Chris DeMakes A Podcast

This week’s Throwback Thursday edition was originally released as Episode 225 on September 23rd, 2024. It features Anberlin guitarist Joseph Milligan discussing the writing and recording of the band’s hit 2008 single “Feel Good Drag.” The song, which was initially intended as a fun re-recording of a track from an earlier album, wasn't even meant to be on the New Surrender album. However, it went on to become the band’s widely acclaimed signature single. The song explores themes of infidelity and self-reflection, highlighted by the high-energy and technically proficient performance of a band firing on all cylinders.

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Piebald’s 2026 full-length Tales For The Rages was a long time coming, considering the band’s last LP came out close to 20 years prior. Despite the time between releases, the spirit and unique songwriting of this Massachusetts indie band shines through on the album, especially on the standout track “Gentlemen Callers.” In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Travis Shettel makes his return to the show to discuss the writing and recording of the catchy yet unconventional track, featuring everything from harmonizing guitars to horn arrangements. 

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This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released as Episode 229 on October 21st, 2024. In this conversation, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios dive into the hit 1994 single "Zombie" by The Cranberries, written by the late Dolores O'Riordan. They explore the song’s powerful blend of heavy music and poignant lyrics, addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland, and reflect on the immense talent of Dolores, who left us far too soon.

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Dolly Parton was known far and wide as the Queen of Country Music, which is a title that was well-earned when you look back at her prolific career that spanned six decades. It was in 1980 that she made the leap onto the silver screen, starring alongside fellow female icons Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda in 9 to 5, a comedy that dealt with the very real struggles of the modern woman in the workplace. Dolly also penned the movie’s theme song, which went on to become a #1 crossover smash, as well as one of her most well-known hits. This week’s episode is an exploration of every aspect of “9 to 5,” a song that remains just as relatable today as when it was first written.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes

For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com

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Over on the One Hit Thunder podcast, Chris and Matt compiled the Top 10 lists of listeners to arrive at the 100 greatest one hit wonders of all time. In this episode, they discuss some of the songs that did NOT make the list.

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Chris Cresswell makes his return to Chris DeMakes A Podcast, this time to discuss the writing and recording of the 2026 single from The Flatliners, “Good, You?” Lyrically, this hard-hitting, 90s-influenced song is built around a familiar scenario: someone asks how you’re doing, and despite the countless things that might be flying around in your head, the answer is almost always the title phrase of this track. Whether it’s trying to “be a man” or just not wanting to burden others, the ensuing repressed feelings shine through in this song. In this episode, Chris opens up about the songwriting process and production of this instant classic from the new album from The Flatliners, Cold World.

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For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com

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Originally released as Episode 206 on May 13th, 2024, this edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast features Shudder to Think’s Craig Wedren discussing the creative process that led to the band’s fan favorite 1994 single, “X-French Tee Shirt.” Craig has long been a mastermind behind scores for film and television, including cult classics like Wet Hot American Summer, School of Rock, and Yellow Jackets, and in this episode, he offers a glimpse into the way he goes about writing that leads to his unconventional and interesting music.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes

For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com

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Even though he has lived in the UK from a very young age, a part of As It Is vocalist Patty Walters’ heart still remains in the United States. The band’s 2026 single “Live, Laugh, Love, Los Angeles” marries ultra-catchy, Springsteen-inspired  pop with deeply reflective lyrics about the current state of the US, resulting in an undeniable song that’s taken to an even higher level by the contribution of saxophonist Justin Klunk. In this episode, Patty opens up about the creation of the song, from its conception to the production choices that make this single soar.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes

For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com

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This week’s Throwback Thursday was originally released as Episode 214 on July 8th, 2024. In this episode, Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 2013 single from Fitz and The Tantrums, "Out of My League." Fitz opens up about his long road to success in the music industry, a journey initially met with substantial rejection. He dives into how he carved his own path, honing his production and songwriting skills along the way, before finding the right bandmates and style that finally clicked. He also explores how "Out of My League" and the entire More Than Just a Dream album marked a shift towards a more 80s new wave sound, a departure from their previous material that had critics almost dismissively labeling them as throwback soul. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of resilience and creativity from a true music industry veteran.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes

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When John Corabi stepped in as the new singer of Mötley Crüe in the early 90s, the band was at a true crossroads. As if replacing a lead singer isn’t already an uphill battle for any band, they also had to contend with radio and MTV’s move away from the hard rock and metal of the 80s. Despite the adversity they faced, Mötley Crüe entered the studio with acclaimed producer Bob Rock to create their self-titled 1994 album. In this episode, John shares the story behind the writing and recording of the record’s lead single “Hooligan’s Holiday,” as well as some hilarious and inspiring tales from a time when the band felt they had something to prove.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes

For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com

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