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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 Aug 22, 2023
WMP#115: Echoes & Shadows: Paul Mitch’s Musical Journey of Resilience and Growth
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 115
Paul Mitch
WMP Linktree:
https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
Embark on an enthralling musical journey with the latest episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast! In this captivating installment, I sit down with Paul Mitch, a seasoned veteran of both the studio and the stage in southern Wisconsin. Paul is a multi-instrumentalist and recording engineer whose musical roots trace back to Chicago and the Midwest.
Paul's musical journey is a testament to his dedication and talent. He has cut his teeth as a freelance engineer and performer, leaving his mark on both the studio and live performances. As a multi-instrumentalist, he has honed his craft on various instruments, showcasing his versatility and passion for music.
One of Paul's standout achievements is his role as half of the midwest folk-americana group Lost Lakes, alongside fellow songwriter Corey Mathew Hart. His creative spirit and artistry shine through his latest album, "Echoes & Shadows," a well-worn, contemplative piece of Americana that delves into narratives tied to turbulence.
Join us as we dive deep into Paul's musical world. In an insightful interview with Tone Madison, Paul discusses his solo debut, his journey through a cancer diagnosis, and the profound importance of perception in his music. Discover the stories behind the album art, the creative process that led to "Echoes & Shadows," and how Paul's perspective on life and music has evolved through personal challenges.
Whether you're a music enthusiast, a fellow artist, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises to be a compelling exploration of music, resilience, and the human experience. Tune in to the Wisconsin Music Podcast and immerse yourself in the captivating narrative of Paul Mitch's musical journey.
Explore more about Paul Mitch and his music:
- Official Website: https://www.paulmitch.com/
- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JhBsN7D8ou93e8bptMMrv?si=YYVtOT7mTza9rXa4jLM2tw
- Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulmitchsongs/
- Get the Album "Echoes & Shadows" on Bandcamp: https://paulmitch.bandcamp.com/album/echoes-shadows
- Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mydogzep/
- Explore More Links: https://linktr.ee/PAULMITCH

Tuesday Aug 15, 2023
Tuesday Aug 15, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 114
Bryant Switzky
WMP Linktree:
https://linktr.ee/WI_Music_Podcast
Bryant Switzky, a true maestro in his own right, and a Verona, Wis. native who has recently found his way back to the Madison area after two decades spent in the Twin Cities and Washington, D.C.
After this long journey, Switzky rediscovered his passion for writing and performing music. His latest release, "On the Edge of Something" (February 17, 2023), marks his triumphant return with a 14-track collection of soulful, acoustic-driven songs. These melodies delve into life, love, parenthood, and loss, with his clever lyrics, soaring melodies, and passionate vocals resonating with fans of Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Lumineers. Switzky is a regular performer in the Madison area music scene.
Switzky's musical journey began in his childhood, releasing his debut solo album at the age of 18 in 1997. From touring as a guitarist in a Latin band to collaborating on an EP with the group in 1999, he released his second album of original music in 2001 before embarking on his journey to the Twin Cities.
Following several years of pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter, he transitioned into a nine-to-five writing job. This journey led him through roles as a newspaper reporter and a federal government analyst. In 2018, he reignited his songwriting spark, finding that a decade of writing professionally had honed his skills significantly.
His musical prowess has not gone unnoticed, as his songs have received over a dozen accolades from prestigious contests such as the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, the Great American Song Contest, and the Mid-Atlantic Song Contest. "On the Edge of Something" and its tracks have also earned him four finalist spots in the Madison Area Music Awards for 2023.
So, as we dive into the captivating world of Bryant Switzky, remember that your involvement in this journey amplifies the musical magic of Wisconsin. Join us on this melodic voyage, and together, let's celebrate the diverse talent flourishing in our beloved state! 🎶🎙️🎵
Social Media / Web Links
- Website: www.BryantSwitzky.com
- Facebook: Bryant Switzky Music https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088595630236
- YouTube: @bswitzky https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW8_VFp46hktw0XvBe5hCfQ

Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 113
Jordan Blanchard
Ladies and gentlemen, country music enthusiasts, and lovers of the Wisconsin music scene, welcome to the Wisconsin Music Podcast! I'm thrilled to kick off today's episode by diving into the latest sensation that's about to grace our ears and set our summer on fire.
Wisconsin, now Nashville, recording artist, Jordan Blanchard, is stepping into the spotlight once again with his upcoming single, "Cooler Than You," hitting the airwaves on June 2nd. This anthem captures the essence of a summer breakup, combining catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics that delve into a tale of love gone awry. Picture a woman who seeks money and status, while Jordan finds solace in the simple joys of country living.
But don't be fooled by the heartbreak – "Cooler Than You" isn't just another sad song. It's a rollicking day drinking anthem, ready to become the soundtrack of your summer adventures. And speaking of adventures, this single marks the beginning of Jordan's summer tour, a whirlwind journey of almost 100 appearances in a mere 137 days. From festivals to intimate shows, he's set to grace stages alongside country music stars like HARDY, LOCASH, and Neal McCoy, just to name a few.
What sets Jordan Blanchard apart is his distinct sense of humor. With lines like "You always wanted somebody cooler than me, and I'd rather have an iced-down cooler than you," he masterfully weaves sarcasm and wit into his music. And his fans? Well, they're the backbone of his success – a fact he's never shy to acknowledge.
As we approach his fourth studio single, it's clear that Jordan's lyrical journey through love has been a rollercoaster. From flirty rendezvous to toxic relationships, breakups, and now the ultimate send-off, he's capturing emotions we all know too well, with a fresh twist. Drawing inspiration from the golden age of country love songs, he brings a nostalgic yet contemporary sound to the table.
In the words of music critics, Jordan Blanchard's star is on the rise. His genuine dedication to his craft, combined with his soulful passion, sets him apart as a true embodiment of today's country music spirit. As he gears up to share "Cooler Than You" with the world, we can't help but anticipate the next chapter of his musical journey.
So, grab your favorite cold beverage, settle in, and get ready to enjoy the warm melodies of Jordan Blanchard's "Cooler Than You" on June 2nd. As we celebrate his artistry, his commitment to authenticity, and the country soul that flows through his veins, let's raise a toast to the sound of a true country troubadour making his mark on the Wisconsin music scene and beyond.
Socials
https://linktr.ee/jordanblanchardofficial
Website

Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 112
Jenna Kopitske
Jenna Kopitske is a drummer, pianist, and composer who has appeared at a wide range of venues throughout the state of Wisconsin for many years. She recently moved to Nashville, TN, and after a few months she picked up her first national tour drumming with country artist Waylon Nihipali to Washington, Nevada, and Hawaii. While in Nashville, she recently got endorsed by her favorite cymbal company, Paiste Cymbals. She operates her own business teaching piano and drum lessons as well as studying contemporary country, classic rock, blues, gospel, and pop music.
As a performer, Ms. Kopitske has gained experience in both live and studio settings. She is a freelance musician who has recorded many projects on drum-set, percussion, and piano in an array of styles. Additionally, Ms. Kopitske composes and licenses her own music. Commonly compared to the late piano composer George Winston, she similarly writes in the style of new age-contemporary with a wide, uplifting, and ambient nature. She began composing at a young age but released her debut EP in 2018 entitled Unheard Of. In 2021, she released her sophomore piano EP entitled Pride & Joy which sets the mood for easy listening and the blues. A year later, she released her first single entitled “Losing Light” with a sync intended focus. She plans to record her third studio album later in 2023. Ms. Kopitske recently received her BM studying music industry with an emphasis of music business at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. She studied percussion at the university with Dr. Alison Shaw and Marisol Kuborn. Prior to graduation she completed a hybrid music publishing/sync internship at Primary Wave Music Publishing who are based in Los Angeles and New York City. Ms. Kopitske is now in the process of pitching her most well-known compositions “Cascade” and “Losing Light” to be used in film and television. Besides drumming on tour, Ms. Kopitske is also anticipating a career as a piano composer
in the film scoring industry.
Performance Experience
Waylon Nihipali, drummer of Nashville original and cover country band 2023-current
• Performed in Washington, Hawaii, and Nevada at Walla Walla Music
Fest, Grand Naniloa Crown Room, Grand Wailea Molokini Gardens,
Waikiki Beachcomer Hotel, Makawao Stampede Rodeo, Barking Sands
Navy Base, Stoney’s Rockin’ Country in Vegas
Madison Wolfe, drummer of Nashville original country band 2023-current
• Performed in Tennessee at the Ainsworth in Nashville
Jonny T-Bird & the MP’s, drummer of blues band 2019-2022
• Performed in Wisconsin at Summerfest, Turner Hall Ballroom, Osthoff
Resort, Gibson Music Hall, Harley-Davidson, blues festivals, awards
shows, and opened for Halestorm, YUNG BLEU, American Idol winner
Chayce Beckham, Lilith Czar, Blanco Brown, Frank Bang of Buddy Guy
Appleton Alliance Church, drummer of worship band 2021-2022
• Performed in Wisconsin at Appleton Alliance Church
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, percussionist and pianist 2019-2022
• Performed in Wisconsin in Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Titan
Steel, Percussion Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Handbell Choir
Jenna Kopitske, original new age-contemporary and blues pianist 2014-current
• Performed in Wisconsin at Mile of Music, Osthoff Resort, Paper
Valley Hotel, Suicide Awareness Walk, Houdini Plaza, Riverview
Gardens, Grand Meridian, Appleton Farmers Market, Dogtoberfest,
Whistler’s Knoll, weddings, nursing homes, and awards shows
Appleton Rock School, drummer and keyboardist of various rock cover bands 2013-2019
• Performed in Wisconsin at Summerfest, Weidner Center, Appleton
Performing Arts Center, Lambeau Field, Gibson Music Hall, Octoberfest,
Electric City Experience, Cheesefest, WBAY-TV Cerebral Palsy Telethon,
benefits, local coffee shops
Recording Projects
“Losing Light” original new age-contemporary single on piano 2022
• Composed, recorded, and mixed piano at home studio in Wisconsin, mastered
at Rock Garden Studio with Marc Golde in Appleton, WI
“Play Time” original blues album by Jonny T-Bird & the MP’s 2022
• Wrote and recorded drums, wurlitzer, organ, and auxiliary percussion at
Hamtone Audio in Milwaukee, WI
“Pride & Joy” sophomore original piano album 2021
• Solo piano album recorded at UW Oshkosh Recording Studio in Oshkosh, WI
“Fighting Monsters” on Christian rapper Jon the Revalaytor’s single 2019
• Composed and tracked drums at Cherry Pit Studios
“O Come All Ye Faithful” on Tim Dorsey’s Christmas album 2019
• Wrote and recorded drums at OpenwindO Studios in Greenville, WI
“Unheard Of” debut original piano album 2018
• Solo piano album engineered at OpenwindO Studios
Honors/Awards
Nominee for Pianist of the Year, Wisconsin Area Music Industry 2023
Student Award for Excellence TV Episodic Entertainment Program, Titan TV 2023
Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee Awards, Finalist for Best Blues Band 2023
Honors Recitalist Award and Scholarship, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh 2022
Oshkosh Fine Arts Association Scholarship 2022
Bill Tesch Music Scholarship, Boogie and the Yoyo’z 2019
Endowment of Music Excellence, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Music Department 2019
Rising Star in Art Award, James Thaldorf 2019
Nell M. Menn Music Scholarship, Community Foundation For The Fox Valley Region 2019
Nominee for Rising Star of the Year, Wisconsin Area Music Industry 2018-2019
Education
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh-Bachelor of Music September 2019-May 2023
Music Industry Major: Music Business Emphasis
Percussion studies with Dr. Alison Shaw and Marisol Kuborn
Graduation May 2023

Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 111
Batteries Not Included
5-Piece Pop/Punk band from West Bend, WI. They cover an array of classic rock, 90s pop/punk, and modern rock. They also write some of their own music inspired by bands like Weezer, Green Day, and Nirvana in an attempt to bring life back to the 90s greatest punk rock!
If you enjoy these episodes, please write a 5 star review at Apple Podcasts.
LINK TREE

Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
WMP#110: Schizocore musical collective, Carson D Bell of CDB and the Endtimes
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 109
CDB and the Endtimes
Carson Bell, lead singer and songwriter of Carson D. Bell & The Endtimes, grew up in Madison and Milwaukee Wisconsin, and previously played in the Madison Wisconsin based Blues Punk band Meat Jelly and screamo band Posthuma with current and former members of another Madison based band Excuse Me Who Are You.
His new project CDB & The Endtimes is along the same lines as hisprevious bands that he has played in over their 12 years of experience with various Wisconsin punk bands, but in August of 2021, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee for work where he assembled his newest live band, featuring Alex Ralph, formerly of the Stevens Point bands Bear Down and Wisco Disco, and released their new EP "Redacting" on bandcamp. The EP is a blend of all the styles he enjoys, from 90's pop rock and shoegaze, to mid 2000's grindcore and post-hardcore. It was recorded partially in Milwaukee and features Wisconsin musicians Tyler Lebo and James Goodrich Ryan on bass and drums respectively.
Music can be found on bandcamp at
cdbet.bandcamp.com

Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
WMP#109: Theatrics, Filmmaking, and Music, De La Luz
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 109
De La Luz

Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
WMP#108: Non-Profit creator and Country Cover Band The Ramble
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 108
THE RAMBLE
Based in southern Wisconsin (and claiming Main St Music in Brooklyn, WI, as a home base), Matthew James & The Ramble formed in early 2022. The band plays traditional country music, with a strong gravitation towards 90’s and 00’s country. Live sets take the audience on a ramble through the greats of country music, from classics (Travis Tritt, Alan Jackson) to current stars (Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton) to up-and-comers (Drake White, Jesse Daniels). The Ramble is also available as a backing band for local and regional country artists, or for residencies at your venue. Catch Matthew James & The Ramble at one of the shows.
James Grenier / Guitars, Vocals
Frank Queram / Bass
Carl Rozas / Fiddle, Vocals
Eric Salisbury / Drums
Matthew James Willey / Vocals
Kevin Wokosin / Guitars, Keys, Vocals

Tuesday Jun 06, 2023
Tuesday Jun 06, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 107
Michael Sander
KID's FROM WISCONSIN
55th Anniversary STARSTRUCK Tour
The iconic Kids from Wisconsin are rolling out the red carpet for our 55th season of musical excellence!
With musical selections from award-winning artists, Broadway's Tony Awards, Hollywood's Oscars, and top Grammy Awards performers, you're sure to be Starstruck as we pay homage to our nation's famous awards shows that celebrate accomplishments from the stage, screen, and beyond.
The Kids from Wisconsin’s 55th Anniversary Tour will bring these sensations, and much more, to life in our high-powered two-hour Broadway-style production for families and audiences of all ages. This elite troupe, consisting of Wisconsin's most talented 15-to 20-year-olds, is the country's only pre-professional organization of its kind.

Tuesday May 30, 2023
Tuesday May 30, 2023
WISCONSIN MUSIC PODCAST
AMPLFYING WISCONSIN MUSIC
EPISODE 106
Sam Boettcher of
BLAME IT ON CAIN
If you’ve found yourself poking around iTunes lately, you’ve probably bumped into a litany of highly-polished, over compressed, auto-tuned pop music. Boring. “What happened to Rock?”, you wonder. Happily, it’s right here ... in Beertown, USA.
Blame It On Cain.
Rock Done Right. The band released their debut album, ‘Rhythm Schism’ in 2008 and the album stretched beyond the usual boundaries of local radio and internet play. Their song, “Yesterday’s Happy” was released nationally on a compilation CD from Versailles Records. “Miami Beach” was the theme song for an animated web-series based on the east coast. And the band was invited on stage with Brian Vander Ark of the Verve Pipe, to sit in on a couple of acoustic numbers with the multi-platinum selling artist. A refreshed sound emerged and the band went back into the studio to record ‘Big Down Under’ in 2017. The album instantly received positive reviews from critics and fans, and the initial printing sold-out. With little down time, the band went back to writing and, in May 2019, released, ‘Amp Grease’. The album features eight newly recorded tunes and explores a number of different textures.
Their latest album - “Implied Maturity” - features 9 new, eclectic songs; from the
bluesy “Blush” to the reflective “Summerhill”, and from the gritty-drive of “Story Of Your Lies” to the delicate “Love, Not Change”. The album is a departure from previous releases, as this is the band’s first all-acoustic effort. It is available on iTunes, Amazon Music, Bandcamp, Pandora and other streaming services. The idea to do an all-acoustic album came after Cain played a set at an unplugged festival in Sturgeon Bay. The band then used the pandemic and lockdown to their advantage, by slowly writing and continually reworking the album until they were satisfied with the result.
Blame It On Cain is:
Sam Boettcher (vocals),
Steve Draganchuk (guitar)
Rich Seegert (drums)
Kevin Schwerdtfeger (bass).
CONTACT: samboettcher76@gmail.com
Links
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/442nLe7Bz0Da1Pu1Ebwomz?si=uGdHbp7rSYCRIUkKKAZO0g
Reverbnation: www.reverbnation.co/blameitoncain
Bandcamp: www.blameitonain.bandcamp.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/blameitoncain
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/rhythm-schism/279054600
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imvrVZB8ciA&ab_channel=realgenius76