fame, Jim Parker was playing in a band and later became a founding member of The Illusions that landed a record deal with Dot Records. In 1966 he and his buddies decided to leave their hometown of Amarillo, Texas, and head to Los Angeles. During that time, The Illusions became “The Kitchen Cinq” recording with Lee Hazelwood’s LHI label for three years. This later led to jobs with other recording bands like Armageddon and THEM (post Van Morrison) with some studio w...2023-12-031h 22My Backstage PassEllis Paul, Singer-Songwriter, Illustrator, AuthorEllis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless. Born and raised in Main...2023-11-2023 minMy Backstage PassSongwriter, Storyteller, Multi-instrumentalist Rees ShadThis episode we have a conversation with songwriter, storyteller, multi-instrumentalist Rees Shad. Shad has been described as a master of alluring melodies and short story songs whose characters interact and reoccur in eloquent musical vignettes. An accomplished musician, composer, and creative, Shad has an impressive catalog of thirteen solo albums (with another dozen side projects) containing a wide range of music and narratives. Shad grew up absorbing the NYC music scene immersing himself in vintage blues, jazz, folk, country, classic rock and punk before moving to upstate New York to embrace a more rural lifestyle...2023-11-0934 minMy Backstage PassJim Gaines - Multiple Grammy Winning Producer/Engineer Of Huey Lewis, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Santana, Journey, and Steve MillerIn a recording career spanning some fifty years, bridging a range in time and style that reaches from the early days at Memphis’s Stax Records to Carlos Santana’s eight-Grammy year in 2000 and beyond, producer Jim Gaines has operated the mixing board for some of the greatest artists in American music. Journey, Huey Lewis and the News, Steve Miller, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Dionne Warwick are just a few of the influential musicians who have entrusted their creativity and talent to his proven abilities. Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in se...2023-09-2843 minMy Backstage PassSteve Meyer (Part 3) Former National Promotion Director for Capitol Records & Universal/MCABe sure to also hear parts 1 and 2 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He...2023-08-281h 08My Backstage PassSteve Meyer (Part 2) Former National Promotion Director for Capitol Records & Universal/MCABe sure to also hear parts 1 and 3 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He...2023-07-251h 22My Backstage PassSteve Meyer (Part 1) Former National Promotion Director for Capitol Records & Universal/MCABe sure to also hear parts 2 and 3 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He...2023-06-051h 01My Backstage PassA Conversation with Ireland Based Band Seafoam GreenA conversation with the Ireland based band Seafoam Green as they bring their Americana Roots Roadshow across the Atlantic for their 2023 US tour. Learn more about Seafoam Green at http://www.seafoamgreenband.com/ What others are saying about Seafoam Green:- Classic Rock Magazine “Stunning...9/10”, - Country Music Magazine ★★★★★ - Mojo Magazine - “Near faultless album" "Seafoam Green are Irish band Dave O'Grady and Muireann McDermott Long. The pair specialise in what we now call Americana. If you want blues, gospel, and folk, they’ve got it, but what they’ve actu...2023-05-2129 minMy Backstage PassLinda Gail Lewis - The Original "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll" and Sister of the Legendary Jerry Lee LewisAmerican singer, songwriter and pianist Linda Gail Lewis, often referred to as "The True Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," is the little sister to legendary musical genius, Jerry Lee Lewis. Raised on rock'n'roll pumping piano and country, Linda Gail grew up with a passion for music. She has recorded with Stephen Ackles, Van Morrison, her brother Jerry Lee Lewis as well as her two daughters MaryJean Ferguson and Annie Marie Dolan. Linda is married to Eddie Braddock, former Stax promotions director. A professional musician since fifteen, she continues to tour sharing her high octane live show with music fans a...2023-01-2558 minMy Backstage PassCharlie Overbey - Accomplished Singer Songwriter & Hat Maker for the "1883" TV SeriesYou don't want to miss this conversation with Charlie Overbey, an accomplished LA born and raised singer songwriter and maker of high quality hats! Charlie's soulful songs are steeped in the timeless traditions of the American South. He has toured the world supporting acts ranging from David Allan Coe and Blackberry Smoke to Social Distortion and Motorhead. His Lone Hawk Hats are popular with famous celebrities, musicians, and actors as well as the average person looking for a cool one of a kind top quality hat. Tim McGraw and Faith Hill can be seen wearing...2023-01-2441 minMy Backstage PassSinger Songwriter Shawn Camp & Singer Songwriter/Actress Lisa Stewart - Recorded Live at The StationSome careers can be described with a couple of words, but Shawn Camp's isn't one of them. A bold and distinctive singer, a songwriter who's provided material for artists ranging from Ralph Stanley, Del McCoury and Ricky Skaggs to Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Porter Wagoner, Loretta Lynn and Brooks & Dunn, with hits such as “Two Pina Coladas” (Garth Brooks), “Nobody But Me” (Blake Shelton), “Would You Go With Me” (Josh Turner), “River Of Love” (George Strait), and Billy Currington’s hit single “Love Done Gone”. Along with being a hit writer, he is a gifted multi-instrumentalist who's played as a touring/rec...2022-10-1722 minMy Backstage PassTrisha Gene Brady - Songs & Stories Series Recorded Live from The StationLee Zimmerman's Songs & Stories Series is a new musical experience (think Actor's Studio for artists) with live music, conversations, and audience Q&A's all while live taping "My Backstage Pass" podcast. This episode features singer songwriter Trisha Gene Brady! Knoxville, Tennessee native Trisha Gene Brady’s seven-year run as vocalist and instrumentalist for The Black Lillies has seen her take the stage of the Grand Old Opry more than thirty times and perform for crowds at Bonnaroo, SXSW, & Pickathon. With vocals as sweet as southern ice tea, and impressive chops as a multi instrumentalist, Brady is embarking on...2022-10-151h 31My Backstage PassVerlon Thompson - A singer songwriter who personifies the purity and passion of an artist and entertainer unlike any other.Verlon Thompson îs the real deal, not only as far as the stories behind his songs, but also the sincerity he invests in his emotions. Born and raised on the Oklahoma plains, the breeding ground for such revered American songwriters as Woody Guthrie, Roger Miller, Leon Russell, J.J. Cale and Jimmy Webb, he incorporates the rich fabric of emotional authenticity in his tender tales of a life well-lived. As a solo performer, and, for nearly 20 years, the musical sidekick of legendary Texas singer/songwriter Guy Clark, with whom he shared stages worldwide. Since Clark’s passing in 2...2022-09-1139 minMy Backstage PassThe HawtThorns - Songs & Stories Series Recorded Live from 'The Bird and the Book' CaféIn many ways, The HawtThorns — a thoroughly dynamic duo consisting of husband and wife Johnny and KP Hawthorn — find a perfect blend of melody and magic, one that incorporates the sunny sounds of classic California rock blended with the rich resonant sounds of today’s Americana musical environs. Now, with their stirring second album Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars, the couple ratchet up the quotient of ambience and engagement, sharing songs that shimmer, shine and create an immediate impression.In that sense, The HawtThorns effectively replicate the shared sentiments of a gilded age decades ago when o...2022-04-191h 10My Backstage PassGreg Garing - The man Johnny Cash called "The best country singer I heard in 30 years"Recorded Live at The Station - Greg Garing has gained notoriety for his mastery of every stringed instrument, and for having a stage presence second to none. The Man in Black himself, Johnny Cash, called Greg "The best country singer I heard in 30 years." A Nashville music critic described Greg as "a veritable hurricane on stage" with his natural ability to play and sing anything. His performance raises goosebumps and inspires gasps of wonder when he channels the Great American Music Muse — mixing up classic country, blues, bluegrass, jazz and more according to his personal recipe. He truly is a...2022-04-1238 minMy Backstage PassDana Cooper - Songs & Stories Series Recorded Live from 'The Bird and the Book' CaféAcclaimed Nashville singer/songwriter Dana Cooper - Recorded live December 1, 2021 at The Bird and the Book café in Maryville Tennessee. Dana is a recipient of the Heritage Musician award from the Pilgrim Center for the Arts, Folk Alliance International's 2015 Spirit of Folk award and numerous Best of the Year kudos for both album and individual excellence, he’s performed at any number of major festivals, venues and gathering places where the folk faithful tend to gather in order to express appreciation and admiration for those that carry that tradition forward. So too, his songs have been covered by...2021-12-071h 24My Backstage PassMusical Funnyman Ray StevensRay Stevens is known mostly as a musical funnyman, no surprise really considering the novelty songs that he took to the top of the charts during a successful string of hits that dominated the radio waves throughout the 1960s. These days, songs such as “Ahab the Arab,” “The Streak” and “Gitarzan” might not find favor with those of a politically correct persuasion, but back in the day, they established Stevens as an artist with a clear affinity for sarcasm and satire. Indeed, after a career that spans some 65 years, Stevens remains committed to the cause of keeping his listeners entertained and engaged...2021-11-2928 minMy Backstage PassMelanie Safka - The Iconic Woodstock Artist Famous For “Beautiful People,” “Brand New Key,” “Peace Will Come,” and “What Have They Done to My Song, Ma”Melanie Safka — generally referred to by her first name only — epitomized the persona of the eternal flower child, a shy, waif-like woman whose memorable appearance at Woodstock summed up the sentiments of the time — innocent, unassuming and with songs that resonated with the optimism of the age. Her work shared that sweet sensibility, as reflected in songs such as “Beautiful People,” “Brand New Key,” “Peace Will Come,” and “What Have They Done to My Song, Ma,” among the many.Now celebrating the 50th anniversary reissue of her landmark album Gather Me, as well as the half century reissue of her classic song “Br...2021-10-0754 minMy Backstage PassBilly Droze - One of the fastest rising stars in roots music of his generationDolly Parton said about Billy Droze - “When your beautiful wife gave me your CD I listened to it and was very, very impressed. You have all the talent in the world and I hope they love your music as I do. Love, Dolly” At only 35 years of age, Billy Droze has acquired the title of “hit songwriter” and has been touring and making music non-stop for more than a decade. This truly unique artist and highly prolific songwriter, with lyrics that dig deep into the heart of life, melodies and a guitar style that combine his tradition...2021-09-2332 minMy Backstage PassRobert Vincent - Americana Music Association UK's 2021 Artist of the year AND Album of the Year!If you haven't discovered the incredible Liverpool based artist Robert Vincent, you are certainly in for a treat! Since his debut album ‘Life in Easy Steps’ in 2013, Robert Vincent from Liverpool has been one of the most acclaimed new voices in Americana, Country and Folk. Having received the inaugural Emerging Artist Award from ‘Whispering’ Bob Harris in 2016 – who described Vincent as “absolutely magnetic”, Vincent was then invited onto BBC4’s ‘Old Grey Whistle Test: For One Night Only’. That performance marked a real breakthrough for Vincent, establishing him as one of the UK’s leading lights in Am...2021-09-1734 minMy Backstage Pass"Paul" of Peter, Paul, and Mary - Noel Paul StookeyThis episode our guest is a man well known as one of the most prolific forces behind the early ‘60s folk revival and a champion of civil rights during the decades that came after. His name is Noel Paul Stookey, the "Paul" who was an essential part of the trio known throughout the world as Peter, Paul and Mary. Always served on the front lines when it comes to advocacy and education, he, along with Peter Yarrow and the late Mary Travers, helped bring those populist precepts into the modern era in the midst of a tidal wave of so...2021-07-1250 minMy Backstage PassBruce Sudano - Singer/Songwriter who built his reputation writing for his late wife Donna Summer, Dolly Parton, and The Jackson's, is now creating magic & music on his ownThis episode of My Backstage Pass we speak with singer and songwriter Bruce Sudano. Mentored early on by pop wiz Tommy James of Tommy James and the Shondells fame, Bruce Sudano was one of those fortunate few who was able to achieve a parallel career as both an artist and songsmith. He achieved his greatest glories by way of the material made famous by others — among them, the Jacksons, Dolly Parton and his late wife, Donna Summer. Nevertheless, he was seduced by the stage early on, and his initial efforts with the bands Alive N Kickin’ and Brooklyn Dreams nett...2021-07-0843 minMy Backstage PassA Compelling Conversation With Singer/Songwriter Chuck McDermottOn this edition of My Backstage Pass, we talk with Chuck McDermott, an artist who spent much of his career backing legendary singer/songwriter John Stewart, the man behind such hits as “Daydream Believer,” Runaway Train” and “Gold.” He talks with us about his return to recording after spending his early years with the pioneering Americana band Wheatstraw and the years he spent with John Stewart, resulting in a reignited quest to make his own music, beginning with his last album, 2017’s Gin & Rosewater, and culminating in his latest effort, a seven song EP titled 38 Degrees and Raining. We hope you’ll...2021-06-301h 00My Backstage PassTamara Saviano - Film Producer/Director/Writer of "Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark"In this episode we have a great conversation with film and music Producer/Director/Writer Tamara Saviano about her new Guy Clark, Susanna Clark, and Townes Van Zandt documentary "Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark." The 95-minute documentary follows Guy Clark, Susanna Clark, and Townes Van Zandt as they rise from obscurity to reverence: Guy, the Pancho to Van Zandt’s Lefty, struggling to establish himself as the Dylan Thomas of American music, while Susanna pens hit songs and paints album covers for top artists, and Townes spirals in self-destruction after wr...2021-04-3038 minMy Backstage PassA Conversation with EmiSunshineIn this episode Lee & Billy have a conversation with singer songwriter EmiSunshine who was 16 years old at the time! Billy's YouTube video of Emi in 2014 (Emi Sunshine "Folsom Prison Blues") quickly garnered over 3 million views!Emi has been attracting national attention since she was 9 years old ("Today," "Little Big Shots," the Grand Ole Opry, etc.) In 2018, Emi was featured in the Grammy-nominated (for soundtrack) Elvis Presley documentary "The King," for which she wrote and performed two original songs while riding in the backseat of Elvis' 1963 Rolls-Royce.In 2019, Emi received The ASCAP Foundation Desmond Child Anthem...2021-03-1934 min
My Backstage PassChris Robinson of The Black Crowes - Exclusive InterviewBilly's cohost Lee Zimmerman interviews Chris Robinson lead singer and founding member of the Black Crowes!Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East Tennessee, recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound" which is now available on Amazon and other outlets. Cohost/Producer Billy Hubbard is a Tennessee based Americana Singer/Songwriter and former...2021-03-0930 min
My Backstage PassA Conversation With The Legendary Pam TillisIn this episode we're chatting with the legendary Pam Tillis! Pam is a 3-time CMA award winner, including the prestigious 1994’s Female Vocalist Of The Year Award, and being nominated multiple times for Grammy’s Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1993 for “Maybe It Was Memphis, in 1996 for “Mi Vida Loca” and in 1998 for “All The Good Ones Are Gone”. Pam is also proud to be a 9-time Academy of Country Music Award nominee, a 2-time Grammy award winner and 6-time Grammy nominee, and an American Music Award’s nominee. Most recently, Pam has celebrated an IBMA award win in 2004 for Reco...2021-02-1935 minMy Backstage PassBilly Prine (Brother Of The Late Great John Prine) and Producer Michael DinalloA conversation with Nashville Bluesman Billy Prine, the younger brother of the late great John Prine, and Billy's music producer Michael Dinallo! Billy Prine formed and led his first bar band in Chicago at the tender age of twelve. Chicago in the 1960’s and early 1970’s was wide open, just as FM radio was evolving, with all types of music, but especially the blues from the famed Chess Records and country music with the National Barn Dance, which was a precursor to the Grand Ole Opry. Growing up in such a rich musical city allowed Billy to develo...2020-11-1649 minMy Backstage PassHarmonica Legend Charlie McCoyA conversation with iconic harmonica player Charlie McCoy! Charlie has played on dozens of hit records, including Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash. George Jones, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, Perry Como, Joan Baez, Steve Miller Band, Kris Kristofferson, Paul Simon, Barefoot Jerry, on Ringo Starr's 'Beaucoups of Blues', and many more! At the height of his activity, McCoy played on over 400 recording sessions per year. He played guitar on Dylan's "Desolation Row", from the album Highway 61 Revisited; and "Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands", from the album Blonde on Blonde; bass guitar (on all the tracks from B...2020-10-3054 minMy Backstage PassWildeyes Band - A Conversation With One Of Nashville's Incredible BandsIn this episode your hosts Lee Zimmerman & Billy Hubbard take you backstage for a conversation with Emily, Daniel, and Max of the Wildeyes Band! Check out this incredible band online at https://wildeyesband.com/Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East Tennessee, recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound" which is now available on Amazon...2020-09-1759 minMy Backstage PassJohnny Cash's Grandson - Singer Songwriter Thomas GabrielIn this episode your hosts Lee Zimmerman & Billy Hubbard take you backstage for a conversation with singer songwriter Thomas Gabriel, the eldest grandson of Johnny Cash! Thomas talks about his own music and memories of growing up with his iconic grandfather. Learn more about Thomas Gabriel online at https://www.thomasgabrielofficial.com/ Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East T...2020-08-2346 min