In this episode, Hot Mulligan guitarist Chris Freeman dives into the creation and recording of the fan-favorite track "*Equip Sunglasses*". While producer Brett Romnes played a pivotal role in bringing the song to life, the track's structure remained remarkably faithful to its original demo. Beyond its catchy melodies, "*Equip Sunglasses*" serves as a lyrical expression of frustrations directed at those who attempt to confine the band within a predetermined box or enforce standards they never intended to uphold. 
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Ep. 178: Chris Freeman discusses Hot Mulligan's "*Equip Sunglasses*"

Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.

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Music Interviews

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Join host Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios as they embark on a musical exploration of Andrew Gold's iconic 1978 single "Thank You for Being a Friend" in this week's episode. While most listeners may recognize it as the beloved theme song from The Golden Girls, DeMakes and Fafalios dive into the rich layers of this timeless track, uncovering its sentimental and tongue-in-cheek charm. As they dissect Gold's impressive musical legacy, they reveal how this song is not only uplifting but also a heartfelt tribute to friendship. Tune in as they pay homage to an extraordinary songwriter and musician whose work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. 
 Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  
 If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 210: A discussion on Andrew Gold and his song "Thank You for Being a Friend"

In this episode, Alkaline Trio guitarist and vocalist Matt Skiba takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's fan favorite 2005 single, "Time to Waste". Matt opens up about the writing and recording process, shedding light on the band's bold approach to incorporating big production elements, exemplified by the haunting piano intro that sets the tone. He pays homage to the late Jerry Finn, emphasizing Finn's significant contributions to the song's creation. Furthermore, Matt shares the inspiration behind the lyrics, including the surprising, never-before-told backstory behind the infamous "hide the cutlery" line. Join in for an intimate exploration of the creative process and untold stories behind this iconic track, straight from the artist's perspective. 
 Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  
 If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you want to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 209: Matt Skiba discusses Alkaline Trio's "Time to Waste"

P.O.D. vocalist Sonny Sandoval sat in for this episode in which listeners are invited to explore the creation of their iconic 2001 hit single, "Youth of the Nation." Against the backdrop of tragedies like Columbine and other shootings that shook the nation, Sandoval shares how the band was inspired to craft a powerful and inspiring anthem that resonated with a generation in turmoil. With the guidance of producer Howard Benson, P.O.D. entrusted their vision to explore new sonic territories, resulting in a timeless track that remains as relevant today as it was over two decades ago. 
 Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  
 If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 208: Sonny Sandoval discusses P.O.D.'s "Youth of the Nation"

In this episode, Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn of Local Natives unveil the behind-the-scenes journey of crafting their 2019 single, "When Am I Gonna Lose You." They reveal that the song underwent a staggering 57 different versions, each a labor of love to achieve perfection. From Taylor's raw personal inspiration to Ryan's lyrical contributions and producer Shawn Everett's innovative techniques, they showcase the magic that brought this hauntingly beautiful track to life. The emotional resonance of the composition mirrors the ride up California's coastline described in the song, offering an intimate glimpse into the artistry that defines this modern masterpiece. 
 Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes 
 If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. 
 Past guests of Chris DeMakes A Podcast include John Feldmann of Goldfinger, Jaret Reddick of Bowling For Soup, Roger Lima of Less Than Jake, Bill Stevenson of Descendants, Anthony Raneri of Bayside, Jen Razavi of The Bombpops, Tim McIlrath of Rise Against, Howard Benson, Angelo Moore of Fishbone, Ryan Key of Yellowcard, Aaron Barrett of Reel Big Fish, Cyrus Bolooki of New Found Glory, Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio, Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, Brian Baker of Bad Religion and Dag Nasty, Sierra Sellers, Trever Keith of Face To Face, Laura Jane Grace of Against Me!, Mike Herrera of MxPx, Mark Hoppus of blink-182, Robin Wilson of Gin Blossoms, Jeff Rosenstock, Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional, Matt Pryor of The Get Up Kids, Steve Soboslai of Punchline, A Jay and Jeremy Popoff of Lit, Travis McCoy of Gym Class Heroes, Joe Escalante of The Vandals, Deryck Whibley of Sum 41, K.Flay, Chuck Ragan of Hot Water Music, Donnie Vie of Enuff Z’Nuff, Shane Told of Silverstein, Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low, Fat Mike of NOFX, Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray, Kevin Bivona and Aimee Interrupter of The Interrupters, Karine Deniké of Dance Hall Crashers, Dicky Barrett and Joe Gittleman of The Mighty Mighty Boston’s, Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World, Dan Andriano of Alkaline Trio, Elizabeth Stokes of The Beths, Jim Lindberg of Pennywise, Frank Turner, Blake Schwarzenbach of Jawbreaker, Jenn Fiorentino, Chad Gilbert of New Found Glory, Matt Embree of Rx Bandits, Joey Cape of Lagwagon, Rosie Frater-Taylor, Derek Sanders of Mayday Parade, Max Collins of Eve 6, Butch Walker of Marvelous 3, John O’Callaghan of The Maine, Ken Block of Sister Hazel, VÉRITÉ, Chrissy Costanza of Against The Current, Mike Park of Skankin’ Pickle, Brendan Kelly of The Lawrence Arms, Brett Detar of The Juliana Theory, J. Navarro of The Suicide Machines, Josh Todd of Buckcherry, Dan Marsala of Story Of The Year, Ty Tabor of King’s X, Pierre Bouvier of Simple Plan, Kevin Martin of Candlebox, Brendan B. Brown of Wheat’s, Max Rainer of Wilderado, Bill Manspeaker of Green Jellÿ, Mummy Cass of Here Come The Mummies, Donald and John Tardy of Obituary, Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills, Christian “MC Bat Commander” Jacobs of The Aquabats, Kip Winger of Winger, Michael Sweet of Stryper, Chris Conley of Saves The Day, Des Rocs, Shaun Morgan of Seether, Shawn Harris of The Matches, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister, Tom Higgerson of Plain White T’s, and many more!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 207: Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn discuss Local Natives "When Am I Gonna Lose You"

Embark on a journey of musical innovation with Craig Wedren as he unravels the mysteries behind Shudder To Think's iconic 1994 single, "X-French Tee Shirt.” From the band's relentless pursuit of originality to the song's jarring yet hypnotic structure, Craig takes listeners deep into the creative process, offering unparalleled insights into its unconventional brilliance. As a mastermind behind scores for film and television, including cult classics like Wet Hot American Summer, School of Rock, and Yellow Jackets, Craig's expertise adds an extra layer of intrigue to this must-listen episode. Tune in and discover the secrets behind one of music's most daring compositions. 
 Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  
 If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 178: Chris Freeman discusses Hot Mulligan's "Equip Sunglasses"

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