My Weekly Mixtape: Music Discovery & Nostalgia
My Weekly Mixtape is a music podcast featuring curated playlists, artist interviews, and the stories behind the songs—blending music discovery with deep nostalgia. Hosted by radio veteran Brian Colburn, each episode brings together musicians, industry professionals, and passionate fans to explore why songs matter and how they connect to memory, identity, and the moments that define us. From rock and pop to punk, hip-hop, country, and indie, the show delivers track-by-track deep dives, artist insights, and thoughtfully crafted listening experiences inspired by the era when mixtapes defined who we were. Whether you’re discovering new artists or revisiting the songs that shaped you, My Weekly Mixtape is a show for listeners who want more than just the hits.
Episodes
Still Climbing: Tom Keifer of Cinderella Reflects on the Band’s Legacy & His Solo Career
This week, we're revisiting my feature-length interview with Tom Keifer, legendary Cinderella frontman, as he reflects on the band's enduring legacy, his acclaimed solo career, and the challenges that nearly ended it.In this in-depth conversation, Tom shares the stories behind his critically acclaimed solo albums The Way Life Goes (2013) and Rise (2019), offering insight into his songwriting proce
Laurie Berkner on Children’s Music and the Strange Reality of an Audience That Keeps Growing Up
There’s a moment every parent (or anyone who’s been around kids long enough) recognizes — a song that gets played over and over again… and somehow doesn’t wear out its welcome. That space — where something clicks for kids and doesn’t lose the room for the adults — is harder to pull off than it sounds. And it’s exactly where Laurie Berkner has lived for decades.This week, she joins me to talk about
Rachel Bolan Talks Gargoyle of the Garden State, Punk Attitude, and Writing Beyond Skid Row
Most people remember their first concert. I’ve talked about mine more than a few times — David Lee Roth and Poison on the 1988 Skyscraper tour. But the second one hits differently for a lot of people.For me, it was Aerosmith and Skid Row on the Pump tour in 1990. I was 12, standing there completely wide-eyed, when Skid Row tore into “Piece of Me” and something just clicked — that bass line. That m
Why Slow Covers Hit Harder: 10 Upbeat Songs Turned Ballads
Upbeat dance classics, pop anthems and heavier rock songs give you one feeling — but what happens when you slow them down, strip them back, and see what lies beneath the surface? This week on My Weekly Mixtape, I explore why slow cover songs often hit harder than the originals, taking familiar pop, rock, and dance hits and reshaping them into something far more intimate.Across 10 mellow cover vers
The Best Dance Songs of the Last 25 Years (2000–2025): 10 Timeless Club Classics
Can you narrow 25 years of dance classics into 10 songs? Nice try if you say it's easy!This week, Jay Sweet joins me to dive into the tracks that kept crowds moving from the early 2000s straight through today — ten songs that shaped twenty-five years of parties, playlists, wedding receptions, late-night drives, and every moment in between.We’re looking at the hooks, the beats, and the cultural wav
Rush Deep Cuts: Uncovering 15 Hidden Gems to Celebrate The Band's Fifty Something Tour
Is there such a thing as a Rush deep cut? To the diehards, absolutely not — but that shouldn’t stop us from trying! As the band gears up for their long-anticipated Fifty Something anniversary tour, I am throwing back to an episode where I was the guest, and joined Steve & Gerry on the Something For Nothing: A Rush Fancast.In this discussion, we set out to celebrate the overlooked corners of on
Something Good Waiting Down This Road: 10 Tom Petty Songs To Fuel Your Road Trip
Few artists soundtrack the open road quite like Tom Petty. From radio-dominant anthems to overlooked gems hiding deeper in the catalog, his songs feel engineered for long stretches of highway, glowing dashboards, and miles that slip by unnoticed.This 10-song Tom Petty road trip playlist brings together the familiar hits you instinctively reach for and the lesser-known tracks that hit just as hard.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd: 30 Years of Ledbetter Heights and the Road He’s Traveled
Thirty years after Ledbetter Heights first introduced Kenny Wayne Shepherd to the world, we circle back — not just to revisit the songs, but to understand what happens when you’ve lived with them for decades. From the raw instinct of a 17-year-old finding his voice to the perspective that only time, touring, and life can bring, this conversation digs into how those early recordings hold up — and w
Mixtape Moment: The Day I Almost Backed Into B.B. King and His Legendary Guitar Lucille
Working in network radio in the early 2000s was a nonstop rollercoaster—long, unpredictable hours, the constant pressure of a 24/7 operation, and a news cycle that could reshape your entire life in an instant. But on the flip side, it also meant crossing paths with the biggest names in music, movies, and television as they moved through studios to appear on stations across the country.This is one
Eva Under Fire’s Amanda Lyberg Gets “Villainous,” Embraces the Villain, and Redefines Identity
It’s been a few years since Amanda Lyberg of Eva Under Fire last stopped by — and this time, the stakes feel different.This week, we dig into Villinous, a record that doesn’t just evolve the band’s sound, but reframes it — leaning hard into identity, perception, and what it really means to take back labels that were never meant to empower.A big part of that conversation centers around the title tr
Inside The Strike’s “Getaway”: Synths, Sax, and What Really Matters
This week, I’m joined by Chris Crabb of The Strike — and we get into how a band built on ’80s new wave, synth pop, and yes, saxophone, turned “The Getaway” into a song that’s taken on a life of its own.From multiple versions on A Dream Through Open Eyes to a stripped-down take that’s now showing up in wedding first dances, we talk about how the same song can evolve — and what those reinterpretatio
A Heavy 180: 10 Times Heavy Bands Took a Sharp Mellow Turn… and Nailed It
Heavy bands are known for distortion, volume, and power — but every so often, they make a screeching pivot, turning the amps down and letting something quieter speak louder.This week, I dig into 10 moments where bands best known for crushing riffs, intense vocals, or sheer sonic force take a sharp left turn, stepping into mellow, stripped-down, or unexpectedly introspective territory.These are the
Your Next Favorite Band: 10 Underrated Acts You Need On Your Radar
Discover your next favorite band on this week’s episode as I’m joined by Patreon Mixtaper Chad Lamasa to shine a light on 10 underrated artists who deserve way more attention. We’re digging into the kind of bands you stumble across and immediately start telling friends about — the ones flying just under the mainstream radar but making music that resonates as much, if not more, than artists that ar
Beyond the Black (Album): 10 Metallica Songs That Define the Post-Thrash Era
What's your goto post-black album Metallica track? Fans love to debate the band’s evolution, but one thing’s for sure: the post–Black Album era is packed with powerful, creative, and unfairly overlooked tunes.In this week’s episode, Zack Derby of The Neatcast joins me to dig deep into Metallica’s modern catalog—everything from the Load era through today—to spotlight 10 tracks that prove the band n
Alien Ant Farm’s Dryden Mitchell on 25 Years of ANThology and the Journey to “Reasons”
This week, I’m joined by Dryden Mitchell of Alien Ant Farm to trace the band’s journey: from the early $100 EP and Love Songs recordings—when tracks like “S.S. Recognize” and “Wishing” were still finding their final form—to the tongue-in-cheek Greatest Hits release that arrived before the band had even broken nationally.From there, we dig into the era that launched the band worldwide: ANThology, w
Let’s Get Weird: Jon “Bermuda”Schwartz on 45+ Years Behind the Kit For “Weird Al” Yankovic
There are certain artists who become part of the soundtrack to your life — and if you’re lucky, sometimes you get to sit down with the people responsible for it. This week, I’m joined by the man who has been keeping the beat behind “Weird Al” Yankovic for more than four decades: drummer Jon “Bermuda” Schwartz.From a chance meeting through the legendary Dr. Demento show and playing drums on an acco
Jake Thistle Talks American Idol, Musical Influences, and the Reality Behind the Competition
This week, I’m joined by American Idol Top 20 contestant and New Jersey artist Jake Thistle to talk about his experience performing on one of television’s biggest music stages.Jake shares what it’s really like behind the scenes of American Idol — from the strategy behind song choices (including his audition take on Blind Faith’s “Can’t Find My Way Home”) to the pressure of performing original musi
Weakened Friends’ Feels Like Hell: Sonia Sturino on Anxiety, Burnout, and Survival
This week, I’m joined by Weakened Friends’ Sonia Sturino to dig into Feels Like Hell, the band’s 2025 release that captures the emotional whiplash of modern life with biting honesty and melodic grit.We talk about the mindset behind the album, how exhaustion, anxiety, and self-reflection shaped the songwriting, and why Feels Like Hell feels like both a breaking point and a breakthrough.From loud-qu
Iconic Album Covers That Rock: How Unforgettable Art Shapes a Legendary Playlist
Ever judge an album by its cover? This week on My Weekly Mixtape, Jay Sweet joins me as we flip through some virtual record crates to curate a playlist inspired by the most iconic album covers of all time. From legendary imagery to unforgettable records, we’re turning that visual inspiration into a killer mix of songs — and exploring what makes album art just as timeless, meaningful, and memorable
Mixtape Moment: Bruce Johnston, a Bottle of Fiji Water, and a Beach Boys Story I’ll Never Forget
Welcome to the launch of a new kind of bonus episode I’m calling Mixtape Moments — short stories sparked by a recent news item or an anecdote I haven’t yet found a place for in a full-length episode.There’s no set timetable for how often these will appear, but the format opens the door to new ways of experiencing My Weekly Mixtape — including quick hitters when the moment calls for it, whether it’
Warren Haynes Revisits Tales of Ordinary Madness: Lost Songs, New Mixes & the Stories Behind The Album
This week, I’m sitting down with the legendary Warren Haynes to revisit Tales of Ordinary Madness — his debut solo album, now newly remixed and remastered more than thirty years after its original release. It’s a record that’s lived a long life with a lot of us, and hearing it again with fresh ears raises a bigger question: what happens when you return to deeply personal songs after decades of liv
Inside “(Rock) Superstar”: Outlier, Sen Dog & Hyro The Hero Reignite a Cypress Hill Classic
This week, Outlier’s Joey Arena joins me to break down “(Rock) Superstar,” the band’s collaboration with Sen Dog and Hyro The Hero, reimagining one of the defining crossover tracks of the early 2000s. Long before “genre-fluid” became a buzzword, the original version proved that hip-hop, rock, and metal didn’t just coexist — they could thrive together. This new take taps into that same spirit, upda
When Rock Met Hip-Hop: How Two Genres Collided to Change Music Forever
This week, we’re digging into one of the most important collision points in modern music history — the moment when rock and hip-hop first slammed into each other and changed the landscape forever. Using When Rock Met Hip-Hop as a guiding lens, I’m joined by legendary music journalist Stephen Blush to explore the artists, scenes, and cultural flashpoints that brought distorted guitars and breakbeat
After the Lighters Went Out: 10 Post-2000 Power Ballads with Terrie Carr
Power ballads didn’t disappear when the lighters went away — they just continued to evolve.This week, I’m joined by Terrie Carr of Carr Stereo to explore 10 power ballads released after 2000 — songs that still build slow, hit hard, and aim straight for the chest, even if the glow in the crowd looks a little different now.From massive choruses to emotional gut-punches, these are the songs that prov
Moonlit Miles: 10 After-Hours Songs to Fuel That Solo Late-Night Drive
This week, we’re turning the headlights on & exploring 10 songs that provide the perfect soundtrack for a late night drive by yourself. Because let’s be honest: road trips in the sunlight and road trips under the glow of streetlights are two completely different experiences. One’s about destinations. The other’s about the space between them. Especially when it’s just you and the music.There’s
But Wait, There’s More: Uncovering the Hidden CD Tracks of the ’90s
This week, we’re rewinding to one of the most charming quirks of the ‘90s CD era: the hidden track. You know… those sneaky gems buried after minutes of silence, tucked into track 99, or disguised so well you didn’t even know they existed until someone finally tipped you off.I’m diving into the stories behind these secret songs, what made them so appealing, and the unforgettable moments that made d
Best Songs to Send to Your Crush: 10 Not-At-All-Awkward Soft Launch Songs
Trying to figure out the right songs to send your crush without making things weird? This week, I’m building a not-at-all-awkward soft-launching playlist — the kind of mix that lets you test the waters, drop a hint, but keep everything fun, flirty, and totally low-pressure.These are the songs that say “I kinda like you” without turning it into a grand gesture. No heavy power ballads. No dramatic d
Laurie Berkner on Her “Rocketship Run” & the Evolution of Children’s Music in the Streaming Era
This week, on the heels of HBO Max’s Music Box: Happy and You Know It, I’m throwing things back to a Tunestiles interview featuring children’s music icon Laurie Berkner, whose “Rocketship Run” to the top of the kindie scene helped redefine what music for kids could sound like.From her early days growing up in Princeton, New Jersey — surrounded by the same fertile musical ground that produced Trey
Feel the Beat: 20 Essential Songs That Defined ’80s Dance Music
Step back into the decade that made rhythm a lifestyle. From freestyle and new wave to early hip-hop and pop perfection, this episode explores 20 songs that defined the pulse of ’80s dance music — the beats that moved clubs, crossed genres, and still make us move today.🎙️ LEARN MORE🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog: https://myweeklymixtape.com💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon): htt
The Sound of Shinedown: Barry Kerch & Eric Bass on Reinvention, Resilience & the Future
This week, I’m revisiting two of the year’s biggest interviews with Shinedown’s Barry Kerch and Eric Bass — offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of modern rock’s most enduring and innovative bands.First, Barry Kerch opens up about Shinedown’s evolving sound over the past two decades, their approach to crafting unforgettable live setlists, and the stories behind the band’s 2025 singles “D
The Sound of Cover Songs 2025: 10 Standout Covers That Made Waves
In this episode of My Weekly Mixtape, I spotlight 10 cover songs released this year that turn already familiar tunes into something fresh, unexpected, and conversation-worthy.Cover songs have always been a litmus test for creativity — and something I’ve always had a personal affinity for — but in 2025, artists are pushing reinterpretation further than ever. By reworking melodies, reshaping arrange
The Sound of Country 2025: 12 Standout Songs that Defined The Year
This week, I break down 12 standout country songs that defined the genre in 2025. But what defines country music this year? Here’s a hint: it’s not just the chart-toppers. Sure, there are foot-stomping anthems and soul-stirring ballads, but I also highlight the artists and bands on the rise — ready to set the stage ablaze in 2026. Tune in and hear the heart, grit, and energy that made country musi
The Sound of 2025: Chaos, Hooks & Noise Collide in 20 Essential Songs
This week, DT Carel, host of the YouTube show SpaceCastle joins me to dive into the sounds that defined 2025! Join us as we break down 20 essential tracks that span punk, rock, hip-hop, alternative, pop & beyond.From explosive hooks and high-energy anthems to unexpected collaborations and boundary-pushing tracks, we unpack what makes each song stand out and why they helped shape the musical
Here Comes Bowling For Soup: Jaret Reddick on Why Humor, Harmony & Pop-Punk Never Get Old
This week, I’m hanging out with Jaret Reddick, the lead singer, guitarist, and all-around creative engine behind Bowling For Soup, as he looks back on three decades of pop-punk chaos, catchy hooks, and perfectly timed humor.We get into how the band balances goofy songs with genuine heartfelt moments, why “Belgium” keeps reinventing itself, and how BFS ended up becoming a Radio Disney staple. Jaret
Eric Hirshberg Gets ‘For Real’: From Activision CEO to Music Collaborations with Aloe Blacc
This week, we get 'For Real' with Eric Hirshberg, the former CEO of Activision and Deutsch LA, whose world is now centered around music. Known for leading iconic franchises like Call of Duty, Guitar Hero, Skylanders, and Destiny, Eric shares how music has run alongside his career and ultimately inspired his new single, “For Real,” the second of his collaborations with GRAMMY-nominated soul artist
Celebrating Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas & The Muppet Movie: Paul Williams on The Muppets' Music & Magic
This week, we’re celebrating two timeless soundtracks with the legendary Paul Williams, the award-winning songwriter behind Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas and The Muppet Movie, including the beloved classic (as well as my favorite song of all time) “Rainbow Connection.”Paul shares the stories behind these unforgettable soundtracks & the films they’re connected to, his creative partnership wi
Passing Down the Playlist: How My Father Shaped My Love of Music Through 20 Songs
This week, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m reflecting on the songs that shaped my love of music — as well as the person who made it all possible, my father, who we sadly lost to pancreatic cancer earlier this year.In this episode, I’m diving into 20 tracks that I’m eternally grateful & thankful for. Each one is tied to a moment, memory, lesson, or simply a staple of the famed “Friday Night
Breaking the Mold: 10 ’80s Hair Band Songs That Still Rock Today
Not all ’80s hair bands were defined by Aqua Net & eyeliner. There were countless hooks, killer guitar work, and songs that still resonate decades later. In this week’s episode, I break down 10 tracks that defied the stereotypes, exceeded the expectations and continue to remind us why ’80s hard rock still goes to 11!Thank you to Jay Sweet for sending in this week’s playlist concept.🎙️ LEARN MO
The Best Unplugged Songs: 10 Acoustic Versions That Reinvent the Originals
This week, I’m pulling the plug—literally. Join me as I curate a playlist of 10 incredible unplugged performances where artists & bands strip songs down to their core, revealing a whole new level of emotion, energy, and meaning. These acoustic takes prove the fact that sometimes less really is more.Thank you to Patreon Mixtaper Cactus Pete for sending in this week’s playlist concept.🎙️ LEARN M
Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon: The Ultimate Music Connection Challenge
This episode takes on a fiendish playlist challenge: Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon — The Music Edition.The rule is simple to explain but devilish to pull off: every song in the playlist connects to the next through a shared musician collaboration — guest features, one-off duets, session players, and more. Each track comes from a different primary artist or band, all leading toward the final destinati
Women Who Rocked the ’90s: The Best Female Fronted Songs of the Decade
As we gear up for the return of My Weekly Mixtape next week, we’re throwing it back to this season 1 episode where I was joined by modern rock powerhouse Emily Wolfe, to co-curate a playlist celebrating the women who defined ’90s rock.From grunge and alt-rock to chart-topping anthems, these female artists broke boundaries and inspired generations. Join us as we rediscover the songs that still soun
My Weekly Mixtape Returns! New Season, New Format & Big Updates
In case the title isn't a complete spoiler, My Weekly Mixtape is coming back for a brand new season this November! Considering season one lasted nearly 2.5 years and 150 episodes, I decided to post this episode to update everyone as to what's been going on in my life the last several months, as well as introduce a new episode format, that I'll need all of the fellow mixtapers' help to bring to lif
The Ultimate Mixtape: The Songs That Made You Love Music
This week, I am talking with previous My Weekly Mixtape guests, friends of the show & the amazing Patreon Mixtapers, and hearing their stories about what song made them each fall in love with music. Guests appearing (in no particular order): Barry Kerch & Eric Bass of Shinedown, Ed Toth of The Doobie Brothers / Vertical Horizon, CJ Pierce of Drowning Pool, Tim Foreman of Switchfoot, Cody
What Makes the Perfect Album? Artists, Music Podcasters and Fans Weigh In
This week, I am talking with previous My Weekly Mixtape guests, friends of the show & the amazing Patreon Mixtapers, and hearing their thoughts on what they consider to be the perfect album, and why! Guests appearing (in no particular order): Barry Kerch of Shinedown, CJ Pierce of Drowning Pool, Tim Foreman of Switchfoot, Cody Hanson of Hinder, Chris Ballew of The Presidents of The United Sta
Don Jamieson of That Metal Show Reveals His Ultimate KISS Dream Concert Setlist
You wanted the best, you got the best. This week, I’m joined by comedian and metal lifer Don Jamieson, co-host of That Metal Show and Rock Strap, to build his ultimate KISS dream concert setlist.From era-defining anthems to fan-favorite deep cuts, Don walks through his perfect KISS show — pacing, surprises, and all — imagining a night packed with fire, blood, and maximum rock theatrics. We dig int
Still Imaginary, Still Legendary: 20 More Fictional Bands from Movies, TV & Pop Culture
We’re back! This week Jay Sweet joins me to continue our deep dive into the world of fictional bands from movies, TV shows, cartoons, and pop culture. In this second round, we’re unearthing even more beloved, hilarious, and cult-favorite on-screen bands that have shaped the soundtrack of generations. From animated hits to movie-ready anthems, this playlist celebrates music that exists only in fict
Imaginary, Yet Legendary: 20 Fictional Bands from Movies, TV & Pop Culture
This week Jay Sweet joins me to dive into the ultimate playlist of fictional bands from movies, TV shows, cartoons, and pop culture. From iconic on-screen bands that defined a generation to hilarious and obscure creations across decades, we’re celebrating the music that exists only in fiction—but that has captured real-world imaginations. Whether you’re a fan of cult classics, animated series, or
How Green Jellÿ Made Rock History: Bill Manspeaker on Cereal Killer, Tool & Marvel’s Carnage Rules
In this throwback episode, I’m joined by Bill Manspeaker of the outrageous Green Jellÿ for one of the most fascinating—and NSFW—interviews I’ve ever recorded.We dive deep into the band’s wild history, including their Guinness World Record for the most band members (with over 900 members worldwide at the time of recording!), their chaotic appearance on The Gong Show, and the infamous moment Joey R
Jim Loughlin of moe. Reveals His Ultimate Dream Concert Setlist & Top 5 Live moe. Songs
This week, we’re joined by Jim Loughlin, percussionist for the legendary jam band moe., as he reveals his ultimate 12-song dream concert setlist featuring his all-time favorite bands and artists—some of which might just surprise you! We also dive deep into moe.’s live performance strategies, exploring how the band crafts unforgettable setlists for their concerts and what goes into choosing the per
Revisiting MTV’s Glory Days: The Most Iconic 80s Music Videos
Fire up the VCR — we’re dialing the clock back to a time when MTV and MuchMusic didn’t just play music, they defined it. This week, I’m joined by Jim & Lindsay Butler, co-hosts of Children of the 80’s, to rewind to the golden era of 80s music videos — when big hooks, bigger hair, and unforgettable visuals ruled the airwaves. Together, we’re curating a playlist featuring 12 of the most iconic m
LOL Through the Decades: 20 of the Funniest Comedy & Novelty Songs of All Time
This week I'm joined by Jay Sweet to build a playlist packed with the best comedy and novelty songs—from the silly and absurd to the dark, clever, and totally NSFW tracks that have kept us laughing for decades.If you love funny songs, parody hits, or music that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this episode is your jam. Get ready for a hilarious, nostalgia-filled discussion featuring the tunes th
A Deep Dive Into John Hiatt's Greatest Songs & Underrated Classics
This week I'm joined by Sylvan Groth & Jesse Jackson, co-hosts of Perfectly Good Podcast for a deep dive into the legendary songwriting catalog of John Hiatt.Together, we're curating The Ultimate John Hiatt Playlist—a carefully crafted mix of fan favorites, underrated deep cuts, and timeless classics that highlight the brilliance of one of Americana’s most respected songwriters. Whether you're
’90s Country Music Revisited: 20 Boot-Scootin’ Hits & Honky-Tonk Classics
This week Carrie Cunningham returns to My Weekly Mixtape as we build the Ultimate ’90s Country Music Playlist. From boot-scootin’ anthems to honky-tonk favorites, we’re digging into the artists, songs, and moments that defined the decade.Whether you're a seasoned country veteran, or you're just discovering what made ’90s country so iconic, this episode outlines the perfect soundtrack for line danc
Summer Oldies & Doo-Wop Classics: 20 Songs for Sun, Sand & Summer Nights
Summer oldies and doo-wop classics are the sound of warm-weather nights — and this week, I’m joined by Patreon Mixtaper Philip Bergman to build the ultimate Summer soundtrack rooted in timeless harmonies and golden-era hits.Together, we’re curating a warm, nostalgia-heavy mix pulled primarily from the 1950s and 1960s, with a little wiggle room into the early ’70s — the era when radios ruled the ni
Drowning Pool's CJ Pierce Reveals His Ultimate Dream Concert Setlist
This week, I’m joined by CJ Pierce, the powerhouse lead guitarist for Drowning Pool, as he shares his ultimate 12-song dream concert setlist. From classic anthems to deep cuts, CJ breaks down the tracks that define his personal vision for the perfect live show.We also dive into the stories behind Drowning Pool’s latest singles, “Madness” and “Revolution (The Final Amen),” and get a behind-the-scen
Inside the Album: The Dead Daisies - Lookin’ For Trouble (feat. Doug Aldrich of The Dead Daisies)
This week, I’m joined by Doug Aldrich of The Dead Daisies to break down the band’s first-ever blues album, Lookin’ For Trouble. This powerhouse release reimagines timeless classics by legends like Robert Johnson, John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, and more, giving these iconic tracks a fresh, modern rock edge.Doug and I also take a deep dive into his incredible career, highlighting favorite tracks and
Inside The Albums: Hinder - Back To Life & Extreme Behavior (feat. Cody Hanson of Hinder)
This week, I’m joined by Cody Hanson, drummer and founding member of Hinder, to celebrate the release of their brand-new album Back To Life and reflect on the 20th anniversary of their breakthrough debut, Extreme Behavior. We dive deep into the evolution of Hinder’s sound over the past 20 years, the story behind their unreleased 2020 album, and the process of releasing Back To Life through Evil Te
Hit Play: The 20 Greatest ’90s Rock Album Openers
This week, Zack Derby, co-host of The Neatcast joins me to take a trip back to the moment that mattered most in the CD era—the instant you hit play and everything snapped into focus. Together, we’re building an epic ’90s rock playlist dedicated entirely to album openers: the songs that set the tone, made promises, and told you right from the jump whether you were in for something special.From grun
Inside The Record Company’s Songbook: The Stories Behind the Songs (feat. Chris Vos of The Record Company)
In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Chris Vos, lead singer and guitarist of The Record Company, for an in-depth conversation covering highlights from across the band's career.We dive into the fascinating story behind the band’s name — and how their label reacted to it. Chris opens up about the pressure following their Grammy Award nomination for Give It Back To You, and how it influenced their s
Inside The Album: The Presidents of The United States of America (feat. Chris Ballew of PUSA)
This week, I’m joined by Chris Ballew of The Presidents of The United States of America as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the band’s self-titled debut—an album that helped define what ‘90s alternative rock felt like. Chris and I get into everything: his run performing with Beck’s live band, the origins (and wonderfully weird design) of the basitar and guitbass, and how the Presidents carved
And Their Opponent: 10 WWE / WrestleMania Entrance Themes That Still Pop
WrestleMania has always delivered some of the most iconic entrances in WWE history — moments where the music hits and the crowd instantly knows something unforgettable is about to happen. In this episode, I’m joined by The Four Jobbers (Brad, Jordan, Ryan, and Jason) to curate the ultimate countdown of the Top 10 WWE WrestleMania entrance themes of all time.From legendary superstars to era-definin
Mastering The Loudness Wars with Sterling Sound's Chris Gehringer
In this exclusive Industry Dive episode, I’m joined by Chris Gehringer — Senior Mastering Engineer and Partner at Sterling Sound — for a deep dive into modern music mastering and the never-ending conversation around loudness.With decades behind the glass, Chris has mastered everything from Wu-Tang Clan’s Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) and Naughty By Nature’s self-titled debut to modern chart-topp
Digging Into the History of Record Store Day with Co-Founder Carrie Colliton
In honor of Record Store Day, we're diving into the rich history and cultural impact of this iconic event with a special Tunestiles Throwback interview.Join us as we chat with Record Store Day co-founder Carrie Colliton about the origins of RSD, the legendary Record Store Day Ambassadors over the years—including Metallica, Jack White, Josh Homme, and the Foo Fighters—and what it takes to secure th
Phish for Beginners: 20 Studio Tracks to Test the Waters
This week, Sean Faust joins me to dive into Phish’s studio catalog with a specially crafted playlist for new listeners. Our goal: the ultimate “Phish 101” mix for anyone curious about their music.We’ve included a mix of fan favorites, radio hits, and standout tracks that bridge the gap between Phish’s studio recordings and their legendary live performances. Whether you’re just discovering the band
The Prescription for That Fever: 20 Ultimate Cowbell Anthems with Jon Loree of Tantric / Smile Empty Soul
This week, we’re dialing up the only proven cure for that lingering rock ’n’ roll fever — more cowbell. Joining me as guest curator is Jon Loree, drummer for Tantric and Smile Empty Soul, as we assemble a playlist packed with 20 of the ultimate cowbell anthems in rock music history.From classic rock staples that helped define the sound of arena-sized anthems to heavier modern tracks where the cowb
Inside the Song: Switchfoot & Buddy Guy - Last Man Standing (feat. Tim Foreman of Switchfoot)
This week, I’m joined by Tim Foreman of Switchfoot to dig into the band’s collaboration with blues legend Buddy Guy on “Last Man Standing” — a meeting of generations that somehow feels both unexpected and completely inevitable.We also cover a lot of ground: Tim’s new solo project, Bongo Chico — including a preview of two upcoming singles, “When You Walked Away” and “1995”; the 20th anniversary of
Billboard Number One Hits of the ’70s: Revisiting 20 Songs That Topped the Charts
This week, I’m joined by Big Rick, host of Rock Talk Studio, as he steps in as guest curator to help build an all-killer playlist celebrating Number 1 hit songs from the 1970s. From arena-sized rock anthems and chart-dominating pop classics to soul and crossover smashes, this episode is a full-on tour through one of the most competitive and influential decades in Billboard history.As with the prev
A Sonic Reset: 20 Inspiring Rock Songs with Powerful Lyrics and Uplifting Energy
This week Patreon Mixtaper Brandon From VA joins me to build a playlist designed to lift your spirits and spark inspiration — whether that motivation comes from powerful lyrics, uplifting melodies, or pure musical energy.This mix pulls from a wide spectrum of rock-driven genres, blending metal, ska, punk, classic rock, and modern rock into a collection of songs that hit with purpose. Some tracks p
Inside Shinedown’s Songbook: The Stories Behind the Songs (feat. Barry Kerch of Shinedown)
This week, Shinedown’s Barry Kerch joins me to talk about songs from all across the band’s discography, along with their two newest singles “Dance, Kid, Dance” & “Three Six Five.”We also discuss: the band’s upcoming show at Madison Square Garden, the first time Shinedown has ever played the historic venue; the evolution of the band’s sound over the last 24 years & counting; how they strive
Inside the Album: Eric Bass Presents… I Had A Name (feat. Eric Bass of Shinedown)
This week, Shinedown’s Eric Bass joins me to take a deep dive into his debut solo concept album “I Had A Name;” the graphic novel that he’s working on alongside of the release; & the stories behind album tracks such as “Mind Control,” “Goodnight Goodnight,” “Azalia” & so much more! And, of course we found some time to talk a little Shinedown as well, including: how his role in the band ha
Till The Wheels Fall Off: 20 Essential Blackberry Smoke Songs with Paul Jackson of Blackberry Smoke
This week’s guest curator is Paul Jackson, guitarist for Blackberry Smoke, and we're crafting the ultimate BBS playlist filled to the brim with hits, fan favorites & a few deeper cuts for good measure!We also discuss: their 2015 album “Holding All The Roses” being the first indie release to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart; “Stoned,” their 2021 live-to-tape studio recording of R
Inside the Album: Winona Fighter - My Apologies To The Chef (feat. Coco Kinnon of Winona Fighter)
This week, Coco Kinnon of Winona Fighter joins me for an in-depth conversation centered on the band’s debut album, My Apologies To The Chef. We take a track-by-track deep dive into the record, unpacking the stories and creative process behind songs like “JUMPERCABLES,” “Subaru,” “HAMMS IN A GLASS,” “I’M IN THE MARKET TO PLEASE NO ONE,” “ATTENTION,” “Swear To God That I’m (FINE),” and “DON’T WALLOW
Press Play, Feel Better: 20 Feel-Good Songs Built for Happy Vibes
This week, Jay Sweet joins me as guest curator to build a playlist centered around one simple goal: feeling good. Of course, defining a “feel-good song” isn’t nearly that simple — what lifts one person’s mood might move someone else in a completely different way. That open-ended idea is exactly what shapes this mix.Rather than locking ourselves into a single sound, era, or genre, we treat “feel go
The Ultimate Super Bowl Halftime Shows (feat. Justin Penik of Talkin' Giants)
This week, I’m throwing it back to a Tunestiles interview with Talkin’ Giants co-host Justin Penik.In the episode we talk about some of the greatest Super Bowl Halftime Shows of all time, including Prince, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, and… Elvis Presto?!?!Keep in mind, it was recorded in 2021, so not included in the discussion were the Big Game Halftime
Inside the Album: moe. - Circle of Giants (feat. Jim Loughlin of moe.)
This week, I am joined once again by Jim Loughlin, multi-instrumentalist & percussionist for moe., to dive into their 14th studio album “Circle of Giants,” including the stories behind the songs “Yellow Tigers,” “Bat Country,” “Giants,” “Band In The Sky,” “In Stride,” Don’tcha Know,” “Ups & Downs” & “Living Again.”We also discuss: a studio recording of “Bearsong” that was recorded duri
Inside the Album: Counting Crows - August and Everything After (feat. Founding Member Steve Bowman)
This week, Original Counting Crows Drummer Steve Bowman joins me to take a deep dive into the band’s debut 1993 masterpiece, “August & Everything After,” including the stories behind tracks such as: “Round Here,” “Omaha,” “Mr. Jones,” “Anna Begins,” “Time & Time Again,” “Rain King,” “Sullivan Street” & “A Murder of One.” We also discuss: the lessons learned from T-Bone Burnett, the pro
Inside The Doobie Brothers Songbook: The Stories Behind the Songs (feat. The Doobie Brothers' Ed Toth)
This week, I’m joined by Ed Toth of The Doobie Brothers to talk about a musical journey that truly comes full circle — from being a kid jamming along to Doobie Brothers songs, to spending nine years as the drummer for Vertical Horizon, to ultimately stepping behind the kit for the very band that inspired him, a role he’s held for more than two decades.We dig deep into Ed’s time with Vertical Horiz
The Ultimate Mixtape: A Musical Time Capsule Playlist, Vol. 3
Today is Vol. 3 of The Ultimate Mixtape, the final chapter in the 100th episode celebration, where I asked 65 different people one question: If you could choose one song — from any genre or era — to be preserved in a time capsule for future generations… which song would you choose, and why?I’ve taken all 65 of those answers and curated them into a fully sequenced mixtape - just like we did when mi
The Ultimate Mixtape: A Musical Time Capsule Playlist, Vol. 2
My Weekly Mixtape’s 100th episode celebration continues with Volume 2 of The Ultimate Mixtape — a three-part series built around one deceptively simple question: If you could choose one song — any artist, any genre — to be sealed inside a time capsule for future listeners to discover years or decades from now… what would it be, and why?For this project, I asked 65 past guests, friends of the show,
The Ultimate Mixtape: A Musical Time Capsule Playlist, Vol. 1
This week, My Weekly Mixtape hits Episode 100, and I'm stretching the celebration across three episodes to build The Ultimate Mixtape. To create it, I asked 65 different people — past guests and the incredible Patreon Mixtapers — one simple question: If you could choose one song — any artist, any genre — to be locked away in a time capsule for future listeners to discover years (or decades) from n
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