Advertise on podcast: Middle Class Rock Star

summary In this episode, Matt Combs shares his journey from a Nashville session musician to a solo artist, exploring the creative process, the importance of authenticity, and the fascinating world of Tartini tones. Discover insights on following your excitement, embracing vulnerability, and the magic of music as a universal language. KEY TOPICS: -Matt Combs' transition from session musician to solo artist -The creative process behind the 'Fifty Years of Clown School' record -The significance of Tartini tones and universal frequencies in music -The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in artistic expression -The role of playfulness and humor in music and life -Insights on navigating the music industry and staying true to oneself -The influence of family and early musical experiences -The impact of health challenges and life lessons on creativity -Innovative promotion strategies and live performance concepts -The interconnectedness of music, science, and spirituality If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.instagram.com/combsmattstrings/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

Philip Bowen is not just a great musician and songwriter, he's also a skilled business person. With a social media following in the millions and session credits including Noah Kahn, Bowen recently gave up his full time job to support his family with full time music. From Google Overview: "Philip Bowen is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from West Virginia whose music is inspired by his Appalachian roots. He plays the fiddle, violin, guitar, keys, and mandolin, and has been playing the fiddle since he was four years old. Bowen's music is known for its uplifting spirit and soul-hugging tunes. He's received praise from Rolling Stone, American Songwriter, and Whiskey Riff, and has been featured on NPR's "Mountain Stage" and Americanafest." If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.philipbowenmusic.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

In this episode, singer-songwriter Abigayle Oakley shares her journey through evolving her artist name, navigating the music industry as an independent artist, and balancing content creation with artistry. We discuss the impact of technology like AI, strategies for remote collaboration, and her recent successes, including winning the Kerrville Folk Festival. As of the airing of this episode, Oakley is a contestant in Season 29 of NBC's The Voice. Her blind audition earned an INSTANT three-chair turn, where she made the decision to join team Kelly Clarkson. Key Topics: The story behind Abigayle changing her artist name from Kompst to Oakley and the emotional journey involved Challenges and strategies in re-releasing music with new branding and digital logistics Insights on co-writing versus solo songwriting, and how collaboration impacts the creative process The influence of growing up in Vegas and early musical experiences How her education at Belmont shaped her songwriting and industry understanding The significance of music contests like Kerrville Folk Festival and touring opportunities Balancing social media content creation and audience engagement without burnout Thoughts on AI's role in music production, copyright concerns, and industry implications Navigating the music industry’s economic realities and her shift towards prioritizing creative fulfillment The importance of community, both in festivals and in songwriting circles, for artistic growth If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.abigayleoakley.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected] #music #songwriting #touring #promotion #community #thevoice #abigayleoakley #teamkelly #originalmusic #indieartist #musicbusiness

In this episode, Andy Sydow interviews Nikki Gauthier, the artistic and creative director at the Acorn Center for the Performing Arts. They discuss the importance of community building through music, the unique role of the Acorn Theater in fostering local talent, and Nikki's journey from education to the arts. The conversation also delves into the challenges and strategies of booking in the music industry. If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.acornlive.org/ https://www.facebook.com/share/1GDfMpdzUQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected] #music #songwriting #touring #promotion #community #musicvenue #tributeband #originalmusic #indieartist #musicbusiness

Jackson Emmer returns to Middle Class Rock Star (previously featured on episode 112) to discuss his latest album, 'Battle Hymn of the Early Riser' - exploring themes of parenting, songwriting, and the balance between family life and touring. He shares insights into his creative process, the importance of co-writing, and the emotional impact of music. The discussion also touches on promotion strategies for indie artists, Spotify, the evolving music industry landscape, and the potential impact of AI on creativity. Throughout, Jackson expresses gratitude for his audience and the opportunity to create meaningful music. If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.jacksonemmer.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected] #music #songwriting #touring #promotion #ai #indieartist #spotify #musicbusiness

This episode was done in front of an audience as a part of a panel at SWRFA (Southwest Regional Folk Alliance) conference in Austin, TX. This week, I sit down with legendary Texas singer-songwriter Bob Livingston — founding member of The Lost Gonzo Band and a central figure in the Austin “Cosmic Cowboy” movement. Bob shares vivid stories from his decades on the road with Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, and the Austin outlaw country scene. We talk about his adventures as a world traveler and cultural ambassador, and the way he continues to blend Texas songwriting with global influences. In a special moment, Bob also reads an excerpt from his forthcoming book, Gypsy Alibi: A Gonzo Memoir — giving us a taste of the humor, honesty, and wild tales that have defined his career. Whether you know him from Viva Terlingua, his award-winning solo records (Gypsy Alibi, Up the Flatland Stairs), or his cross-cultural projects (Cowboys & Indians), Bob Livingston embodies the spirit of Texas music: rooted in storytelling, but unafraid to wander. IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow 🔗 Guest Links: boblivingstonmusic.com Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected] My music and upcoming shows: andysydow.com #cosmicamericana #cosmiccountry #countrymusic #texascountrymusic #musicpodcast

This episode stemmed from Andy’s viral video about the difference between a gig and a show, which sparked a wider conversation about how musicians define success and stand out in today’s music industry. In this engaging 48-minute conversation, Andy Sydow and Johnny Fiaconni dig into the realities of the modern music industry. They explore the balance between cover gigs and original shows, the role of intentionality, and the strategies musicians can use to stand out in an increasingly noisy landscape. From the challenges of touring and relocating, to the importance of branding and building a strong online presence, the conversation offers honest insights and practical takeaways for musicians at every stage of their careers. 🔑 Key Takeaways Consistency in posting builds a strong online presence. Moving to a new location can open unexpected opportunities. Balancing gigs and personal life is crucial for long-term success. A memorable brand (like a signature item) helps you stand out. Quality over quantity elevates a band’s status. Social media is essential for discovery today. Intentionality in music cuts through the industry noise. Performing in new markets is an investment in future success. Feedback from diverse sources drives improvement. Niche markets reward unique branding. 🗂️ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Background 10:00 – The Move to California 20:00 – Balancing Gigs and Personal Life 30:00 – The Importance of Branding 40:00 – Social Media & Music Discovery 50:00 – Intentionality in Music 1:00:00 – Touring & New Markets 1:10:00 – Feedback & Growth 💬 Sound Bites “Consistency is key to online success.” “Opportunities arise from unexpected moves.” “Balance gigs with personal life for success.” “Branding makes you memorable.” “Intentionality cuts through industry noise.”

This week, I chat with Nashville’s own Zach Allen - a multi‑Grammy-winning recording engineer, producer, and mix engineer whose credits span Americana, blues, rock, country, and beyond. With nearly 20 years in the music industry, Zach brings a rare blend of technical mastery, creative sensitivity, and a studio presence that helps artists realize their vision. Some highlights of our conversation include: • His journey from graduating Full Sail University and interning at The Tracking Room and eventually becoming the head engineer of the studio. • Working on award-winning projects including engineering Grammy-winning albums for legends like Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy, and Christone Kingfish Ingram • Philosophy on vocal production • Thoughts on AI in the music industry • Helpful tips for recording a live show Whether you’re an aspiring artist, indie producer, or just music-curious, this episode offers a rare inside look at the mind and methods of someone who’s helped shape some of the most compelling recordings coming out of Nashville. If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://zachallenaudio.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

This week, I’m joined by bluegrass virtuoso Martin Gilmore - a powerhouse songwriter and performer who’s had a banner year, taking home top honors at the Kerrville, Telluride Troubadour, and Folks Fest songwriting contests. In this episode, we dig into: • The impacts of entering and winning songwriting contests • The impact of Billy Strings on the bluegrass and Americana world • How Spotify has reshaped the landscape for independent artists • A live guitar demo where Martin breaks down beginner, intermediate, and advanced bluegrass rhythm styles If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.martingilmore.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

Music has a way of attaching itself to moments in our lives. A song can instantly transport us back to a place, a person, or a feeling — becoming part of our own personal soundtrack. In this special episode, I reflect on how Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” became permanently linked in my memory not just to Ozzy, but to Colorado Rockies legend Larry Walker. When Walker stepped to the plate at Coors Field in the 90s, “Crazy Train” echoed through the ballpark — fusing music and baseball into one unforgettable soundscape of childhood summers in Denver. We trace the story from Ozzy’s final live performance and passing in 2025, through Larry Walker’s journey from Canadian hockey hopeful to Rockies MVP, to the history of walk-up songs in Major League Baseball. Along the way, we explore how music has always been woven into the game, from “Tessie” and the 1903 Boston Americans to the stadium anthems that defined the modern era. This episode is part memoir, part baseball history, and part reflection on the universal power of music to connect us across time, place, and emotion. Mentioned in this Episode • Ozzy Osbourne’s Blizzard of Ozz (1980) • Larry Walker, Colorado Rockies outfielder (1995–2004) • The May 21, 1996 Rockies vs. Pirates game at Coors Field • The history of walk-up songs in Major League Baseball • “Tessie” and the Royal Rooters, 1903 World Series • Books: • Lawrence S. Ritter – The Glory of Their Times • Bob Ryan – When Boston Won the World Series • Mike Vaccaro – The First Fall Classic Resources • Baseball Reference: baseball-reference.com • SABR (Society for American Baseball Research): sabr.org • Baseball Almanac: baseball-almanac.com • Purple Row (Colorado Rockies coverage): purplerow.com • Lawrence S. Ritter – The Glory of Their Times • Bob Ryan – When Boston Won the World Series • Mike Vaccaro – The First Fall Classic #musicpodcast #ozzyosbourne #larrywalker #baseball #baseballpodcast

On this weeks episode of Middle Class Rock Star, I sit down with Colorado-based bassist, songwriter, and producer Ace Engfer, who just released his new solo album, Time Drifts Away (June 6). Ace has spent years holding down the low end in the Colorado music scene as a longtime member of Grant Farm, and touring with acts like Madeline Hawthorne (Montana) and Kind-Hearted Strangers (Nashville). But in this episode, we go beyond the stage. We talk about: • Ace’s journey with sobriety, and how it’s shaped his creativity and career • His approach to writing great charts and being a reliable sideperson • Navigating the music industry and release strategies in a streaming era • What exactly is Cosmic Americana? If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.acengfer.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected] #cosmicamericana #cosmiccountry #countrymusic #bass #sideman #musician #musicbusiness #musicpodcast

Travis McNamara was last week's guest as well. I split this conversation up into two episodes because most of the first half of the conversation was about Travis' new album and his career as a touring artist and front-person. The second half delves into a topic that piques the interest of almost every creative on the planet... crowdfunding. Travis is the founder of Arthouse Consulting, where he uses his experience to help mid-level artists raise $25K or more on Kickstarter for their upcoming projects. Over the last few years, he's already helped artists raise upwards of $1.1 million. If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://arthouseconsulting.co/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

My guest this week is singer-songwriter and performer, Travis McNamara. His music bridges on several different styles, but if you're looking for a common thread, start with bluegrass. McNamara, the longtime front-person for CO based, Trout Streak Revival, spent his covid time like many of us, writing and creating. "Moon Calendar" (2023) is McNamara's first plunge into the solo artist world. He is also the founder of Arthouse Consulting, where he uses his extensive background in nonprofit fundraising (he held down jobs at PBS and the Denver International Film Festival) to help artists raise money for Kickstarter. Please note, the majority of this episode is about Travis McNamara the artist, and the majority of next week's episode delves more into crowdfunding. Tune in next week to check that out! If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: https://www.travis-mcnamara.com/ Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

My guest this week is Lauren Frihauf. "A rising star in the music industry whose talent was featured in NPR Music's 2022 Tiny Desk 'Top Shelf' and showcased her vocal prowess on Season 19 of NBC's "The Voice," where she impressed on Teams Gwen and Legend, making it to the Knockout Rounds. In 2021, when her promising neo-soul duo project came to a halt before its album, “The Latona EP”, was released, Frihauf found her calendar cleared at a time when most musicians were getting back to touring. Previously putting words to melodies created with collaborators, she was alone, lost, and experiencing the emotional turmoil of entering adulthood after the covid pandemic. From the beginning, her vocal style has been influenced by Nai Palm of Hiatus Kaiyote, whose records she knows, "inside and out". As she began her quest to identify who she was as a solo artist, Frihauf shifted her focus from keys to guitar, which she found to be liberating. Learning to play, “Cactus Tree”, by Joni Mitchell, proved pivotal: she became obsessed with open D tuning. Frihauf now refers to herself as a "Neo-Folker". Her music carries an indie singer-songwriter essence, infused with folk and neo-soul elements, creating a captivating and unique sonic landscape. Her songwriting delves into authentic themes that resonate deeply with listeners. Surprisingly, Lauren's urban vibe stands in stark contrast to the rural farm where she was born and raised, adding an intriguing dimension to her artistry" (laurenfrihaufmusic.com). Note that Lauren has the distinction of being the only Middle Class Rock Star Podcast guest to date to be a former student of mine! If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: www.laurenfrihaufmusic.com Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]

I first met The Wildwoods at The Zoo Bar in Lincoln, NE back when they were just getting started at 14 and 15 years old. I was roughly 21 and on one of my first (if not very first) tours. We've stayed in touch, played shows together, and run into each other at hotel lobby bars at music conferences. Their sound goes beyond acoustic instruments and in-tune harmonies, they're poets with high-level musicianship and arranging abilities. Their success on the road and on social media (nearly 250K followers on instagram and 90K on TikTok) is no surprise, but rather a testament to their hard work and ability to package and deliver their product. In our conversation, we chat about the band's origins, how the three bandmates play to each other's strong suits, supporting Tophouse on their most recent headlining tour, how they implemented a strategy for social media growth, and their new album, Dear Meadowlark, which began gracing listeners ears on April 11, 2025. From The Wildwoods Website: "In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, The Wildwoods emerge as a folk/Americana trio, a musical tapestry woven by the husband-and-wife duo, Noah (guitar) and Chloe Gose (violin), alongside long-time friend and bassist, Andrew Vaggalis. Their story is a symphony of exploration and connection, a journey that has taken them from the Midwest to international stages, carving out a unique place in the folk landscape. Their presence has graced stages alongside artists such as Mighty Poplar, Sierra Ferrell, Aiofe O’ Donovan, Melissa Carper, Jamie Wyatt and Joe Nichols at concerts and festivals like Summerfest, FreshGrass and the Oyster Ridge Music Festival. If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review! IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow Guest Links: www.thewildwoodsband.com Episode Music: Original music by Andy Sydow Contact me: [email protected] (or) [email protected]