Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

By: Tony Mantor

Language: en-us

Categories: Music, Interviews, Tv, Film

Nashville based veteran music producer Tony Mantor’s Almost Live… Nashville podcast takes its listener on a journey through the business of music and entertainment. Following the success and popularity of his top-rated podcast on Autism & Mental Health awareness - Why Not Me? - Mantor hosts thought-provoking conversations and behind-the-scenes stories from various celebrity guests from the world of music, television and entertainment. With more than 30 years as an accomplished music producer based in Nashville, Mantor welcomes a worldly guest list of musicians, actors and entertainers who share their unique stories about the roles they’ve played in creating and sustai...

Episodes

Curt Smith: Still making Music with Tears for Fears
Jan 09, 2026

In-Depth with Curt Smith: The Journey of Tears for Fears
Tony Mantor hosts 'Almost Live Nashville,' featuring a deep dive interview with Curt Smith of Tears for Fears.
The episode explores Curt's creative process, the origin of the band's name, and their journey from a UK debut to international stardom.
Curt shares insights on the band's dynamic as a duo, their studio experiences, and the impactful stories behind their music.
Highlights include reflections on the challenges of early fame, the influence of primal therapy on their work, and future projects.
The conversation also...

Duration: 00:26:46
Butch Vig: Producing Legends: the journey creating the 90's rock sound
Jan 08, 2026

From Studio Trenches to the Spotlight: An Interview with Butch Vig
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Manor converses with Butch Vig, the acclaimed record producer, songwriter, and drummer for the rock band Garbage. Vig shares insights from his illustrious career, including pivotal moments that spurred his journey into music production. He discusses his experiences working with iconic bands such as Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters, and Green Day, and delves into the intricacies of music production. Vig also talks about his current involvement with Joey's Song, a music charity, and his latest projects in...

Duration: 00:26:32
Jane Wiedlin of the Go - Go's
Jan 07, 2026

Exploring Jane Wiedlin's Journey: From Punk Rock to Pop Stardom
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Manor interviews Jane Wiedlin, a pioneering member of the Go-Go's, one of the first all-female bands to achieve mainstream success.
Jane shares her experiences from the early days of the LA punk scene to the challenges of breaking into the music industry as an all-female band.
She discusses the impact of MTV on their career, the evolution of her songwriting, and the ongoing challenges faced by women in music.
The conversation also touches on Jane's charitable...

Duration: 00:26:57
Vicki Peterson: From the Bangles to New Journeys
Jan 06, 2026

Journey to Stardom: Vicki Peterson's Musical Evolution
In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor sits down with Vicki Peterson, co-founder and lead guitarist of The Bangles.
Peterson shares her journey from high school music enthusiast to becoming part of one of the most iconic girl groups, and discusses her evolution as an artist.
They delve into her various musical projects, including her current collaborations with her husband and others.
Peterson also talks about her involvement in the Joey Song charity, her experiences in Nashville's evolving music scene, and her plans for...

Duration: 00:22:58
Michael Gomoll: Joey's Song, Freezing Man Concerts for Epilepsy
Jan 05, 2026

Turning Personal Tragedy into Hope: Michael Gomoll and Joey's Song
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor welcomes Michael Gomoll, the founder of Joey's Song, a charity dedicated to fighting epilepsy through music. Inspired by the loss of his son Joey to Dravet Syndrome, Michael created the Freezing Man concert series held annually in Madison, Wisconsin.
The show features a star-studded lineup that includes artists like Butch Vig, John Resnick from the Goo Goo Dolls, and Vicki Peterson from the Bangles, all performing to raise funds for critical epilepsy research.
Michael shares the...

Duration: 00:29:46
Eden Kane: Melodies, Hollywood, and the U.K.'s Pop legacy
Dec 30, 2025

n this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor interviews Eden Kane, a music star from the early 1960s famous for his hit single 'Well, I Ask You'.
Eden shares his fascinating journey from his early days with a guitar in England to his breakthrough in the music industry, his shift to rock 'n' roll, and eventual stardom.
He discusses his tours and collaborations with other legendary artists and his adventures in Hollywood, including his involvement with the Star Trek series. Currently, Eden is back to creating music and shares insights into his latest single, 'A...

Duration: 00:25:02
The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo
Dec 16, 2025

We dive deep into the journey of Boomtown Saints, the dynamic duo of Chris and Ben who've been crowned Music Row Magazine's 2024 Independent Artist of the Year and CDX Nashville's 2025 Group of the Year.

Their authentic approach to country music and commitment to positive messaging is winning over fans across demographics.

• Chris and Ben met at a Nashville gym, forming an unexpected musical partnership that evolved from a cover band to signed recording artists
• The name "Boomtown Saints" reflects both unexpected prosperity and their faith background
• Their music consistently carries positive messaging, even in hea...

Duration: 00:27:18
David Paul Brooks: From Church to Charts
Dec 02, 2025

David Paul Brooks, known as DPB, takes us through his journey from gospel singer to Billboard-charting gospel rap artist, sharing how he seamlessly blends powerful hip-hop rhythms with uplifting Christian messages.

• Born into a musical family where his mother opened for Elvis Presley and James Brown before dedicating her life to gospel
• Grew up in New York during the birth of hip-hop, balancing church life with an emerging passion for rap
• Joined Grammy and Dove-nominated group Disciples of Christ (DOC) for nearly 10 years, developing his songwriting skills
• Transitioned to a successful solo career with Billboar...

Duration: 00:27:24
Brent Maher's Musical Journey in "Night of the Orphan Train"
Nov 25, 2025

From Music to Novels: Brent Mayer's Journey with The Night of the Orphan Train
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Brent Maher to discuss his new venture as an author.
Brent shares the fascinating journey behind his new musical novel, 'Night of the Orphan Train,' inspired by a road sign he saw during a vacation.
The novel blends historical fiction with original music and delves into the lives of orphaned children transported across the U.S. in the early 20th century.
Brent describes...

Duration: 00:24:20
Tasman Archer's Musical Journey
Nov 18, 2025

British singer-songwriter Tasman Archer shares her journey from chart-topping success with "Sleeping Satellite" to her current independent music career. She discusses her upcoming album release, creative rebirth during the pandemic, and finding freedom outside the major label system.

• Working independently on a new album "A Cauldron of Random Notes" releasing September 12th
• Discovering hundreds of unfinished songs during the pandemic sparked her creative revival
• Creating music without pressure led to more authentic expression and artistic satisfaction
• The challenges and rewards of managing all aspects of music creation as an independent artist
• Finding freedom after feel...

Duration: 00:24:41
Hardwick Circus : the First UK Band to Tour Ukraine
Nov 04, 2025

Johnny from Hardwick Circus shares the band's transformative experience as the first UK band to tour Ukraine since the Russian invasion, playing eight shows in nine days across the country while raising money for emergency vehicles and recording a live album.

• Formed with his brother Tom, Hardwick Circus is a six-piece rock band from Carlisle, England that has performed over 700 shows
• When two members couldn't continue to Ukraine, they recruited an international lineup of musicians they met on the way
• Ukrainian audiences were primarily women whose partners were serving on the front lines, showing remarkable resili...

Duration: 00:24:19
Suzi Quatro After 61 years in music she still has stories to tell
Oct 21, 2025

Rock icon Suzi Quatro joins us to discuss her seventh book, "Grave Undertakings," and reflects on her remarkable six-decade career in entertainment. She shares the fascinating creative process behind her latest psychological novel, her upcoming music projects, and her experiences as an actress on the iconic TV show "Happy Days."

• Suzi discusses her new book "Grave Undertakings," which incorporates tombstone inscriptions collected from famous friends over 35 years
• The book evolved from a collection of quotes into a psychological novel featuring six students and their Austrian professor
• Creativity takes on a life of its own – Suzi often su...

Duration: 00:26:22
Phil Vassar Opens Up on Heart, Music, and Resilience
Oct 07, 2025

Country music star Phil Vassar shares his remarkable journey of survival and rebirth after experiencing a near-fatal heart attack that stopped his heart for nearly 30 minutes. We explore his profound two-year recovery process and how this life-altering experience transformed his approach to music, creativity, and the entertainment industry.

• Phil had to relearn basic functions including walking and playing piano after his "sudden death" episode
• Despite being physically fit with healthy eating habits, Phil's heart attack was attributed to genetic factors
• The recovery process included months at Shepherd Center in Atlanta followed by continued rehabilitation at home Duration: 00:25:42

Behind the Hits: Tony Christie's Musical Journey
Sep 23, 2025

Tony Christie shares his remarkable journey from performing in small UK nightclubs to becoming an international star touring worldwide after signing with MCA Records in 1971. His life transformed completely as hit songs like "Las Vegas" and "Amarillo" opened doors to global tours and changed his family's circumstances forever.

• Career launched by manager Harvey Lisberg, who also managed Herman's Hermits
• Experienced multiple career revivals, including when Peter Kay used "Amarillo" in his TV show
• Recorded new albums in Nashville with top session musicians
• Currently navigating a dementia diagnosis but continuing to perform extensively
• Touring actively a...

Duration: 00:25:45
Taylor Blackwell's Music and path to directing
Sep 16, 2025

Taylor Blackwell shares her journey from child actor mentored by Burt Reynolds to multi-talented creator writing, directing, and starring in her own projects. She discusses the creative freedom that comes with having more control over her artistic vision and the excitement of bringing stories to life.

• Started acting at age 5, later incorporating music into her career
• Met Burt Reynolds at age 10 and became his student until his passing
• Values the creative control of developing her own projects
• Recently completed "It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story," where she wrote, directed, and starred
• Chose Judy Tenuta's s...

Duration: 00:26:14
Kelsie Watts: Her journey from Texas to Nashville to the Big Apple
Sep 03, 2025

Kelsie Watts shares her extraordinary journey from Texas to Broadway, balancing her role as Jane Seymour in "Six: The Musical" with releasing music and mental health advocacy.

• Unexpected path to Broadway began when a musical supervisor approached her during a showboat performance
• Transitioned from Nashville to New York City in January after eight years in Music City
• Improved acting and dance skills after initial rejection from Six, demonstrating commitment to growth outside her comfort zone
• Navigates performing eight Broadway shows weekly while simultaneously releasing music as an independent artist
• Uses her platform to reduce men...

Duration: 00:25:26
Kyle Coroneos: Savingcounrymusic.com to Crafting The Hook: A Songwriter's Showcase
Aug 27, 2025

Trigger, editor and creator of SavingCountryMusic.com, shares how his website grew from a grassroots effort to champion independent country music artists into an influential platform that has helped launch careers and change the industry.

• Started SavingCountryMusic.com in 2008 out of frustration with mainstream country music
• Built his reputation by being the first to discover artists like Sturgill Simpson and Zach Bryan
• Takes pride in helping artists reach a level where they no longer need his platform
• Successfully advocated for the Grammy Awards to add a Best Traditional Country Album category
• Has built a passiona...

Duration: 00:26:28
Barry Mazor: Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Legacy
Aug 20, 2025

Barry Mazor unveils the untold story behind his comprehensive biography "Blood Harmony: The Everly Brothers Story," offering unprecedented insights into the lives and legacy of rock and roll pioneers Don and Phil Everly. This meticulously researched 400-page book represents the first serious, depth-sourced biography of the iconic duo whose harmonies and groundbreaking fusion of country and rock shaped generations of music.

• Writing process took three and a half years of deep research and document analysis
• Many key figures from the Everlys' early career have passed away, requiring extensive archival research
• International fan club provided rare newspa...

Duration: 00:24:31
Transforming Lives: How Doors of Change Rescues Homeless Youth
Aug 06, 2025

Jeffrey Sitkov and Justine Yildiz share the powerful story of Doors of Change, a nonprofit that has helped over 2,900 homeless youth find housing and essential services since 2001.

Through their innovative Homeless Youth Advocacy Program, they're transforming lives by building trust with vulnerable young people and connecting them with the resources needed to leave street life behind.

• Approximately 4.2 million youth between 17-24 are homeless in America today
• 40% of homeless youth are LGBTQ+ individuals typically kicked out after coming out to their families
• 60% come from severely dysfunctional families with parents suffering from mental illness or substa...

Duration: 00:29:34
Susie Singer Carter: From Hollywood to Healthcare Advocacy
Jul 23, 2025

Multi-award winning filmmaker Susie Singer-Carter shares her journey from entertainment industry professional to healthcare advocate after her mother's battle with Alzheimer's and experience with nursing home neglect.

• Born and raised in Los Angeles to parents in the music industry, storytelling was always part of her DNA
• Started in journalism at UCLA before transitioning to radio, acting, and forming a music group with Chuck Lorre
• Moved into children's programming and film, working on Saturday morning CBS shows and co-writing movies like "Bratz" and "Soul Surfer"
• Created the Oscar-qualified short film "My Mom and the Girl," starring...

Duration: 00:28:43
Steve Cohen: Behind the scenes: Billy Joel's And So It Goes HBO Documentary
Jul 16, 2025

Steve Cohen, Emmy award-winning producer and Billy Joel's longtime creative director, guides us through the creation of HBO's powerful new documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," premiering July 18th and 25th as a landmark two-part film exploring the Piano Man's extraordinary life and music.

• Billy Joel initially resisted documentary proposals for years, believing "his life is in his music" until recently deciding the time was right
• The project came together when filmmaker Susan Lacey (creator of PBS's American Masters series) connected with Cohen through a series of fortunate coincidences
• Cohen served as executive producer while...

Duration: 00:26:48
Eric Dahl's Journey from Accidental Guitar Collector to National TV Host
Jul 09, 2025

Eric Dahl, host of the nationally syndicated Rock and Review with Eric Dahl TV show, shares his fascinating journey from accidentally purchasing BB King's stolen guitar to becoming a respected music interviewer reaching millions of viewers nationwide.

• Started in television at age 19 in the mid-80s
• Accidentally bought BB King's stolen Lucille guitar in Las Vegas and returned it to him
• Transitioned from Vegas to Nashville in 2011 to better raise his daughter
• Has expanded his show from reaching 800,000 viewers to 17 million viewers nationally
• Prepares extensively for interviews without scripted questions to keep conversations authentic<...

Duration: 00:32:34
Patrice Rushen shares her artistic philosophy: Music comes first
Jul 02, 2025

Grammy-nominated jazz pianist, R&B singer, and record producer Patrice Rushen shares her journey through the entertainment industry.

She offers wisdom about musical versatility, artistic growth, and prioritizing musical excellence over fame-seeking.

• Currently working on an orchestral commission for Juilliard Prep School and Interlochen while balancing performing and teaching
• Grew up in Los Angeles with diverse musical influences including jazz, Latin, gospel, and reggae
• Earth, Wind & Fire played at her high school prom just before they became famous
• Received formative advice from Quincy Jones: "If you want to be a composer, you're going to...

Duration: 00:27:17
The Musical Journey of Mike Batt
Jun 25, 2025

Mike Batt shares his fascinating journey from writing Wombles hits to collaborating with Justin Haywood of the Moody Blues on their new orchestral cover of "Like in a Northern Town."

His career spans decades of evolution as a songwriter, producer, composer, and arranger working with everyone from Art Garfunkel to the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

• Collaborated with Justin Haywood on a new recording using the London Philharmonic Orchestra
• First gained fame writing songs for The Wombles television show after negotiating for character rights instead of a one-time payment
• Wrote Art Garfunkel's hit "Bright Eyes" and ha...

Duration: 00:25:54
Rufus Wainwright Shares His Musical Path and Family Legacy
Jun 18, 2025

Rufus Wainwright, acclaimed by The New York Times for his genuine originality, shares updates on his diverse musical projects and reflects on his artistic journey spanning pop, classical, and collaborative work.

• Currently promoting "Dream Requiem" featuring narrators including Meryl Streep and Jane Fonda
• Preparing his second opera "Hadrian" for Italy's Spoleto Festival in June
• Scheduled to perform for King Charles of England
• Working on his 11th studio album, planning to begin recording this fall
• Reflects on how studio recording has evolved from lavish early days at DreamWorks to today's more focused approach
• Credits his...

Duration: 00:25:29
Peter Samuelson: Finding Happy: Every act of empathy creates waves that never end
Jun 11, 2025

Peter Samuelson shares how his transition from successful film producer to nonprofit founder has led to his greatest happiness and inspired his new book "Finding Happy."

• Produced iconic films like "Revenge of the Nerds" and "Wild"
• Co-founded Starlight with Steven Spielberg to help seriously ill children
• Created First Star to propel foster youth to college success
• Started EDAR (Everyone Deserves A Roof) providing mobile shelters for homeless individuals
• New book "Finding Happy" combines life lessons with film industry anecdotes
• Identifies three levels of happiness: short-term (immediate pleasure), medium-term (security), and long-term (helping others) Duration: 00:35:35

The Evolution of Cimarron 615: From Poco to Nashville's Harmony Masters
Jun 04, 2025

Michael Webb of Cimarron 615 shares the band's origin story and their deep connections to legendary country rock band Poco.

The Nashville-based quartet brings harmony-driven California country rock to life with their unique blend of musical expertise and collaborative spirit.

• Band name combines "Cimarron" from Rusty Young's classic Poco song with "615," Nashville's area code
• Members Michael Webb, Jack Sundred, Rick Lono, and Ronnie Guilbeau connected through Poco and the Flying Burrito Brothers
• Their musical style emphasizes rich vocal harmonies inspired by bands like Crosby, Stills & Nash and the Eagles
• Recently released their second single "...

Duration: 00:24:35
Billy Corgan's Evolution: Smashing Pumpkins journey
May 28, 2025

Billy Corgan, frontman of Smashing Pumpkins, shares his journey from rock star to wrestling promoter while reflecting on music industry transformations. Through conversations about his current projects and upcoming tours, Corgan reveals how he's maintained creative control and relevance over a four-decade career spanning 600+ songs.

• Working on Melancholy 30th anniversary recordings and preparing for special shows at Chicago's Lyric Opera
• Planning multiple tours including solo shows under "Machines of God" and Smashing Pumpkins European tour
• Navigating the shift from record label control to artist-driven business models
• Witnessing younger audiences discover the band through streaming services...

Duration: 00:24:40
John Paycheck blazes his own trail while honoring his father's legendary legacy.
May 14, 2025

John Paycheck, son of outlaw country legend Johnny Paycheck, joins us to share his journey as a country music artist balancing his father's legacy with his own unique sound and style.

We explore the surprising complexity behind Johnny Paycheck's public image, getting an insider perspective on the man behind the music while learning how John is forging his own path in today's challenging music landscape.

• Carrying the legacy of a famous father while managing public perception
• Creating his own musical identity with '90s country sound and Texas swing influences
• Balancing touring life with f...

Duration: 00:26:19
Alison Arngrim: The Unexpected Life of Little House's Most Memorable Villain
May 13, 2025

Alison Arngrim takes us on a journey through her remarkable life in Hollywood, from her iconic role as Nellie Olsen on Little House on the Prairie to her current career as an author, stand-up comedian, and advocate for abuse survivors.

• Growing up in an entertainment dynasty with a mother who voiced Casper the Friendly Ghost and a father who managed Liberace
• Learning the entertainment business from the inside as a child, witnessing how cartoons were made and celebrities were promoted
• Playing the villain everyone loved to hate on Little House on the Prairie for nine season...

Duration: 00:27:13
Russell Watson & Helen Jane Long:A Collaborative Journey of Two Musical Powerhouses
Apr 30, 2025

Russell Watson and Helen Jane Long share the story behind their new collaborative album "Shine," blending Watson's powerful tenor with Long's evocative compositions to create music that uplifts and inspires audiences.

• Multi-platinum tenor Russell Watson and billion-stream pianist Helen Jane Long met after Helen had admired Russell's voice for over 20 years
• Helen specifically wrote the entire album for Russell's voice—a first in his 25-year career
• Recording at Abbey Road Studios with world-class musicians created a magical atmosphere for their collaboration
• The project combines Russell's soaring vocals with Helen's signature piano and string arrangements
• Th...

Duration: 00:25:29
Jeff Dayton:The man who led Glen Campbell's band shares his remarkable career path.
Apr 16, 2025

Jeff Dayton shares his journey from early musical beginnings to becoming Glen Campbell's band leader for 15 years and his current projects honoring Campbell's legacy.

His remarkable career trajectory includes opening for major acts across the country, traveling internationally, and developing a deep connection with the Campbell family.

• Discovered his love for guitar at age 10 after finding his father's instrument in a closet
• Balanced formal music education with performing in bands on weekends
• Won the Wrangler Country Showdown which brought him to Nashville
• Glen Campbell personally selected him as band leader after seeing him perf...

Duration: 00:27:07
The Jethro Tull Story: 56 Years of Progressive Rock
Apr 02, 2025

Tony Mantor welcomes rock legend Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull to discuss the band's remarkable 56-year journey and their ongoing musical evolution since forming in 1967.

• The real story behind the Jethro Tull band name: named after an 18th century agriculturist by a booking agent
• How several band members from Anderson's high school days eventually reunited in Jethro Tull between 1969-1972
• George Martin's influential advice to Anderson that he could produce his own records
• Anderson's preference for intimate theater venues over massive arenas despite their commercial success
• Reflections on iconic songs including Aqualung, Locomotive Breath, an...

Duration: 00:22:27
Anson Williams: Music, Directing, and Entrepreneurship: How He Built a Multi-Faceted Career
Mar 19, 2025

Tony Mantor sits down with Anson Williams, the unforgettable star from Happy Days, for a fascinating journey through his multifaceted career in entertainment and the stories that shaped his path to success.

• Started as a passionate singer with no formal acting training before landing his role on Happy Days
• Entrepreneurially introduced music into Happy Days, leading to record deals and $17,000 per night concert gigs
• Encountered John Lennon and his son Julian who crashed the Happy Days set, creating lasting memories
• Formed deep bonds with castmates through their charity softball team, playing at major stadiums worldwid...

Duration: 00:26:58
Cousins Gibb: Melodies of Discovery and family ties in harmony
Mar 05, 2025

In a world where music often serves as a bridge between generations, Cousins Gibb share their poignant story of family, heritage, and creativity.

Join Nick Endicott Gibb and Deborah McLean as they take us on an emotional journey, revealing how their familial ties have influenced their musical path. This episode dives deep into Nick's incredible discovery of his identity as the son of Maurice Gibb, enriching his connection to music and family.

Listeners will hear about the challenges both artists faced, from personal health struggles to navigating the complexities of distant collaboration.

Yet...

Duration: 00:28:30
Felix Cavalieri: From Classical Keys to rock stages with the Rascals
Feb 19, 2025

Ever wondered how a classically trained pianist ends up playing alongside rock legends?

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the inimitable Felix Cavalieri, a cornerstone of the 1960s music scene and the soulful force behind the Rascals.

In our latest episode, Felix takes us through an extraordinary journey that began in Pelham, New York, under the influence of Beethoven and Bach, and unexpectedly swerved into the limelight of rock and roll, spurred by an unforgettable Beatles performance.

From family expectations to global stages, Felix recounts how each moment, including a fateful...

Duration: 00:25:13
Dave Pomeroy on Music, Leadership, and Passion
Feb 05, 2025

Discover the extraordinary journey of Dave Pomeroy, a quintessential figure in the music industry, as he reveals how a British military upbringing and an expired visa ultimately led him to the heart of Nashville's vibrant music scene.
With anecdotes that include spontaneously jamming with legends like Sleepy LaBeef and witnessing Neil Young in casual settings, Dave's story is a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating path of a musician.
Join us as we explore his captivating transformation from a hopeful rock star in London to a pivotal player in Nashville's dynamic music community.

As we...

Duration: 00:32:56
Jeff Wayne's Journey Into the Timeless Legacy of "The War of the Worlds
Jan 22, 2025

Have you ever wondered how a rock opera becomes a timeless classic? Join me, Tony Mantor, as I sit down with the legendary Jeff Wayne, the genius composer behind the 1978 rock opera adaptation of H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds."
In this episode, Jeff opens up about his fascinating transition from an aspiring journalist to a renowned musician, revealing how his childhood piano lessons ignited a passion that would shape his future.
We explore his early music industry experiences, including a stint with The Sandpipers, and how his father's entertainment career provided a blueprint for...

Duration: 00:28:02
Jason Gould: Music, Storytelling, and the Shadow of Fame
Jan 08, 2025

Ever wondered what it's like to grow up with some of the most famous parents in Hollywood? Join us as we chat with Jason Gould, son of Barbra Streisand and Elliot Gould, as he opens up about his life under the spotlight.
Jason shares his journey from his early interest in filmmaking to his eventual passion for music, navigating the complexities of fame with a discerning eye. Despite the pressure of living up to his parents' legacies, Jason reveals how he found his own path and the pivotal role storytelling has played throughout his career.

Our...

Duration: 00:24:24
PP Arnold: A Soulful Journey Through Music History
Dec 18, 2024

PP Arnold, a legendary American soul singer with a voice that echoes through the annals of music history, joins us for an intimate conversation on Almost Live Nashville.
From her early days singing gospel in her Aunt Catherine's living room to her unexpected rise to fame with the Ike and Tina Turner Review, PP shares a deeply personal and inspiring story of resilience.
She reflects on the challenges she faced, including a challenging marriage and the daring leap into the 60s UK rock scene, collaborating with icons like Mick Jagger and Jimi Hendrix.
Her narrative is...

Duration: 00:26:18
Barbara Hawkins of the Dixie Cups: Celebrating 60 Years of "Chapel of Love
Dec 11, 2024

Can you imagine the whirlwind of emotions tied to a 60-year musical legacy?
This episode of Almost Live Nashville brings you an intimate conversation with Barbara Hawkins of the Dixie Cups.
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of their timeless hit "Chapel of Love," Barbara recounts the electrifying events in New Orleans, including performances at Loyola University and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
She shares the honor of being featured on the festival poster, offering listeners an insider's view of the group's incredible journey and the profound appreciation from their community.

Ever...

Duration: 00:29:51
Behind-the-Scenes with Fastball's Tony Scalzo
Nov 27, 2024

Ever wondered how a hit song changes the trajectory of a band's career overnight?
Join us for an exclusive conversation with Tony Scalzo of Fastball as he takes us through his musical journey, from his early days learning multiple instruments to the roller-coaster ride of fame with their smash hit "The Way."
Tony reveals the band's creative process, the rejuvenation of their sound through his return to bass playing, and the relentless work behind sustaining success in the ever-evolving music industry.
Gain a unique perspective on the pressures and rewards of life in the spotlight, and...

Duration: 00:31:52
Billy J Kramer: Behind the Scenes with the Beatles
Nov 20, 2024

Ever wondered what it was like to work side-by-side with legends like John Lennon and Paul McCartney?
Join us as we sit down with the iconic Billy J Kramer, who shares the riveting story behind his stage name, a suggestion from Lennon himself.
Discover the fascinating behind-the-scenes tales of recording songs written by the Beatles exclusively for him, including his hit single "Little Children," which marked a pivotal moment in his career. Kramer also opens up about the thrill of touring across Europe and the United States, reminiscing about his electrifying performance on the Ed Sullivan Show.<...

Duration: 00:26:53
Beverly Lee shares stories of the Shirelles Music, Memories, and Milestones
Nov 13, 2024

Do you ever wonder what it was like to be part of the pioneering girl group, the Shirelles?
Join us as Beverly Lee takes us on a nostalgic journey back to 1957, sharing how the group's harmonic beginnings led to the creation of their first hit, "I Met Him on Sunday."
Discover the serendipitous moment they were discovered by Florence Greenberg of Tiara Records, their brief departure to DECCA, and their triumphant return to Scepter Records.
Beverly also recounts their historic performances, including sharing the stage with Dr. King at the Salute to Freedom show in Birmingham...

Duration: 00:29:16
Mark Bryan: From College Friendship to Global Fame
Oct 30, 2024

Ever wondered how a left-handed guitar enthusiast transforms into a right-handed rock star? Join us as Mark Bryan, the founding member and guitarist of Hootie and the Blowfish, shares his captivating journey.
Mark opens up about how early lessons and a love for ACDC's "TNT" ignited his passion for music, and how he drew inspiration from legends like Pete Townsend and Bruce Springsteen.
Listen as Mark reveals his unique approach to songwriting and the creative process behind the instruments that bring his music to life.

Curious about the quirky origins of Hootie and the Blowfish's...

Duration: 00:26:41
Don Most: Happy Day's Ralph Malph to Director and Jazz Singer
Oct 16, 2024

What happens when a teenage musician swaps the Catskill nightclubs for the glitzy sets of Hollywood?
Don Most, beloved for his role as Ralph Malph on "Happy Days," shares his enthralling journey from an aspiring singer in New York to a celebrated actor in Los Angeles.
This episode of "Almost Live Nashville" captures his transition from music to acting, inspired by the vibrant filmmaking scene of the late 60s, and the unexpected turn that led him to stay in LA and pursue a full-time acting career.

Ever wondered what it was like behind the scenes...

Duration: 00:30:44
Whey Jennings: A Journey of Redemption Through Music and Faith
Oct 02, 2024

Have you ever wondered how music and faith can transform a life bound by addiction?
On this inspiring episode of Almost Live Nashville, we sit down with Whey Jennings as he opens up about his harrowing battle with drug addiction and his remarkable journey to redemption.
Whey shares the pivotal moments that shaped his recovery, including the profound personal loss that spurred him to change and the unwavering support system that held him together.
His latest projects, the EP "If it Wasn't For the Sins" and the upcoming album "Sleeves," serve as a testament to his...

Duration: 00:34:16
Steve Hackett: From Genesis to Solo Greatness
Sep 18, 2024

Discover the secrets behind the legendary career of guitarist Steve Hackett.
From the moment a pivotal call from Peter Gabriel changed his life, to the exhilarating highs of performing at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden, Hackett shares the trials and triumphs of his journey with Genesis.
Hear firsthand how influential figures like Segovia and Hank Marvin helped shape his unique sound, and enjoy personal anecdotes about the challenges and rewards of mastering difficult instruments.
Hackett also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of launching his solo career and the communal spirit of being inducted into...

Duration: 00:27:26
Taylor Dayne Unveils Her Path to Success
Sep 04, 2024

Ever wondered what it takes to transform from a budding artist in New York to a global music sensation?
Join us as the iconic Taylor Dayne shares her incredible journey, revealing the heartfelt moments that shaped her career and her determination to stay grounded amidst her monumental success.
Taylor takes us back to her early days, reminiscing about the golden era of radio and the eclectic mix of 70s music that fueled her passion.
Her stories provide an authentic glimpse into the inspirations that molded her musical taste, from the influence of legendary radio personalities to...

Duration: 00:27:30
Introduction
Jun 10, 2024

The vision behind this podcast is to share stories of individuals who have achieved success in the entertainment industry, both here in the U.S. and internationally.
Our conversations will highlight the experiences of not just the talent, but also the behind the scenes personnel who contribute to the success of the industry.
We will take a journey through the stories of these individuals.
Get ready to be inspired by their journeys and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to achieve success in the entertainment industry.
Whether you are an aspiring artist or...

Duration: 00:02:39