Michael Gaither - Songs and Stories: Recent Episodes
Michael Gaither
Nashville’s Renee Wahl talks about how she moved from a twelve-year military career to a life as a full-time songwriter in Nashville.
Mira Goto chats about splitting her time between Santa Cruz CA and Nashville TN and how she's using social media to take her music to the next level.
Austin, Texas songwriter/producer Gurf Morlix talks about his latest (his tenth) solo release, "Impossible Blue".
Songwriter Christie McCarthy talks about recording "Big Picture," her latest (and fourth) release of original material, recorded in Santa Cruz, CA.
Jamie and Kellen Coffis of The Coffis Brothers and the Mountain Men talk about their new record, produced by Tim Bluhm of bay area favorite The Mother Hips
Keith Rayburn talks about the father-song recording effort that became his debut solo CD, "Highway".
Santa Cruz songwriter/producer Henry Chadwick talks about his full-length debut release, "Marlin Fisher" (avail only on colored vinyl).
Santa Cruz songwriter Lauren Wahl talks about her influences, how her band Simply Put came together, and plans for her next record.
The host gets interviewed for a change! Michael's new band, Michael Gaither and His New Best Friends, appears on KPIG radio for a live interview and performance.
Bay Area songwriter Nancy Cassidy talks about the literal and metaphorical themes running through her new release, "River's Rising".
I recently met up with Roseville CA-based songwriter Larry Diehl at a songwriting retreat in northern Idaho. We talked about his latest release, "Close to the Soul" while we discussed what kind of songs come out during a weeklong retreat.
Filmmaker Richard Newman talks about his new documentary, which profiles board builders, professional surfers, and looks back on the history of the sport and culture.
Jesse Daniel talks about - and plays from - his self-titled debut record. Heartfelt honky tonk by way of Santa Cruz.
A visit with LA-based acoustic trio The Sweet Potatoes, along with tunes from their new record, "Headin' Home".
Live performance highlights from episode past including songs from Gurf Morlix, Blackie Farrell, Keith Greening, and Martha Groves Perry
Michael Gaither and Steve Kritzer play from their new CDs, “Hey Karma” and “Right Where I’m Supposed to Be” live on KPIG radio.
Bluesy songwriter Jeffrey Halford talks about his Texas roots, his California upbringing, and his new record, “Lo Fi Dreams”
Santa Cruz CA musician/author Rhan Wilson talks about his new book, “All In Good Time” and his new band, Jazz the Dog.
Austin producer/songwriter Gurf Morlix plays from and talks about his newest release, “The Soul and The Heal”.
Bay area favorite Greg Kihn talks about songwriting, his latest release "Rekihndled", and his gratitude for surviving rock and roll.
Santa Cruz songwriter and painter Russell Brutsche talks about - and plays songs from - his latest release, "Bucket of Gold". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Jonathan Foster talks about "Help Me Run", his latest Americana release, and what led him to form Miracle Mile Records, an indie label out of Redding CA. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Martha Groves Perry talks about her journey from classically trained musician to her new singer/songwriter release "Something Good". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Nancy Cassidy talks about her new release, "Heart of a Song," which was born out her time performing in rest homes and for Bread and Roses events. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Kevin Welch talks about the beginnings of the Americana genre, touring The Dead Reckoners, and the songwriting retreats from his Texas hill country home. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Once a staple on the Santa Cruz music scene, Dayan Kai moved back to his Maui home a few years ago. We catch up on latest projects and hear some of his music. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
jdru5ctg Host Michael Gaither becomes the interviewEE for a switch. Includes live performances of songs going on the new CD. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A chat with the SLO gypsy jazz swing tango folk wild classical outfit about their new record, "Ebb and Flow". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A chat with the SLO gypsy jazz swing tango folk wild classical outfit about their new record, "Ebb and Flow". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Interview and music highlights host Michael Gaither's recent radio appearances. And a new song about Red Skelton. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Legendary songwriter Blackie Farrell talks about his long-awaited debut and plays "Sonora's Death Row" live on the show. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Legendary songwriter Blackie Farrell talks about his long-awaited debut and plays "Sonora's Death Row" live on the show. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A kitchen-table chat with Candian-born songwriter Dan Frechette and Monterey Bay violinist Laurel Thomsen. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A kitchen-table chat with Mark and Cindy Lemaire. Mark discusses his unique playing style, which sounds like open tunings, and how Cindy's amazing harmony combines with his to sound like one voice. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A post-concert chat with New York songwriter Amy Rigby about living and touring abroad, returning home, and what she plans for her next solo record. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A visit with Producer/Musician Robert Berry, talking about the December People which merges classic rock with Christmas and holiday songs. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A chance to hear Michael himself interviewed for a change. Includes live performances of "Hang It Up" and "Where'd the Time Go?" played live on KPIG Radio". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Revisiting a 2012 interview with the late (and amazing) Audrey Auld. Includes songs from her final releases, "Tonk" and "Hey Warden". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Cosy Sheridan talks about her latest release, “Pretty Bird,” using alternate tunings, and teaching in folk music camps. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Candadian songwriter Kenny Butterill discusses - and play songs from - his third CD, "Troubadour Tales". Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Austin producer/songwriter Gurf Morlix discusses his latest, "Eatin' At Me" and legendary songwriter Blackie Farrell talks about his long-awaited debut album. Details at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Revisting a 2005 interview with Mary Gauthier about the craft of songwriting, along with news about Michael's latest videos and other website items of note. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A kitchen table chat with composer and songwriter Ernest Troost. He's won an Emmy AND a Kerrville New Folk award, and he wrote the score for "Tremors". See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Will Kimbrough talks about his new CD, "Sideshow Love" and his past "day jobs" of playing with Todd Snider and Rodney Crowell. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Brigitte DeMeyer talks about her new release, "Savannah Road", and what it's like working with Will Kimbrough, who's also in this interview. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A quick look at host Michael Gaither's upcoming shows and podcasts, along with a recent radio appearance on KZSC radio in Santa Cruz, CA. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Southern California songwriter Brad Colerick discusses - and plays songs from - his latest release, "Tucson". See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A visit back to a previous episode. Songwriter/storyteller Chuck Brodsky talks about songwriting, and host Michael Gaither talks about Chuck's upcoming Santa Cruz/San Jose shows in January 2015. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Keith Greeninger talks about "Soul Connection," his new CD, and Wind River Studios, his new recording space in the Santa Cruz Mountains. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Northern California singer/songwriter Jim Dyar talks about his latest release...and reminices about late night festival playing with host Michael Gaither. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Singer and venue owner Bourne Archer talks about Treasures Roadhouse, a new music venue in south Santa Cruz County, CA. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Songwriter Bev Barnett discusses her new site, heybev.com, which provides social media advice for musicians. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Austin producer/songwriter Gurf Morlix talks about working with Warren Zevon, Lucinda Williams, and Slaid Cleaves, the Blaze Foley tribute project, and his recent solo records. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
"Songs and Stories" host Michael Gaither is interviewed (for a switch) on KVMR's "Rockin' and Stompin'". Episode includes live performance and stories behind many of his songs. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Songwriter Jayme Kelly Curtis and Santa Cruz Guitar Company founder Richard Hoover discuss the upcoming Santa Cruz County Art of Guitar Exhibit and Festival, which celebrates nearly 20 luthiers located in Santa Cruz County. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
California-based Aireene Espiritu and UK band The Hobos discuss the logistics life on the road, the London festival scene, Aireene's plans for her next CD, and the notion of long-distance music collaboration. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Carolyn Sills and Gerard Egan discuss their debut release, "The Carolyn Sills Combo," which combines western swing, surf rock, jazz, and old pop and country, which creates a familiar, yet totally unique sound. This interview takes place after hours at Santa Cruz Guitars in Santa Cruz, CA. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Clawhammer/clogger/songwriter Evie Ladin and percussionst Keith Terry discuss Evie's newest record, "Evie Ladin Band". See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A backstage talk with Dayan Kai about his new CD, "Resonate", and how life in Maui contributes to his music. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A chat (via Skype) with songwriter Sean Hayes and about how he's happily maintained indie status after seven CDs. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Another "Songs and Stories" field trip. This time it's a talk with author (and former comic) Fred Reiss about his new book, "Today Cancer - Tomorrow the World", an honest and funny account of his recent (his second) bout with testicular cancer. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
A "Songs and Stories" field trip to the Strawberry Music Festival. Birds of Chicago's JT Nero and Allison Russell discuss their songwriting process, the trust they have with their band, and what led to their debut release. See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Nancy Cassidy talks about her two new CDs, "Song of Joy" and "Memphis". See the notes and links to go with this episode at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Arizona-based singer/songwriter Annie Moscow returns to "Songs and Stories" to chat about the booking process when you're a "not a folk and not a jazz" player, and her new record, "Phoenix".
Texas troubadour Colin Gilmore returns to "Songs and Stories" to discuss the new record "Goodnight Lane" and his return visits to California.
Bay area songwriter Megan Slankard discusses "Token of the Wreckage", her fourth release.
Storyteller/songwriter Greg Kitchel chats about living in Mexico, his annual return to the states, and the art of the story song.
Craig Rayburn discuses his first solo release "Coyote" and the California influences in his music.
Another one to file under “cool people I’ve met along the way”. Or should I say finally met. I almost crossed paths with singer/songwriters Stephanie Bettman and Luke Halpin several times the past few years (FAR-West, the occasional showcase) but it was always a near miss. We finally got together last fall here for a very fun visit at the house when they came by to do the kitchen-table talk thing.
In part two of my kitchen-table chat with Stephanie Bettman and Luke Halpin, they perform "Stiff Upper Lip" and their "spirtual medley".
We kick off the first episode of the year with Anty McClean, lead singer/songwriter of The Trailer Park Troubadours and longtime friend of the “Songs and Stories” podcast. Antsy and Italk about songwriting, his DIY approach to everything he does, and his recent fan "field trip" to Sun Studios, where he recored his new record, "Heroes Last Forever".
The "Songs and Stories" podcast hits episode featuring a very special chat with Mary Gauthier on songwriting, the pursuit of creativity, and look behind her new project, "The Foundling".
Florida songwriters Laurie Jennings and Dana Keller discuss songwriting, touring in their RV, and share some tips on booking a nationwide tour.
Central coast songwriter Steve Key discusses showcasing other artists, his songwriting history, and how Kathy Mattea ended up covering his song "33, 45, 78 (Record Time)" on her debut record.
A look back a last month's American River Music Festival, a preview of my October shows, and a chat with Duane English and Brynne Albanese of Cafe Musique.
Sherry Austin talks about her new record, "Love Still Remains", a tribute to the late California songwriter Kate Wolf.
Southern California duo Sabrina and Craig discuss their new CD, "One Home...One Heart", talk about their diverse musical backgrounds, and reveal which one of them is an Olympic gold medal.
Songwriter Rachel Sedacca discusses her "soulful, bluesy, Americana" style, life on the road with Patience (her school bus), and the details of booking your own tour.
A chat with lead singer Aoife (EE-fuh) O'Donovan and bassist Corey DiMario of the string band, Crooked Still.
Matt Semonsen talks about this year's American River Music Festival, held in Lotus CA on September 17-19. The festival combines river rafting and hiking with workshops and main stage performances from the likes of Slaid Cleaves, Jesse Winchester, and Karla Bonoff.
David Wilcox plays three songs off his new record, "Open Hand", and discusses working through songwriting blocks. Listen to this episode for details on how to get a free audiobook from http://www.audiblepodcast.com/stories.
Sharon Allen plays (and talks about) "Jarrod's Song" and "Live Forver" off her new solo record, "Along the Way". Listen to this episode for details on how to get a free audiobook from http://www.audiblepodcast.com/stories.
Santa Cruz songwriter Sharon Allen talks about her musical journey from the east coast to California, and what led to her new solo record, "Along the Way". Listen to this episode for details on how to get a free audiobook from http://www.audiblepodcast.com/stories.
James Hurley performs "Mountains" and "Mushroom" off his new CD, "Tempest in a Teapot". And listen for details on how to get a free audiobook from http://www.audiblepodcast.com/stories.
Keith Greeninger and Dayan Kai return to "Songs and Stories" to discuss their new duo CD "Make It Rain", which was recorded in one 8-hour session on 2-inch analog tape.
Keith Greeninger and Dayan Kai perform "That's What Makes You Strong" and the title track from their new CD, "Make It Rain".
Part two of my chat with bay area Producer Cookie Marenco. I've learned to just hit RECORD as soon as I start talking to someone, which I have to admit was a very good idea in this case. With this tour, we get even more insight into Cookie's approach to music, analog recording, and her engineering intern program.
In "Songs and Stories" #82, we talked to Houston Jones about their latest release and why they love working with bay area producer Cookie Marenco. In these next two episodes, we talk with Cookie herself. She describes how she was an early advocate of many digital recording advancement, and why these days she records exclusively on two-inch analog tape.
I chatted with Travis Jones and Chris Kee, who make up two fifths of our bay area's own Houston Jones, way back in episodes #31 and #32 of this podcast. With a new record out, we figured this was a good excuse to both get together again AND drag the whole band along for this follow-up episode.
An interview by KVMR's Wesley Robertson, live performances of "After a Good Rain", "Roselle", and "Gettin' to My Glory Days", and live cover of Warren Zevon's "My Ride's Here" from Evangeline's Cafe later that evening.
Dorian Michael talks about his folk and blues influences, how he uses familiar songs styles to pull an audience in, and why he only sings when he plays the blues...
An audio tour through some of the late night "gorilla" (I still can't spell "guerilla") showcases at the 2009 FAR-West Folk Conference held in Irvine, CA.
A talk about creating your own gigs at local businesses and a replay of a recent Michael Gaither interview on KSCO 1080 AM.
Lila Nelson plays "Parellel Lines" off her new CD "Letter Home" and talks about working with the legendary Kenny Edwards.
Boston songwriter Eilen Jewell talks about her influences (Loretta Lynn, The Zombies, Buddy Holly), her latest release "Sea of Love" and her roots-gospel side project, "The Sacred Shakers".
Wisconsin songwriter Johnsmith talks about recording his new record, Gravity of Grace, his upcoming shows, and why he loves playing out here on the west coast.
I play live on wildwestradio.com and chat with host Jeff Scammon. This episodes includes the stories behind my songs "Spotted Mule", "I Miss My Town", and "Where'd the Time Go?".
Jeff Scammon discusses the evolution of Wild West Radio, which started as a folk show on KKUP FM in Cupertino CA and now streams on the Internet www.wildwestradio.com.
California songriter John Batdorf plays (and tells the stories behind) What D'Ya Got" and "That Don't Seem Right To Me" off his new release, "Old Man Dreamin'".
California songriter John Batdorf tells about moving from the duo "Batdorf and Rodney" in 70s, to staff writing jobs in the '80s and '90s, to his work today as a solo artist.
Singer/bassist John Cowan talks about his years with Newgrass Revival, the latest incarnation of The John Cowan Band, his upcoming compilation "8742 Feet".
California songriter Brad Colerick performs (and tells the stories behind) the songs "My California" (off "Lines in the Dirt") and "Paper in Heaven" (off the upcoming release "When I'm Gone").
Brad Colerick discusses assignment writing, the founding of DeepMix (his music licensing company) and his return to singer-songwriter mode with the albums "Cottonwood", "Lines in the Dirt", and the upcoming "When I'm Gone".
Chuck McCabe talks about his work with the Young at Heart Project, an organization that brings live music into (primarily) senior convalescent and residential care facilities throughout the Central Coast and South Bay.
Fingerstyle guitarist Edgar Cruz plays Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody", one orignal tune, and talks about making a living as a musician while being able to stay close to home.
Songwriter Dana Hubbard talks about the festival circuit, what lead to the dimming of the bay area club circuit, the pros and cons (mostly pros) of RV life, and his latest release, "The Grounds Keepers".
Dana Hubbard plays (and tells the stories behind) the songs "Pretty Little Farmer" and "Woody's Guitar" from his latest release, "The Grounds Keepers".
I've been a guest on Rosemary Charmers' "Good Morning Monterey Bay" several times. (The show airs in Santa Cruz every weekday from 6-9 AM on KSCO 1080 AM.). It's always a great visit, and the conversations seem to always settle on mainly two topics: "How are you dogs doing?" and "Would you please play the 'Highway 17' song again?" This last Tuesday's visit was no different, and I couldn't think of a funner way to start my week.
With song titles like "I Wanna Be Up Front Like Dolly Parton" and "Every Man I Ever Loved Is Either Gay, Married, Or Dead"", you can be pretty sure that Kacey Jones has a knack for getting your attention and putting a smile on your face with her music. In this phone interview from her home in Nashville, Kacey, talks about her new release, "Donald Trump's Hair", balancing art and business, and her upcoming trip back to her roots here in Santa Cruz.
Bay area songwriter Jay Howlett discusses his new release "Carnival Lights", the songwriting collective BlahBlahWoofWoof, and the alternate-tuning sounds he gets by using multiple capos.
Jay Howlett plays (and tells the stories behind) "Long Black Dress" and "King of the Parking Lot" off his upcoming CD "Carnival Lights". Jay also explains his multiple-capo technique, which is used in both songs.
Annie Moscow plays "11 Blocks from the Beach" and "Buy the Bitch a Cadillac" off "Wolves At My Door" (2001) and "Make Believe" off "Visible" (2007).
Singer/songwriter Annie Moscow discusses her musical journey from being a classically-trained pianist who eventually found herself in L.A. writing for such varied clients as Sister Sledge and Disney. These days, she's based in Arizona and tours frequently.
In this "kitchen-table talk", "Strings" and Martin Giles (of the former British band "Strings") discuss their musical influences, their tour of the western U.S. last fall, and some of the logistics of keep a band together back home.
Martin Giles and Strings (of the former British band "Strings") perform (and tell the stories behind) "Frank's Song" from The Thrill of Maintaining Momentum (2003) and "Run My Pen Dry" from Love and Other Vices (2006).
Songwriter Arthur Godfrey recalls the Wooden Nickel Open Mic (which I took over in 2004, talks about his new record "Broken Wing", and provides some songwriting tips.
Songwriter Arthur Godfrey plays the title track and "Richard's Song" off his new release, "Broken Wings". Want to win a copy of "Broken Wings"? Listen to this episode for details.
Songwriter Chuck Brodsky Chuck explains the freedom that a narrative story gives him when writing and tells some of the stories behind songs on his new live record, "Two Sets".
This very cool "Songs and Stories" two-parter features two chats with Antsy McClain, lead singer, songwriter (and fellow podcaster) of the Americana band the Trailer Park Troubadours. I'm finding myself overusing the phrase "gold standard" lately, but Antsy fits the bill. He's just darned good at it. Antsy's also a heck of a lot of fun to hang out and talk shop with, as you'll soon discover. In episode #51, we talk backstage at the Rio Theater in Santa Cruz on the night of the "New Good Old Days" release party. We discuss the trailer motif that runs through much of his music and how he came into songwriting as a visual artist.
The second half of this two-parter features Antsy McClain, lead singer, songwriter (and fellow podcaster) of the Americana band the Trailer Park Troubadours. We pick upour interview outside KPIG radio, where Ansty plays "Right Side of the Dirt" and "New Good Old Days" off his new record and explains the "laughing in the face of death" idea that runs through the CD.
With nine self-released CDs to her credit - her latest is 2007's "The Spiritual Kind" - Texas singer-songwriter Terri Hendrix is the gold standard when it comes to the independent artist. That also makes her the perfect interview for this mini-milestone, episode #50 of "Songs and Stories". In this chat recorded backstage at Don Quixote's Music Hall, Terri talks about what she's still learning after her ninth CD, her annual "Life's A Song" workshops, touring with producer Lloyd Maines, and gives some great tips to artists who might not have that first CD quite done yet.
Multi-instrumentalists Chojo Jacques (The Waybacks, Houston Jones) and Billy Bright (Two High String Band) discuss their new release, "Texacali Blues". Listen to this episode for a chance to win a copy of the record.
Nashville songwriter Claudia Nygaard talks about talk about what house concerts have brought to independent music, the good old days of vinyl records, and that ongoing argument about the "death of the CD" in the wake of dropcards and iPods.
I've said this more times than I can honestly count, but I'm convinced that the real dividend in this music path is all the folks I keep meeting along the way. Case in point: This podcast is a song circle, a gathering of other players (some old friends, some new) recorded at the American River Music Festival back in September of this year.
Joziah Longo (from "Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams") discuss "The Great Unravel", their new record, and Joziah's "index card" method of songwriting.
In the second half of this two-part interview, Corinne West talks about (and performs) "Handful of Gold" from her CD "Second Sight".
In the first of this two-part interview, Americana singer/songwriter Corinne West talks about her vagabond upbringing, why she made the move from playing in bands to becoming a solo artist, and how your first CD (her 2004 debut "Bound for the Living") becomes your business card.
The new TV season always has a "Fall Preview", so why not do the same for the band and this podcast? This episode is a rundown of where we're playing in October (KSCO 1080 AM, Roudon-Smith Winery, Don Quixote's), as well as a quick look at the next few episodes I have lined up for the podcast (interviews with Corrine West and Joziah Longo). You'll also hear live versions of "Spotted Mule" and "Where'd the Time Go", from an appearance last June on KSCO's "Good Morning Monterey Bay" with Rosemary Chalmers.
Sherry Austin spent time in Hawaii doing covers in the "steak and winehouse" scene, but it wasn't until she moved back to her native California, settled in Santa Cruz, and discovered "the mighty KPIG" (and folks like Fred Eaglesmith and Robert Earl Keen) that she became the singer/songwriter folks around here are so fond of.
In part two of my chat with Santa Cruz's Mary McCaslin, she plays (and tells the stories behind) the songs "Old Friends" and "Acres of Houses".
In another "Songs and Stories" look at local songwriters, Santa Cruz's Mary McCaslin talks about her folk and western influences, her fondness for alternate tunings (many of which are documented on her web site), and why she plays "Pinball Wizard" on a banjo.
A question many artists often ask themselves is "When do I leave my day job?" (Not that I have ever thought that. No, never. Ever. Well...maybe that's a topic for a future podcast.) Anyway, in Songs and Stories #39, I talk with songwriter Vienna Teng. Vienna and I worked at the same company several years ago, and I still remember the day she left, record deal in hand, to give up the corporate life and go after music full time.
Bay area staple Chuck McCabe is one of those "songwriter's songwriter" type of folks. He's well known for writing funny songs that seem to come off easy ("I Miss My Mustache"), while his serious side packs an equal punch. (His song "Mimimum Wager" won the 2002 Woody Guthrie Songwriting Competition.) Chuck also has a great dog song - "Fred"- and you probably know that anyone who sings about dogs automatically gets high marks in my book.
Chuck McCabe plays the title track and "I'd Rather Be in Redding", from his new release "Creatures of Habit In World of Change". This episode of "Songs and Stores" concludes with the CD version of McCabe's "My Prayer for You", also from the new CD.
"There's a million ways to live a life" is how award-winning singer/songwriter Alisa Fineman describes that path she's taken that led her from environmental studies, to being a fire lookout in the Rockies, and to eventually becoming a songwriter. These days she collaborates with Kimball Hurd, who many know from his work with the Santa Cruz folk trio City Folk (which consisted of Kimball, Keith Greeninger, and Roger Feuer. In the first of this two-part interview, Alisa and Kimball discuss their musical similarities and differences and tell about the plans for their first CD together. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details.
"There's a million ways to live a life" is how award-winning singer/songwriter Alisa Fineman describes that path she's taken that led her from environmental studies, to being a fire lookout in the Rockies, and to eventually becoming a songwriter. These days she collaborates with Kimball Hurd, who many know from his work with the Santa Cruz folk trio City Folk (which consisted of Kimball, Keith Greeninger, and Roger Feuer. In the first of this two-part interview, Alisa and Kimball discuss their musical similarities and differences and tell about the plans for their first CD together. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details.
"Dark, Appalachian dance music". That's how I've always described The Crooked Jades, a bay area-based collective of musicians dedicated to keeping old-tyme string-band music alive and quite well. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details.
Highlights from the Spring Strawberry Breakfast Club 2008 featuring Michael Gaither and Friends and Jim Dyar and Friends. And if you want to hear more of this, head up to the Post Office Saloon and Grille on Friday 6/27. Jim and I are splitting the night there. More info is on my web site at www.michaelgaither.com.
In the second half of this interview with Chris Kee and Travis Jones, they play the title cut off Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart" and "If Not For the Darkness", a song for their upcoming gospel record. Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details.
Another kitchen-table talk, this time a two-part interview with Chris Kee and Travis Jones of the bay area Americana band Houston Jones. Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner.
Since this is my 30th "Songs and Stories" podcast, I thought I'd flip things around and have me interviewed for a change. This episode is a replay of a recent appearance on KVMR radio in Nevada City, CA. I was a guest on Wesley Robert's "Rockin' and Stompin'" show and played solo versions of "Broke", "Spotted Mule", "Jack of All Trades" from my "Spotted Mule and Other Tales" CD. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing.
"I don't want to paint with just one color". That's how Cillette Swann describes the Americana genre's ability to let artists mix Celtic, folk, and even country influences on the same album. Cilette, along with husband Roman Morykit, are better known as "Gypsy Soul", a duo who call southern Oregon their home, have been recording together since 1995. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing.
From the award-winning City Folk to his solo work, Santa Cruz songwriter Keith Greeninger continues to grow his appreciative audience and spread his enthusiasm to "get music into your life". In part one, Keith talks about how he gravited towards music in a family where no one else played and about his collaborative efforts with other musicians such as Dayan Kai. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details.
In part two of ths interview Keith plays two personal favorites of mine, "Ruby and Rosie" and "Arsenal of Doves" and explains the stories behind those songs. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details.
Another "kitchen table" interview, this time with singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist Dayan Kai, along with bass player Steve Uccello. Dayan and Steve talk about how they met and started playing together in high school, their musical influences, and how they ended up becoming frequent collaborators with Keith Greeninger, another local Santa Cruz singer/songwriter. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details.
In this second half of my chat with Dayan Kai and Steve Uccello, we talk about the pros and cons of being an independent artist in the age of web sites and Myspace. You'll also hear a little more of Dayan's new gospel CD, "Treat a Sranger Right". Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details.
On Saturday 2/23, I'll be at The Acoustic Barn in Newcastle, CA opening for Rick Di Dia and Aireene Espiritu. Rick and Aireene play a mix of original folk, blues, bluegrass, and "swampy jams", backed up Rick on lap-steel guitar and Airene on ukelele. Not the least bit coincidentally, Rick and Aireene are the guests on this episode of "Songs and Stories". Want to win a DVD and autographed CD from Rick and Aireene? Listen to this show or go to www.michaelgaither.com for details...
In the second half of this interview, Lacy J. Dalton talks about the efforts of the Let 'em Run foundation to save Nevada's wild horses and tells a little of the story behind the song "She Could Run".
In this first of a two-part interview, Lacy J. Dalton describes her move from Santa Cruz to Nashville, her Nashville successes, and what she did when she felt "homesick for the west".
Harmony is a big part of The Wailin' Jennies, but it doesn't stop there. The (mostly) Canadian folk trio is made up of three equally talented songwriters and multi-instrumentalists: Ruth Moody (guitar, banjo, accordion, bodhran) and Nicky Mehta (guitar, harmonica, ukulele, percussion) are the founding members of the group. The newest "Jennie", U.S.-born Heather Masse, joined them last year for the tour of "Firecracker", their latest release. I chatted with them by the hiss and pale light of a lantern at Camp Mather during last Fall's Strawberry Music Festival in Yosemite...
Second-generation Texas songwriter Colin Gilmore Colin discusses booking your own shows, the differences between playing solo and with a band, and why he hopes to play the west coast on a regular basis...
Last Fall, we got to play a few benefits for some notable local charities and events. It was great being able to bring music to a cause, and it also gave us the opportunity to play for new people. In this show, you'll hear a KSCO radio interview with me and Peter Goodman of the band Cooper Street the morning before our show at Don Quixote's Music Hall. (Our bands did a co-bill to help Felton Library Friends). Paul Machlis talks about the effort to fund a new library. And you'll also hear live versions of both of my car songs: A solo version of "Highway 17" from the KSCO interview, as well as a band version of "Good God Man How Big a Car Do You Need"...
She quit the University of Texas (while attending on a scholarship), formed the band Little Sister (which evolved into Sister Seven), and has been writing, playing, and touring ever since. This second of three "Songs and Stories" episodes with Texas songwriters features a conversation with Dallas native Patrice Pike...
The next two episodes of "Songs and Stories" will be interviews with two very different Texas songwriters. In a couple of weeks, we'll be talking with Patrice Pike. In this edition, we chat with Darden Smith...
I run a songwriter's open mic night on the first Thursday of every month at the Wooden Nickel Bar and Grille in Watsonville CA. I haven't done a show about it since way back in Songs and Stories #4, so I thought I'd put together a few recent highlights...
Canadian songwriter Tia McGraff is originally from Port Dover, Ontario. She spent a number of years in Nashville, but these days, when she's not on the road, she's back home in Canada with husband (and fellow songwriter) Tommy Parham. I caught up with both of them during a busy weekend at the end of a busy summer...
Fingerstyle guitarist and songwriter Stevie Coyle has a background that puts my own song "Jack of All Trades" to shame. He's toured with The Royal Lichtenstein Circus and has hosted killer whale shows. He's been a member of The Frontmen and The Foremen. Steve is also a proud survivor of the Great Standup Comedy Scare of the 1980s.
This time out, I'll pick apart "Still Walkin'", the opening track on "Spotted Mule and Other Tales". I'll explain how this came about and describe how structurally, it's a bit different than my usual verse, chorus, verse, repeat chorus, etc...songs. I'll talk you on an audio tour of a "walk" up to Half Dome...
Singer/songwriter Paul Thorn was raised the son of a Pentecostal preacher, spent years working in a chair factory, and was even a professional boxer - at one point he was ranked the 29th best middleweight in the world. Let's just say he has a lot of backstory to draw from as a writer...
This week, I had the rare opportunity of talking with violinst-composer Mark O'Connor. A classically-trained musician, he's been at the front of contemporary acoustic music for many years...
Here the last of of my podcasts from material collected at last May's Strawberry Music Festival. This one's an experiment, a little audio tour of the late-night playing that goes on in several camps close to ours.
In this first of two podcasts from The Strawberry Breakfast Club, you'll hear me, Steve Bachman, and Greg Scott do a Friday slot at The Breakfast Club, followed by a couple of tunes from my buddy Greg Kitchel on Saturday.
In this second of two podcasts from The Strawberry Breakfast Club, you'll hear my pal Jim Dyar, along with me and Steve Bachman, playing the earlier morning set at The Strawberry Breakfast Club.
An interview with Joziah Longo, lead singer and songwriter for Gandalf Murphy and the Salmbovian Circus of Dreams. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
We just finished a very fun (and full) weekend of music at Roudon-Smith Winery in Scotts Valley. After Saturday's show, and after we tore down all the soundgear, I sat down and chatted with Bev Barnett and Greg Newlon abou their new CD, "Any Doorway Will Do".
So what's the story behind that mule song anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
What comes first? The music or the lyrics? The answer is simply, "yes". (As in, "Yes, the music or the lyrics definitely come first".) Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
So what does a marriage proposal at an open mic sound like, anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Yes, I really "wrote for Jay Leno one time", as I claim in my song "Jack of All Trades". Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Here's a look (listen, actually) at how the band came together, as well as some audio from our recent appearance on KPIG radio. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.
Here's a look behind the song "Highway 17" and a little audio tour of the dreaded drive itself. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com.