Embrace Your Storm

E. Smitty, a gifted multi-instrumentalist and visionary record producer, takes us on an extraordinary musical journey in this episode. From his early days singing in choirs and soaking in the vibrant 80s music scene to his teenage years as an MC and radio broadcaster, Smitty’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and innovation. His passion for analog equipment and innovative CD production methods during his college years at East Carolina University showcases his relentless pursuit of musical excellence. He shares candid insights into the evolving landscape of music promotion, from the pre-social media era to the impact of platforms like MySpace.

Transitioning into the complexities of the music industry, we explore the significant hurdles artists face, such as having tracks used without proper credit and the intricate dynamics between creativity and control. Smitty discusses the transformative potential of blockchain technology in bringing transparency and fairness to the music world, shifting the balance of power from monopolized entities to empowered creators. We delve into the societal effects of this technological revolution, from the impact of subliminal messaging and frequencies on collective emotions to the robust security of blockchain in various applications.

We also highlight the comprehensive services offered by Sound Alive Records, Smitty’s independent record label, covering everything from management and distribution to mixing and mastering. Listen in as we emphasize the blend of traditional and modern techniques in producing high-quality music and the importance of treating music as a business for financial stability. Exciting collaborations and future projects under Sound Alive Records are on the horizon, and we provide all the details on how to connect with E. Smitty and his groundbreaking blockchain music platform, DistroMint. Join us for an episode filled with passion, innovation, and a vision for a more equitable music industry.

You can see the show notes here!

Julie, an incredibly talented singer, songwriter, guitarist, vocal trainer, and Berklee College of Music professor, graces our latest episode of Embrace Your Storm. With a rich musical journey that began in childhood, Julie recounts her experiences with talent shows like Star Search and The Voice, reflecting on the gritty reality of these competitions. She also shares her collaboration with Max Dasher, an American Idol contestant, and delves into her latest album featuring the acapella group Faith in Action.

Julie’s multifaceted career extends into the realm of Christian music, where she balances her roles as a musician, voice teacher, author, and worship leader. She opens up about the challenges and rewards of managing gigs and lessons from home to stay close to her children. Her book, “Vocal Training for Praise Singers,” merges vocal techniques with the spiritual duties of Christian artists. The pandemic offered her a chance for academic growth, leading to a master’s degree and a teaching position at Berklee. A particularly exciting chapter of her story involves working with producer Neil Merrick Blackwood, resulting in new, heartfelt music creations, including a co-written song and a Christmas single.

In a touching segment, Julie explores the emotional power of musical communication beyond lyrics. Her stories about her cherished Taylor 914 guitar, named Lily Rose, and her unique vocal trumpet technique bring a personal touch to her narrative. Julie doesn’t shy away from discussing her struggles with vocal health and faith, sharing intimate details of her journey from physical and emotional burnout to healing and spiritual awakening. Her transformative experiences highlight the importance of self-care for vocalists, offering invaluable wisdom for aspiring musicians.

You can see the show notes here!

Prepare to be inspired by Ralph JACCODINE, a celebrated professor at Berklee College of Music, as he takes us on an unforgettable journey through his multifaceted career in music. From the vibrant diversity of Berklee’s student body to the universal language of music, Ralph shares his profound insights and captivating stories. You won’t want to miss his incredible experience digitizing David Bowie’s original tracks, a testament to the timeless power of music to evoke memories and emotions across generations.

Relive Ralph’s extraordinary high school days when he promoted legendary bands like Kiss and had a memorable encounter with Gene Simmons. His tales of playing guitar at church and organizing coffee house series showcase his early passion for both performing and promoting. Get ready for an exciting narrative featuring Bruce Springsteen’s meticulous sound checks and an unexpected backstage adventure at Wembley Arena, filled with awe, dedication, and unforgettable encounters.

Ralph’s resilience shines through as he navigates career transitions, overcoming financial struggles and finding success in the music industry. From a serendipitous opportunity in the fashion world to co-founding a record label, Ralph’s journey underscores the importance of friendships and networks. As we wrap up the episode, Ralph’s commitment to mentoring new managers and artists, along with his reflections on collaboration and support within the music community, leaves us with a powerful message about the enduring value of passion, connection, and giving back.

You can see the show notes here!

Get ready for an electrifying conversation with Bruce Gertz, a legendary bass player and professor at Berklee School of Music. Bruce takes us back to his roots, tracing the moment that ignited his passion for bass—watching the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show. We journey through his transition from guitar to bass, his early rock band days, and the significance of his first bass and amp. Bruce’s stories are a compelling listen for anyone fascinated by the nascent stages of a musician’s career.

Join us as we discuss the joys and challenges of teaching music. Bruce shares his innovative methods to engage students, from connecting different genres to fostering creativity through daily practice. Whether they favor punk or jazz, Bruce emphasizes the importance of nurturing a student’s musicality and ambition. We also dive into Berklee’s diverse curriculum and how it prepares young musicians for the real world, spotlighting the inspiring culture of driven, dream-chasing students.

In the final segments, Bruce underscores the indispensable role of music theory, enriched by insights from legends like Herb Pomeroy and Victor Wooten. He highlights the value of archiving music, whether through sheet music or modern recordings, and shares personal anecdotes on the long-term benefits of theory knowledge. We also touch on the roots of musical inspiration, creative outlets beyond music, and Bruce’s upcoming performance at the Lilypad in Boston, including a heartfelt mention of his daughter, Eva Gertz. This episode is brimming with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice for both aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals.

How does a strict ex-Marine guitar teacher influence a rock musician’s path? Join us for a riveting conversation with Catherine Capozzi as she recounts her early musical experiences growing up in an Italian family where the love for music was as vibrant as the family gatherings. Catherine shares her journey from playing bongos and violin to discovering her passion for the guitar, despite the formidable teaching style of her guitar instructor. We also touch on her classical influences like Tony Mottola and how these shaped her unique rock sound.

Fast forward to the early 2000s, and Catherine is breaking new ground with a rocktronica band that melded rock with electronic elements long before it was mainstream. Listen to her extraordinary stories of performing Edith Piaf’s music across Europe and a surreal underground concert in the Paris catacombs. These incredible experiences not only enriched her musical repertoire but also opened doors to composing for films, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

But the journey doesn’t end there. Catherine talks about the surreal moment of receiving a guitar from Brian May of Queen and how that experience propelled her further into the world of music composition and film scoring. From touring with Ziaf to creating cinematic soundscapes with Axe Monkey, Catherine’s career is a testament to balancing creativity and business in the modern music industry. We wrap up by discussing her current projects, including “Bring Your Women” and upcoming film scores, while pondering the delicate balance between maintaining artistic mystique and navigating today’s technology-driven music scene.

You can see the show notes!

What drives a high school drummer to become a vocal behaviorist? Join us as we recount the inspiring story of Mark Baxter, who transformed his passion for music into a deep understanding of vocal mechanics. Mark’s journey is highlighted by his admiration for Johnny Nato, a beacon of resilience and creativity. Through humor and heartfelt moments, we explore the often overlooked reality of drummers and the universal quest for attention that motivates many musicians.

In this episode, we take a closer look at the technical and emotional intricacies of being both a drummer and a singer. Mark shares compelling insights into the extreme precision required by drummers, contrasting it with the intense vulnerability faced by singers. We discuss the psychological barriers singers must overcome, likening their exposure to that of stand-up comedians, and highlight the importance of mental resilience in achieving vocal mastery. Mark’s personal experiences and teaching journey offer valuable lessons for anyone striving to own their instrument—be it drums, vocals, or beyond.

We also dive into the unpredictable nature of the human voice, the challenges singers face, and the strategies for maintaining vocal health over time. Mark’s practical advice on hydration, rest, and vocal exercises provides a robust framework for sustaining vocal quality. Learn about the importance of self-perception, confidence, and intent in performance, and how continuous self-care and adaptation are essential for longevity in music. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or an aspiring vocalist, this episode is packed with wisdom and insights to inspire your journey.

You can see the show notes!

Rok, the inventive mind behind Fiber Tone Guitars, joins us on Embrace Your Storm to share his compelling journey from an eager teenager strumming to impress girls to a revolutionary custom guitar maker. With a love for music spanning the 50s to the 80s, Rock reminisces about his first hand-me-down guitar and a wild childhood memory involving a Yugo car during Slovenia’s fight for independence. His passion and dedication shine through, as he details how his dissatisfaction with store-bought instruments led to the creation of his one-of-a-kind carbon fiber guitars.

Get ready to uncover the artistry and precision behind Rok’s craftsmanship as he walks us through the challenges and triumphs of working with composite materials. Hear about the unique attributes of archtop versus flat top guitars, and gain valuable insights into recognizing a well-made instrument. Rok also gives us a peek into his exciting custom bass guitar project and the groundbreaking flexibility of his construction process, which allows for unparalleled customizations, setting his guitars apart from the rest.

Finally, we dive into Rok’s entrepreneurial spirit that sparked his first venture at just 18, showcasing his perseverance and innovative mindset. Jonathan can’t help but express his admiration for Rock’s achievements and resilience, reminding our listeners of the power of embracing challenges. Tune in for an episode packed with inspiration, technical insights, and heartfelt stories, all wrapped up in Rok’s journey of turning passion into innovation.

You can see the show notes here!

Bill Compeau from K I N A X I S. shares his journey from stage fright to musical mastery in our latest episode of “Embrace Your Storm.” From the first time he picked up an acoustic guitar in 1975 to his relentless practice on the electric guitar, Bill’s stories are heartwarming and inspiring. Our host, Johnny Nadeau, adds his unique perspective on overcoming challenges as a blind performer, making for a deeply personal and engaging conversation about the transformative power of music.

We also take a closer look at the essence of true artistry, reflecting on the emotional highs of being recognized by one’s musical heroes and the importance of maintaining authenticity. From working with legends to achieving milestones unexpectedly, the discussions celebrate creating music that resonates deeply with oneself. We delve into the creative processes of renowned musicians like Vinnie Colaiuta and Joni Mitchell, exploring how their distinct approaches to music-making have shaped their artistry and inspired countless others.

Finally, we explore the incredible impact of mentors and the importance of perseverance in the music industry. With personal anecdotes about reconnecting with old bandmates and the serendipitous events leading to new musical projects, we highlight the significance of patience, support, and continuous learning. Listen in as we shine a spotlight on southern rock legends Brian Wooten and John Spittle from the Trace Adkins band and their new project, I-75. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, inspiring reflections, and a celebration of musical passion and collaboration.

Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Frank Polangi, a rock guitarist and solo artist with a fervent passion for filmmaking. Frank reveals how the movie “The Crow” ignited his love for both music and film, leading him to pick up a guitar and eventually create his own fan film. He reminisces about the days of VHS cameras and the creative spark fueled by iconic films like “Halloween” and “Terminator”. This episode is a testament to the impactful blend of diverse influences on Frank’s artistic path.

We then shift gears to spotlight some of the most innovative guitarists of our time. From Tim Henson of Polyphia to Plini’s unorthodox style and Tosin Abasi’s mastery of the 8-string guitar, we discuss their unique contributions to the music world. Coupled with personal anecdotes of my experiences in radio with Radio Wigwam and a serendipitous stint at Ozzy’s Boneyard on SiriusXM, this segment underscores the myriad ways to engage with music—whether through playing, teaching, or broadcasting.

The latter part of the episode is a deep dive into the world of independent filmmaking. We discuss the relentless pursuit of creative vision, the challenges of low-budget production, and the necessity of wearing multiple hats—from scripting and directing to acting and editing. We explore innovative storytelling formats like podcasts and TV series that offer richer character insights and more immersive experiences. Wrapping up, we touch on the nostalgic charm of autographed CDs and the evolving landscape of music licensing, all while emphasizing the passion that drives independent creators. Tune in and embrace your storm!

You can see the show notes here!

Remember the first time you heard Anthrax? That rush of heavy riffs, the thunderous drums, and Joey Belladonna’s soaring vocals? This episode is a walk down memory lane, celebrating one of heavy metal’s unsung heroes. We reminisce about our early encounters with their iconic albums “Spreading the Disease” and “Among the Living,” sharing personal stories of those moments when Anthrax’s music turned us into lifelong fans. These records weren’t just spins on our turntables; they were milestones in our musical journeys that shaped our love for metal.

Join us as we rank Anthrax’s discography and discuss the standout elements that make each album special. From the catchy riffs and heavy tones to Charlie Benante’s incredible drumming and Scott Ian’s iconic guitar sound, we break down what makes Anthrax truly unique. We also dive into our experiences with albums like “State of Euphoria” and “Persistence of Time,” recounting the joy of those first purchases and the lasting impact of their music. Whether you’re a die-hard Anthrax enthusiast or new to their sound, this episode offers a heartfelt and engaging tribute to a band that deserves more recognition in the heavy metal world.

You can see the show notes here!