Dom Flemons, co-founder of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, talks about how he and the band pass time in their tour van, stocking up on harmonicas and finding success in the music industry.
Brett Newski’s Salute to Holiday Shopping
Here’s a song for your shopping soundtrack courtesy of Milwaukee-based troubadour Brett Newski.
Mayer’s Playlist for November 2014, Part 1
ALBUM OF THE MONTH Chasing Beauty, by Ellis Paul Ellis Paul long ago established his credentials as a folk musician. He is an astute observer of the world around him who excels at transforming stories into song. In recent years he has shifted a bit from his folk roots, flexing more of his acoustic pop […]
Brett Newski on Parking in Detroit and Why the Merch Table Is Important
Brett Newski speaks about the difference between tour meals in the US, Europe and South Africa, the peculiarities of his old rehearsal space and the role of fan support in building a successful career in music.
Sid Griffin on Rehearsing in the Basement and the Future of the Music Industry
Sid Griffin talks about a pub called the Betsey Trotwood and the similarities between the whaling industry in the 1800’s and the music industry today.
Ellis Paul on Touring in a Honda CR-V and Selling Fewer CDS (But More Books)
Ellis Paul talks the hazards of tour driving and building a successful career in the music industry. Plus, he shares a lyric from the first song he ever wrote.
Lac La Belle – A Friend Too Long
As I sit here starting to write this review, I Â realize it”s somewhat appropriate that tonight is Halloween, when costumed children pretend to be someone they wish they could be and costumed adults pretend to be someone (or something) they don”t want to be. Â The latest record from Detroit-based Lac La Belle, A Friend Too […]
Mayer's Playlist for October 2014, Part 2
ALBUMS OF THE MONTH And the War Came, by Shakey Graves Austin-based Alejandro Rose-Garcia — Shakey Graves — makes a mighty fine racket. His live performances, generally just him on the stage playing guitar and percussion, are captivating. And the War Came is the rare studio album that captures this energy while simultaneously showcasing the […]
Americana 2014: The Sounds, Part 2
Every fall, The Americana Music Association gathers members, artists and music fans together in Nashville for its annual conference. Starting with the annual Americana Music Awards and continuing through four days of showcases and panel discussions, it is a tremendous celebration of Americana music. MATTHEW RYAN This was, hands-down, the highlight of the week for […]
Americana 2014: The Sounds, Part 1
Every fall, The Americana Music Association gathers members, artists and music fans together in Nashville for its annual conference. Starting with the annual Americana Music Awards and continuing through four days of showcases and panel discussions, it is a tremendous celebration of Americana music. JOE FLETCHER I couldn’t think of a better way to close […]