Chris DeMakes A Podcast
Chris DeMakes, founding member of the band Less Than Jake, hosts this interview show about the craft of songwriting. In each episode he invites accomplished songwriters to talk through the writing and recording of beloved songs from their own back catalogs. The conversations dig into the creative decisions, studio techniques and stories behind familiar tracks. It is aimed at listeners who enjoy music history and want a behind-the-scenes look at how songs are made.
Episodes
Ep. 323: Travis Shettel discusses Piebald’s “Gentlemen Callers”
Piebald’s 2026 full-length Tales For The Rages was a long time coming, considering the band’s last LP came out close to 20 years prior. Despite the time between releases, the spirit and unique songwriting of this Massachusetts indie band shines through on the album, especially on the standout track “Gentlemen Callers.” In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Travis Shettel makes his return to the
Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Dolores O'Riordan and The Cranberries "Zombie"
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 229 on October 21st, 2024. In this conversation, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios dive into the hit 1994 single "Zombie" by The Cranberries, written by the late Dolores O'Riordan. They explore the song’s powerful blend of heavy music and poignant lyrics, addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland, and refle
Ep. 322: A discussion on Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5”
Dolly Parton was known far and wide as the Queen of Country Music, which is a title that was well-earned when you look back at her prolific career that spanned six decades. It was in 1980 that she made the leap onto the silver screen, starring alongside fellow female icons Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda in 9 to 5, a comedy that dealt with the very real struggles of the modern woman in the workplace. D
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (The SNUBS!)
Over on the One Hit Thunder podcast, Chris and Matt compiled the Top 10 lists of listeners to arrive at the 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time. In this episode, they discuss some of the songs that did NOT make the list.
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Ep. 321: Chris Cresswell discusses The Flatliners “Good, You?”
Chris Cresswell makes his return to Chris DeMakes A Podcast, this time to discuss the writing and recording of the 2026 single from The Flatliners, “Good, You?” Lyrically, this hard-hitting, 90s-influenced song is built around a familiar scenario: someone asks how you’re doing, and despite the countless things that might be flying around in your head, the answer is almost always the title phrase o
Throwback Thursday: Craig Wedren discusses Shudder to Think’s “X-French Tee Shirt”
Originally released as Episode 206 on May 13th, 2024, this edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast features Shudder to Think’s Craig Wedren discussing the creative process that led to the band’s fan favorite 1994 single, “X-French Tee Shirt.” Craig has long been a mastermind behind scores for film and television, including cult classics like Wet Hot American Summer, School of Rock, and Yellow Jackets,
Ep. 320: Patty Walters discusses As It Is “Live, Laugh, Love, Los Angeles”
Even though he has lived in the UK from a very young age, a part of As It Is vocalist Patty Walters’ heart still remains in the United States. The band’s 2026 single “Live, Laugh, Love, Los Angeles” marries ultra-catchy, Springsteen-inspired pop with deeply reflective lyrics about the current state of the US, resulting in an undeniable song that’s taken to an even higher level by the co
Throwback Thursday: Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick discusses Fitz and The Tantrums "Out of My League"
This week’s Throwback Thursday was originally released as Episode 214 on July 8th, 2024. In this episode, Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 2013 single from Fitz and The Tantrums, "Out of My League." Fitz opens up about his long road to success in the music industry, a journey initially met with substantial rejection. He dives into how he carved his
Ep. 319: John Corabi discusses Mötley Crüe’s “Hooligan’s Holiday”
When John Corabi stepped in as the new singer of Mötley Crüe in the early 90s, the band was at a true crossroads. As if replacing a lead singer isn’t already an uphill battle for any band, they also had to contend with radio and MTV’s move away from the hard rock and metal of the 80s. Despite the adversity they faced, Mötley Crüe entered the studio with acclaimed producer Bob Rock to create their
Throwback Thursday: Nick Thomas discusses The Spill Canvas “All Over You”
This episode was originally released as Episode 231 on November 4th, 2024, and it features Nick Thomas of The Spill Canvas discussing the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 2007 single, “All Over You.” From the Neal Avron-produced album No Really, I’m Fine, the song explores the themes of infatuation, longing, and unrequited love, complete with an unforgettable chorus and Nick’s powe
Ep. 318: David McWane discusses Big D and the Kids Table’s “Opportunity”
“Opportunity” is a laid back, feel-good track off of the new Big D and the Kids Table album The Good Ole American Saturday Night. Though this reggae-infused song doesn’t necessarily stick to a typical pop structure, it’s an uplifting piece of music that truly shows how this long-running band can get together in a room and create the ultimate mood for anything from a house party to a festival. In t
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (#20 - #1)
Compiled from the Top 10 lists of listeners of the One Hit Thunder podcast, this is the final installment of the Thundred series counting down the 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time! Be sure to subscribe to One Hit Thunder wherever you get your pods so that you can contribute a Top 10 list for whatever the next Thundred happens to be.
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Ep. 317: Gerry Beckley discusses America’s “Sister Golden Hair”
This week, the very prolific Gerry Beckley sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 1975 #1 hit single from America, “Sister Golden Hair.” Despite the song’s upbeat feel, the lyrics present a slightly sadder and more reflective theme, and this magic combination has helped the song stand the test of time over 50 years later. In this episode, Gerry shares the story behind the creation of
Throwback Thursday: Rou Reynolds discusses Enter Shikari's "(pls) set me on fire"
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 177 on October 16th, 2023. In this episode, Enter Shikari vocalist Rou Reynolds takes center stage as he unravels the compelling story behind the writing, recording, and release of their 2023 hit single "(pls) set me on fire," hailing from the chart-topping album A Kiss for the Whole World. As both the album's producer and v
Ep. 316: A discussion on Paul Simon’s “You Can Call Me Al”
To celebrate the 40 year anniversary of Paul Simon’s beloved 1986 album Graceland, Chris DeMakes is joined by producer and co-host Chris Fafalios to explore every aspect of the record’s most well-known track, “You Can Call Me Al.” In what has to be the most joyous song ever written about a midlife crisis, Paul enlisted the help of a wide array of South African musicians to create one of the most u
Throwback Thursday: Anthony Raneri discusses Bayside's "Sick, Sick, Sick"
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 227 on October 7th, 2024. In this conversation, Bayside guitarist and vocalist Anthony Raneri discusses the writing and recording of the fan favorite 2011 single "Sick, Sick, Sick." Together, they dive into the band's signing with Wind-up Records, working with legendary producer Gil Norton, and the inspiration behind the son
Ep. 315: Garrett Klahn discusses Texas Is The Reason’s “Back And To the Left”
It only took one album for Texas Is The Reason to leave a highly influential mark on the world of indie rock for decades to come. Produced by J. Robbins, Do You Know Who You Are? was nine tracks of heavy guitars, intense drums, and emotional vocals that resonated with listeners across an assortment of genres. In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Garrett Klahn discusses the writing and recording
Throwback Thursday: Trevor Reilly discusses A Wilhelm Scream's "Boat Builders"
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 221 on August 26th, 2024. In this conversation, A Wilhelm Scream guitarist Trevor Reilly discusses the creation of their fan-favorite 2013 single, “Boat Builders.” Trevor dives into the song’s seamless blend of metal, punk rock, and thrash, revealing how its diverse influences come together to create a powerful and unique so
Ep. 314: Howi Spangler discusses Ballyhoo!’s “Bad Summer”
When it was time to record a new album, Ballyhoo! knew that they needed to shake things up. When the opportunity to work with acclaimed producer John Feldmann was presented, the band jumped on it, and the results were undeniable. The title track “Bad Summer” is an over-the-top, catchy-as-hell pop masterpiece, simultaneously capturing the vibes of summer and the feeling of relationship anxiety. In
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (#40 - #21)
Chris DeMakes A Podcast producer Chris Fafalios also co-hosts One Hit Thunder, which is the sister podcast to this show. Every year on One Hit Thunder, they roll out their beloved Thundred series, in which listeners of the show submit their Top 10 lists of a certain subject, and then those results are compiled into an ultimate Thundred list. This year, they very fittingly gathered together data to
Ep. 313: Aaron Barrett and Scott Klopfenstein discuss Reel Big Fish’s “The Set Up (You Need This)”
In October of 1998, Reel Big Fish released their third full-length album Why Do They Rock So Hard?, which captured the band at a time of peak musical exploration. One of the standout tracks from the album was “The Set Up (You Need This)”, and although the song didn’t necessarily fit into the mold of classic ska-punk, the catchiness and signature style of the band was undeniable. From the energetic
Throwback Thursday: A discussion on The Outfield's "Your Love"
This week’s Throwback Thursday was first released as Episode 218 on August 5th, 2024. In this episode, host Chris DeMakes and producer Chris Fafalios reminisce about The Outfield's unforgettable 1986 hit single, "Your Love" , paying tribute to guitarist and backing vocalist John Spinks and lead singer and bassist Tony Lewis. They dive deep into the anatomy of the song, examining its musical compos
Defeat DeMakes Episode 14: MTV Edition
If MTV still existed, it would be celebrating its 45th anniversary this week. To celebrate, friend of the show Matt Albert sits in as the challenger to Chris DeMakes in a battle of MTV-centric music trivia. If you’d like to be a future contestant on the world’s best music trivia game show podcast, head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Patreon!
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Throwback Thursday: Nikola Šarčević discusses Millencolin's "No Cigar"
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was first released as Episode 236 on December 9th, 2024. 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 R
Defeat DeMakes Episode 13: Metal and Hard Rock Edition
Since it’s the 13th episode of Defeat DeMakes AND Chris currently holds a .666 winning percentage after 12 showdowns, this week’s game is based around ALL heavy metal and hard rock questions! To make it even more interesting, this episode’s challenger is a man who was immortalized in song by Less Than Jake: Mr. Chevy Celebrity himself, Mark Cruce. Tune in and play along at home, and if you’re inte
Throwback Thursday: Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn discuss Local Natives “When Am I Gonna Lose You”
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was first released as Episode 207 on May 20th, 2024. In this episode, Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn of Local Natives unveil the behind-the-scenes journey of crafting their 2019 single, "When Am I Gonna Lose You." They reveal that the song underwent a staggering 57 different versions, each a labor of love to achieve perfection. From Taylor's raw personal inspirati
Ep. 312: Greg Camp discusses Smash Mouth’s “Walkin’ On the Sun”
Smash Mouth made an instant impact with the release of their 1997 debut single “Walkin’ On the Sun.” The song had a unique throwback vibe that stood out, not only from the other songs on the Fush Yu Mang album, but also from the band’s radio and MTV contemporaries. What became a launchpad for a huge career started as a years-old forgotten cassette demo in a closet, and in this episode, Smash Mouth
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (#60 - #41)
One Hit Thunder is the sister podcast to Chris DeMakes A Podcast. Recently, One Hit Thunder listeners chose their 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time in the beloved series known as The Thundred. The results were released over the course of five episodes, and this is the third installment, listing off #60 through #41.
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Ep. 311: Joel Reader discusses The Plus Ones “All the Boys”
Emerging as a sort of supergroup of Bay Area punk rockers in the early 2000s, The Plus Ones wrote catchy songs that weren’t overthought by any means. After a four album stint in The Mr. T Experience, bassist Joel Reader formed the group, and one of the first songs he brought to the table was “All the Boys,” a fictional look at what playing at The Troubadour might be like for a stereotypical rock n
Throwback Thursday: Sonny Sandoval discusses P.O.D.’s “Youth of the Nation”
In an episode that was first released as Episode 208 on May 27th, 2024, P.O.D. vocalist Sonny Sandoval sat in to discuss the creation of their iconic 2001 hit single, "Youth of the Nation." Against the backdrop of tragedies like Columbine and other shootings that shook the nation, Sandoval shares how the band was inspired to craft a powerful and inspiring anthem that resonated with a generation in
Ep. 310: Deanna Belos discusses Sincere Engineer’s “Trust Me”
The feeling of being overwhelmed is something that Sincere Engineer’s Deanna Belos can tell you all about. She began her somewhat unexpected music career during a real crossroads in her life, in which she was deciding whether or not to pursue a career in the world of dentistry. It was around this time that she met producer Matt Jordan, who not only helped Deanna reach her musical potential, but al
Throwback Thursday: Matt Skiba discusses Alkaline Trio’s “Time to Waste”
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was first released as Episode 209 on June 3rd, 2024, and it features Alkaline trio guitarist and vocalist Matt Skiba. In this conversation, he takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's fan favorite 2005 single, "Time to Waste". Matt opens up about the writing and recording process, shedding light on the band's bold approach to incorporating big producti
Ep. 309: Shawna Potter discusses War On Women’s “Messages Unsent”
War On Women are generally known for the politically charged subject matter of their songs, but with the 2026 single “Messages Unsent”, the band couldn’t resist the pull of what has inspired musicians and songwriters since the dawn of time: LOVE. Two different types of love came together to inspire vocalist Shawna Potter’s lyrics, both the romantic kind that she feels for her partner, as well as t
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (#80 - #61)
Over on the One Hit Thunder podcast (which is the sister show to Chris DeMakes A Podcast), the listeners recently chose their top 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time in the series known as The Thundred. The results were released over the course of five episodes, and this is the second installment of those results.
Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partne
Ep. 308: John Hampson discusses Nine Days “If I Am”
In this episode, John Hampson makes his return to the show to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 2000 single from Nine Days, “If I Am.” Though the song didn’t hit the massive mainstream heights of “Absolutely (Story of a Girl),” it was a successful follow-up single that remains a fan favorite to this day. Written from real-life relationship experience, the song is earnest, heartfelt, and
Throwback Thursday: Roger Lima discusses Less Than Jake’s “Sunny Side”
Originally released as Episode 261 on June 2nd, 2025, this week’s Throwback Thursday episode features Chris’s Less Than Jake bandmate Roger Lima. Together, they dive into the writing and recording of their 2024 single “Sunny Side.” Inspired by a fan’s encouragement to “keep your sunny side up and your dirty side down,” the track blends heavy riffs with unforgettable melodies, all while remaining r
Ep. 307: Peter Stuart discusses Dog’s Eye View’s “Everything Falls Apart”
In this episode, songwriter and vocalist Peter Stuart discusses the writing and recording of the hit 1996 single from Dog’s Eye View, “Everything Falls Apart.” Written quickly (and with a hangover) after a disappointing meeting with a potential producer, the song describes a young Peter’s tendency to be his own worst enemy. Torpedoing his own life for excitement may have been a subconscious way of
Throwback Thursday: JR Wasilewski discusses Less Than Jake’s “Walking Pipebomb”
Originally released as Episode 257 on May 12th, 2025, this week’s Throwback Thursday episode features Chris’s Less Than Jake bandmate JR Wasilweski discussing the writing and recording of “Walking Pipebomb” from the band’s Uncharted EP.
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Ep. 306: Dee Snider discusses Twisted Sister’s “I Wanna Rock”
Despite his recent retirement from the touring circuit, Dee Snider most definitely still rocks! This week, he makes his return appearance to the show to discuss the writing, recording, and legacy of Twisted Sister’s classic 1984 single “I Wanna Rock.” The spirit of the music still burns in Dee now, just as it did when he was recording song ideas into a cassette recorder as a young frontman. Tune i
THE THUNDRED: The 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of All Time (#100 - #81)
Over on One Hit Thunder (sister podcast of Chris DeMakes A Podcast), Matt and Chris compiled the Top 10 lists of listeners to arrive at the list of the 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time. You can hear ALL of the episodes over on the One Hit Thunder feed, but to give you a taste, this is #100 through #81 of the countdown.
You can subscribe to One Hit Thunder wherever you get your pods, but
Ep. 305: Geoff Downes discusses Asia’s “Heat of the Moment”
This week, Chris is joined by legendary keyboardist Geoff Downes to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 1982 single from Asia, “Heat of the Moment.” Considering that the band was a supergroup of progressive musicians, the song showcased a bit of tasteful restraint during its creation, which ultimately paid off with its massive mainstream success. Geoff not only brought his signature, cutt
Throwback Thursday: Duncan Redmonds discusses Snuff’s “Nick Northern”
Originally released on November 13th, 2023, as Episode 181 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, this episode features Snuff drummer and vocalist Duncan Redmonds discussing the writing and recording of the fan favorite 1996 single “Nick Northern.” This song may have been a gateway into Snuff for many listeners, as it was featured on the iconic Fat Wreck Chords compilation Survival of the Fattest. In this co
Ep. 304: Steve Soboslai discusses Punchline’s “Heart Transplant”
After a QUICK five years since his last appearance on the show, Punchline’s Steve Soboslai sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 2004 single “Heart Transplant.” Written from a real place of young heartbreak, the song has remained a live set constant decades after it was penned on the band’s first full US tour. Produced by Sean O’Keefe, the recording has
Throwback Thursday: Geoff Rickly discusses Thursday’s “Signals Over the Air”
Originally released as Episode 192 on February 5th, 2024, this episode features Thursday frontman Geoff Rickly discussing the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 single “Signals Over the Air.” Taken from the band’s third album War All the Time, the song is a dynamic amalgamation of melody and aggression, and it’s much rawer than the polished productions that most people would expect from a ma
Ep. 303: Josh Fiedler discusses The Juliana Theory’s “Do You Believe Me?”
In this week’s episode, guitarist Josh Fiedler sits in to discuss the writing and recording of The Juliana Theory’s 2003 single “Do You Believe Me?” Taken from the band’s major label debut album Love, the song is a powerful and driving rock song that sounds just as good today as it did upon its release, thanks in part to the production of producer Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads fame. During this
Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Biz Markie’s “Just A Friend”
Originally released as Episode 117 on August 22nd, 2022, this episode is a look back on the late Biz Markie and his hit single “Just A Friend.” The unique vocal delivery and hilarious lyrics of the song launched it into the Top 10 of the Billboard charts in 1990. Since then, the infectious chorus has remained lodged in the public consciousness, even after his untimely passing in July of 2021. In t
Ep. 302: Linus Dotson discusses Linus of Hollywood’s “Thank You for Making Me Feel…Better”
This week, LA-based singer, songwriter, and producer Linus Dotson sits in to discuss the writing and recording of his fan favorite 2001 single, “Thank You for Making Me Feel…Better.” Inspired by the likes of Brian Wilson, Linus recorded the song using no traditional instruments, opting instead for melodies and percussion created using the song’s lyrical subject matter: beer bottles. The result was
Throwback Thursday: Songs That Changed The World
After a Chris DeMakes A Podcast episode all about Sister Hazel’s “Change Your Mind”, Chris and Chris discuss a group of songs throughout history that changed many minds and hearts.
This episode was originally released to Patreon members a few days ago. If you enjoy The After Party and you want to support the show, head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up!
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Ep. 301: Ken Block discusses Sister Hazel’s “Change Your Mind”
This week, Ken Block returns to the show to discuss the writing and recording of Sister Hazel’s fan favorite 2000 single “Change Your Mind.” Though the song didn’t hit the Billboard peaks of “All For You”, its heartfelt lyrics, soaring harmonies, and undeniable hooks have made this song an absolute classic amongst the band’s legions of fans. In this episode, Ken details the love and care that went
Throwback Thursday: Jacoby Shaddix discusses Papa Roach’s “Last Resort”
Originally released as Episode 205 on May 6th, 2024, this episode features Papa Roach vocalist Jacoby Shaddix sharing the story behind the creation of the band’s enduring 2000 hit single, “Last Resort.” Drawing from a deeply personal experience where a friend faced a crisis, Jacoby discusses the song’s emotional origins and its lasting resonance with listeners.
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Ep. 300: Chris Ballew discusses The Presidents of The United States of America’s “Kitty”
Every hundred episodes, Chris Ballew sits in to discuss the writing and recording of a classic song from The Presidents of the United States of America, and Episode 300 is no exception. This week, he joins Chris DeMakes to talk about all things “Kitty,” the first single from the band’s 1995 self-titled debut album. Inspired by his own experiences with cats, the song is a fun, energetic, and unforg
Throwback Thursday: Fee Waybill discusses The Tubes “She’s a Beauty”
Originally released as Episode 106 on June 6th, 2022, this episode features Fee Waybill of The Tubes discussing the writing and recording of their hit 1983 single “She’s a Beauty.”
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Ep. 299: Will Gold discusses Lovejoy’s “Scoundrels”
This week, Will Gold of Lovejoy opens up about the writing and recording of the band’s 2025 song “Scoundrels.” Working alongside producer Ali Chant, the band set out to craft an organic sound that is sometimes sparse but always powerful and distinct. Inspired lyrically by the design flaws of today’s social media landscape, the song’s arrangement and Will’s unconventional vocal delivery build a pal
Throwback Thursday: Sondre Lerche discusses his song “Bad Law”
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 99 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast on April 18th, 2022. In this episode, Norwegian singer, songwriter, and guitarist Sondre Lerche tells the story behind his 2014 single “Bad Law”, an indie-pop gem that’s equal parts danceable and chaotic.
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Ep. 298: Rachel Bolan discusses Skid Row’s “I Remember You”
In this episode, Skid Row bassist and songwriter Rachel Bolan tells the story behind the band’s 1989 smash hit, “I Remember You.” He traces the song back to its humble beginnings, written in the “Green Room” at his parents’ house, and talks about channeling young love, late-night drives, and summer nostalgia into lyrics that still hit decades later. Produced by the legendary Michael Wagener, the s
Throwback Thursday: Exchanging Weird Songs
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released on March 24th, 2025, as an episode of The After Party. In this very fun edition of the show, Chris and Chris each give each other five strange songs to check out, and then they have a short discussion about each one. From Björk to Ween to Celtic Frost to Sexyy Red, the guys explore some unique (and sometimes hilarious) songs. If you en
Defeat DeMakes Episode 12
As a month of Defeat DeMakes episodes comes to a close, Chris DeMakes tries to improve to above .500 against friend of the show Johnny Yetsconish. In a music trivia battle that spans questions from the mid 1970s until modern day, Chris vs. Johnny serves as the perfect clash to end a fun run of episodes.
If YOU’D like to be a future contestant on Defeat DeMakes, be sure to sign up for the Chris De
Throwback Thursday: Jamie Woolford discusses The Stereo’s “New Tokyo Is Calling”
This week’s Throwback Thursday was originally released on April 11th, 2022, as Episode 98 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and it features guitarist, vocalist, and producer Jamie Woolford discussing the writing and recording of The Stereo’s fan favorite 2001 single “New Tokyo Is Calling.” Tune in to hear the story behind this insanely catchy power pop classic.
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Defeat DeMakes Episode 11
This week, Chris DeMakes faces some of his stiffest competition yet, as he takes on Matt Kelly (of One Hit Thunder / Weird Al-gorithm / Horror Movie Night) in yet another battle of music trivia knowledge. Play along at home and see if YOU’D have won, and head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Patreon for YOUR chance at DEFEATING DEMAKES in the future!
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Throwback Thursday: Roger Joseph Manning Jr. discusses Jellyfish’s “New Mistake”
This week’s Throwback Thursday revisits Episode 129 (originally released on November 14th, 2022) in which Jellyfish’s Roger Joseph Manning Jr. discusses the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 1993 single “New Mistake.”
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Defeat DeMakes Episode 10
Almost four years TO THE DAY since the last time he was a contestant, Tom Brantley makes his return to avenge his loss on St. Patrick’s Day of 2022! In this episode, Chris and Tom battle it out until the end, but who’s the true MATERIAL BOY? Tune in for this epic battle of music trivia knowledge.
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Throwback Thursday: Howi Spangler discusses Ballyhoo!'s "Walk Away"
Originally released on July 31st, 2023, as Episode 166 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, this Throwback Thursday episode features Howi Spangler of Ballyhoo! discussing the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 2011 single “Walk Away.”
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Defeat DeMakes Episode 9
The best music trivia podcast game show in the world is back again! This week, Philadelphia DJ A.J. Santini steps in to take on Chris DeMakes in an epic battle of music knowledge. Play along to see if YOU would’ve indeed DEFEATED DEMAKES, and sign up for the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com for a chance to be a future contestant.
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A Band Called Punchline Ep. 5: 37 Everywhere
In early 2005, Punchline faced a career crossroads with the departure of guitarist and vocalist Paul Menotiades. With determination on high in the face of adversity, the original three members turned to longtime friend Greg Wood — a shredding guitarist with a unique voice and a commanding stage presence — to fill the void in their lineup. What followed was a relentless international tour schedule
Throwback Thursday: Chris Cresswell discusses The Flatliners “Hang My Head”
This Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 112 on July 18th, 2022, and it features Chris Cresswell discussing the writing and recording of the 2017 fan favorite song from The Flatliners, “Hang My Head.”
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Defeat DeMakes Episode 8
After a long hiatus, everyone’s favorite music trivia podcast game show is BACK! This week, San Diego resident Steve Jones takes on Chris DeMakes in an IMPRESSIVE battle to the bitter end. Play along at home and see if YOU would’ve DEFEATED DEMAKES in this episode (and if you would like to be a future contestant, be sure to join the Patreon at ChrisDeMakes.com!)
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A Band Called Punchline Ep. 4: Action
In the summer of 2003, Punchline headed to Chicago to record their Fueled By Ramen debut full-length Action with up-and-coming producer Sean O’Keefe. These 12 heartfelt and energetic songs would expose the band to a bigger audience than ever before, both through rigorous touring and widespread distribution. While a growing fanbase and a huge hometown release show for the record brought a lot of mo
Ep. 297: Chris DeMakes discusses Less Than Jake’s “Scott Farcas Takes It On The Chin”
Back when Less Than Jake released their landmark album Hello Rockview in 1998, they chose “History of a Boring Town” and “All My Best Friends Are Metalheads” as the record’s singles. Tucked away at track 13 was “Scott Farcas Takes It On The Chin,” a song that had been previously released by the band and became something of an afterthought during the recording sessions. Decades later, it has endure
Throwback Thursday: Jonathan Higgs discusses Everything Everything’s “Cold Reactor”
This episode was originally released on February 26th, 2024, as Episode 195 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and it features Jonathan Higgs discussing the writing and recording of Everything Everything’s 2023 single “Cold Reactor.”
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Ep. 296: Pete Steinkopf discusses The Bouncing Souls “Ghosts On the Boardwalk”
This week, Bouncing Souls guitarist Pete Steinkopf sits in to unpack the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 2009 single, “Ghosts on the Boardwalk,” a song steeped in the spirit of their hometown of Asbury Park, New Jersey. What started as a quiet sleeper has since become a full-on set list staple, and Pete explains how his eerie EBow lines helped shape the song’s emotional pull while
Throwback Thursday: Holly Knight discusses Pat Benatar’s “Love Is A Battlefield”
This week’s Throwback Thursday, which was originally released as Episode 94 on March 14th, 2022, features acclaimed songwriter Holly Knight discussing the writing of Pat Benatar’s hit 1983 single, “Love Is A Battlefield.” Holly is a Grammy Award winning member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame who has written for everyone from Aerosmith to Tina Turner, and this episode is a fascinating look into her
Ep. 295: Christian “MC Bat Commander” Jacobs discusses The Aquabats! “Fashion Zombies!”
In this episode, Christian “MC Bat Commander” Jacobs of The Aquabats! dives into the writing and recording of “Fashion Zombies!”, the fan-favorite single from the band’s 2005 album Charge!! that marked a sharp turn in their sound. The conversation traces the group’s early struggles, the collaborative and experimental approach that shaped the song, and how blending solid musicianship with absurd hu
Throwback Thursday: KT Tunstall discusses her song “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree”
This week’s Throwback Thursday was originally released as Episode 141 on February 6th, 2023, and it features KT Tunstall discussing the writing and recording of her hit 2004 single “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree.”
Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at h
Ep. 294: Tom McFaull discusses The Bar Stool Preachers “Pick a Side”
In the first of four episodes leading up to the Less Than Jake UK Winter Circus Tour, vocalist Tom McFaull discusses the writing and recording of the brand new 2026 single from The Bar Stool Preachers, “Pick a Side.” He and Chris talk about how a moment of personal disappointment turned into one of the band’s most lyrically direct songs yet, unpacking its heavy real-world themes and the challenge
Throwback Thursday: Dan Estrin discusses Hoobastank’s “Crawling In The Dark”
This week’s Throwback Thursday, which was originally released on February 28th, 2022, as Episode 92 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, features Hoobastank guitarist Dan Estrin discussing the writing and recording of the band’s hit 2002 single “Crawing In The Dark.”
Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your firs
Ep. 293: Mike Harder discusses Pulley’s “Insects Destroy”
In this episode, guitarist Mike Harder discusses the writing and recording of “Insects Destroy,” Pulley’s 2004 single born from a combination of frustration and observation. Mike breaks down how his time working in the corporate world shaped the song’s lyrical perspective, as well as a real-life run-in with insects in his home. He also opens up about how producer Matt Hyde helped refine Pulley’s s
Throwback Thursday: Ace Enders discusses The Early November’s “Decoration”
This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released on July 15th, 2024, and features Ace Enders of The Early November discussing the writing and recording of the fan-favorite single “Decoration,” from the band’s ambitious 2006 triple album The Mother, The Mechanic, And The Path, which is an album the band will be touring in celebration of this February and March 2026 alongside Hellogood
Ep. 292: The 68th Grammy Awards Song of the Year Preview and Predictions
In what has become tradition on the show, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios explore the eight nominees for Song of the Year at the upcoming 68th Grammy Awards, set to take place on February 1st, 2026. After a discussion about each song, they share which song they WANT to win, as well as which song they think WILL win. The nominees this year include:
Lady Gaga “Abracadabra”
Doechii “Anxiety”
ROS
A Band Called Punchline Ep. 3: The Rewind EP
By 2002, things had kicked into high gear for Punchline. They had decided to pursue music full-time, and relentless touring soon followed. Grassroots promotion and a DIY outlook had helped them gain a strong following, especially in their hometown of Pittsburgh, and a follow-up to 2001’s Major Motion Picture album was the next step. The 4 musically ambitious tracks on The Rewind EP would help prop
Throwback Thursday: Reese Roper discusses Five Iron Frenzy’s “Zen and the Art of Xenophobia”
This week's Throwback Thursday was originally released on May 30th, 2022, as Episode 105 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and it features a conversation with Reese Roper of Five Iron Frenzy about the song “Zen and the Art of Xenophobia.” Chris and Reese unpack how the song came together, why humor and sarcasm were essential tools for tackling heavier themes like faith, hypocrisy, and cultural frustrati
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