I had the great privilege of interviewing Elvis Costello for a podcast series that I was producing for his record label. This was Elvis’ first podcast interview about his work and my first time meeting him. I was a little nervous but I had heard from colleagues that Elvis is a rare artist in...
So Very Sheik
What do ghosts, a lighthouse and the guy from 30 Rock have in common with Duncan Sheik’s recent concept album turned musical? Listen to the podcast below the Tony and Grammy winning singer-songwriter-composer uncovers the mystery and traces his steps from the glorious Spring Awakening to his most intriguing (and boomitude best of ’09)...
The Wild, The Innocent and The iPod Shuffle
The next time you get together with friends, instead of spinning tunes old style, why not try a game of ‘ipod shuffle.’ To play, each guest brings their ipod and one by one takes a turn as DJ and remains in the driver’s seat for as long as the crowd is pleased. The longest...
My Deal with Gram
Contributed by guest blogger Steve Rosato Cosmic American Music was the self applied label for Gram Parsons’ vision of his music – pulling on distinct styles of country, gospel, blues and rock. The legacy he left behind is greater than the 6 records he made as an artist. I stumbled onto Gram Parsons when...
Boz Scaggs: Is It Over?
Contributed by guest blogger Lisa Mercurio They taught us how to dance, but they also taught us how to move and more importantly, how to “feel,” which is why certain songs (call them nostalgia tracks, classic oldies, goodies, favorites or even your mother’s music!), are the real deal. Locked in my childhood or fantasizing...
The Beach Boys: Over 40 and Still Fabulous
Contributed by guest blogger Michael DeMartin Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds is the crowning achievement of Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. In an age where popular culture is so transitory, it is remarkable that Pet Sounds has not only stood the test of time, but has actually improved with age. Dismissed in 1966 for...