In this episode, John chats with Jason Peek, a lifelong working musician. Starting out at just 12 years old alongside his bandmate, Jason went on to help build Kung Fu Diesel, a Michigan-based band that carved out a loyal following across the Midwest with a gritty, blue-collar sound and a reputation for delivering it live.

Rooted in Michigan where there’s a subtle Motown undercurrent, the band found its lane somewhere between rock, blues, country, and R&B, though Jason has never been one to get caught up in labels. For him, it’s always been about the song. Over the years, that mindset carried him through packed rooms and arenas, opening slots for major acts like Ted Nugent, David Lee Roth, Eddie Money, The Pretenders, and Molly Hatchet.

What emerges in this conversation isn’t just a story about a musician or a band, but about a way of doing music. One that values feel over flash, consistency over hype, and the long road over the fast track.

Support the show

If you have a question, an idea for a show, or you would just like to say "hey," you can drop me an email at [email protected]