Advertise on podcast: Talkin’ Mellencamp! New Podcast before the 2026 Tour

Don and Mike discuss their favorite cover songs by John Mellencamp. From folk songs, hard rock, gospel, soul, R&B, and much more, Mellencamp has covered a wide swath of musical ground in his 50-year career. This episode breaks down Mellencamp's eclectic musical tastes and gives hard-core and casual fans alike some terrific tunes to seek out.

Don and Mike visit with long-time Mellencamp band member Pat Peterson, who contributed her soulful background vocals to John's band for nearly a quarter century (1982-2006). Find out how Pat joined the Mellencamp band, her favorite moments in the studio and on stage with John, which song she inspired John to write, what she is up to today, and much more. 

Don and Mike discuss the recent release of the previously unheard 1977 Mellencamp outtake "I Just Wanna Be Black" and then dive deep into the songs that John co-wrote with his childhood friend George Green, a supremely gifted lyricist.

Don and Mike break down the Mellencamp songs most inspired by John's Midwest roots.

Don and Mike go beyond the hits and select their favorite Mellencamp deep cuts - songs that aren't widely known, but that all Mellencamp fans need to seek out.

Don and Mike create a potential setlist for the 2026 Dancing Words Greatest Hits Tour. What songs will John and the band play? What songs would Don and Mike like to hear?

John Mellencamp fans Don Wilson - lead singer of the Mellencamp tribute band Mellencougar - and Mike Rainey discuss the upcoming Dancing Words Greatest Hits that is set to begin in July 2026. Don and Mike break down what hit songs from Mellencamp's extensive catalog be may played this summer, and which songs they don't think will make the cut.