
Advertise on podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
Rating
5from
This podcast has
135 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Backstage Pass RadioExplicit
No
Date created
2021/03/30
Latest episode
2026/01/21
Average duration
80 min.
Release period
17 days
Description
A podcast created to showcase local/national/ and world-renowned musicians, resellers, and manufacturers on what is new and exciting as it relates to past and current projects. A podcast by the artist...for the artists!
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Check latest episodes from Backstage Pass Radio podcast
S10: E2: Earl Slick (David Bowie / John Lennon) - The Six String Saga
2026/01/21
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: January 21, 2026
Name of Podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S10: E2: Earl Slick (David Bowie / John Lennon) - The Six String Saga
SHOW SUMMARY:
The guitar can talk if you let it. That’s the lesson Earl Slick brings to the table—equal parts groove, grit, and a sharp sense of what a song really needs. We sat down to trace his path from Little League dreams to stages with David Bowie and John Lennon, and the result is a candid masterclass on rhythm, taste, and integrity. He doesn’t chase trends or pedals; he chases feel. He’ll tell you why the best job in rock might be the sideman who keeps the front person free, and how a two-bar hook can make a track immortal.
We dive into the sessions that defined him. With Bowie, Slick had full creative trust and learned to build parts that breathe—signature licks, precise space, and a stage sense that let the star step back when needed. With Lennon, he was the “wild card,” the street player alongside seasoned readers, there to inject heart. He unpacks tone philosophy in plain terms: light bodies for resonance, Telecasters kept honest, Gibson acoustics that bloom, fuzz as spice, and a pedalboard that leaves plenty to your hands. It’s practical wisdom for players at any level, from studio pros to weekend warriors.
Slick doesn’t dodge the hard stuff. He talks about anxiety, isolation off the road, and the healing power of telling the truth. His definition of success is refreshingly simple: play the guitar, take care of your family, pay the mortgage, and sleep at night. We explore his Slick guitar line—lighter builds, quality hardware, workable prices—and his advice for the next generation: get in a room with a drummer and bass player, let the first take speak, and don’t mistake social media for a career. There’s new music, a heartfelt David Johansen tribute, and studio experiments on the horizon, all grounded in the same ethic: rhythm first, ego last.
If you love real stories from the engine room of rock—Bowie, Lennon, hooks that stick, tone that breathes—this conversation will stay with you. Subscribe, share with a musician friend, and leave a review to keep these deep dives coming. What’s the riff that made you fall in love with the guitar? Tell us.
Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
https://www.facebook.com/EarlSlickOfficial/
https://www.instagram.com/earlslick_official/
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S10: E1: Austin Ingerman (Gunshine) - Firepower in the Sunshine State
2026/01/07
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: January 7, 2026
Name of Podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S10: E1: Austin Ingerman (Gunshine) - Gunshine From Sunshine State
SHOW SUMMARY:
Big riffs, big hooks, zero apologies. That’s the energy we chase with guitarist and songwriter Austin Ingerman of Gunshine, a Florida-born player who balances swagger with sharp songcraft. From Daytona beginnings to LA’s Musicians Institute and arena tours as a hired gun, Austin shares how those miles shaped a band built for choruses you can shout and guitars that actually feel dangerous again.
We talk origin stories the honest way: how a pandemic pause pushed Austin home, how early tracks came together before a singer was even in the room, and why the search for a voice with an X factor took years. When Jordan walked in from a dueling-piano bar, the chemistry clicked fast. The result is Gunshine’s “swampy” identity—Southern edge, modern punch—rooted in influences like Boston, Def Leppard, AC/DC, and a touch of early GNR. The name Gunshine nods to Florida’s nickname and the band’s sunburned grit, not a retro costume.
Songwriting sits at the center. Austin often starts with melodies and riffs captured on voice memos, while Jordan brings a Nashville-honed lyric lens and the number system to keep structures tidy. We break down “Bayou,” which began as Jordan’s country-leaning sketch and morphed into a layered modern rocker with a ramping chorus. The home-studio pipeline is real: tracks built in Austin’s space, files shipped to Chris Collier for mix and master, and a sound that still hits like a room full of amps. Theory helps in the background—tension, resolution, the occasional Mixolydian wink—but the rule is feel first.
Grand Rising, a 13-song album, arrives with more colors: piano textures, heavier corners, and a stealth seven-string thickening the choruses without stealing the spotlight. We dig into touring momentum after a successful run through venues like the Whisky and Sturgis, plus the realities of booking while transitioning agencies. Austin’s parting wisdom is pure working-musician truth: pick one job a day, finish it well, and let the songs lead everything else.
If you crave straight-ahead rock with big melodies and no filler, hit play, follow Gunshine on socials, and watch for the first single on January 23. Enjoy the conversation, then subscribe, share, and leave a quick review so more rock fans can find the show.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
www.gunshineband.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E11: Kendall Beard (Love & Chaos) - When Grit Meets Grace
2025/12/17
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: December 17, 2025
Name of Podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E11: Kendall Beard (Love & Chaos) - When Grit Meets Grace
SHOW SUMMARY:
The story starts on Texas backroads and winds through Opry houses, a teen pop deal, and a reality TV spotlight before landing in an Austin room where sparks fly. Kendall Beard joins us to share how that winding path led to Love & Chaos, her electrifying duo with AJ Vallejo, and why the most interesting music often lives between labels.
We dig into the early hustle—weekend shows, VHS audition tapes, and a family that said yes when the dream demanded long drives. Kendall opens up about the label collapse around the Napster era, stepping back for college, and a detour into the business side that confirmed she needed to be on the creative front lines. You’ll hear a candid look at American Idol’s true timeline, the contract strings that stall momentum, and the unexpected upside: a loyal Texas fan base and new doors for songwriting and production.
Then the chemistry kicks in. A one-off duet with AJ turns into Love & Chaos, a project where country storytelling collides with rock muscle and a hint of Latin rhythm. We trace their four-year Saxon Pub residency, the craft behind their live duo setup with a suitcase kick drum, and the evolution of Rather Be Alone from sprawling art piece to tight radio edit without losing its pulse. Kendall breaks down their writing process—sometimes 50–50, sometimes whoever has the spark—and why inspiration shows up on runs, in dreams, and in those moments when life refuses to sit still. She also talks about balancing motherhood with touring, choosing fewer but more meaningful shows, and what’s next: a Texas radio tour, new singles, sessions at AJ’s new studio in Gruene, and fresh solo writing.
If you love Americana’s open borders, Texas grit, and songs built to breathe on stage, this conversation delivers. Follow Love & Chaos, spin the new single, and tell us which track caught you by surprise. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more music fans find us.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
www.loveandchaosmusic.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E10: dUg Pinnick (Kings X / Grinder Blues) Motown Roots to Metal Truths
2025/11/26
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: November 26, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E10: dUg Pinnick (Kings X / Grinder Blues) Motown Roots to Metal Truths
SHOW SUMMARY:
A voice that can shake a room and a bass tone you can feel in your ribs—dUg Pinnick of King’s X joins us for a candid, wide-open conversation about art, survival, and building a sound that refuses the mold. From a childhood spent glued to record players to the thunder of Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, dUg traces how Motown roots and gospel grit fused with heavy riffs to form the King’s X blueprint. We talk about the business as he’s lived it—70 years of evolution and disruption—why validation culture can starve the soul, and how a band can stay small on charts yet massive in people’s lives.
dUg breaks down his uniquely architectural approach to writing: drum groove first, guitars and bass next, and lyrics last, pulled straight from lived emotion. He opens the hood on tone design, too—signal splitting for grit and chime, frequency carving that lets bass feel huge without drowning guitars, and why a 12‑string bass keeps his hands honest. We revisit the Dogman era with producer Brendan O’Brien, tuning choices that made the record hit like their live show, and the stubborn love that fuels a cult following decade after decade.
There’s warmth and wit here—AC/DC dinner stories, the joy of seeing U2 at the Rose Bowl, and the humility of knowing fans bring their own history to every chorus. dUg shares what’s next: final tweaks on his solo record, the spark of a rock-and-roll cooking show, and a stack of ideas ready for the next King’s X chapter. If you care about songwriting, bass tone, heavy music history, or simply staying true when trends shift, this conversation delivers depth you can use and heart you can feel.
If this moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more music fans can find it.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
www.kingsxrocks.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E9: Annika Catharina - Finding A Voice After The Fall
2025/11/05
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: November 5, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E9: Annika Catharina - Finding A Voice After The Fall
SHOW SUMMARY:
The high you chase onstage feels different after you’ve had to fight for your voice. That’s where our conversation with Canadian country artist Annika Catharina begins: a moped crash in Southeast Asia, a shattered jaw, months of silence, and a slow, stubborn climb back to singing. What could have ended a dream turned into perspective that colors every line she writes and every chorus she belts.
We walk through Annika’s roots on a BC farm—sports teams, family skits, and a house filled with Elton John and classic rock—then hit the turning point: discovering Patsy Cline’s delivery before she even called it “country.” From there, the sound evolved. Indie and alt-rock influences blend with modern Nashville polish, giving her debut EP, You and Me, a clean, hook-forward lift. She breaks down her hybrid writing process—ideas alone, voice memos and simple chords, then co-writes that unlock angles she’d never find solo. And we go deep on Love and Hate: the reality-TV spark, the teenage push-pull energy, the producers who heard a hit in a bare demo, and the radio momentum that followed.
Annika also shares how national recognition changed the game. As a Top 8 artist in SiriusXM’s Top of the Country, she recorded at Bryan Adams’ Vancouver studio, shot a pro performance video, and saw doors swing open across Canada. She lights up describing the first time a friend texted “You’re on the radio,” and the community pride that came with it. Then we look ahead: Undercovers, the new single Better Hands that finally lets her sing about the love she’s living, and the next era of confident, sassy, stage-ready tracks. There’s a dream stage, too—Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom on February 14—proof that the grind, the gut checks, and the gratitude are paying off.
If you love country storytelling with a modern edge, honest lyrics, and choruses that land clean, you’ll connect with Annika’s journey. Hit play, save your favorite song, and tell us which lyric hit hardest. And if you’re feeling the show, subscribe, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder to keep going.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
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WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
www.annikacatharina.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E8: Jim Odom (LeRoux) - The Presonus Matermind
2025/10/22
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: October 18, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E8: Jim Odom (LeRoux) - The Presonus Matermind
SHOW SUMMARY:
Ever wonder how a touring guitarist becomes a tech founder, sells to Fender, then jumps right back into producing records? That’s the arc we trace with Jim Odom—guitarist for Louisiana’s LeRoux and co‑founder of Presonus—who opens up about the craft of recording, the grit of the Gulf Coast scene, and the magic that only happens when players share a room and a downbeat.
We dig into the making of a new album with blues powerhouse Jonathan “Boogie” Long, why Jim still chases the sound of a real console, and how a smart session band can lift a song in a single take. Jim pulls back the curtain on Studio One’s origins, the rocket ride of a NAMM breakthrough, and the decision to sell Presonus to Fender after years of global growth. The stories stretch from pine‑lined Studio in the Country, where Kansas and Dirty Dancing cuts took shape, to present‑day plans with Miracle Media, his label focused on honest performances and songs built to last.
LeRoux fans get a feast: memories of Jeff Pollard’s soaring voice, Fergie Frederiksen’s effortless high notes, and the late Tony Haselden’s razor-sharp lyrics. Jim teases a vintage live release from the late 70s, and shares why the band is refreshing its show toward the rock energy of Up and So Fired Up with current singer Jeff McCarty. We also wade into AI’s impact on music—training on copyrighted catalogs, the uncanny feel of generated tracks, and why listeners will keep seeking the human touch in phrasing, tone, and time.
If you love the crossroads where songwriting, recording, and innovation meet, you’ll feel right at home. Tap play, follow LeRoux on Facebook and www.leroux.band, and if the conversation hits a chord, share it with a friend and leave a quick review—what LeRoux era do you want to hear live next?
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
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WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
www.leroux.band
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
Support the show
S9: E7 - Russ DeLeon (Miracles / Double Vision) - Sticks & Kicks
2025/10/01
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: October 3, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E7 - Russ DeLeon - Sticks & Kicks
SHOW SUMMARY:
The visual timekeeper sits back on his throne, reflecting on a life measured in beats, fills, and grooves. "Every show I ask myself what am I doing?" confesses Russ DeLeon, drummer for tribute bands Double Vision and Miracles. "I should be at home, but after we play—oh yeah, it was great."
This profound duality defines Russ' musical journey, which began in Houston's Northside neighborhoods, where his siblings brought home Led Zeppelin and Kiss albums that sparked his percussion passion. From witnessing Metallica's Kill 'Em All tour at legendary Cardi's to joining metal band Hellstar and touring Europe where they "treated us like rock stars," Russ' story traverses four decades of Houston's vibrant music scene.
With refreshing candor, Russ discusses the physical demands of drumming at 56, the surprising joy of performing drum solos he once dismissed, and the technological evolution that's transformed how musicians learn. "Kids these days have it made," he observes. "You can see a 10-year-old that is so awesome." Yet there's wisdom in his approach to balancing music with family life—returning home from tours to take out garbage and walking the dogs with his supportive wife Shelly, who surprises him with personalized drumsticks and understands his need to perform.
Now splitting his time between Double Vision (Foreigner tribute) and the newer Miracles (Jefferson Starship tribute), Russ finds renewed purpose in each performance. "We're getting older, let's keep jamming as much as we can," his bandmate reminds him—words that resonate with musicians everywhere who refuse to set down their instruments despite life's mounting responsibilities. Because when that final cymbal crash fades and the crowd roars, the answer to "why keep doing this?" becomes crystal clear.
Tune in for an intimate conversation about perseverance, passion, and finding balance between the spotlight and everyday life. The beat goes on—and so does Russ De Leon.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/russell.shelley.deleon
Miracles - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557569377448
Double Vision HTX - https://www.facebook.com/doublevisionhtx
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E6: Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns & Roses, Sons of Apollo, Art of Anarchy) - Guitar Wizardry Unleashed
2025/09/17
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: September 17, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E6: Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns & Roses, Asia, Sons of Apollo, Art of Anarchy) - Guitar Wizardry Unleashed
SHOW SUMMARY:
Guitar virtuoso Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal takes us behind the curtain of his creative process, sharing the fascinating story of his latest instrumental album "Bumblefoot Returns" and the innovative techniques that have defined his distinctive sound. Released in January 2024, this album marks his first fully instrumental release since his 1995 debut and features collaborations with legendary musicians including Brian May of Queen, Steve Vai, and Guthrie Govan.
The conversation delves deep into Bumblefoot's journey with the fretless guitar – an instrument he describes as "learning a different language" that transformed his approach to melody and expression. He reveals the origin of his signature metal thimble technique, which allows him to access notes beyond the traditional fretboard limitations. These innovations began when a 12-year-old Ron first heard Eddie Van Halen and realized "there are no limits to how you could make a string vibrate and make it speak."
Beyond his musical innovations, Bumblefoot shares insights into the challenges facing touring musicians today, where merch sales and direct fan support have become essential for survival. He's found creative ways to make his album release an event rather than just another digital drop – offering vinyl with special artwork, CDs with fold-out posters, cassettes, transcription books with backing tracks, and even a free retro video game based on the album's artwork.
The conversation takes unexpected turns as Bumblefoot discusses his award-winning hot sauce line, including the infamous "Bumblefucked" – once ranked the third hottest sauce in the world at 4-6 million Scoville units. He hints at plans for new hot sauce flavors named after songs from his album and a forthcoming comic book project that will bring the album's artwork to life in new ways.
For aspiring musicians and longtime fans alike, Bumblefoot's passion for experimentation and artistic growth shines through every story. Whether he's discussing his upcoming performance at a festival in Jakarta or his role as a counselor at Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp, his enthusiasm for connecting with other musicians and fans remains as vibrant as his innovative playing style. Tune in for a master class in creative thinking from one of guitar's most original voices.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.bumblefoot.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E5: Little Bihlman (John Fogerty, Jelly Roll, GrinderBlues) - Sonic Evolution
2025/09/03
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: September 3, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E5: Little Bihlman (John Fogerty, Jelly Roll, Grinder Blues) - Sonic Evolution
SHOW SUMMARY:
Ever wonder what happens when a multi-instrumentalist with four Emmy Awards decides to channel Pink Floyd through a modern rock lens? Little Bihlman's upcoming album "Heavy Head" answers that question with authority.
Returning to Backstage Pass Radio, Little Bihlman shares the creative journey behind his darkest, most ambitious record to date. Having toured and recorded with legends spanning from BB King to Ted Nugent, Hank Williams Jr. to Jelly Roll, and even Pink, Little Bihlman brings decades of musical expertise to this Floyd-influenced collection. "I'm a rocker," he admits, despite his versatility across blues, country, and other genres.
The conversation takes us deep into the making of "Heavy Head," set for release through V13 Music with its first single dropping August 8th. Little Bihlman previews "Fade Away," a straight-ahead rocker featuring guitar work from Shrapnel Records founder Mike Varney, while explaining why his favorite track remains the Floyd-esque title song. For an artist who's played countless sessions and toured extensively, this record represents a personal milestone—one where he follows his "goosebumps" rather than chasing trends.
Beyond music, Little Bihlman reveals his recent role as a mobster in the upcoming Nicolas Cage film "Spider-Man Noir" and discusses his forthcoming memoir. He offers candid insights about the modern music industry, advocating for independent approaches over traditional record deals unless "they're gonna blow you out." It's a masterclass in artistic sustainability from someone who's survived and thrived across decades of industry changes.
Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, Little Bihlman's blend of technical prowess, storytelling, and authentic rock energy promises something special with "Heavy Head." Follow him on Instagram and Facebook, or visit scottbihlman.com to stay updated on release dates, tour information, and merchandise availability. Ready to hear what happens when classic influences meet modern production? This is your invitation.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.scotbihlman.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E4: Lee Newton - Standing in the Circle
2025/08/20
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: August 20, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E4: Lee Newton- Standing in the Circle
SHOW SUMMARY:
When Lee Newton's father told his young daughter she would one day stand on the Grand Ole Opry stage while he watched from the front row, neither could have imagined how prophetically those words would manifest. Fast forward decades later to Lee performing her song "Carolina" at the Opry House with her father's cab driver hat placed on the microphone stand and an empty seat in the front row – a powerful full-circle moment that exemplifies her extraordinary journey.
The North Carolina native's path to musical success has been anything but conventional. Growing up in "Paper Town, USA" with limited resources, Lee found early musical inspiration riding in her father's taxi cab where he'd play guitar between fares. Despite facing poverty, family struggles, and eventually escaping domestic violence with her young son on her hip, Lee's resilience never wavered. Just four and a half years ago, she restarted her musical career from nothing – no money, no connections, just raw talent and unwavering determination.
What she's accomplished in that short time defies typical industry trajectories. Lee has opened for country legends like Randy Travis, Ronnie Millsap, and Gene Watson. Her albums feature collaborations with Pam Tillis, Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys, T. Graham Brown, and Rhonda Vincent – established artists who embraced her as a peer rather than a newcomer. As an independent artist handling her own management and promotion, she's earned multiple prestigious awards, including Traditional Country Artist of the Year at the Josie Awards and Entertainer of the Year from the International Singer-Songwriting Association.
Beyond her musical achievements, Lee's story resonates because of her authenticity and heart. Her song "Strength of a Woman" has inspired nearly 60,000 TikTok videos from people sharing their own stories of overcoming adversity. Between recording sessions for her upcoming album featuring Georgette Jones, she prioritizes being "that mom" who attends school lunches and field trips with her nine-year-old son, and dedicates time to benefit concerts for causes close to her heart.
Discover more about this remarkable artist's journey and music at leenewtonofficial.com and follow her on all social media platforms to stay updated on upcoming performances and releases.
Sponsor Link:
WWW.ECOTRIC.COM
WWW.SIGNAD.COM
WWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COM
Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.leenewtonmusic.com
Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.
Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E3: Rod Roddy (LeRoux)- The Cajun Swampers
2025/08/06
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: August 6, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E3: Rod Roddy (LeRoux)- The Cajun Swampers
SHOW SUMMARY:
Pull up a chair on the bayou as Rod Roddy, founding member and keyboard master of Louisiana rock legends LeRoux, opens his home and memory vault for an intimate conversation about a musical journey spanning five decades.
The humble piano player whose band earned the nickname "The Steely Dan of the South" takes us from his earliest days learning to play by ear to touring alongside rock royalty like Journey and Kansas. With characteristic Cajun warmth, Roddy reveals how LeRoux evolved from local favorites playing cover tunes to acclaimed recording artists and the house band at the legendary Studio in the Country in Bogalusa.
In a poignant reflection on bandmates and friends, Roddy shares the spiritual awakening that led vocalist Jeff Pollard to walk away at the height of the band's success, and honors the recent losses of founding members Leon Medica and Tony Haselden. Through tales of their commercial breakthrough with "So Fired Up" and their 2020 return to their funkier roots on "One of Those Days," Roddy paints a vivid portrait of a band whose sound embodied Louisiana's rich musical gumbo.
Perhaps most moving is Roddy's vulnerability when discussing the hearing issues that have changed his relationship with music, and his philosophical approach to LeRoux's uncertain future. "When we get together on stage, it's magic," he muses, "and we miss that part of it." For fans of regional rock history, studio musicianship, or anyone who's ever been moved by "New Orleans Ladies," this conversation offers rare insights into the creative spirit that kept LeRoux's musical flame burning for over four decades.
Check out LeRoux's music and follow their journey at www.larueband.com as they determine what the next chapter holds for this beloved Southern rock institution.
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Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.leroux.band
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/louisianasleroux
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S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville
2025/07/23
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: July 23, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville
SHOW SUMMARY:
What does it take to stand out in the crowded Nashville music scene? For Mary Kutter, it's about being the splash of red paint on a wall of white—creating music that cuts through the noise with authenticity and purpose.
Born and raised just outside the Bourbon Capital of the World in Springfield, Kentucky, Mary's journey to Nashville began with an unexpected opportunity hosting a radio variety show. This serendipitous break led to a life-changing connection with legendary songwriter Kim Williams, who recognized something special in the young artist and opened doors that would transform her career. As Mary shares, "That job offer changed my life."
When the pandemic shut down the music industry in 2020, Mary faced a pivotal moment. Rather than stepping back, she doubled down on her craft, writing seven days a week, two to three sessions daily, for nearly two years straight. This relentless work ethic yielded her first gold record and substantial placements in movies and commercials—all created through Zoom sessions with collaborators she couldn't meet in person.
What truly distinguishes Mary's artistry is her willingness to explore complex, personal narratives. Her viral hit "Devil Wore a Lab Coat" confronts the pharmaceutical industry's role in the opioid epidemic that devastated her Kentucky hometown. "Devil's Money" tells the remarkable true story of her bootlegger great-grandfather who used his illicit earnings to build a church. These songs resonate deeply because they speak truth, regardless of commercial appeal.
From unexpected collaborations with rapper Project Pat to her disciplined creative routine beginning at 5 AM daily, Mary embodies the modern artist who forges her own path. Her approach to songwriting combines raw authenticity with strategic savvy, sharing snippets on social media that connect so deeply with fans they're singing unreleased verses at her shows.
As Mary prepares for headline performances, festival appearances, and new music releases, her advice to aspiring artists remains straightforward: "Put your blinders on and keep the pedal down." Through every challenge and triumph, she's remained true to herself—creating music that matters and leaving an indelible mark on the Nashville landscape, one honest song at a time.
Subscribe now to hear more compelling stories from artists who are redefining the boundaries of their craft and building careers on their own terms.
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Instagram - @marykutter
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mary.kutter
Web - www.marykutter.com
Call to action
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Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S9: E1: Kristen Kelly - Silence Finds Its Voice
2025/07/09
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: July 9, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E1: Kristen Kelly - Silence Finds Its Voice
SHOW SUMMARY:
Meet Kristen Kelly, the knife-carrying Texas singer-songwriter whose journey from small-town volleyball player to Nashville recording artist defies all expectations. In this raw and revealing conversation, Kristen takes us behind the music to share the remarkable story that shaped both her life and artistry.
Growing up on 10 acres in Lorena, Texas, with a musical family heritage including her grandfather Sterling Kelly (a country singer-songwriter), Kristen first found her way to music through an unexpected opportunity while bartending during college. What followed was a winding path through the Texas music scene that eventually led to a Sony Nashville record deal in 2011, touring alongside legends like Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley, and Alan Jackson.
Kristen courageously shares her experience as a child sexual abuse survivor, revealing how writing poetry to process her trauma ultimately transformed into songwriting that connected with audiences. This healing journey has inspired not only her music but also her advocacy work through her restaurant Storyville Texas and her newly launched podcast "Something We're Saying," where she creates space for others to share their truths.
Music aficionados will appreciate the behind-the-scenes stories of co-writing the Texas chart-topper "Down in Flames" with Brandon Jenkins and Stoney LaRue, working with legendary songwriter Paul Overstreet, and the 12-year journey to finally release her complete "Warrior" album that Sony had shelved. Kristen also reveals exciting news about her upcoming live album recorded at the Floribama and her song "Drink Myself Out Of Love With You" impacting Texas radio.
Through every high and low, Kristen demonstrates what it means to lead with love and find purpose through pain. Subscribe to hear more conversations that illuminate the human experience through the power of music and storytelling.
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Instagram - @kristenkellymusic
Facebook - @kristenkellymusic
Web - www.kristenkellymusic.com
Call to action
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Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
S8: E10: Rikki Rockett (Poison) - Greatest Hits and Hardest Battles
2025/06/25
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: June 35, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E10: Rikki Rockett (Poison) - Greatest Hits and Hardest Battles
SHOW SUMMARY:
What happens when death stares you in the face, and you not only survive but thrive? Rikki Rockett, the original drummer of hair metal legends Poison, takes us on an extraordinary journey through his remarkable life both on and off the stage in this candid conversation.
With disarming honesty, Rikki shares the terrifying moment when what seemed like a simple sore throat turned into a stage four cancer diagnosis with just a 10% chance of survival. His miraculous recovery through an innovative immunotherapy clinical trial not only saved his life but also transformed his perspective completely. "You can have 99 problems, but if you have a medical problem, you got one," he reflects, explaining how facing mortality taught him to value time above all else.
Long before his health battle, Rikki's musical journey began in Pennsylvania with a $50 drum set and dreams of rock stardom. He takes us through Poison's early days hustling on the Sunset Strip, revealing the ingenious guerrilla marketing tactics they employed—from personally thanking fans at venue exits to strategically writing about themselves in club bathrooms. These authentic connections helped Poison stand apart in the overcrowded LA scene of the 1980s.
Beyond his rock credentials, Rikki unveils his fascinating life as a fourth-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and paranormal investigator. His approach to urban legends and ghost hunting reflects his thoughtful nature, seeking the historical facts behind myths before exploring any supernatural elements. "I think 98% of it is BS, but that 2% is truly amazing," he explains, showing the same curiosity that's driven his diverse passions.
Looking ahead to Poison's 40th anniversary in 2026, Rikki shares plans for a major tour with all original members intact—a remarkable achievement in the often-fractured world of rock bands. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering his story for the first time, Rikki Rockett's tale of resilience, creativity, and constant reinvention will inspire you to approach life's challenges with both determination and wonder.
Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Instagram - @rikkirockett
Facebook - @thereallrikkirockett
Youtube - @theposiondrummer
Call to action
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Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio
Your Host,
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S8: E9: Liz Spencer - From Silence to Stage
2025/06/11
Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!
Date: June 11, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E9: Liz Spencer - From Silence to Stage
SHOW SUMMARY:
"My ability in music kind of made me stand out," reveals singer-songwriter Liz Spencer in this candid conversation about finding her musical identity. From playing melodies by ear on a toy piano at age four to becoming a full-time musician after a decade-long silence, Spencer's journey is both heartbreaking and triumphant.
The New England-based artist shares how cancer and the loss of her best friend silenced her creative voice for ten years until an unexpected connection with actor C. Thomas Howell reignited her passion through acting lessons that transferred to music. "Once the floodgates opened and I was able to write again, I realized that I can't ever not do this," Spencer explains, describing the moment she committed to music despite the fears and perfectionism that had held her back.
Spencer discusses her recent single "Losing Hand," a powerful anthem born from relationship deception, and her duet "Annie" with fellow New England musician Nick Bossy. She reveals the challenges of balancing performing with songwriting, having played over 80 shows last summer while still developing her catalog. Now working on "3000 Miles," a song about the geographical distance between her and her husband before their paths crossed, Spencer continues to push herself toward greater vulnerability in her writing.
What emerges most clearly is Spencer's evolution from concern about external validation to creating authentic music for herself first. "I decided that this is for me and this is what I want to do," she says of her musical rebirth just three years ago. For anyone who's ever set aside a passion only to rediscover it later, Spencer's story serves as powerful inspiration to follow your creative instincts regardless of timing or perfection.
Check out Liz Spencer on Instagram @lizspencermusic and experience her captivating blend of storytelling and soulful performance that proves it's never too late to claim your artistic voice.
Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com
Artist(s) Web Page
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lizspencermusic
Instagram: @lizspencermusic
Call to action
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Your Host,
Randy Hulsey
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