Advertise on podcast: Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

In this episode of Music Matters, host Darrell Craig Harris sits down for an engaging and insightful conversation with Dr. Janice McLean DeLoatch to discuss the mission of the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in Washington, D.C. Dr. Janice McLean DeLoatch is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurs and women in the entertainment industry. As an entrepreneur and songwriter herself, Janice realized that songwriter awards policies have barred women from achieving parity and recognition in comparison to male songwriters. The impact is many women in the music industry rarely achieving recognition or accolades. Thus, Janice created the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame to honor women whose work represents the heritage and legacy of the world's music songbook. She serves as the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman. www.womensongwritershalloffame.org www.Instagram.com/womensongwritershalloffame About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1,000,000 global downloads in 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer                

On this episode of the MusicMatters Podcast, host Darrell Craig Harris sits down with acclaimed guitarist, songwriter, and indie rock artist Ali Handal for an in-depth conversation on creativity, tone, and the modern music journey. Ali shares insights into her approach to songwriting, developing a signature guitar sound, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of the independent music scene. The discussion also dives into her work with Venus Guitars, exploring how the instrument you choose can shape your voice as an artist and influence your performance both in the studio and on stage. From touring experiences to artistic inspiration, this episode offers a candid look at what it takes to build a lasting career as a guitarist and songwriter in today's industry. Website www.alihandal.com www.instagram.com/alihandalmusic www.venus-guitars.com  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JG9RkDazTt64kyVpQDc5N?si=Hb_wHXEWSACf6voEc10shQ About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1,000,000 global downloads in 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer              

In this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we sit down with music industry powerhouse Laura B Whitmore founder of the She Rocks Awards, and Senior Marketing Director for Positive Grid. Laura is a highly respected marketing executive who has worked with some of the biggest brands in music. Laura shares her incredible journey through the music business, offering insight into what it takes to build a lasting career behind the scenes. We dive into her work supporting women in music, the impact of the She Rocks Awards, and how artists and industry professionals can position themselves for success in today's evolving landscape. From branding and marketing to navigating major industry shifts, this conversation is packed with valuable advice for musicians, creatives, and anyone looking to better understand the business side of music. • Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion with one of the most influential voices in the music industry today. www.thewimn.com (She Rocks Awards) www.positivegrid.com  www.Instagram.com/laurabwhitmore  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1,000,000 global downloads in 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer            

Indie artist Michael Isaak joins Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris to talk about his unique Arabesque folk sound, blending cultural influences with modern songwriting. In this episode, Michael shares insights into his musical journey, creative process, and how he developed a distinctive style that sets him apart in today's indie music scene. From inspiration to production, this is a must-listen for fans of indie, folk, and world-influenced music. Social Media www.Instagram.com/michaelisaakmusic Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey?si=e1mnhy_ZTxSF579uMLpWWg  Website www.MichaelIsaak.us  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

About our guests Jake and Shelby Jake & Shelby write songs about love in all its forms: falling in, falling out, chasing it, questioning it, and learning to let go. Their music blends the intimacy of heartfelt storytelling with the pull of hook-driven pop, layering rich harmonies over a sound that feels both organic and elevated. The duo began by sharing simple acoustic covers online, and what started as a creative experiment quickly turned into a global following. Today, they have surpassed 18 million streams and 1.6 million followers across all socials, with fans drawn to their emotional honesty, dynamic performances, and undeniable chemistry. jakeandshelby.komi.io www.instagram.com/jakeandshelbyofficial On Spoyify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0JdBmLuhVC8l8dE7f0rVjS?si=rQdFT_bhSOyXcFuvLsNp9w About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Music Matters host Darrell Craig Harris interviews The Builders and The Butchers frontman/lead vocalist Ryan Sollee from his home in Portland Oregon to talk about the bands new releases, upcoming shows, and more in this new interview! About the band  The Builders and the Butchers were formed in the fall of 2005 in Portland, Oregon. The band's first two years consisted of busking, playing house shows, and showing up unannounced anywhere around Portland where people were gathered. Folks began to take notice and the band transitioned slowly, going from playing on the floor of venues unplugged to gradually adding a mic here, an amp there, until they organically grew into one of the most exciting live acts in the Pacific Northwest. Even when plugged in, a cornerstone of almost every builders show is playing on the floor at some point during the set. Touring relentlessly from 2007-2012 The Builders gathered a cult dedicated fan base across the US and Europe. Playing dozens of music festivals like Sasquatch and Lollapalooza, as well as supporting artists like Portugal. The Man, Amanda Palmer, Murder By Death, and Heartless Bastards. Website www.TheBuildersAndTheButchers.com Social media www.Instagram.com/thebuildersandthebutchers  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fwCB7lIrdjKWiFN4vz99j?si=M9kPfkDgTQqviA0ihXYe5g About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Popular “Garage Country” singer-songwriter Aubrie Sellers joins Music Matters host Darrell Craig Harris for an engaging conversation about her new single and upcoming album Attachment Theory in this fun new episode! About Aubrie Sellers  "I feel like I'm film in a digital world," says 27-year-old singer-songwriter Aubrie Sellers. "There are so many slick, clean-sounding records that are designed for quick consumption, but that's not me. I make dirty, grungy-sounding records, and the emotions spill all over the place. They're messy at times, but I find beauty in that." For anybody who's ever felt as if they didn't quite fit in, Sellers' masterful second album, Far From Home, the follow-up to her sensational debut, New City Blues, is essential listening. Sonically, it's a sweeping, epic vision made manifest in crushing, amp-busting guitar rock - Sellers once dubbed this sound "garage country" - and delicate yet shattering widescreen ballads that form compelling frameworks for her angelic voice to take flight. One might assume that such fulsome musical expressions could only come from a grand extrovert, but Sellers reveals the deep-seated anxieties that lie beneath the surface - and how writing the album proved cathartic. Website www.AubrieSellers.com Social Media www.instagram.com/aubriesellers  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/27IiEYV6p8fs5j8n39Pk1u?si=2TaaaVWpTi2p29BoQ3A4NQ About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

In this episode of Music Matters, host Darrell Craig Harris sits down with Mr. Lordi, the iconic frontman of Finland's Eurovision-winning rock band LORDI, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their historic Eurovision victory. Mr. Lordi takes us behind the scenes of LORD's groundbreaking 2006 win with "Hard Rock Hallelujah," a moment that changed the trajectory of hard rock on a global stage and made Eurovision history. From the band's signature monster personas and theatrical stage production to their lasting impact on international rock culture, this conversation dives deep into what makes LORDI truly unique. We also explore the band's evolution over the past two decades, the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a larger-than-life identity, and what's next for LORDI as they continue to tour and release new music. If you're a fan of LORDI, Eurovision, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Website www.LORDI.fi Social www.Instagram.com/lordiofficial About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Long recognized as one of the most thrilling and thoughtful guitarists of his generation, Matthew Stevens has built an elite reputation in music, touring, and recording with a "who's who" of modern icons, including Esperanza Spalding, Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah, Harvey Mason, and Walter Smith Ill. He has also made a splash outside of jazz, having produced the tribute album I Am A Pilgrim - Doc Watson at 100, featuring artists such as Valerie June, Steve Earle, Nora Brown, and Dolly Parton (Stevens produced Parton's version of "The Last Thing on My Mind," which earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Solo Performance in 2024). A culmination of 20 years of craft, the eponymous album serves as a mid-career mission statement with Stevens stepping into the spotlight. Co-produced by Stevens, saxophonist Josh Johnson, and percussionist Eric Doob, the record seamlessly melds acoustic and electric sonics through a mix of genre-blurring originals and deeply personal covers. It features a multigenerational cast of musicians who have had a profound impact on Stevens' journey, including rising visionaries like vibraphonist Joel Ross and vocalists Anna B Savage and Corey King, in addition to his mentor Terri Lyne Carrington and personal guitar hero Jeff Parker. At the album's core is a band of his most trusted collaborators, which also includes keyboardist Chris Fishman and bassist Kyle Miles, with additional contributions from percussionist Paulo Stagnaro and guitarists Dylan Day and Rich Hinman on slide and pedal steel. Matthew Stevens reflects a period of profound personal and artistic change, ultimately bringing him to "a place of optimism, excitement, and confidence" that signals a bold new chapter for one of jazz's most essential voices and respected players. website www.mattstevens.com www.instagram.com/matthewthomaswyatt  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/7z1PSpsIyAeniOOtaQ1iYa?si=cS9P53EIR46Qs9X4YvAd-g About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

ARKAI is a GRAMMY® award-winning electroacoustic duo that has captivated audiences around the world with their creative imagination and cutting-edge string music. Graduates of the famed Juilliard School, ARKAl's signature sound has led them to hundreds of shows around the world that include esteemed performances at GRAMMYs On The Hill and Carnegie Hall, opening for GRAMMY and Oscar-winning musician Jon Batiste, and joint recording projects like ICARUS - Orchestral Version with piano sensation Tony Ann and Decca Records. They recently opened and performed with Ann at the legendary Troubadour club in LA for back to back sold out shows. As songwriters & performers, their creative versatility has led to collaborations with GRAMMY-award winning music producers, Hollywood trailer houses, Cirque du Soleil acrobats and olympic gymnasts, contemporary dance companies, chart-topping musicians, and full-scale symphony orchestras. ARKAl's sophomore album, Brightside, was released in 2025, created in collaboration with producers Jonas W. Karlsson, Donny Bravo, and Charlie Heat. ARKAl is a voting member of the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs). www.ArkaiMusic.com  www.Instagram.com/arkaimusic  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/2uKlHTuXAa9qacjncF1s4L?si=n7zTjY1bTzKwjLfdFaCeGg About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Breakout indie artist BMT joins the show to talk about her viral single "Vertigo," the song that's capturing attention across the indie music scene. Known for blending vintage aesthetics with a modern pop edge and a touch of rockabilly flair, BMT brings a unique artistic voice that's quickly turning heads. In this episode, BMT shares the story behind "Vertigo," the inspiration that shaped the song, and how her Indiana roots and creative influences helped define her sound. We also discuss her journey as an emerging artist, the process of building momentum in today's music industry, and what fans can expect next. If you love discovering new music and hearing the stories behind breakout songs, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow BMT and listen to "Vertigo" wherever you stream music. links www.Instagram.com/theofficialbmt www.tiktok.com/theofficialbmt  Spotify  https://open.spotify.com/track/6ca1nlWW5r29k5NHEYKNNB?si=2aa48a33142c47f9  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

In this episode of Music Matters, we dive into how Indie X is reshaping the landscape for independent artists. In an industry that often feels stacked against creatives, Indie X is building new pathways for visibility, opportunity, and career growth. We explore how the platform supports emerging musicians, filmmakers, and content creators - from exposure and community to meaningful industry connections. If you're an independent artist looking to cut through the noise, this conversation highlights real solutions designed to help you thrive in today's evolving music business. Whether you're a songwriter, producer, performer, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights on how platforms like Indie X are helping level the playing field. website www.IndieX.com Follow Indie X on social media @indieXOfficial  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Veteran New York singer/songwriter George Usher returns to action with a new album that's been some 30 years in the making, Stevensonville. Twelve original songs, each about a citizen of the fictional town of the album is named for. Each is accompanied by a full color illustration and lyrics collected in a 12" x 12" 28-page booklet. This is a limited edition, individually numbered 12" LP vinyl pressing of 200, being released March 20 by Strothard Bulldog Productions. Stevensonville is a 12-part illustrated song-cycle that delves into the myriad goings on in its namesake locale. Each song and illustration represents a different inhabitant of Stevensonville. They sometimes reference each other in the manner of Edgar Lee Masters' Spoon River Anthology or Thornton Wilder's Our Town. The characters who people dark, repressed Stevensonville have their own very unusual and pressing issues to cope with, before they can gamble on leaving. George Usher's poetic lyrics and folk-rock and chamber pop musical settings combine with Laurie Webber's colorful, magnetic illustrations for a stunning, unique presentation. Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/0t2r3lAo89AALlzzvpmwwr?si=vdtz4wXLRKWdGjaX3IThsg social media www.Instagram.com/george.usher About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Tenille Townes is a two-time JUNO Award and 17-time CCMA Award-winning artist whose heartfelt storytelling and soulful vocals have earned her international acclaim. She's toured alongside icons including Stevie Nicks, Shania Twain, George Strait, and Miranda Lambert, and became the first female artist in Mediabase Canada history to score two No. 1 singles. With global tours across Europe, the UK, and North America, Townes continues to connect deeply through her introspective songwriting and powerful live performances. www.TenilleTownes.com  www.Instagram.com/tenilletownes  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer          

Laura Pochodylo is a music industry professional based in Nashville, Tennessee. She currently works with Sun Records, the historic American label known for launching legendary artists like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. She serves as a Marketing Manager for Sun Records, where her work focuses on revitalizing the label's presence, planning catalog releases, and shaping how the company connects with both longtime fans and new audiences. Founded in 1952 in Memphis, Tennessee by producer Sam Phillips, Sun Records is widely regarded as the birthplace of rock and roll. Phillips set out to capture the raw, emotional sound of Southern blues, gospel, and country music, recording artists with a stripped-down, energetic style that became the label's signature. Sun helped launch the careers of legendary artists including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins, shaping the sound of modern popular music. Today, Sun Records remains an active label while preserving its iconic legacy. The original recording space, now known as Sun Studio, is a historic landmark and major tourist destination in Memphis. Through catalog reissues, vinyl releases, and carefully selected contemporary artists, Sun continues to celebrate its heritage while influencing new generations of musicians inspired by its groundbreaking sound. www.sunrecords.com About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer