Advertise on podcast: Rock & Roll High School With Pete Ganbarg

Rating

★★★★★

4.9

from

31 reviews

Description

Season 5 Out Now! Rock & Roll High School is an interview series that tells the story of contemporary music one artist at a time - in their own words. Hosted by Pete Ganbarg -------------------------------------- About Pete: Pete Ganbarg has been doing major label A&R for over 35 years. He's a 2X Grammy award winning record producer as well as a member of the board of directors of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Pete has held senior A&R positions at Atlantic, Arista, Epic and SBK/EMI and is currently the president of Pure Tone Music. As a music publisher, Pete operates Songs With A Pure Tone and Margetts Road Music, joint ventures currently in partnership with Warner Chappell Music. Songs published by Pure Tone include 2024's Grammy winning Record of the Year, "Flowers" by Miley Cyrus, the global #1 "Ordinary" by Alex Warren, as well as hits by Benson Boone, Justin Bieber, Maroon 5, Katy Perry, OneRepublic, Charli XCX, Lewis Capaldi, Ed Sheeran, Andy Grammer, Lizzo, Beyoncé, and more. Pete is the recipient of two Grammy Awards for his role as producer on the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Dear Evan Hansen and the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Jagged Little Pill. At Atlantic, among the artists and projects that Pete has overseen are twenty one pilots, Halestorm, Jason Mraz, Christina Perri, Melanie Martinez, Skillet, GAYLE, Brett Eldredge, Matchbox Twenty & Rob Thomas, Theory Of A Deadman, and Icona Pop; as well as the Original Broadway Cast Recordings of Hamilton, Mean Girls, Jagged Little Pill, Dear Evan Hansen, and the multi-platinum Billboard No. 1 soundtrack album The Greatest Showman. Pete began his A&R career in 1989 at SBK Records. In 1997, he joined Clive Davis at Arista Records, where, as Senior Director of A&R, he conceived and A&R’d Santana’s 30x platinum worldwide, nine-time GRAMMY-winning album, Supernatural. Additionally, Pete was named International Music Person Of The Year in 2023 by the music industry organization MUSEXPO.

Unlock Rock & Roll High School With Pete Ganbarg podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details

Email contact information

Direct podcast contact details

Listeners

Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details

Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Rock & Roll High School With Pete Ganbarg podcast

Lou Gramm (Foreigner)

2026/02/05

As the iconic voice behind one of arena rock’s most enduring bands, Lou Gramm helped define the sound of late-’70s and ’80s rock radio. As the frontman of Foreigner, his powerful, unmistakable vocals drove a run of classic albums and singles including Cold as Ice, Hot Blooded, Juke Box Hero, Waiting for a Girl Like You, and I Want to Know What Love Is — songs that blended hard rock muscle with melodic sophistication and emotional directness. With a career spanning more than four decades, Gramm’s influence reaches far beyond his chart success, shaping generations of rock singers and cementing his place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the great voices of his era. His work set a standard for how arena rock could be both tough and tender, commercial and deeply personal. Now, Lou Gramm enters a new chapter with the release of his forthcoming album Released, arriving March 27 — his first full-length collection of original music since 2009. The album features previously unreleased tracks originally written for solo albums in the 1980s and for his band Shadow King in 1991, but never fully completed until now. These songs offer a rare window into Gramm’s creative evolution, reconnecting his classic-era songwriting with a renewed sense of purpose and reflection. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Warren Haynes (Gov't Mule/Allman Brothers Band/The Dead)

2026/01/29

As one of the most respected guitarists and songwriters in American roots rock, Warren Haynes has helped carry the traditions of blues, soul, and Southern rock into the modern era. Best known for his work with The Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule, and The Dead, Haynes has built a career defined by emotional depth, virtuosic playing, and a fearless commitment to live performance. Blending extended improvisation with deeply personal songwriting, Warren's voice and guitar work have become touchstones for a generation of musicians seeking authenticity in an ever-changing musical landscape. With a career spanning more than three decades, Warren Haynes’ influence reaches far beyond the jam band world — connecting the legacy of the Allman Brothers to contemporary blues and rock while earning him recognition as one of the most enduring and soulful storytellers in American music. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Darlene Love

2026/01/22

As one of the most powerful and influential voices in American popular music, Darlene Love helped define the sound of early rock and soul while shaping the language of modern pop singing. Rising to prominence in the early 1960s, her unmistakable voice powered a string of era-defining recordings including He’s a Rebel, The Boy I’m Gonna Marry, Da Doo Ron Ron, and the holiday classic Christmas (Baby Please Come Home). Working closely with producer Phil Spector during the height of the Wall of Sound era, Darlene became the emotional engine behind some of the most enduring records in music history — even when her contributions went uncredited. Her voice bridged gospel, R&B, and pop, influencing generations of artists who followed, from soul singers to rock frontmen. After stepping away from the spotlight, Darlene Love’s career experienced a remarkable second act, championed by artists like Bruce Springsteen and celebrated through film, television, and Broadway. Her story — one of resilience, artistry, and long-overdue recognition — culminated in her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the great American singers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alice Cooper

2026/01/15

As the godfather of shock rock and one of the most enduring figures in American music, Alice Cooper helped redefine what a rock frontman could be. Blending hard rock, theatrical spectacle, and unforgettable hooks, he's delivered a run of iconic albums and singles including School’s Out, I’m Eighteen, No More Mr. Nice Guy, and Billion Dollar Babies. With a career spanning more than five decades, Cooper’s influence extends far beyond the stage — shaping generations of artists while earning induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and maintaining his status as one of rock’s most compelling storytellers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Season 5 Trailer

2026/01/08

All new episodes every week - starting Thursday, January 15th! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steve Cropper - 2025 Edit

2025/12/04

We were very saddened to hear of the passing of our former podcast guest Steve Cropper. Steve was one of the great guitarists and songwriters of all time and his key role in the Stax house band, Booker T & The MG's, helped create some of the most legendary music of the last 60+ years. In this newly re-edited episode, originally recorded in 2021 (shortly before Steve's 80th birthday), Steve tells the story of his life and career. RIP Steve Cropper. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Coverdale (Whitesnake/Deep Purple/Coverdale Page) - 2025 Edit

2025/11/18

As we get set to release a brand new season of Rock & Roll High School, we're releasing a newly re-edited version of our Season 2 interview with David Coverdale. David recently announced his retirement and we wish him well. In David's words: “After 50 plus years of an incredible journey with you with Deep Purple, Whitesnake, and Jimmy Page, the last few years have been very evident to me that it's time really for me to hang up my rock and roll platform shoes and my skintight jeans. I thank everyone who's assisted and supported me on this incredible journey. All the musicians, the crew, the fans, the family. It's amazing. But it really is time for me to just enjoy my retirement, and I hope you can appreciate that. I love you with all my heart. Fare thee well.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Justin Hayward (Moody Blues) - 2025 Edit

2025/10/14

In a newly re-edited version of this episode, originally from Season 3, we revisit our conversation with Justin Hayward. Known principally as the vocalist, lead guitarist and composer for the innovating and trail blazing band Moody Blues, Justin Hayward is an enduring talent that has helped to define the times in which he worked. Over the last forty-five years the band has sold over seventy million albums and in 2018 they were inducted into the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Sadly, John Lodge, Justin's bandmate and co-lead vocalist from The Moody Blues passed away on October 10th, 2025. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Stewart (Eurythmics) - 2025 Edit

2025/08/14

In a newly re-edited version of our Season 2 finale, we're joined by award-winning singer, songwriter, musician, producer, innovator and Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart. Newly inducted into both the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, Dave talks about how he learned to play guitar while recovering from a soccer injury as a child, living and working with Annie Lennox at the start of their career, and the accidental creation of the opening for their hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This).” Dave also shares the stories about creating and recording the iconic “Sisters Are Doin It For Themselves” with Aretha Franklin, co-writing and co-producing Tom Petty’s “Don’t Come Around Here No More,” his long-time friendships with Mick Jagger and Jimmy Iovine and more. A great episode for anyone who missed its original airing. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Don Felder (formerly of The Eagles)

2025/07/24

As a key architect of the Eagles’ classic sound and the band's lead guitarist from 1974 - 2001, Don Felder co-wrote and performed on some of rock’s most enduring anthems, including “Hotel California,” “Victim of Love,” and “Those Shoes.” His signature guitar work helped propel the band to worldwide superstardom and earned multiple Grammy Awards. His latest album, The Vault 1975-2025 Fifty Years Of Music, is out now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Carole Bayer Sager

2025/07/17

Legendary songwriter Carole Bayer Sager joins us to reflect on a remarkable career that includes co-writing timeless hits like “Nobody Does It Better,” “That’s What Friends Are For,” and “Arthur’s Theme.” A Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner, Carole shares stories of her collaborations - both personally and professionally - with legends like Burt Bacharach and Marvin Hamlisch—as well as her friendships with icons from Hollywood to Broadway. It’s a candid, inspiring look into the life of one of pop music’s most gifted lyricists. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Russ Ballard

2025/07/10

You may not know Russ Ballard's name but you certainly know his voice and his songs. From fronting Argent and singing lead on Hold Your Head Up as well as writing and singing lead on“God Gave Rock and Roll to You,” to writing chart-toppers like “New York Groove,” “You Can Do Magic,” “Winning” “I Know There’s Something Going On” and “Since You Been Gone,” Russ has left fingerprints on decades of rock history. His songs have been recorded by everyone from KISS to Santana, America to Rainbow—and his influence spans continents and generations. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Melissa Manchester

2025/07/03

Melissa Manchester is celebrating over 50 years in music and recently joined us in person to discuss her long, successful career. From winning a Grammy in 1982 to having massive hits with classics like “Midnight Blue,”“Don’t Cry Out Loud,” and “You Should Hear How She Talks About You,” Melissa's career is still reaching new heights with the release of her latest album RE:VIEW as well as a new stage show of her life and music, Fifty Threads: An Artist's Journey. From her early days with Bette Midler to writing hits with Carole Bayer Sager, Kenny Loggins and more, Melissa opens up about her creative process, career milestones, and what continues to inspire her after more than five decades in music. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stan Lynch (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers/Speaker Wars)

2025/06/26

Stan Lynch is a founding member and longtime drummer of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, a band he played in for close to 20 years. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Stan's also written and produced for The Eagles, Don Henley and John Mellencamp. His new band, a collaboration with Texas singer songwriter Jon Christopher Davis, is The Speaker Wars who've just released their debut album. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad)

2025/06/19

Our guest this week is a legendary singer songwriter and musician -powerhouse frontman of Grand Funk Railroad: Mark Farner. As one of the original driving forces behind the band, —Mark is the the voice of anthems like “We’re an American Band” and the epic “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home),” which he also wrote. Other Grand Funk hits include Bad Time/Some Kind Of Wonderful and their #1 cover of Little Eva’s “The Locomotion.” But Mark’s journey goes beyond the stage. From blazing trails in the heyday of ’70s rock to mentoring emerging artists, and even embracing life as a dedicated farmer, Mark’s story is one of passion, resilience, and reinvention. Mark’s new album, his first full length release in nearly tow decades is “Closer To My Home” — which is available everywere now See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcast reviews

Read Rock & Roll High School With Pete Ganbarg podcast reviews

4.9 out of 5

31 reviews

★★★★★

MichaelBird605 2025/05/09

A Must-Listen

This show is vital for the love of music, as well as for archival purposes. I’ve learned so much about the people who wrote and recorded the greatest ...

★★★★★

Lazukauf 2025/04/16

Greetings

I am so lucky to have come across this AMAZING podcast! I am so enjoying “my” music! Thank you Pete Ganbarg Best, Toni NYC

★★★★★

Bean of Pinto 2022/07/08

Jorma!

Can’t remember how I stumbled upon this podcast but finished the interview with Jorma Kaukonen, my favorite guitarist. Excellent!!!!

★★★★★

JennieGM 2021/09/10

Learn something new!

I love this podcast. It’s light, breezy and conversational but it’s not fluff. I learn something new every episode- especially loved the Debbie Gibson...

★★★★★

must’ve been the roses 2021/05/07

en fuego

loved the Graham Nash interview

★★★★☆

Martiniano 2021/05/28

Rock & Roll?

I guess I have a different definition of R&R. Nike Rodgers and The Temptations are not Rock. Little Richard, Fats Domino and Chuck Berry are where it ...

check all reviews on apple podcasts