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On this episode of the Songfacts Podcast, host Stephanie R. Myers speaks with Don Barnes, founding member, guitarist, songwriter, and longtime voice of 38 Special, as the band celebrates 50 years and the release of Milestone, their first new studio album in more than two decades. We dig into the stories behind some of the songs that helped define 38 Special, including “Hold On Loosely” and “Caught Up in You,” and how the band found its signature balance of Southern rock muscle and undeniable melody. Don also talks about making Milestone, what it means to still be creating new music five decades in, and the chemistry and songwriting instincts that have kept 38 Special moving forward. Along the way, he reflects on the band's remarkable longevity, the songs he wishes he'd written, and what he's learned from a lifetime of making music that's built to last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Songfacts Podcast, host Stephanie R. Myers sits down with Wolfgang Van Halen — the musician, songwriter, and driving force behind Mammoth — to talk about his new album The End. Already being celebrated as his most confident and cohesive work yet, The End finds Wolf refining his sound and stakes in a way that feels like a real artistic milestone. We dig into how the record came together, how his creative process has evolved across three albums, and the internal shifts that happen when you start enjoying exactly who you are musically. Along the way, Wolf also opens up about the lifelong challenge of forging his own path in rock while honoring — and redefining — a legendary family legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ring in the season with us with our 6th Annual Holiday Episode! Each year, we invite some podcast friends from the Pantheon Podcast Network to join us and share the songs that help soundtrack their holidays. You’ll hear from: I’m In Love With That Song My Weekly Mixtape Play That Rock n’ Roll Prisoners of Rock and Roll Ugly American Werewolf in London What Difference Does It Make From classic rock deep dives to alternative favorites and thoughtful music storytelling, these podcasts all approach music a little differently, which makes this episode such a fun listen. Expect great stories, unexpected picks, and maybe even a new holiday favorite for your playlist. Enjoy! And welcome to the annual Songfacts Podcast holiday tradition.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this new episode of the Songfacts Podcast, host Stephanie R. Myers is joined by one of the true architects of funk: the legendary Bootsy Collins. His sound is unmistakable — the cosmic basslines, the deep pocket, the joyful energy that defines generations of funk. Bootsy walks us through his new project, Album of the Year: #1 Funkateer, which he describes as a statement of “what funk is.” We talk about the spark that set this album in motion, what keeps his creativity flowing after decades in the game, and how his formative years with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic continue to shape his music. We’re also treated to a special cameo from his manager and wife, Patti Collins, who adds a behind-the-scenes story about one of the album’s tracks. If you’re a fan of Bootsy, funk history, or just incredible musical storytelling, this is one you won’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Keller has lived more than one musical life. He first made his mark as a guitarist and co-writer in Tommy Tutone — yes, the band behind “867-5309/Jenny.” But that was just the beginning. After years on the road, Jim shifted gears and built a remarkable career behind the scenes, managing artists like Philip Glass and helping shape the business side of some of modern music’s most distinctive voices. Now, he’s returned to his own songwriting roots with End of the World — an album that blends grit, humor, and heart in equal measure. In this episode, Jim talks about what it’s like to reinvent yourself in the music world, how his time with Glass changed the way he thinks about creativity, and the stories behind his new record. Listen in for a conversation that spans decades — from the neon glow of early ‘80s pop to the quiet persistence of an artist still chasing great songs. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Connect with us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Songfacts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Proud member of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, singer-songwriter Pete Droge joins us—a distinctive ’90s alt-folk voice known for jangly guitars, sharp humor, and melodies that stay with you long after the song ends. You might remember him best for his breakthrough single, “If You Don’t Love Me (I’ll Kill Myself),” a tongue-in-cheek anthem of romantic volatility that quickly became a cult favorite. But Pete’s creative journey has always gone deeper than one clever hook: his latest album, Fade Away Blue, unfolds as a cinematic, introspective narrative exploring themes like adoption, grief, identity, and healing. In this episode, Pete opens up about the deeply personal stories behind these songs, how his songwriting has evolved, how his health journey has impacted his music, and the surprise new twists he’s bringing to live versions of his early favorites. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Connect with us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Songfacts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Proud member of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we're interviewing the talented jazz vocalist and songwriter Andy James. Known for her expressive phrasing and flamenco-inspired flair, Andy has carved out a unique space in contemporary jazz, and her latest album, Happy People, is a radiant, genre-blending celebration of just that: joy, connection, and groove. Andy’s musical journey has taken her across the globe and into the studio with some legends, including the late, great jazz icon Chick Corea, a close collaborator.  Whether she’s interpreting a classic or crafting original compositions, Andy brings both soul and technical brilliance to everything she does. We talk about the inspiration behind Happy People, her songwriting process, and what blending jazz and flamenco has taught her as a musician. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠! Connect with us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠Songfacts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Proud member of ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Bass has spent the last 15 years shaping the sound of Shinedown, not just as their bassist, but as the producer behind their albums Attention Attention and Planet Zero. Now with his solo album I Had a Name, he brings us a sprawling, cinematic solo debut that marks a major shift. Written, performed, and produced entirely by Eric, the album is a dystopian concept record that plays like a rock opera, charting the story of a nameless hero on a surreal journey of identity and resistance. It’s also tied to a graphic novel that expands the universe he’s built. Eric opens up about the creative risks, personal revelations, and sonic experimentation that shaped I Had a Name, breaks down key tracks like “Mind Control” and “Azalia,” talks about Shinedown's unexpected musical collaboration with Sylvester Stallone, and more in this episode. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠! Connect with us on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠⁠⁠Songfacts.com⁠⁠⁠. Proud member of ⁠⁠⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we're speaking with an artist whose musical journey is as compelling as his sound: A.J. Croce. While many recognize the name Croce from his father, the legendary singer/songwriter Jim Croce (who wrote classics like "Operator," "Time in a Bottle," "Bad Bad Leroy Brown," and many more), A.J. has carved out his own distinct path in the music world. With a career spanning over three decades, he's been a working musician since he was 15 years old, releasing more than 10 albums and collaborating with icons ranging from James Brown to Willie Nelson, showcasing his prowess as a virtuoso piano player and a versatile singer-songwriter. A.J.'s latest album, Heart Of The Eternal, produced by Shooter Jennings, is a testament to his evolving artistry. In our conversation, A.J. delves into the inspirations behind his new album, his experiences growing up in a musical household, and how he's embraced his father's legacy while continuing his own musical prowess. He shares insights into his creative process, the stories behind his songs, and the personal experiences that have shaped his music. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠! Connect with us on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠⁠Songfacts.com⁠⁠. Proud member of ⁠⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Songfacts Podcast, we interview Steve Bardwil, who’s releasing his debut album Nothing But Time - a soulful, genre-blending record produced by 11-time Grammy winner Joe Chiccarelli. With tracks like “Wonder of It All,” Bardwil brings a reflective, heartfelt sound that’s clearly rooted in real experience. What makes his journey even more compelling is the path he took to get here. Before stepping into the studio, Steve spent over 20 years as chief counsel for Disney films, managing legal affairs for some of the biggest productions in Hollywood. But eventually, the pull of songwriting and storytelling took center stage. In this episode, we talk about the moment he knew it was time to leave the legal world behind, the process of creating his first album, and how an encounter with Jimmy Buffett inspired him to pursue his music career. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Goodpods⁠, or ⁠Spotify⁠! Connect with us on ⁠Facebook⁠ and ⁠X (Twitter)⁠. For the stories behind the songs, go to ⁠Songfacts.com⁠. Proud member of ⁠Pantheon Podcasts⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For our 5th Annual Holiday Episode, we’re keeping the festive spirit alive with a special treat for you. We’ve invited some of our friends from across the Pantheon Network to join the celebration and share their favorite holiday songs. From deep dives into rock history to quirky musical explorations, these podcasts each bring a unique perspective to the songs we love. You’ll hear from:  Play That Rock n’ Roll  What Difference Does It Make The Barenaked ABCs Podcast  I’m in Love with That Song Prisoners of Rock n Roll Get ready to discover some new holiday classics, learn the stories behind these cherished tracks, and maybe even find a fresh favorite for your playlist. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Goodpods, or Spotify! Connect with us on Facebook and X (Twitter). For the stories behind the songs, go to Songfacts.com. Proud member of Pantheon Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Noel Paul Stookey is a legendary figure in American folk music. As one-third of the iconic trio Peter, Paul, and Mary, Noel helped shape the soundtrack of the 1960s, delivering timeless hits like "Puff, the Magic Dragon" and "If I Had a Hammer." Beyond the trio, his solo career has been equally impactful, notably with "The Wedding Song (There Is Love)," a piece that has become a staple at countless ceremonies worldwide. In recent years, Noel has continued to innovate. His latest projects include "Neworld Sampler," a collection featuring collaborations with fellow artists, and "Fazz: Now & Then," an album blending folk and jazz elements—a style he's been cultivating for decades. In this episode, Noel also talks with us about the process of working on his memoir, which offers an intimate look into his life, music, and the social justice commitments that have defined his career. Join us as we delve into Noel's rich musical journey, his recent creative endeavors, and the stories behind the songs that have touched generations. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Goodpods, or Spotify! Connect with us on Facebook and X (Twitter). For the stories behind the songs, go to Songfacts.com. Proud member of Pantheon Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debora Iyall burst onto the post-punk music scene with her band Romeo Void's seminal hit, "Never Say Never," with her infectious and magnetic frontwoman energy. Debora’s powerful lyrics and distinct vocal style challenged conventions and gave voice to those who often went unheard in the post-punk scene of the early '80s.  But Debora’s journey as an artist didn’t stop with Romeo Void. She’s continued to create compelling work as a solo artist, blending her poetic roots and fearless authenticity into albums like Strange Language and projects such as Knife in Water and The Raton 3. Today, we dive into her creative process, talk about some of her most memorable songs, and explore the stories behind her lasting impact on both music and art. She also tell us about her early times in Romeo Void, why she's ultimately always considered herself a rock singer, her forthcoming memoir, and what's on the horizon for her. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Goodpods, or Spotify! Connect with us on Facebook and X (Twitter). For the stories behind the songs, go to Songfacts.com. Proud member of Pantheon Podcasts. Photo: Tony Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Singer/songwriter Danielia Cotton's new album Charley's Pride: A Tribute to Black Country Music, showcases her take on Charley Pride's songs as well as original material. Danielia is an acclaimed singer-songwriter whose music is a powerful blend of rock, blues, country, and soul. She was raised in the small town of Hopewell, N.J., and her journey as a musician began at an early age, heavily influenced by her jazz singer mother and the rich tapestry of gospel music that surrounded her. Danielia has carved out a unique space in the music world, resonating with audiences who are drawn to her authenticity and resilience. Her work often explores themes of identity, struggle, and empowerment, and she's known for her electrifying performances that leave a lasting impact. Throughout her career, Danielia has released albums that showcase her evolution as an artist and a storyteller. From the gritty rock anthems of her earlier work to the more introspective and personal tracks of her recent releases, her music is a testament to her journey and the experiences that have shaped her. Join us as we delve into her creative process, the stories behind her songs, and what's next for this extraordinary artist. Enjoying the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Goodpods, or Spotify! Connect with us on Facebook and X (Twitter). For the stories behind the songs, go to Songfacts.com. Proud member of Pantheon Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this interview, we sit down with the immensely talented Jumaane Smith, a celebrated trumpeter, pianist, and vocalist, to discuss his remarkable musical journey and the inspirations behind his latest work. We delve into the creative process of his forthcoming LP, "Come on Home." Jumaane shares insights from his years as Michael Bublé's lead trumpeter and his experiences performing with legends like Harry Connick Jr., and how collaborating with icons like Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder shaped his musical trajectory. Jumaane opens up about his early beginnings in music, the pivotal role of the trumpet in his life, and how music has been a life-saving force for him. Additionally, Jumaane talks about his work as a film composer, the challenges and rewards of live performances, and his favorite songs and covers. He provides valuable advice for aspiring musicians and hints at exciting upcoming projects and collaborations. Be sure to join us for this episode as we uncover the artistry, passion, and dedication that has driven Jumaane in his illustrious career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices