Australian sensation Steph Strings is on the show for this Part 3 of my series of interviews from Winnetka Music Festival!!  The Winnetka Fest happened June 19-20, just north of Chicago in a stunning suburban setting, and I was psyched to sit down with Steph for a chat to talk about her recent rise in popularity with her debut album, Feel Alive, released earlier this year hitting #2 on the Australian charts.

Steph has become quite the phenom, and has been lighting up stages across the globe, delighting audiences and her growing legion of fans with her positive vibes and upbeat energy. We discuss the impact of this fast-moving success, her recent collab with Jesse Welles and hitting the Bonnaroo stage for the first time!! 

This is a super fun convo. Steph is just as super upbeat as her music would lead you to believe, and I can’t wait for you to give this one a listen.

=======================================

Chapters:

00:00 -- Episode intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:15 - Steph Strings' journey

03:25 - Origins of Phillip Island and its influence

04:17 - The idea of archipelagos and place-culture connections

04:58 - First impressions of Chicago and its music scene

05:37 - Melbourne's similarity to Chicago and living on Phillip Island

07:09 - Reflecting on Chicago’s charm and personal connection to the city

08:01 - The energy of touring and her excitement for future gigs

08:35 - Managing nerves and staying grounded before big shows

09:59 - Insights into her Bonnaroo experience and the impact of live performances

11:21 - Observations on America’s cultural and musical passion

12:32 - Jesse Wells' influence and her role in bringing positive energy to audiences

13:58 - Musical influences: Fleetwood Mac, John Butler Trio, and the importance of guitar riffs

15:42 - Her live solo performance format and collaboration with her producer

17:19 - Creation of "Feel Alive" and its success ranking in Australia

18:30 - Surprising realizations about the music industry and her fan interactions

19:26 - The simplicity of touring life and the human side of musicians

20:39 - The emotional response from audiences and the universal language of music

24:02 - Her experience as a representative of Australia on the global stage

24:32 - The diversity within Australian accents and cultural identity

25:48 - Travel experiences and the importance of supporting her team, including Laura

26:42 - Inspiring women and young girls to pursue music and break barriers

28:18 - Falling in love with performance and her outlook for future projects

29:11 -  Winding down and upcoming shows

29:38 -- Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Ben Nichols of Lucero (@benlucero74) is on the show for this Part 2 of interviews from Winnetka Music Festival, a local Chicago fest, which took place June 19-20!!

Ben and I reflect on his many reasons for celebration these days including his new solo album entitled “In the Heart of the Mountain,” his first stand-alone effort since 2009, recently turning the ripe old age of 51, and all of this as Lucero quickly approaches their 30th year as a band.  

Ben's a super affable guy -- refreshingly self-aware with a keen wit and a great sense of humor -- and he talks to me about the origins of Lucero and his own musical background influenced by the DIY scene in Little Rock. We also discuss the deep Memphis roots of the band, the influence of the South in Ben’s writing, and how raising a daughter as a touring artist has made all these landmarks that much more special.  

This is a terrific interview, and we shared tons of laughs. You’re going to love this one!!   

=======================================

00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

04:25 - Introduction and Ben Nichols' recent performances

04:48 - The story behind Nichols' solo album "In the Heart of the Mountain"

05:44 - The role of collaboration with musicians like Morgan Eve Swain and Corey Brann

07:01 - Exploring different sonic textures outside of Lucero

07:47 - The emotional tone of the solo project: somber, pensive, and dark

09:01 - How solo work influences band dynamics and cohesion

10:10 - The appeal of melancholy and sad songs in music

11:15 - The musical elements that evoke deep feelings in songwriting

12:05 - Voice, vocal timbre, and the natural growl of Nichols' singing style

12:36 - Balancing the fun of rock and roll with somber, introspective tones

13:25 - The story of how Nichols became a singer and guitarist in his band

14:15 - The physicality and modern sound of Lucero's music

14:44 - Genre-bending nature of Lucero's albums and the band's resilience

15:37 - Nichols' Arkansas origins and their influence on his songwriting

16:39 - The nostalgic connection to Arkansas' landscapes and history

18:14 - Literary influences: Blood Meridian, Southern Gothic traditions, and Frank Stanford

19:44 - The history and cultural depth of Arkansas, including civil rights and Native American stories

21:16 - The beauty and darkness in Arkansas and Memphis environments

21:45 - The DIY punk scene in Little Rock and its influence on Nichols

24:38 - The impact of historical events like Little Rock Central High School desegregation

27:55 - Life as a father, blending family and artistic pursuits

29:46 - Memphis' musical legacy, Sun Studio, and influence on Lucero

32:30 - Recording locations and production choices shaping Lucero’s sound

35:46 - Why "Among the Ghosts" remains Nichols' favorite album

36:49 - The evolution of songwriting and how life milestones impact inspiration

39:06 - The band's upcoming projects and the future of Lucero

42:01 - Reflection on a nearly 30-year career, industry changes, and ongoing passion

44:02 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I was at Winnetka Music Festival June 19-20, where I spoke to @benkweller, a multi-genre multi-instrumentalist, whose very personal and revealing songwriting has been his trademark throughout his more than 20-year career. This episode is Part 1 of a four-part series of in-person interviews from the Winnetka Music Fest, and I’ll be featuring these throughout this and the following week.

Ben’s latest album, Cover the Mirrors, is not only a personal documentation of his life, but also a tribute to his son Dorian, who died tragically in 2023. Ben’s vulnerability and authenticity are on full display in this recent effort, and he talks to me about just how his songwriting plays a critical part in his life — and how it especially helped him during a time of unimaginable sorrow. 

This is a heartwrenching yet hopeful story of perseverance and grace. Ben’s humor and joyful spirit is on full display in this lively conversation, and I’m honored to have sat down with him just prior to his set. I can’t wait for you to give this one a listen!!

=======================================

Chapters:

00:00 -- Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

06:30 — Intro and joking around about an apparent show mix-up

07:10 — Ben’s vulnerability as a songwriter and communicator

08:16 — Why plainspoken lyrics can still feel powerful

09:50 — DIY instincts, business, and being direct

11:31 — The loss of Dorian and how music stopped at home

12:56 — Writing songs to communicate with Dorian

14:38 — The story behind “Oh Dorian”

16:56 — How the song shifted into a friend’s perspective

18:02 — The emotional weight of the album Cover the Mirrors

19:06 — Fiction, first person, and writing from lived truth

20:56 — How tragedy changed the impact of Ben’s songwriting

21:49 — Fans supporting Ben on tour through grief

22:38 — Feeling Dorian’s presence on stage

23:37 — Creative momentum and working on a new album

24:48 — Showing up for the muse and the creative life

25:29 — Songs as something received, not just written

25:59 — The French phrase in a new song and checking the translation

27:47 — Flow state, openness, and the idea of receiving songs

29:28 — How listeners interpret Ben’s lyrics

30:26 — Songs that took on new meaning after Dorian’s death

31:19 — Ben’s musical beginnings as a kid

33:49 — His music-first writing process and melodic math

35:54 — Free will, destiny, and the shape of a life

36:32 — Being Jewish, family traditions, and Shabbat

38:15 — Shared cultural identity and appreciation for Jewish guests

38:47 — Johnny/Modern Love Child and collaboration

39:49 — Reissue news for On My Way

40:37 — The next studio album, Agarita

41:37 — Wanting a teleprompter for live shows

42:30 — Thoughts on lyric stands and authenticity on stage

43:22 — Daniel Johnston and outsider music

43:53 — Roger Greenwald and producing a debut album

45:45 — Artists as conduits and creating a unique path

46:33 — Closing thanks and tribute

46:50 -- Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Roadcase was back in Nashville where I interviewed @laidbackcountrypicker just before their show at The Basement last week, and I'm super excited to share this interview with you!! 

Dave Prince and his wife Teresa (aka Honey, in hair curlers, moo-moo and sunglasses) are the self-described Hillbilly Power Duo that make up the remarkable story behind Laid Back Country Picker. Skilled lifelong musicians, both Dave and Honey are retired school teachers from Eastern Kentucky who have successfully forged a path in the music business after 25 years as educators. Their vibe is unmistakable, and forms the enduring charm beneath the surface of these serious country rockers. 

Dave (with Honey, who is his curiously silent partner) talked to me about his background as he shared with me the stories that reflect a lifetime of performance both in the classroom and, most recently, on stage -- and shares with me the story of one special student of his, Tyler Childers, with whom Dave shares a special bond. This is a truly heartwarming story of reaching extraordinary success -- no matter at what point in life it may arrive.

=======================================

Chapters:

00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

05:41 — Opening and setup

05:58 — Intro to Dave Prince and Honey

06:30 — Growing up in Eastern Kentucky

09:08 — Family poverty, bootlegging, and survival

11:48 — Childhood freedom, family, and country life

13:22 — First in the family to graduate high school and go to college

15:17 — Music dreams, cover bands, and paying the bills

16:35 — Moving toward original music and Luna and the Mountain Jets

18:21 — Teaching career and Teacher of the Year

18:50 — The teacher who changed everything

20:41 — Going back to school and starting teaching

22:15 — Meeting Tyler Childers in class

23:18 — Playing together and Tyler covering Luna songs

24:20 — Early gigs together and the Rhyming

25:52 — Red Rocks and the live recording

26:25 — The Laid Back Country Picker shirt and character

27:33 — Luck, preparation, and opportunity

29:46 — Playing a stadium show with Tyler

29:46 — Recording in Nashville and Tyler’s role

30:14 — Pandemic changes the band setup

30:59 — Honey’s stage outfit and the band identity

32:35 — Retirement and more time for music

41:19 — What’s next for Laid Back Country Picker

42:30 — Midwest dates with Driving and Crying

44:48 — How Australia happened by chance

46:04 — Australian crowds and musical influence

48:01 — “McGoffin County Cadillac” and the song that launched things

49:16 — “They Only Come Around” and Eastern Kentucky history

50:11 — Using LBJ archival footage in the video

51:00 — Closing thoughts and Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

This week’s guest is Val Haller, Founder and Co-producer of Winnetka Music Festival, a local Chicago music fest celebrating its 10th Anniversary. The festival takes place this week, June 19-20 and features a stellar lineup with headliners Father John Misty, Trombone Shorty, Grace Potter and Futurebirds among other fantastic acts. 

Throughout her career in music, Val has embodied a vibrant can-do spirit. She founded Val's List in 2007 which seeks to connect “busy adults” with new music from emerging artists. It uncovered a wonderful niche of music lovers who were looking for something new— and it was a massive success! She then morphed her passion into Living Room shows, which then ultimately became one of the most successful local Chicago festivals when she founded Winnetka Music Festival in 2017. Now partnered with Space Evanston, Val continues to foster emerging young artists and to that end, Val has founded the Just Listen Foundation to lend financial support to young touring artists.

Val’s passion, enthusiasm, drive and commitment is truly inspiring. She talks to me about the key moments along the way, and what the future holds. I loved learning more about Val, and you will learn a ton from her experience and unique perspective on the music world.

=======================================

Chapters:

00:00 - Episode intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 

05:00 - Val's early career and motivation behind Val's List 

10:00 - Impact of industry analysis and media features 

11:00 - Transition from playlisting to live events 

15:00 - Building community through house concerts 

20:00 - Collaborations with booking agents and brands 

25:00 - Insights on festival development and partnerships 

30:00 - Logistical challenges and audience engagement strategies 

35:00 - The inception and evolution of the Winnetka Music Festival 

40:00 - Success stories of artists who grew through the festival 

45:00 - The festival's setting, logistics, and community impact 

50:00 - Safety, ticketing, and operational lessons learned 

55:00 - Future plans including foundation and expanding support for artists 

01:02:00 - Final thoughts on connecting artists and audiences through community events 

01:06:00 - Closing remarks and thanks

01:08:08 - Episode wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I'm thrilled to have the one and only Steve Poltz on the show this week!!  Steve Poltz represents everything that is special about the collective vibe that is live music. He is a storyteller, songwriter and musician traveling the globe, bringing good vibes and spreading the love wherever he may be. Known for his indie band The Rugburns, as well as for the mega-hit "You Were Meant For Me," which he co-wrote with legendary folk singer, Jewel, Steve revels in curiosity, love, comedy and self-reflection. A keen observer of life and the roads upon which we all travel, Steve's shows are a conversation in which he draws in fans and make everyone feel part of the show -- and it's an experience that you never forget. 

In this intimate conversation, Steve and I explore his artistic journey -- sharing tons of stories and anecdotes only to discover that in many respects, we have lived almost parallel lives. It's a stunning revelation that I'm excited to share in the super special, one-of-a-kind interview.   

=======================================

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

00:05:40 - Welcome to Steve Poltz and recent travels

00:07:55 - How Australia and New Zealand are affecting his worldview

00:10:10 - The storytelling essence of his new album, released January 30th

00:12:30 - The spontaneous nature of his performances and no setlist approach

00:14:40 - Playing live vs. studio: raw, authentic sound of recent recordings

00:17:02 - Childhood musical influences and humorous storytelling traditions

00:19:40 - The cultural impact of funny songs from Jim Stafford to Loudon Wainwright

00:22:25 - The history of funny and rebellious music and their influence on him

00:25:00 - Growing up in Palm Springs and the early years of social life

00:27:35 - Connection between his Jewish heritage and his global perspective

00:30:05 - The state of current geopolitics, Israel, Palestine, and world history

00:32:40 - The significance of political studies and the complexities of truth

00:36:25 - The decentralization of information and media manipulation

00:39:55 - The unsettling rise of authoritarianism and the importance of accountability

00:43:05 - Personal stories involving health crises, stroke recovery, and mortality

00:47:10 - Travel tales from Istanbul and cityscapes around the world

00:50:30 - The influence of religion and history on personal and political views

00:55:40 - Community, love, and the role of music in uniting people

00:59:40 - How to navigate performance nerves and the art of engaging an audience

01:03:40 - Reflecting on the importance of honesty, authenticity, and staying true to oneself

01:09:40 - The humor in life’s darkest moments and the power of laughter

01:14:56 - Infiltration and magic in live performance: surprising and delighting audiences

01:19:06 - The journey of perseverance: saying yes, being consistent, and embracing risk

01:23:49 - The importance of self-awareness, the struggle to say no, and personal growth

01:28:09 - Living with purpose, the desire to make an impact, and facing mortality

01:32:40 - The creativity of humor, the boundaries of political correctness, and dark comedy

01:38:30 - Reflections on health, strokes, and the fleeting nature of life

01:42:40 - The unexpected connections and stories from traveling and performance legends

01:47:56 - The humorous and profound moments of vulnerability and resilience

01:50:40 - The power of irreverence, risk-taking, and living fully in the moment

01:54:40 - Closing thoughts, upcoming shows, and the enduring value of human connection

=======================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Boy Golden is my guest on Roadcase this week!!  Liam Duncan, the brains at the heart of Boy Golden, is a Winnepeg–based artist whose uniquely insightful and thoroughly thought-provoking new album, Best of Our Possible Lives, has brought him critical acclaim and an Americana Awards nomination in the Best Emerging Artist category. 

Liam is a genuine and earnest student of the human bonds we all share and he talks to me about his life in terms of acceptance, free-will, empathy, and how these all combine to shape us into what we are and what we have the potential to become. This was a truly enlightening conversation that I can’t wait for you to hear.

=================================

Chapters:

00:00 Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:50 -  Liam's latest tour update

06:05 - The dynamics of touring with Kat and band development

07:50 - Behind the recording of Best of Our Possible Lives and collaborating with LA-based producers

09:27 - Inspiration drawn from philosophy and mythology in songwriting

13:13 - Exploring the meaning of "possible lives" and existential reflections

15:55 - Acceptance, gratitude, and the human condition

17:18 - Empathy, kindness, and understanding others' backgrounds

19:17 - The storytelling power of music and narrative art

21:43 - Personal growth, recasting the past, and the hero's journey

22:57 - Living in the present versus reflecting on history

24:14 - Songwriting as a blend of experience, fiction, and emotion

26:50 - Sharing stories through music: mythology and cultural myths

27:55 - The influence of legendary artists and tenacity

30:24 - The universality of storytelling across cultures

30:56 - Reading and translating indigenous oral traditions

31:28 - The importance of reading aloud and editing

33:17 - The impact of spoken word versus written text

35:35 - Experimental music, noise, and embracing abstraction

37:18 - Listening: lyrics, groove, and the impact of musical delivery

38:45 - How music rewards multiple listening levels

39:50 - Liam’s Winnipeg roots and folk festival experiences

41:51 - Returning home during the pandemic and local music scenes

42:51 - When Liam knew he wanted to pursue music as a career

43:41 - The songwriting floodgate opened post-breakup

44:11 - The future of music careers amid touring costs

45:29 - Producing music at home and the DIY spirit

46:25 - Excitement for Telluride and bluegrass festivals

47:43 - The magic of bluegrass and improvisation

49:09 - Neil Francis, instrument exploration, and musical growth

50:08 - Closing remarks on future plans and upcoming performances

=================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I’m super excited to talk to Cory Wong for this week’s episode!!  Cory is a Grammy-nominated guitarist, composer and producer recognized for his extensive collaborations across the musical spectrum — and best known for his amazing rhythm guitar playing in his bands Vulfpeck and Fearless Flyers. He recently released a new album with his Cory Wong Band project entitled Lost in the Wonder — and it's yet another shining example of his unique blend of funk, jazz, and rock.

In this awesome conversation, Cory and I talk about his recent trip to South America where he was blown away by the fans. For someone renowned for his super energetic live performances and infectious enthusiasm, he was in awe of the power of the crowd energy there. We also discuss his various takes on the jam world, how he has always leaned toward improvisation in his own work, and how his truly refreshing sense of gratitude to share the gift of live music with his fans has become the life-force behind his creative endeavors.

==============================

Chapters:

0:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:34 - Cory Wong’s musical ethos

03:45 - Wong’s recent performances and festival experiences

04:45 - Behind the scenes of standout live moments at Northlands

05:21 - The art of guiding improvisation in large bands

06:10 - Balancing meticulous arrangements with spontaneous exploration

06:51 - Techniques for band leading and cueing during jams

07:12 - Structuring live jams within song frameworks

08:17 - Surprising band members with spontaneous solos

08:58 - Managing risk and vulnerability during live improvisation

09:47 - The importance of respecting musical duty and community

10:15 - Cory Wong’s diverse catalog and live repertoire

10:46 - Navigating audience expectations and hits in different settings

13:32 - The influence of jam band culture on Wong’s style

13:50 - The contrast between Vulfpeck’s structured approach and Wong’s improvisational style

15:46 - Early musical influences and Minneapolis scene

18:15 - The origins of Vulfpeck and the jam ethos

20:19 - The role of spontaneity in band cohesion and creativity

24:09 - The impact of global audiences, from Dublin to Buenos Aires

29:59 - Crowd energy and chanting in international shows

33:26 - The collective human experience in live music performances

36:21 - The significance of authentic, imperfect moments in the age of AI

40:19 - Innovative projects like the sleep app experiment and streaming hacks

45:20 - The role of AI in music and visual arts—opportunity vs. threat

48:10 - Ethical considerations and thresholds with generative AI tools

50:33 - The importance of live human connection in an AI-driven world

53:52 - Embracing humanity in performance and creative evolution

55:28 - Mentoring and guiding young artists amidst technological changes

56:17 - The future of live music, ticket sales, and artist resilience

57:11 - Upcoming tours, festivals, and personal projects in Europe

58:00 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg

==============================

Resources:

• Corey Wong 
• Vulfpeck - Official Website
• Fearless Flyers - Official Site
• Weather Report - Iconic Fusion Band
• AI and Music - Articles on Generative AI

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I'm so psyched to welcome everyone to this debut episode of Roadcase Live from The Basement in Nashville!!  For this inaugural interview, Tom Hamilton and I sit down prior to his set to talk about his creative life with Joe Russo's Almost Dead (JRAD) as well as the variety of other projects he's been involved with over his almost 30-year career. Tom also talks to me about his new solo project and his stellar new album, I'm Your Vampire. 

Big shoutout to Joe Lentini -- co-producer of Roadcase Live and the Talent Buyer at The Basement. Also big thanks to everyone at Another Planet Entertainment for helping to make this live show happen. 

=============================

Chapters:

00:00 -- Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:50 – Introducing Tom Hamilton and Roadcase Live from The Basement 

05:33 – The Significance of the Solo Album 

09:13 – Collaborative Spirit in Music Creation 

13:12 – Improvisation and Artistic Growth 

17:17 – Playing with Legends: The J-Rad Experience 

21:06 – The Influence of Early Musical Training 

24:57 – Future of Dead & Company and Legacy 

26:08 – Legacy and Continuation of the Grateful Dead 

30:16 – Personal Stories and Anecdotes with Bob Weir

34:06 – The New Album: Personal Reflections and Themes 

36:11 – Navigating Current Challenges and Personal Struggles 

41:45 – The Journey to Artistic Identity 

43:55 -- Episode Wrap-Up with Host Josh Rosenberg

=============================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Longtime friends and collaborators Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist, co-founders of The Band of Heathens, are on the show this week!!  Ed and Gordy have a special bond that goes beyond music, and are celebrating their 20 years as a band with their latest album Country Sides.

These guys are all about authenticity. DIY to their core, they talk to me about how the band reflects the true indie spirit of the Austin TX scene, a vibe which remains the guiding force behind not only everything they do but also what they are now able to forego. Ed and Gordy are super reflective about these past two decades of music, and we dig deep into the amazing bond they have with their fanbase built through legendary phenomenal live shows and years of touring.

This is an interview you don’t want to miss — click on the link in the bio now to give it a listen!!  

===================================

Chapters:

00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

03:50 Introducing 20 Years of The Band of Heathens 

06:00 Celebrating chart success and independence 

09:15 The DIY ethos and owning their catalog 

13:01 The role of community radio and local venues 

15:55 Origins from Austin’s songwriters scene 

19:15 The influence of Austin’s musical melting pot 

23:59 Building a band and navigating collaboration 

27:12 The importance of respect and friendship in the band 

31:26 Maintaining fun and fun as a core value 

36:34 Musical influences: from The Beatles to Willie Nelson 

40:32 The art of creating and improvising live performances 

46:05 Evolving setlists and audience engagement

48:11 The impact of pandemic and renewed appreciation for touring 

54:12 The surprise of longevity and gratitude 

59:38 Approaches to trust, last-minute changes, and overthinking 

1:04:39 Family, parenthood, and balancing life on the road 

1:10:25 Technology’s role in connection and communication 

1:14:34 Reflecting on old venues and new horizons in Austin 

1:19:03 Final thoughts on the scene’s evolution and future 

===================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I sat down with Daniel Donato at the lovely Russell Hotel in Nashville, and the resulting conversation was one of the most unique I’ve had here on Roadcase. Daniel is both a deep thinker and a truly talented musician, and in this interview we explore the metaphysics of live performance — and just what it means to explore the outer limits of both music and consciousness. Daniel also talks to me about his own experience and growth as an individual, and how his faith and a belief in a higher force (physical and otherwise) drives him and keeps him focused on the higher meaning of his what he views as his personal mission.

Daniel is super personable, fun, and really down for a great talk — we really go deep down the philosophical road together on this one — and I can’t wait for you to give this amazing interview a listen!!  Make sure to give a listen to Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country’s latest album, Horizons, and go check out these guys do their thing at a venue near you!!

===================================

Chapters:

00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg

05:05 The Importance of Presence in Performance

08:51 Reflections on Milestones and Achievements

13:02 The Journey of Growth and Experience

18:12 Spirituality and the Creative Process

22:23 The Role of the Artist in Society

27:34 The Collective Experience of Music

32:22 Personal Growth and Humility

37:12 Navigating the Music Industry

42:16 The Nature of Belief and Morality

47:06 Conclusion and Future Endeavors

52:16 Defining Cosmic Country

55:50 Creating a Unique Sound

01:03:24 The Journey of Self-Discovery

01:09:25 Surprises in the Music Industry

01:16:48 The Power of Dedicated Fans

01:20:09 Grassroots Community Building

01:26:13 Experiencing Live Music

01:35:56 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Shows  

01:40:15 Episode Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg

===================================

For more infomation on Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country click here

The Ryman Auditorium - https://ryman.com

South by Southwest Festival - https://www.sxsw.com

Daniel Base platform - click here

Mike Campbell's Book "Heartbreaker" click here

===================================

For more information on Roadcase:
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Or contact Roadcase by email:  [email protected]

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer