11.3K
Downloads
224
Episodes
AMPLIFYING WISCONSIN MUSICIANS WMPodcast interviews local Wisconsin musicians on their journey from their first group, solo endeavor, hired studio work, local community groups, and more, to their present day activities in the local music scene. We will also talk with music businesses and music organizations. We’ll talk about their origin story, what their influences are, what they do to hone their talents and their skills to be where they are today. What they feel is not only suffocating the local music scene, but, better yet, what they feel is helping push the local scene into the limelight. Also hear about gigs they’ve played that made an impression on them and why. . . and much more.
Episodes
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 149
Roger Lee
Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, where we're all about amplifying the incredible sounds coming out of Wisconsin. I'm your host, Zach Fell. Don't forget, we drop new episodes every Tuesday on all streaming platforms, and you can catch our video interviews on YouTube. Plus, you can listen to past episodes on Fox City's Indie Radio every Thursday at 6 PM and Sundays at 3 PM.
This week, I’m beyond excited to introduce you to Roger Lee, a solo musician from the small town of Winter, Wisconsin. With a population of just about 325 people, Roger's musical journey took an unexpected turn after a stage four cancer diagnosis. During his chemotherapy treatments, he found solace in a guitar he had owned for years but never had the time to master. Now in remission, Roger brings his unique blend of music to a variety of venues, performing classics from Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Gordon Lightfoot, The Band, and Ray LaMontagne, alongside his own original music.
Despite never imagining he'd play in public, Roger's musical journey has been like a snowball rolling downhill, gathering momentum and humbling him every step of the way. His original songs, deeply rooted in 70s and 80s country, are gaining acclaim and becoming a significant part of his performances.
Join me as we dive into Roger Lee's inspiring story, from his battle with cancer to his growing presence in the Wisconsin music scene. You can connect with Roger on his Facebook page and check out his performances on his YouTube channel.
For those of you who are new to our show, the Wisconsin Music Podcast is dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of Wisconsin-based musicians and the thriving local music community. Make sure to follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram to keep up with our latest episodes and musical endeavors.
If you enjoyed Roger’s story and want to hear more inspiring musical journeys, tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. And remember, you can support the podcast by donating through our website to help us continue bringing you these amazing stories. Have a fantastic week, and we'll see you next time!
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 148
{ELSE}
Hey everyone! Zach here, bringing you another exciting Tuesday dive into the heart of Wisconsin's music scene. This week, we're thrilled to have the electrifying band ELSE joining us!
ELSE, formed in 2013, is renowned for their dynamic blend of hard rock and progressive sounds, drawing influences from old school metal, industrial 90s styles, and modern post-rock and ambient music. Their tightly knit guitars, industrial effects, churning bass, heavy drums, and searing vocals create a sound that's both powerful and unique.
After wrapping up their experimental acoustic album, "Here's Waiting," in late 2021, ELSE returned to their roots to work on "Seven So Few," a project infused with nautical and religious themes. Guitarist and songwriter Kent Herberling brought new layers to the band's music, inspired by his time with Milwaukee shanty-grass band Pay the Devil.
ELSE has released three full-length albums and a three-song EP, with plans to release several more EPs in the coming years. The band's core members, John Backus, Kent Herberling, and Shane Mattox, have been friends since high school and reunited after college to create music together. Joining them are Nathan Paul on guitar and Michael Sinshak on drums. Jon Backus, on Bass and Vocals, was unable to participate.
Today, we're diving into their journey, latest projects, and what's next for them. You can find out more about ELSE on Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram, and explore their entire discography and press kit online.
So grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and let's dive into this week's episode on the Wisconsin Music Podcast with ELSE!
In this episode, Shane and Kent share their music origin story, starting from middle school orchestra to their current band setup. They discuss the growing pains, the audition process, and how they finally found their perfect lineup. The band also talks about their DIY recording process and how they managed to create their latest album, "Seven So Few," during the challenging times of COVID-19.
You'll hear about the band's influences, the themes behind their music, and their plans for future projects. The conversation also touches on the work-life balance of the band members, their motivation for writing, and the joy of creating music together.
Don't miss out on this intimate and engaging conversation with ELSE. Tune in to the Wisconsin Music Podcast on your favorite streaming platform, or catch our video interviews on YouTube. And remember, you can also listen to past episodes on Fox City's Indie Radio every Thursday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.
Thanks for joining us, and we'll see you next week with another fantastic episode on the Wisconsin Music Podcast!
If you'd like to be on the show, visit wisconsinmusicpodcast.com and fill out the guest request form. And if you're enjoying these episodes, please consider donating to the Wisconsin Music Podcast to help support our efforts. Donations are secured through PayPal and Stripe.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook, leave some comments, and don't forget to review us on your podcast player. Your support means the world to us!
Until next time, keep rocking, Wisconsin!
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 147
Hans Christian
Hey there, and welcome to the Wisconsin Music Podcast! I'm your host, Zach Fell, and every Tuesday we dive into the heart of Wisconsin's music scene. We bring you stories and interviews with musicians, organizations, and businesses making waves right here in our backyard. You can catch all of our episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, and don't miss our video interviews on YouTube. Also, tune in to Fox City's Indie Radio every Thursday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. to catch our latest episodes.
This week, we have a special guest joining us, Hans Christian from Alamed Music in Sturgeon Bay. Hans recently got a Grammy nomination for his beautiful album Ocean Dreaming Ocean in the New Age Ambient Chant category. Hans' story is truly inspiring. He started out as a young cellist in Germany, moved to Hollywood to chase his dreams, and ended up working with big names like Robbie Robertson, Billy Idol, and members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He has also collaborated with greats like John Waite and Sparks. Over the years, he's developed a unique sound that really speaks to the soul.
Hans also runs Studio 330, his production facility in the heart of Door County, Wisconsin. There, he not only produces and composes his own music, but also mixes and masters projects for artists from North America and Europe.
By the way, our podcast website is going through some exciting design changes. If you're part of the Wisconsin music scene, whether you're a musician, an organization, or a business, head over to our website and fill out the guest request form. We'd love to feature you on a future episode.
So, grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and let's dive into this week's episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast. Hans shares his journey from Germany to Hollywood, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and his current work in Wisconsin. It's a story filled with passion, creativity, and a deep love for music. Enjoy!
Thanks again for tuning in to another episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast. Once again, I'm Zach Fell, your host and creator of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, where I love to amplify the great sounds coming out of the Wisconsin state. We have great talent here, great support, and great listeners. Thanks to Fox Cities Indie Radio for syndicating this on Thursdays and Sundays along with their other great programming. So make sure you check out Fox Cities Indie Radio.
If you are enjoying these episodes, please consider donating to the Wisconsin Music Podcast. Donations help pay for the website and putting the podcast up on streaming services, and also getting our name out there to all Wisconsinites and others that are interested in our great music here in Wisconsin. Donations are secure through PayPal and Stripe. All you have to do is go to the website and click on "Donate to WMP". You can also head over to our Instagram and Facebook pages and like us there, leave some comments, and check out the podcast review section of your podcast player to leave a five-star review. It would be great!
Have a great week, everybody, and we'll see you next time!
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 146
Chris CP Peppas
Welcome back to another episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, where we bring you the vibrant sounds and stories of Wisconsin-based musicians. I'm your host, Zach Fell, and today we're diving deep into the inspiring journey of CP Chris Pepas, a versatile vocalist and conga player performing around the greater Milwaukee area.
Chris is not your typical musician; he started his music career at the age of 58, proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Known for his performances with various trios that focus on jazz standards, classic rock, and blues, Chris has also delved into songwriting and recording projects.
In this episode, Chris shares his incredible story, from overcoming health challenges to becoming a beloved figure in Milwaukee's music scene. He talks about his collaborations with Joe Toronto, a Milwaukee native and multi-instrumentalist with an illustrious career. Joe has worked with legends like Ricky Lee Jones, Michael Bolton, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin, and was the music director for Grammy-winning jazz legend Al Jarreau.
Chris and Joe co-wrote a new song, with Joe composing the music and Chris contributing the main lyrics. The recording process was a collaborative effort with sound engineer Gary Tannen, another past guest on our show. Chris describes the joy of seeing his lyrics come to life with Joe's musical genius and the emotional connection he feels when performing live.
For those new to our show, the Wisconsin Music Podcast is dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of Wisconsin's music community. Our episodes drop every Tuesday on all streaming platforms and YouTube. You can also catch our episodes on Fox City's Indie Radio every Thursday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.
Don't forget to follow Chris Peppas on Facebook, X, and Instagram to stay updated on his musical journey. Now, without further ado, let's get right into our conversation with Chris Peppas. Trust me, you don't want to miss this heartfelt and inspiring story.
Enjoy the episode and see you next week with another fantastic guest on the Wisconsin Music Podcast!
Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 145
CARMEN NICKERSON
Welcome to a captivating new episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast with your host, Zach Felt. In this episode, we are treated to an exclusive discussion with indie artist Carmen Nickerson whose music crafts soul-stirring melodies and insightful lyrics. Carmen's debut solo studio album, 'Room to Grow', a collaboration with esteemed musician Willie Porter, is a musical masterpiece that stirs deep feelings and ignites the imagination.
Coming from rural Iowa, Carmen's music is a savory blend of various genres, leaving an enduring impact on her audience. 'Room to Grow' represents her artistic flowering, encapsulating genuine stories from her farm life upbringing and her vision for unity in her piece 'Ascension'. Delve into Carmen's captivating background, from early piano lessons to choir performances throughout her schooling and her breakthrough into songwriting in LA.
In this engrossing narrative, Carmen covers the exhilarating roller coaster of her musical career, starting from her duo album, 'Bonfire to Ash', to exhilarating national tours, and the recording of her latest album. She sheds light on the vital role of networking in the industry, her prolific collaborations, and the varied genres she's explored. Carmen stresses the importance of supporting musicians, encouraging listeners to purchase CDs and contribute to crowdfunding initiatives.
Have an insider's perspective of Wisconsin's music scene through Carmen Nickerson. Proving that talent, dedication, and passion can ignite a luminous musical career, Carmen's story is an inspiring tale for all. Learn more about her work and her views on the ever-changing music industry in this insightful episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast.
Monday Jun 03, 2024
Monday Jun 03, 2024
Welcome to the new season of the Wisconsin Music Podcast! In this special introductory episode, join us as we embark on an exciting journey filled with fresh starts and new adventures. Our host shares personal anecdotes about a recent move to a charming new home in Racine, Wisconsin, detailing the unique architectural features that make this house truly special.
But the real highlight? The transformation of the finished basement into the brand-new ZTF Studios, a hub for all future podcast recordings and musical creations. Relive the nostalgia as we hear about the early days of ZTF Studios, built with love and craftsmanship by our host and his father.
Stay tuned for a sneak peek into what's in store for Season 5, including a shoutout to the wonderful listeners, past guests, and collaborative podcasts that have been part of this incredible journey. Get ready to meet our first guest of the season, Cameron Nickerson, and dive into the rich musical landscape of Wisconsin.
Don't miss this heartfelt thank you episode that sets the stage for an amazing season ahead. Tune in next week and be part of the story!
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 144
ELMER AND THE CERAMIC TREES
http://facebook.com/elmerandtheceramictrees https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwcLKmkvxCUtUAD712Nej9Q
http://elmerandtheceramictrees.bandcamp.com/
Conceived in the summer of 2012 by Janesville, Wisconsin singer-songwriter Robbie Haas, Elmer and the Ceramic Trees blend the lush melodies of bands like The Beatles and Big Star with the doom-and-gloom pop of The Cure and Echo and The Bunny Men, the driving rhythms of New Order, and the big choruses of classic Bowie to form a style of indie pop that is at once harrowing and gorgeous.
In this gripping episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, host Zach Fell engages in an engrossing conversation with Robbie Haas, the lead vocalist of the local band Elmer and the Ceramic Trees. Esteemed for its innovative take on timeless classics, the band is celebrated for its unique melodies and rhythms that harmonize perfectly with Wisconsin's vibrant music scene.
Haas lifts the curtain on his musical voyage, providing a glimpse into his transformative creative process, the evolution of his musical taste, and the birth of Elmer and the Ceramic Trees. He discusses his meticulous approach to album construction, the struggle to establish a distinct identity in Wisconsin's rich music landscape, and the triumph of finally creating an inimitable sound.
Explore the intricacies involved in bringing music to life as Haas shares insights into the intersection between his personal life and professional commitments in the challenging realm of music. Also, learn about the influences of technology on his modern music production and his innovative approach to curating immersive experiences for the audience.
In this episode, Haas uncovers his journey of embracing his unique musical style, his struggle with imposter syndrome, and involvement in local farmer's markets. Additionally, he glances over his anticipation for the 2024 Big Beat MKE Beat Battle Tournament. Among the highlights of this conversation is his detailed exploration of the band’s newest album, 'We Were Beautiful in August', which perfectly encapsulates the vibe of sprawling summer and melancholic autumn.
Robbie also opens up about his journey from being a novice at open mic sessions to being a seasoned professional, how a live performance by The Cure reignited his passion, and how he continues to nurture his penchant for creating and promoting new music. Discover Robbie's insightful thoughts on the future of his music career and the growth of his band in an industry studded with challenges.
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Episode 143
The Rezzonators
On the latest episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, we take you on an immersive journey into the world of Milwaukee's rock sensation - The Rezzonators. Known for their unique mix of catchy riffs and groove-laden soundscapes, this rock and roll powerhouse shares an insider's view of their musical journey. From their humble beginnings playing cover gigs to releasing a double album recognized the world over, The Rezzonators narrate their climb to nearly 100,000 Spotify streams.
Dive deep into the stories behind their top tracks like "Everyday", "Panic Button", and "Highway Nights". Explore how they navigated the challenges of the pandemic, slowly regaining their live audience. Experience their tenacity and passion, as narrated by host Zach Fell in his conversation with band members Robert and Barry.
Gain insights into The Rezzonators' songwriting process and inspirations. Understand the stories behind fan-favorite songs such as "The Edge" and "Dream River". Learn how their unique approach to songwriting generates music inspired more by fictional tales than everyday experiences.
Join us in this deep dive into the life and times of The Rezzonators. Learn about their work-life balance, their memorable concert experiences, and how they've gone from local cover band to releasing their own albums. Get the inside scoop on their future plans, where to find their music online, and a sneak peek into their personal dreams for the band's future.
Do not miss this opportunity to delve into the captivating journey of The Rezzonators - a band whose passion for music clearly resonates with their ever-growing audience.
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLIFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Rob Marnocha
EPISODE 143
Discover Wisconsin's flourishing local music scene in this riveting episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, featuring guest Rob Marnocha. As the creative force behind 'Into the Music', Rob masterfully amplifies the unique voices of artists hailing mostly from Northern part of Wisconsin. Get an insight into his varied journey, from the great interviews that he creates and hosts.
'Into the Music' is not just a podcast but a platform where the unsung heroes of Northeast Wisconsin come to shine. It's a convergence of personal experiences, grueling struggles, performance insights, and interview discussions. We delve into Rob's experiences and future plans for his engaging podcast, spotlighting independent artists from Green Bay to Oshkosh.
In our conversation, we underline the vital role community support and live performances play in the growth and evolution of the original music scene in Wisconsin. We focus on the vitality of music podcasts and radio stations, notably Max Inc. Radio, Fox City's Core, and WAPL Homebrewed in nurturing local talent and keeping Wisconsin's music scene vibrant and pulsating.
Switching towards a broader canvas, we talk about the impact of worldwide podcast streaming in giving local Wisconsin artists much-warranted international recognition. The episode highlights the meticulous process of producing a podcast, from setting up intriguing interviews to ensuring engaging outputs. It wraps up with a shared mission of boosting Wisconsin's music and fostering a tight-knit network between content creators and musicians.
Stay engaged until the end as we delve into the personal influences shaping Wisconsin's music landscape and a special tribute to the 'surf' genre. Don't miss out on the next 'Into The Music' episode where our roles are reversed, and I become the interviewee. Join us in this enriching journey and show your support for Wisconsin music!
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
WMP Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
Michael "MD" McNally
https://linktr.ee/MDMcNally
EPISODE 141
Join us on this episode as we delve deep into the musical journey of MD McNally, tracing his evolution from the soft, psychedelic ballads of 'The Marvelous' to the dynamic fusion of folk and blues in his latest EP, 'Crimes'. Discover the creative process behind his captivating sound, the influence of his heartland roots, and the confidence he brings to his songwriting. Tune in for an insightful exploration of an artist finding his voice and pushing musical boundaries.