The four members of New Jersey-born rock band Lizard Music reflect on tour adventures, day jobs, and first gigs. They also discuss the definition of success in the music industry.
Eleanor Buckland on Soundcheck Tricks and Her Dolly Parton “Co-Write”
Singer-songwriter Eleanor Buckland of Lula Wiles, who has just released a solo album, talks about working as a nanny and competing in the Franklin County Fair Fiddle Contest when she was in the 2nd grade.
Brandy Zdan on Music Industry Priorities and Touring in “Townes Van Zdan”
Brandy Zdan talks about singing the Canadian National Anthem at hockey games as a teenager, hustling for gigs, and surviving as a middle class musician.
Ian Jones on Acrylic Fingernails and Hiring a Producer
Singer-songwriter Ian Jones talks about getting hooked on applause at his first gig and being a general contractor (and using the experience to build his home rehearsal space).
JD Wilkes on Virtue-Signaling and Getting His Start In Music
JD Wilkes of The Legendary Shack Shakers talks about driving for the Nashville Auto Auction and “the quickly evaporating spoils of the American Music Biz”.
Birdtalker on Lunchables, Streaming Income, and Rehearsal Spot Hangs
Indie-folk five piece Birdtalker talk about the first song that the band wrote (and that no one has ever heard) and leaning into their instincts.
AHI on Telemarketing and Being a Storyteller
Singer-songwriter AHI talks about eating chips & salsa on the road and why he wishes that he broke more guitar strings.
Jon Snodgrass on Washing Dishes, Listening More, and Talking Less
Jon Snodgrass talks about keeping a tour log, 4 day weekends, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show.
Carolyn Wonderland on Auto Mechanic Classes and Her Motto for Musical Success
Austin-based guitarist Carolyn Wonderland talks about a dumpster-shaped cloud and Cliffie, the Big Red Sprinter.
Elijah Ocean on His Online Merch Store and Touring in a Chevy Express
Elijah Ocean recalls various day jobs that he didn’t like and explains why his living room has no couch.