Vocalist and guitarist Justin Toland of Memphis-based Dirty Streets talks about breaking down in their old tour van and the band’s first gig – where their future drummer was among the handful of people in the crowd.
Glenn Tilbrook on His Touring RV and Quitting His Last Day Job
Renowned singer-songwriter Glenn Tilbrook recalls a time when a show audience lent him a helping hand and shares the first song that he ever wrote (later recorded by Squeeze on their first EP).
Ali McGuirk on Tour Salads and How Her Approach to Songwriting Has Evolved
Singer-songwriter Ali McGuirk talks about the optimistic first song that she wrote, forming “The Youngins” with her uncle and brother, and the meaningful day job that she does when not on tour.
Matt Kelly of Dropkick Murphys on the Band’s Rehearsal Space and “Woulda’ Coulda’ Shoulda’, but Didn’a”
Drummer Matt Kelly of Dropkick Murphys talks about a favorite day job from when he was a kid and time spent blasting records at the band’s rehearsal space during the pandemic.
Dan Navarro on Band Instructions and the Value of Old Classic Songs
Singer-songwriter Dan Navarro talks about the open mic at L.A.’s Troubadour in the mid-1970’s, his definition of a day job, and the true beginning of the long hard climb.
Daniel Womack of Futurebirds on AirBnB Rehearsals and the Many Facets of Honesty
Daniel Womack of rock band Futurebirds talks about his favorite fast food burger and working as “the fry guy” at a restaurant.
Freedy Johnston on Pink Floyd’s “Welcome to the Machine” and Lessons Learned at Early Gigs
Singer-songwriter Freedy Johnston talks about regaining the publishing rights to his early albums and quotes Jonathan Richman on his approach to rehearsals.
Pat Faherty and Tim Carman of GA-20 on “Yum Yums” and Side Hustles
Guitarist Pat Faherty and drummer Tim Carman of blues band GA-20 share the story behind the inside photo on their Crackdown album and recall the first gig that Tim played with the band.
Jonathan Terrell On “Sweet Maxine” and a Rough First Gig in Austin
Texas musician Jonathan Terrell talks about enjoying BBQ while on tour and playing Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” at honky-tonks in Texas as a kid.
Derek Hoke on the Call of the Cracker Barrel and a Tip for Live Performers
Nashville’s Derek Hoke talks about the first two songs that he wrote (in 9th grade) and the bar fight that broke out at his first gig.