Advertise on podcast: After The Gig with Jesse Humphrey

On this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with Dave Brophy, one of Boston’s most respected drummers and producers. Known for his skillful touch and dedication to serving the music, Dave shares insights from his notable career, including his early drumming days in Michigan, international tours, and his transition to full-time producing. Recorded at Q Division Studios, their conversation covers playing with dynamics, the nuances of music production, the art of effective studio communication, and building a sustainable career in music. Listeners gain a deep understanding of Brophy’s approach to creating a collaborative, stress-free environment in the studio and learn valuable lessons about the balance of preparation and creativity. The episode also explores Brophy’s experiences working with artists like Will Dailey and Rachel Price, breaking into the Boston music scene, and navigating the challenges of keeping the artistic integrity of demos while producing polished final records. Newsletter Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ Support the Podcast on Patreon! * All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey EMAIL US! [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig 00:00 Introduction to After the Gig 00:06 Meet Dave Brophy: Boston’s Drumming Legend 01:19 Dave’s Early Career and Influences 07:55 Transition to Boston and Breaking into the Scene 12:49 Producing Records and Studio Experiences 16:47 Navigating Studio Dynamics and Challenges 22:55 The Business Side of Music Production 24:27 The Efficiency of Professional Studios 25:09 The Importance of Preparation 25:46 Balancing Creativity and Practicality 27:50 Pre-Production and Production Insights 30:53 Navigating Demo Love and Re-Recording 33:02 Mixing Techniques and Challenges 39:04 Career Reflections and Future Goals 45:02 Current and Upcoming Projects 47:12 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of After the Gig, Jesse delves into the upcoming Grammy Awards, focusing on the controversy surrounding the country music category. He discusses the impact of Beyonce’s win for Best Country Album last year, the evolution of country music, and the changes the Grammys are making this year by introducing separate categories for Traditional and Contemporary Country Albums. Jesse examines the nominees, the judging process, and the implications of these changes for the future of country music. Newsletter: https://afterthegig.substack.com Youtube! Support the Podcast on Patreon! Patreon.com/afterthegig * All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey EMAIL US! [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig 00:00 Introduction and Today’s Topic 00:08 The Grammy Controversy: Country Category 02:30 Evolution of Country Music 07:02 Splitting the Country Category 08:36 Nominees and Predictions 12:45 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Jon Markel stops by the studio and we end up talking about everything—First Amendment audit videos (and why Jon’s obsessed with them), sovereign citizens, getting frisked by cops as teenagers, and why I will never forgive my neighbor for the BB gun incident. We also get into stage accidents, Jon’s ongoing feud with his neighbor over backyard fires and asthma complaints, and what happened when Lola passed out on stage mid-performance. Plus: why touring musicians still make 1980s money, Shawn Mendes canceling his tour, and Jon’s dream of becoming the Pedro Pascal of bass players.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:09 First Impressions of the Studio00:31 First Amendment Videos Discussion08:15 Sovereign Citizens and Police Interactions11:59 Personal Stories and Police Encounters19:35 Neighbor Feuds and Petty Conflicts34:32 Addressing Personal Issues34:58 Concert Incident: Lola’s Collapse36:08 Analyzing Lola’s Fall41:28 Stage Mishaps and Embarrassments45:54 Public Bathroom Etiquette48:20 Shawn Mendes: Fanboy Moments and Critiques52:48 Touring Challenges and Music Industry Insights01:02:55 Gaelic Storm and the Life of a Bass Player01:08:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you’d like to take a deeper dive, check out After the Gig on Patreon for bonus content. We’ll be going live for a November recap next Wednesday (11/26)! Don’t miss it! Hope you all have a wonderful rest of your week! Best, Jesse Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Inside Zildjian’s historic building, I sit down with Eric Gross (Head of Artist Relations at Zildjian/Vic Firth) to trace the winding path from Berklee days to backstage access—how internships, chance meetings, and a few well-timed risks opened real doors. We compare notes on choosing “music business” over a pure performance track, surviving Nashville on hustle, and the mentors who changed everything. Eric pulls back the curtain on artist relations and product development (think: how ideas become the gear drummers obsess over), plus the balance between following trends and setting them. It’s equal parts career roadmap and drummer candy Get After the GIg delivered straight to your inbox! Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Jesse and Katie sit down for a conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable music career in today’s world. From the role of side hustles and self-awareness to navigating feedback, fan expectations, and the shifting streaming landscape, this discussion dives deep into the modern creative grind. They explore: * Why chasing viral fame rarely builds real careers * When it’s time to pivot or redefine success * How to find work that funds your passion * The tension between creativity and the algorithm * Carbon Leaf’s perspective on albums vs. singles * The evolving relationship between artists and fans If you’re a working musician, creative, or just love hearing honest talk about the realities behind the stage, this one’s for you. 🎧 Subscribe to After the Gig for more conversations about the working-class musician life, creativity, and sustainability in the arts. Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Today I’m answering your questions from the After the Gig Facebook group. It’s been a minute since the last podcast, and I’m super happy to be back after the summer hiatus. I hope you and all your families are doing well and had a great summer. Onward to fall! I am currently sitting in the green room of our first tour stop in Crawfordsville, IN. It’s great to be back on the road, and I’m excited to get back behind the drums to melt some faces across the country. In this episode, I get into tour experiences, taking social media breaks, quirky habits, and the dynamics of life on the road in a band. There may or may not be a short rant about technology and social issues in the world today... Nothing crazy. If you have more questions, I always invite you to email me at [email protected]. Also... and this is a big one. Your support keeps this going and allows me to bring you more consistent content. If you could, please consider becoming a paid subscriber to After the Gig! Hope you’re having a fantastic week! best, Jesse Newsletter: https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/ Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ Support the Podcast on Patreon! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:11 Tour Life and Social Media Breaks 02:04 Answering Fan Questions 03:12 Favorite Songs and Venues 05:48 Gifts from Fans 08:04 Embarrassing Onstage Moments 09:37 Tour Essentials and Good Luck Charms 19:31 Pre-Show Rituals 21:16 Final Thoughts and Reflections Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with Patrick McAloon, an integral member of the Pat McGee Band and an artist relations professional at Sixthman. The discussion delves into Patrick's multifaceted career in music, from his early influences and family support to his current roles. Highlights include Patrick's journey in the music industry, the unique experience of working for Sixthman, and the importance of building a community among artists and fans. Patrick also shares personal anecdotes about his family, particularly his daughter Ruby, and the balance he strikes between his musical passions and professional commitments. Enjoy! The After the Gig podcast has moved to Substack! There shouldn’t be any change to how you view, or listen to the show, but we will now be using Substack as our new hosting site! The show will remain the same on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere else you listen to After the Gig. The video version is also still available on YouTube, which I highly recommend! Please reach out to [email protected] for any question or concerns! Join us for Cocktail night on Patreon!! May 25th I will be hosting the second After the Gig cocktail night on Patreon from my home via zoom. Come join the community and hang out for what will be a super fun night! Head over to Patreon.com/afterthegig to sign up! Newsletter: https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/ Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ Support the Podcast on Patreon! patreon.com/afterthegig EMAIL US! [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig 00:00 Introduction to the Show and Guest 01:55 Patrick Macon's Musical Background 02:49 Family Influence on Music 04:39 Early Musical Experiences 15:49 Creative Pursuits and Burnout 22:02 Sixth Man Cruises and Artist Relations 30:21 Secret Coffee Machines and Reunions 30:58 Creative Stage Performances 32:56 Respect and Collaboration on the Boat 34:14 Balancing Work and Family 35:54 The Evolution of Sixth Man Events 39:19 Summertime Cruises and Unique Destinations 41:32 Unexpected Family Visits 43:23 Musical Journey and Mentorship 49:15 Advice for Aspiring Musicians 53:54 The Art of Collaboration Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Jesse discusses the often overlooked but crucial aspect of musicians' lives—side hustles. Sharing his personal experiences from bartending to delivering packages during the pandemic, Jesse highlights the importance of having flexible side jobs to sustain a career in music. He emphasizes that there's no shame in having secondary jobs and encourages all aspiring artists to find side gigs that complement their artistic pursuits until they can make music their full-time profession. Learn about the emotional journey, valuable skills gained, and the balance needed to thrive as a musician. After the Gig is a reader-supported publication. To support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Newsletter: https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/ Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 01:00 The Necessity of Side Hustles 01:18 Personal Journey: From Boston to Bartending 04:15 Pandemic Pivot: Amazon Logistics 08:12 Balancing Music and Side Gigs 14:37 Choosing the Right Side Hustle 18:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Jesse explores the deep passion and relentless drive behind playing music. Drawing parallels between music and hitting a perfect golf shot, we delve into the joy of playing an instrument or having a musical conversation with fellow musicians. The episode touches on the importance of connecting with your music, the audience, and the struggles young musicians face. We discuss the dangers of comparing oneself to others and emphasize measuring personal growth. The discussion also includes insights on parenting, the significance of not stifling creativity in children, and the journey of perseverance and practice in achieving success. This episode is a deep dive into the world of music, connection, and personal growth. The After the Gig podcast is moving to Substack! There shouldn’t be any change to how you view, or listen to the show, but we will now be using Substack as our new hosting site! The show will remain the same on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere else you listen to After the Gig. The video version is also still available on YouTube, which I highly recommend! Please reach out to [email protected] for any question or concerns! Music from the episode: Outro: “Chemical” by Jesse Humphrey Newsletter: Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ Support the Podcast on Patreon! Patreon.com/afterthegig All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey EMAIL US! [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig 00:00 Introduction: The Passion for Music 01:31 The Magic of Mastery: Golf and Drumming 02:09 Musical Conversations and Connections 03:16 Challenges and Perseverance in Music 07:22 The Flow State and Creative Process 09:15 Avoiding Comparisons and Self-Improvement 15:03 Podcast Updates and Personal Reflections 19:15 Impact of Words on Young Minds 28:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

2025 Grammy Highlights & Super Bowl Controversy: Kendrick Lamar's Bold Statement   In this episode of 'After the Gig,' Jesse delves deep into the 2025 Grammy performances, featuring reactions to standout artists like Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Lizzo, and more. He also discusses the much-talked-about Super Bowl halftime show by Kendrick Lamar, which sparked significant controversy due to its direct jabs at Drake and the inclusion of Serena Williams. Additionally, Jesse touches on poignant topics like the devastating California wildfires and the Grammy tribute to LA's first responders. From riveting performances to thought-provoking commentary, join us for a thorough exploration of the highs and lows of these major music events.   Newsletter:  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   Support the Podcast on Patreon!  Patreon.com/afterthegig   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig   00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:54 Dua Lipa's Stellar Performance 01:20 Anita and Billie Eilish: A Mixed Bag 03:51 Lizzo's Controversies and Performances 06:20 Benson Boone's Crowd-Pleasing Act 07:36 Sabrina Carpenter's Fun and Levity 10:45 Teddy Swims and Other Notable Performances 13:32 Cynthia Erivo's Tribute and Lady Gaga's Polarizing Act 17:44 Shakira and the Impact of Wildfires 23:54 Babyface's Disrespect and the Super Bowl Halftime Show 26:43 Kendrick Lamar's Controversial Super Bowl Performance 35:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

City Winery's $25 Minimum: A Deep Dive into the New Policy and Its Impact   In this episode, we explore City Winery's recent decision to implement a $25 minimum on food and beverage sales for concertgoers at their venues. Jesse shares personal thoughts and insights on the policy, its potential impact on patrons, and the reasons behind this move, including the desire to support artists by giving them a larger share of ticket sales. By reading an email from City Winery's CEO, we get an inside look at the motivations behind the new policy. Jesse also discusses broader issues affecting live music venues, such as the challenges of booking talent, managing unpredictable ticket sales, and ensuring quality service. Additionally, the episode touches on how similar venues have navigated financial challenges and offers a balanced perspective on the implications of the policy for both artists and patrons.   Newsletter:  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   Support the Podcast on Patreon!  Patreon.com/afterthegig   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig     00:00 Introduction to City Winery's New Policy 01:16 Personal Experience with Minimum Spend Policies 02:38 Reading the CEO's Email 05:00 Analyzing the Email and Menu Changes 06:22 Challenges Faced by City Winery 09:02 Impact on Artists and Venues 11:07 Case Study: Rockwood Music Hall 15:42 Balancing Acts and Business Models 18:14 Potential Solutions and Final Thoughts 25:09 Service Quality and Final Wrap-Up Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Join Jesse as he drives through blizzard conditions from Providence to Boston, reminiscing about the days commuting to the Berklee College of Music. Jesse catches up with, drummer and a member of the Berklee Percussion Department, Jonathan Ulman, as they discuss their careers, share inspiring stories, and reflect on the music industry. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that touches on the importance of humility, the life of touring musicians, and the role of mentorship. This episode also sheds light on the current challenges in Los Angeles due to devastating fires and includes ways to support the affected communities.   Show links   Music from the show: "Thruple Shuffle" by Uncle Bronco   Newsletter:  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig   Support Steve and Jess as they recover from the loss of their home in Los Angeles : https://gofund.me/11876fcf   00:00 Winter Commute to Berklee College of Music 01:06 Revisiting Berklee After 14 Years 01:22 Insights from the Newsletter 03:05 Arriving at Berklee and Finding Parking 05:33 Podcast with Jonathan Allman Begins 15:53 Balancing Passion and Profession 16:36 The Importance of Professionalism in Music 31:05 Learning from Industry Legends 36:11 The Role of Social Media in Music Careers 37:07 Reflections on Musical Growth and Simplicity 43:30 Navigating Criticism and Staying Positive 44:41 Morning Coffee Ritual 44:55 Challenges of Being a Drummer 48:23 Inspiring the Next Generation 52:21 Tour Life and Its Struggles 54:20 Perspective on Success 01:07:43 Meeting Eddie Vedder 01:22:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

This week on the podcast I talk about the New England Music Awards, Health on the Road, and Productivity as an artist.  Make sure you subscribe to the newsletter, and check out the links below. Enjoy   Music from the show: "Thruple Shuffle"   Newsletter:  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Ed Valauskas is a Boston legend.  He's played with everyone, and produced some of the cities best musical exports from the comfy confines of Q division studios in Cambridge, MA.  Ed and I met back when my former band Love in Stockholm recorded our 3rd release "Hold Back the Sun". You can listen to that here: https://open.spotify.com/album/669ssJgNDfL41GIIBg5Rw5?si=mnTRnlNRRKSFLLLIehaAJQ   Ed is the musical director of the Hot Stove Cool Music event that happens every year in Boston.  It was started by Baseball hall of fame journalist Peter Gammons, and features an impressive roster of Boston sports heros that come together to play music.  Ed talks all about it in our chat as well as many other things! Enjoy   So you want the lowdown, opinions, and advice of a professional that highlights the real ways to make it work as a musician from 20 years of experience?  Then subscribe to the After the Gig newsletter!!  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/afterthegig   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe

Today on the podcast I have the great Pat Murphy of Gaelic Storm.  The band was founded by Pat in 1996 and was featured in the record setting, blockbuster movie (one of the biggest films ever made) “Titanic”.  From then, they went on to a record deal and decades as a staple in the Irish music community.  Go to their website for tour dates.  You will not want to miss them when they come to your town!  Pat is one of my favorite people I’ve met in the music industry (and in general) and I hope you enjoy our chat half as much as I did.  Enjoy!   So you want the lowdown, opinions, and advice of a professional that highlights the real ways to make it work as a musician from 20 years of experience?  Then subscribe to the After the Gig newsletter!!  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/afterthegig   All links right here!! https://linktr.ee/jessehumphrey   EMAIL US! [email protected]   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/afterthegig/ @afterthegig Get full access to After the Gig at afterthegig.substack.com/subscribe