Key Change is a Musician's Roundtable. We bring on local artists, singers, talent bookers, venue owners, sound engineers, and just about everyone who makes our local music scene work. And we talk about the intricacies of being a local musician. What are the challenges? What does the daily grind look like?From there our hope is we can pump value back into the local scene through connection and storytelling.
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Backstage Bay Area is an exclusive podcast that explores the local music scene in depth. It features intimate interviews with emerging and established artists in various genres, including jazz, blues, rock, pop, folk, classical, urban, and world music. The program also offers a unique glimpse into the artists' creative processes, inspirations, and upcoming projects.
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Lakecia Benjamin: The Jazz Trailblazer Redefining the Live Experience
28:49
28:49
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28:49Show Notes: In this captivating episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with five-time Grammy nominee Lakecia Benjamin, a saxophonist, composer, and trailblazer redefining modern jazz. Lakecia shares insights into her latest album, Phoenix Reimagined (Live), a vibrant celebration of resilience featuring collaborations with legends…
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Jamie Baum: Redefining Jazz with Poetry and Global Sounds
45:30
45:30
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45:30Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steven Roby sits down with the extraordinary flutist, composer, and educator Jamie Baum. Known for her trailblazing work blending jazz with classical, South Asian, and spoken-word influences, Jamie discusses her latest album, What Times Are These. She reflects on her inspirations, her creative proc…
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Sam Lucid of Dogs in a Pile Talks New Music, Touring Adventures, and Bay Area Vibes
35:10
35:10
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35:10Episode Overview: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Sam Lucid, bassist, vocalist, and songwriter for the genre-defying band Dogs in a Pile. Based out of Asbury Park, New Jersey, the band has built a passionate fanbase with their eclectic blend of funk, jazz, rock, and psychedelia. Sam talks about the band’s crea…
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Karen y Los Remedios: Redefining Cumbia with a Modern Twist
28:03
28:03
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28:03Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Karen Barajas of Karen y Los Remedios, the trailblazing trio redefining the boundaries of cumbia. Karen shares the group's origin story, from early collaborations with Jonathan Muriel (Jiony) and the addition of guitarist Guillermo Berbeyer (Z.A.M.P.A.) to their evol…
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Inside the Sonic Apocalypse: Lana Del Rabies Takes Us Beyond the Noise
38:36
38:36
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38:36Show Notes: In this episode, we sat down with Sam An, the artist behind Lana Del Rabies, to explore the intersection of myth, music, and survival. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends industrial, gothic noise, and experimental metal, An discusses the creative process behind her critically acclaimed album STREGA BEATA, from the apocalyptic …
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Mads Tolling: Jazz Collaborations and Classics Reimagined
27:56
27:56
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27:56Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with two-time Grammy-winning violinist and composer Mads Tolling to explore the art of collaboration and musical reinvention. Mads shares the stories behind his groundbreaking work with celebrated jazz pianist John R. Burr and acclaimed vocalist Kenny Washington, including the…
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Derek Gripper and Ballaké Sissoko: Strings in Perfect Harmony
36:25
36:25
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36:25Episode Overview: In this captivating episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with South African guitarist and composer Derek Gripper to discuss his groundbreaking collaboration with Malian kora master Ballaké Sissoko. Known for his ability to translate the kora’s 21 strings onto a six-string guitar, Derek shares the stories behin…
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Richard Bona: Exploring Roots, Freedom, and Global Sounds
27:02
27:02
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27:02Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Grammy-winning bassist and global music ambassador Richard Bona. Known for his dynamic blend of jazz, Afropop, and the vibrant traditions of his Cameroonian heritage, Bona shares insights on his creative process, the challenges and triumphs of being an independent art…
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Nyte Skye: Dream-Pop Roots and Family Harmony
26:14
26:14
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26:14In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, we’re thrilled to feature Nyles Lannon, the visionary behind Nyte Skye, a band that blends atmospheric dream-pop with shimmering shoegaze textures. Formed during the pandemic, Nyte Skye is a family-driven project founded by Nyles and his son Skye. It showcases a beautiful collaboration of talent and creativity…
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Emilio Castillo on Tower of Power’s Timeless Christmas Groove
27:28
27:28
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27:28Show Notes: In this festive episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Emilio Castillo, founder and tenor saxophonist of the legendary East Bay soul band Tower of Power. Emilio shares the story behind the band’s very first Christmas album, It’s Christmas, a soulful and funky collection that brings new life to beloved holiday cla…
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Vienna Teng: Crafting Musical Mashups and Inspiring Change
35:02
35:02
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35:02Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into a fascinating conversation with singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Known for her boundary-pushing approach to chamber folk and indie pop, Vienna discusses her latest album, We’ve Got You, an ambitious project featuring mashups that reflect the dualities of modern life. From t…
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Sean Hayes on his latest album, ‘Be Like Water’
29:34
29:34
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29:34Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean Hayes, whose music bridges folk, soul, and introspective grooves. They delve into the creative journey behind Sean's latest album, Be Like Water, exploring its thematic inspirations drawn from the I Ching and the funky influence of Jam…
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The Third Mind: Improvised Freedom and Psychedelic Soundscapes
1:01:07
1:01:07
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1:01:07In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into the mind-bending world of The Third Mind with bassist and co-founder Victor Krummenacher. Known for his work with Camper Van Beethoven and Monks of Doom, Victor shares the story behind the band’s formation, their freeform creative process, and the making of their upcoming live conce…
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Free Creatures: Genre-Blending Beats and Holiday Cheer
30:01
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30:01In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with Emily Turner, bassist and vocalist of the genre-bending trio Free Creatures. Hailing from Southern Oregon, Free Creatures fuses alt-hip-hop, indie, psych-rock, and EDM to create what they call "the umami of music." Emily shares the band’s journey from its unique beginnings on a farm…
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Crying Uncle: Revolutionizing the Bluegrass Scene
23:08
23:08
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23:08Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Miles and Teo Quale, the talented brothers behind the Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band. Known for their electrifying fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and modern acoustic styles, Crying Uncle has become a rising force in the acoustic music scene. They recently signed with Engelhardt …
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Jennifer Greer on her latest album, ‘Speaking with Ghosts’
24:11
24:11
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24:11Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jennifer Greer to discuss the deeply personal journey behind her new album, Speaking with Ghosts. From her transition from poetry to songwriting to navigating grief and loss, Jennifer talks about how life’s “tidal waves” shaped her music. We also hear a…
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Noah Sierota on Echosmith’s Musical Evolution
25:34
25:34
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25:34Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Noah Sierota, bassist and producer of the multi-platinum alt-pop trio Echosmith. Celebrating ten years of music, Echosmith embarks on their Cool Kids Decades Tour and releases their latest project, Echosmith: The Live Album. Noah reflects on the band’s evolution sinc…
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Mike Stern: The Story Behind 'Echoes and Other Songs'
50:25
50:25
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50:25Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with six-time Grammy-nominated jazz fusion guitarist Mike Stern. Known for his legendary collaborations with icons like Miles Davis and the Brecker Brothers, Mike shares insights into his creative process for his latest album, Echoes and Other Songs. The album features a s…
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Carolyn Kendrick on her latest album, ‘Each Machine’
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29:11
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29:11Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Carolyn Kendrick, a Stockton-born singer-songwriter, fiddler, and producer, to discuss her highly anticipated album, Each Machine, which will be released on December 6th. Known for blending traditional folk music with modern themes, Kendrick takes listeners on a deep …
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Strings That Inspire: Inside the World of the Abeo Quartet
14:03
14:03
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14:03Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby dives into an insightful conversation with Njioma Chinyere Grevious from the Abeo Quartet, a dynamic group of musicians redefining chamber music with passion and precision. Described as “superb” by the Chicago Classical Review, violinist Njioma Chinyere Grevious is an emerging, passi…
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Laurie Lewis: Deep Roots, New Growth, and the Stories Behind The Album ‘Trees'
31:04
31:04
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31:04Show Notes On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes Grammy-winning bluegrass icon Laurie Lewis for an intimate conversation about her latest album, Trees. Laurie shares insights into creating music without her longtime collaborator, Tom Rozum, and how her songs' themes of loss and hope are interwoven. The discussion includes s…
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Jimmie Herrod: Redefining Vocal Brilliance and Artistic Excellence
27:32
27:32
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27:32Episode Description: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with Jimmie Herrod, the sensational vocalist celebrated for his breathtaking performances and unique artistry. Known for his work with Pink Martini and his memorable run on America’s Got Talent, Jimmie shares personal insights into his journey as a musician, his cr…
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Marina Crouse: Honoring Jazz Legends and Keeping the Music Alive
31:55
31:55
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31:55Show Notes: In this inspiring episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes jazz and blues vocalist Marina Crouse for an intimate conversation about her musical journey, her passion for honoring jazz greats like Ernestine Anderson, and how she connects with audiences through her soulful performances. Marina shares her thoughts on preservin…
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Peter Bradley Adams: The Soulful Journey of an Americana Songwriter
29:45
29:45
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29:45Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby welcomes acclaimed singer-songwriter Peter Bradley Adams from Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his signature Americana sound that wraps listeners in a warm embrace, Peter discusses the inspiration behind his soulful music, insights into his side project Down Like Silver, and an exciting …
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Exploring ‘Headland’: Eric McDonald on Kalos’ Musical Journey
31:01
31:01
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31:01Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Eric McDonald, the guitarist, mandolinist, and vocalist from the acclaimed folk trio Kalos. With their unique blend of Scottish, Irish, Scandinavian, and North American music traditions, Kalos redefines contemporary folk. Eric discusses their latest album, Headland, div…
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Jeffrey Martin, on his new album, 'Thank God We Left the Garden'
26:23
26:23
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26:23In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jeffrey Martin, known for his profoundly moving storytelling and soulful folk sound. From being an English teacher to becoming a full-time musician, Jeffrey shares his creative process and stories behind some of his most compelling songs, such as “Garden,” "Red Statio…
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Yellowwood Junction: From 90s Beginnings to Modern-Day Resonance
31:51
31:51
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31:51In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Brian Watch-horst, guitarist and vocalist for Yellowwood Junction. Formed in San Francisco in 1993, this six-piece band has captivated audiences with their sophisticated adult alternative rock sound, blending Steely Dan’s complexity with singer-songwriter melodies. Yellowwood Junction built its reputati…
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David Noble on Wreckless Strangers’ new EP, ‘Blue Sky Fantasy’
24:47
24:47
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24:47In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with David Noble, the talented guitarist and vocalist from the San Francisco-based band Wreckless Strangers. Known for their distinctive "Bay Area Gumbo" style—a seamless blend of blues, rock, Americana, and funk—Wreckless Strangers brings a unique flavor to the region’s rich musical la…
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Jonatha Brooke on Creative Freedom and Life in Music
33:08
33:08
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33:08Episode Summary: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews acclaimed singer-songwriter Jonatha Brooke about her creative journey, the evolution of her music, and the fearless reinvention that defines her career. Known for blending folk, rock, and pop with poignant, literate lyrics, Jonatha shares insights into her songwriting…
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Lebo's Gems & Jams: The Story Behind the Music
38:35
38:35
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38:35Episode Description: Join Steven Roby for a captivating episode as he interviews the renowned guitarist and vocalist Dan “Lebo” Lebowitz of ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra). Lebo shares his musical journey, from picking up a guitar at age 13 to collaborating with legends like Bob Weir and the late Phil Lesh. Discover the stories behind standout tr…
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From Screenwriting to Soulful Ballads: A Conversation with Joshua Radin
21:56
21:56
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21:56Episode Overview: Join host Steven Roby on this special episode of Backstage Sonoma as he sits down with renowned acoustic folk artist Joshua Radin, whose journey from screenwriter to celebrated singer-songwriter is as heartfelt as his music. With over a billion streams and hits like “I’d Rather Be With You,” Joshua opens up about his early days, s…
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Tae & The Neighborly’s debut album ‘Self Help’: a unique blend of Soul-Pop
27:02
27:02
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27:02In this engaging interview on Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Daniel Pingrey from Tae and the Neighborly to discuss the band's origin, creative process, and their debut album, Self Help. Daniel shares candidly about the band's formation during COVID times, highlighting the unique musical backgrounds of each member and the synergy t…
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Brass Roots, Funky Futures: Keith Frazier of Rebirth Brass Band
19:42
19:42
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19:42In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby chats with Keith Frazier, a founding member of the legendary Rebirth Brass Band. Rebirth has been a cornerstone of New Orleans brass for over four decades, blending the Crescent City's traditional sounds with modern funk, soul, and hip-hop influences. The band’s infectious energy and genre-defyin…
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Ben Sollee on his latest album, ‘Long Haul'
34:34
34:34
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34:34In this special episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with renowned cellist, composer, and activist Ben Sollee. Hailing from Kentucky, Sollee is known for blending various musical genres—classical, folk, jazz, and R&B—into a distinctive, soulful sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. His work doesn’t stop at music; Sollee …
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Groove, Soul, and Connection: Darryl Anders of AgapéSoul
27:20
27:20
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27:20Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby is joined by bassist and bandleader Darryl Anders of AgapéSoul. Darryl shares his deep-rooted passion for creating soul-driven music that resonates personally and emotionally. He reveals the stories behind AgapéSoul's music, from its creative inception to the powerful connections it f…
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Pearl Charles: Blending Genres and Gearing Up for Desert Queen album
27:19
27:19
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27:19Show Notes On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re joined by the multi-talented singer-songwriter Pearl Charles, whose unique fusion of genres has taken her from garage rock to the forefront of modern Americana. Raised in Hollywood, Pearl's sound draws on various influences, blending American folk, country, disco, and cosmic Americana. With a ca…
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Jeffrey Foucault, on his latest album, ‘The Universal Fire'
38:52
38:52
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38:52Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews acclaimed singer-songwriter Jeffrey Foucault for an intimate conversation about his musical journey, creative process, and new album, The Universal Fire. Known for his deep, introspective lyrics and distinctive Americana sound, Jeffrey shares the influences that shaped his …
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Free-Range Folk and Harmonies: A Conversation with Megan McLaughlin of The Musers
26:05
26:05
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26:05Show Notes On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re excited to sit down with Megan McLaughlin, singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the Sonoma County-based folk quartet, The Musers. Known for their unique blend of free-range folk, bluegrass, and Americana, The Musers are a local favorite, delivering dynamic harmonies and multi-instrumental perfo…
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Kellen Coffis on the new album, ‘Kaw-fis Bruth-urs’
28:48
28:48
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28:48In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews Kellen Coffis of The Coffis Brothers, a band that has carved its path in the Northern California music scene. With the highly anticipated release of their sixth studio album, Kaw-fis Bruth-urs, on November 29, 2024, Kellen opens up about making the record, which longtime collaborator …
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Beeson Unveils the Heartfelt Stories Behind Her Songs
27:18
27:18
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27:18Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby explores the artistry of singer-songwriter Jane Beeson, whose evocative lyrics and soul-baring music have captured the attention of indie music lovers. With a unique blend of emotional depth and musical precision, Jane shares her journey as a songwriter and the personal stories that i…
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Brian Moss of Spafford on Jams, Guitars, and Fan-Fueled Shows
34:29
34:29
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34:29Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Brian Moss, guitarist and founding member of the renowned jam band Spafford. Known for their genre-blending sound and incredible improvisational skills, Spafford has built a loyal following of "SpaffNerds" nationwide. With two upcoming shows at the Sweetwater Music Hall …
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Dead Set on Jammin’: Guitarist Nick Swift and the Magic of Bearly Dead
41:28
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41:28Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby dives into the world of Bearly Dead with guitarist and vocalist Nick Swift. Known for their powerful renditions of Grateful Dead classics, Bearly Dead has captured the hearts of Deadheads with their authentic yet fresh interpretations. Nick shares what it’s like to be part of a tribu…
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The Smooth Jazz Alley: A Fresh Take on Contemporary Jazz Fusion
35:13
35:13
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35:13Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with the core members of Smooth Jazz Alley—keyboardist and producer Marco Montoya, drummer and producer Kevin Lewis, and saxophonist Otoe Mori. Together, they share the journey behind the band's unique sound and their efforts to push contemporary jazz's boundaries. With yea…
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Ron Artis II: Crafting Soulful Stories Through Music, Connection, and Truth
33:24
33:24
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33:24In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, Steven Roby sits down with the ever-inspiring multi-instrumentalist Ron Artis II to explore the intersection of music, spirituality, and authenticity. With an upcoming show at the Hop Monk Tavern in Novato, Ron opens up about the creative process behind his latest release, We Are Not Machines, offering insights …
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The Young Dubliners: 30 Years of Celtic Rock and Still Driving Forward!
41:29
41:29
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41:29In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes Keith Roberts, The Young Dubliners's charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist. With 30 years of electrifying performances, The Young Dubs have become legendary for their unique fusion of Celtic music and rock, captivating audiences worldwide. In a candid conversation, Keith opens up abou…
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Brett Dennen’s Soulful Ride: Turning Life’s Struggles into Feel-Good Music
22:18
22:18
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22:18In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby welcomes the acclaimed folk singer-songwriter Brett Dennen. Known for his introspective lyrics and soulful sound, Brett shares insights into his musical journey and the inspirations behind his latest album, If It Takes Forever. The album, set for release on October 11th, reflects on themes of los…
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Robbie Fulks Reflects on a Storied Career in Americana and Bluegrass
26:56
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26:56In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with iconic alternative-country artist Robbie Fulks to dive deep into his latest album, Bluegrass Vacation. Fulks, known for his storytelling prowess and sharp musicianship, shares the inspiration behind his shift into pure bluegrass and what it was like working with legends like Sam B…
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The Philharmonik Talks NPR Win and New Music
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21:31
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21:31In this exciting episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Christian Gates, the multi-talented artist known as The Philharmonik. Christian shares the inspiring journey behind his rapid rise to success, including his recent win at the NPR Tiny Desk Contest and his triumph at last year’s American Songwriting Contest. With a backgrou…
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In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby has an in-depth conversation with renowned Brazilian guitarist and singer Badi Assad. With over 35 years in the music industry, Badi shares the triumphs, challenges, and personal growth that have shaped her career, including her battle with focal dystonia and deep connection with the San Francis…
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Jenny Scheinman: Jazz, Americana, and Finding Inspiration on the Lost Coast
42:55
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42:55In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby interviews acclaimed violinist and composer Jenny Scheinman. Jenny shares insights into her latest album, All Species Parade, which is deeply influenced by her return to the remote Lost Coast of Humboldt County. She reflects on how reconnecting with nature and rural life, especially during the pa…
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