Best Chris DeMakes & Sound Talent Media Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 261: Roger Lima discusses Less Than Jake’s “Sunny Side” 1:09:32

1d ago1:09:32

1:09:32

On this episode, Chris is joined by his Less Than Jake bandmate Roger Lima to dive into the writing and recording of their 2024 single "Sunny Side." The conversation explores the song’s layered instrumentation, dynamic horn arrangements, and emotionally resonant lyrics that center on self-realization, identity, and personal growth. Inspired by a fa…

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Ep. 260: Elyse Rogers discusses Dance Hall Crashers “Lost Again” 1:07:14

6d ago1:07:14

1:07:14

On this episode, Elyse Rogers of Dance Hall Crashers joins Chris to talk about the writing and recording of the band’s 1997 fan favorite single, “Lost Again.” Elyse reflects on the group’s collaborative dynamic, the comfort and shared vision she found working with producer Stoker, and how the song’s lyrics touch on personal and industry struggles f…

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Ep. 259: J Navarro discusses The Suicide Machines “S.O.S.” 1:05:26

9d ago1:05:26

1:05:26

In this episode, J Navarro of The Suicide Machines joins the show to discuss the origins and last-minute magic behind “S.O.S.,” a fan-favorite track from their 1996 debut Destruction By Definition. J reveals that the song nearly didn’t make the album, coming together late in the recording process after a scramble to finish it. At the time, the band…

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Throwback Thursday: Tahlena Chikami discusses Bite Me Bambi's "Bad Boyfriend" 1:17:53

12d ago1:17:53

1:17:53

It’s a special Throwback Thursday edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and while the show usually digs deep into the archives, this week’s rewind only takes us back a few months to a standout February episode featuring Tahlena Chikami of Bite Me Bambi. With her band hitting the road on Less Than Jake’s Summer Circus tour, it’s the perfect time to re…

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Ep. 258: Brittany Luna and Tim Hildebrand discuss Catbite’s “Tired of Talk (feat. Patrick Stump)” 1:12:30

16d ago1:12:30

1:12:30

On this episode, Tim Hildebrand and Brittany Luna of Catbite dive into the creation of their 2025 single “Tired of Talk (feat. Patrick Stump),” unpacking the experimental production process, the emotional layers of the lyrics, and the evolution of their ska-meets-pop sound. They reflect on the joys and challenges of writing as a couple, the magic o…

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It's May 16th! Revisiting Ep. 51: Joey Cape discusses Lagwagon's "May 16" 1:22:41

18d ago1:22:41

1:22:41

It’s May 16th, so it’s only fitting to revisit Episode 51 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, featuring Joey Cape of Lagwagon. Originally released on May 16th, 2021, this fan-favorite episode dives deep into the creation of the band’s beloved anthem “May 16.” Joey shares the real-life events that inspired the song, and reflects on the emotional headspace h…

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Throwback Thursday: Angelo Moore discusses Fishbone's "Party At Ground Zero" 1:27:30

19d ago1:27:30

1:27:30

This week’s Throwback Thursday takes us back to Episode 245 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on February 17th, 2025, with none other than Angelo Moore of Fishbone. In this lively and eye-opening chat, Angelo breaks down the making of their explosive 1985 single “Party At Ground Zero”—a wild mix of ska, punk, funk, and soul with an en…

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Ep. 257: JR Wasilewski discusses Less Than Jake’s “Walking Pipebomb” 1:14:47

23d ago1:14:47

1:14:47

This week, Chris is joined by his Less Than Jake bandmate JR Wasilewski to break down the writing and recording of "Walking Pipebomb" from the band's Uncharted EP. JR shares how a Dance Hall Crashers song sparked the initial idea, how his signature guitar style shaped the sound, and why the demo remained nearly identical to the final version. The c…

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Throwback Thursday: Bert McCracken discusses The Used's "The Taste of Ink" 1:20:36

26d ago1:20:36

1:20:36

In this Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on May 1, 2023, Bert McCracken of The Used sits down with Chris to unpack the writing and recording of the band’s breakout single, “The Taste of Ink.” McCracken takes listeners back to the early 2000s, when the song—written in a basement in Provo, Utah—captured the r…

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Ep. 256: Stacy Jones discusses American Hi-Fi’s “Flavor of the Weak” 1:25:57

30d ago1:25:57

1:25:57

This week, Stacy Jones sits in to share the story behind American Hi-Fi’s 2001 breakout hit, “Flavor of the Weak.” From his early days as Veruca Salt’s touring drummer to stepping into the spotlight as a frontman, Stacy discusses the evolution of his career, the challenges of reinvention, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He reflects on t…

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Ep. 255: A discussion on Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise (feat. L.V.)" 1:07:52

1M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

This week, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios take a deep dive into Coolio’s massive 1995 hit “Gangsta’s Paradise,” unpacking the song’s gripping themes, powerful lyrics, and lasting cultural impact. From the Stevie Wonder sample that gave it its foundation to the haunting choir that set its tone, they break down the song’s composition and the intens…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “April 24th: The Most Historic of Days” episode 38:11

1M ago38:11

38:11

Originally released to Patreon supporters on April 24th, 2023, this episode of The After Party—titled "April 24th: The Most Historic of Days"—is now available as a special sneak preview on the main feed! In this entertaining and unpredictable deep dive, Chris and Chris explore a wide range of fascinating events that all took place on April 24th, in…

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Ep. 254: Michael Imperioli discusses ZOPA’s “A Still Life” 1:20:58

1M ago1:20:58

1:20:58

Many know Michael Imperioli for his unforgettable roles in The Sopranos and The White Lotus, but his artistic reach extends far beyond the screen. In this episode, Michael opens up about the writing and recording of "A Still Life," the 2025 single from ZOPA’s album Diamond Vehicle. He shares how his musical influences—from The Beatles to an array o…

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Ep. 253: Dani Filth discusses Cradle of Filth’s “Nymphetamine Fix” 1:22:35

2M ago1:22:35

1:22:35

In this episode, Dani Filth, the iconic frontman of Cradle of Filth, opens up about the creation of their 2004 fan-favorite single, "Nymphetamine Fix." He discusses the atmospheric recording sessions with producer Rob Caggiano, which captured the band's signature dark and gothic sound. Dani also explores the song's lyrical themes of yearning and lo…

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Ep. 252: Anty Horgan discusses The Bennies “Party Machine” 1:09:36

2M ago1:09:36

1:09:36

This week, Anty Horgan of The Bennies sits in to break down the spontaneous creation of the band’s 2016 fan-favorite single, "Party Machine." From their early days performing under the name Madonna to their signature blend of psychedelic reggae and ska punk, Anty shares how the band's anything-goes attitude fueled the song’s infectious energy. He a…

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Ep. 251: Martin Fry discusses ABC's "The Look of Love" 1:28:50

2M ago1:28:50

1:28:50

In this episode, Martin Fry gives a look behind the scenes of ABC’s dazzling 1982 hit, “The Look of Love.” With Trevor Horn at the helm, the song’s lush, high-gloss production helped ABC stand out in the new wave explosion, pushing sonic boundaries with cutting-edge techniques. Martin shares how the band approached the track like a stage production…

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Ep. 250: Josh Goldman discusses The Raging Nathans “The Grudge” 1:12:47

2M ago1:12:47

1:12:47

This week, Josh Goldman of The Raging Nathans joins the pod to discuss the writing and recording of their 2025 single "The Grudge." Josh shares how the song evolved from a casual idea into a powerful track, shaped by thoughtful arrangement choices, layered harmonies, and even some intentional literary references. He also reflects on the recording p…

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Ep. 249: Legends Amplified: Ric Ocasek 1:06:41

3M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

In the first episode of Legends Amplified, Chris DeMakes is joined by co-host and producer Chris Fafalios for an in-depth exploration of Ric Ocasek, the legendary frontman of The Cars. The duo explores Ocasek's early life, the formation of The Cars, and the band's meteoric rise to fame, fueled by their innovative sound and the massive impact of MTV…

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Throwback Thursday: Dave King discusses Flogging Molly’s “Drunken Lullabies” 1:21:41

3M ago1:21:41

1:21:41

This week’s Throwback Thursday revisits Episode 146, originally aired on March 13th, 2023, with special guest Dave King of Flogging Molly. Renowned for their unique blend of punk rock energy and traditional Irish folk music, Flogging Molly captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their 2002 anthem “Drunken Lullabies.” In this episode, Dave shares…

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Ep. 248: Brendan B. Brown discusses Wheatus "Lemonade" 1:25:07

3M ago1:25:07

1:25:07

This week, Brendan B. Brown of Wheatus sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band's 2003 single "Lemonade," a fan-favorite song that blends raw emotion with undeniable hooks. He and Chris explore the song’s evolution, from its themes of jealousy and heartbreak to the production choices that gave it its signature sound—including why Br…

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Ep. 247: Danbert Nobacon discusses Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping” 1:11:49

3M ago1:11:49

1:11:49

This week, Danbert Nobacon of Chumbawamba sits in to break down the writing and recording of the band's massive 1997 hit, "Tubthumping." He and Chris explore the song’s punk-influenced origins, its anthemic structure, and how its themes of resilience and working-class pub culture resonated worldwide. Danbert shares insights into the band's approach…

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Throwback Thursday: John Parr discusses his song "St. Elmo's Fire (Man In Motion)" 1:22:14

3M ago1:22:14

1:22:14

This Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast revisits Episode 143, originally released on February 20, 2023, featuring John Parr discussing the creation of his iconic 1985 hit, “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion).” While widely recognized from the St. Elmo’s Fire film soundtrack, the song was actually inspired by the remarkable journey o…

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Ep. 246: Tahlena Chikami discusses Bite Me Bambi’s “Bad Boyfriend” 1:16:23

3M ago1:16:23

1:16:23

Tahlena Chikami of Bite Me Bambi sits in this week to break down the writing and recording of their 2024 single "Bad Boyfriend," a song inspired by friends' relationship woes and brought to life with the help of producer Cameron Webb. She and Chris discuss the evolution of ska, the challenge of keeping songs fresh in an era of short attention spans…

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Ep. 245: Angelo Moore discusses Fishbone's "Party At Ground Zero" 1:25:12

4M ago1:25:12

1:25:12

In this episode, Angelo Moore of Fishbone stops by to talk all about the writing, recording, release, and legacy of their iconic ska punk anthem “Party At Ground Zero.” Angelo shares how the song came together in a bedroom, blending the band’s wide range of influences—blues, rockabilly, ska, and jazz—to create something totally unique. He and Chris…

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Throwback Thursday: Brian Fallon discusses The Gaslight Anthem’s “45” 1:16:44

4M ago1:16:44

1:16:44

For this week’s Throwback Thursday, and this week we’re revisiting Episode 91 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on February 21st, 2022, featuring Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem. Representing New Jersey with their signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and rock 'n' roll grit, the band reached new heights with their 2012 album H…

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Ep. 244: Eric Cannata discusses Young the Giant's "Mind Over Matter" 1:20:57

4M ago1:20:57

1:20:57

In this episode, Eric Cannata of Young the Giant dives into the writing and recording of their 2014 hit single "Mind Over Matter," a pivotal track that showcased the band’s evolving sound and emotional depth. Eric reflects on the surreal experience of achieving success, the collaborative nature of the band's songwriting, and the challenges of creat…

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Throwback Thursday: Jon Foreman discusses Switchfoot’s “Meant to Live” 1:07:27

4M ago1:07:27

1:07:27

For this Throwback Thursday episode, we revisit Episode 95 from March of 2022, when Jon Foreman of Switchfoot joined the podcast to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 breakout hit, “Meant to Live.” Exploring themes of existential longing and the search for meaning, the song became an anthem that resonated deeply with fans and prop…

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Ep. 243: Stacey Dee discusses Bad Cop/Bad Cop's "Womanarchist" 1:05:40

4M ago1:05:40

1:05:40

In this episode, Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop shares the story behind their 2017 single "Womanarchist," exploring its empowering message of feminism, personal choice, and activism. Stacey discusses the historical influences behind the lyrics, including figures like Nancy Morgan Hart, and highlights the collaborative songwriting process with input …

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Throwback Thursday: Dan Wilson discusses Semisonic’s “Closing Time” 1:30:52

4M ago1:30:52

1:30:52

In this Throwback Thursday episode, originally released in September 2022 as Episode 122, Dan Wilson of Semisonic shares the story behind the writing and recording of their iconic 1998 hit, "Closing Time." A two-time Grammy winner, Dan brings unmatched insight into the art of songwriting, having won Song of the Year in 2007 for co-writing The Chick…

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Ep. 242: The 67th Grammy Awards Song of the Year Preview and Predictions 1:07:54

4M ago1:07:54

1:07:54

In this episode, Chris DeMakes and producer/co-host Chris Fafalios dive into the nominees for Song of the Year at the upcoming 67th Grammy Awards, set to take place on February 2, 2025. They share insights, predictions, and personal connections to each track, including Shaboozey's "A Bar Song (Tipsy)," Billie Eilish's “BIRDS OF A FEATHER,” Lady Gag…

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Throwback Thursday: Brendan Kelly discusses The Lawrence Arms "The YMCA Down The Street From The Clinic" 1:20:30

4M ago1:20:30

1:20:30

Episode 61 of the podcast, first aired in July 2021, features Brendan Kelly of The Lawrence Arms sharing the story behind the writing and recording of their 2014 fan-favorite track, "The YMCA Down The Street From The Clinic." Known for his razor-sharp wit and knack for crafting unforgettable lyrics, Brendan dives into the inspiration for the song, …

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Ep. 241: Blag Dahlia discusses Dwarves "Everybodies Girl" 1:18:25

4M ago1:18:25

1:18:25

In this episode, Blag Dahlia of the Dwarves joins Chris to discuss the writing and recording of their 1997 fan-favorite single, "Everybodies Girl." Blag reflects on the song's pivotal role in the evolution of the band, blending punk energy with pop elements, and how producer Eric Valentine helped shape its sound. They dive into Blag's diverse music…

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Throwback Thursday: Max Rainer discusses Wilderado's "Surefire" 1:11:43

5M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

Episode 70 of the podcast, originally aired in September 2021, features Max Rainer of Wilderado diving into the writing and recording of their mesmerizing track, “Surefire.” At the time, the band was beginning to make waves, but their trajectory has only soared in the years since. With relentless touring and a growing fanbase, Wilderado has cemente…

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Ep. 240: Matt Collyer discusses The Planet Smashers "Too Much Information" 1:08:03

5M ago1:08:03

1:08:03

In this episode, Chris is joined by Matt Collyer of The Planet Smashers to discuss the writing and recording of their 2019 fan-favorite single, "Too Much Information." Together, they explore the song's creation, from the collaborative songwriting process to the production choices that gave it a polished yet energetic sound. Matt reflects on the rol…

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Throwback Thursday: Raine Maida discusses Our Lady Peace's "Clumsy" 1:13:20

5M ago1:13:20

1:13:20

On this Throwback Thursday episode (originally released on January 31, 2022), Raine Maida dives into the writing and recording of Our Lady Peace’s 1997 single “Clumsy.” Produced by Arnold Lanni, the song became a career-defining hit, spending three weeks at number one in Canada and reaching number five on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. Rai…

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Ep. 239: Nick Diener discusses The Swellers "The Best I Ever Had" 1:27:50

5M ago1:27:50

1:27:50

In this episode, Nick Diener of The Swellers joins Chris to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2011 fan-favorite single, "The Best I Ever Had." Nick shares the unlikely inspirations behind the track, from the storytelling style of Meat Loaf to the influence of Lynyrd Skynyrd's use of slide guitar. The conversation dives into the song’s…

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The 2024 Year-End Wrap 1:06:39

5M ago1:06:39

1:06:39

In this special year-end wrap episode, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios are joined by special guest Matt Kelly to reflect on all the songs featured on the show throughout 2024. Together, they dive into their monthly favorites, exploring the diverse genres, memorable stories, and personal connections behind each track. As they discuss the production…

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Throwback Thursday: Eric Bazilian discusses The Hooters "And We Danced" 1:21:15

5M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

It’s Throwback Thursday, and this week we’re revisiting Eric Bazilian’s first appearance on the show from January 10, 2022. Eric sat in to break down The Hooters’ infectious 1985 hit “And We Danced,” sharing stories about its creation, recording process, and the unique blend of rock, folk, and new wave that made the song an enduring classic. Eric’s…

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Ep. 238: A discussion on Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" 41:52

5M ago41:52

41:52

In this special holiday episode, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios discuss the classic 1958 single "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree." They explore the song’s history, from its creation by songwriter Johnny Marks to Brenda Lee’s remarkable recording at just 13 years old. They dive into the song's rockabilly influences, its nostalgi…

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Happy Xmas (War Is Over) 51:53

5M ago51:53

51:53

Get into the holiday spirit with this special episode of The After Party! Originally released on December 13, 2021, Chris and Chris dive into John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s timeless anthem “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).” From its powerful anti-war message to its enduring place in holiday music history, they explore how this 1971 classic became both a prote…

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Throwback Thursday: Dee Snider discusses Twisted Sister's "We're Not Gonna Take It" 1:53:21

6M ago1:53:21

1:53:21

On December 20th, 2021, Dee Snider sat in for Episode 82 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast to discuss the writing, recording, release, and legacy of Twisted Sister's classic 1984 anthem, "We're Not Gonna Take It." The fact that Dee is one of Chris's childhood idols makes this episode well worth the listen (or re-listen)! Tune in for a fun and hilarious wa…

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Ep. 237: Jon Lewis discusses The Dopamines "Public Domain" 1:05:09

6M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

In this episode, Jon Lewis discusses the writing and recording of the fan-favorite 2010 single from The Dopamines, "Public Domain." He shares insights into the band’s unique blend of blue-collar pop punk, emphasizing their gritty, authentic sound. The conversation explores the collaborative recording process with Roger Lima and the songwriting tech…

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Throwback Thursday: Shawn Harris discusses The Matches "December Is for Cynics" 1:21:01

6M ago1:21:01

1:21:01

This Throwback Thursday, Chris DeMakes A Podcast rewinds to December 13, 2021, when Shawn Harris of The Matches joined the show for Episode 81 to break down the making of the holiday punk anthem “December Is for Cynics.” Shawn shared stories about writing and recording the track, reflecting on its clever lyrics, high-energy vibe, and how it became …

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Ep. 236: Nikola Šarčević discusses Millencolin's "No Cigar" 58:48

6M ago58:48

58:48

In this episode, Millencolin vocalist and bassist Nikola Šarčević discusses the writing and recording of the band's fan-favorite 2000 single "No Cigar." Nikola shares insights into the band's journey from their Swedish roots to their rise in the punk rock scene, propelled by their signing with Epitaph Records and the influence of skate culture. He …

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Throwback Thursday: David Paich discusses Toto's "Africa" 1:18:42

6M ago1:18:42

1:18:42

This Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast revisits Episode 133, originally aired on December 12th, 2022, featuring the legendary David Paich of Toto. With the recent release of the HBO Original Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary, in which Paich is prominently featured, this conversation about Toto’s iconic hit "Africa" feels more relevant …

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Ep. 235: Exene Cervenka discusses X's "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts" 1:05:09

6M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

In this episode, Exene Cervenka sits in to discuss the writing and recording of X's 1983 fan-favorite single, "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts." She reflects on the eclectic influences that shaped the song, from Ray Manzarek’s unique production approach to the band's distinctive blend of punk rock with other genres. Exene shares how the song features…

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Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Andrew Gold and his song "Thank You for Being a Friend" 1:07:32

6M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

In this special Thanksgiving edition of Throwback Thursday, join host Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios as they embark on a musical exploration of Andrew Gold's iconic 1978 single "Thank You for Being a Friend." While most listeners may recognize it as the beloved theme song from The Golden Girls, DeMakes and Fafalios dive into the …

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Ep. 234: Alan Day and Dan O'Connor discuss Four Year Strong's "uncooked" 1:11:37

6M ago1:11:37

1:11:37

In this episode, Alan Day and Dan O'Connor of Four Year Strong sit in to discuss the writing and recording of the single "uncooked" from their 2024 album Analysis Paralysis. Inspired by a bout of writer's block, the song explores their curiosity about whether certain substances might help them overcome it, despite both being straight edge since the…

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Throwback Thursday: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 2) 1:10:18

6M ago1:10:18

1:10:18

In this Throwback Thursday episode, Fat Mike returns for Part 2 of the deep dive into NOFX’s 18-minute punk rock epic, The Decline. Continuing where Part 1 left off, Mike shares more about the song’s intricate composition, its politically charged message, and the intense recording process that pushed the boundaries of punk music. Originally airing …

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Ep. 233: Joe Queer discusses The Queers "Punk Rock Girls" 1:07:20

7M ago1:07:20

1:07:20

In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Joe Queer discusses the writing and recording of the fan-favorite 1996 single from The Queers, "Punk Rock Girls." Throughout this conversation, Joe reflects on the spontaneous and fun process behind writing the song, as well as the unique recording techniques that gave The Queers their signature sound. He tal…

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Chris DeMakes & Sound Talent Media Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen