Join the vibrant conversation between Rain Phoenix and Merrill Garbus of Tune-Yards as they dive into Merrill’s musical journey and creative process. Merrill reflects on her experience with 4AD Records, maintaining authenticity in an ever changing industry, and the delicate balance between artistic expression and social responsibility. 

Then Merrill launches MaJo, aka, Esotérica Tropical. MaJo shares her unique approach to music-making, rooted in healing and connection with the natural world. Together, they highlight the power of music as a tool for personal growth and social change, while also exploring the artists' collaborative projects. The conversation wraps up with Esotérica Tropical’s song "Realismo Magico" featuring Merrill and MaJo’s stunning harmonies. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

Tune-Yards Links:

https://tune-yards.com/

https://www.instagram.com/tuneyards/

https://www.facebook.com/tuneyards/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU4wLkBnwIM

https://tune-yards.bandcamp.com/

TUNE-YARDS BIO:

Formed by Merrill Garbus in 2006, Tune-Yards has become a name synonymous with creativity and forward motion. Known for explosive performances, surprising song structures, and danceable rhythms, their music also highlights connections between song and social consciousness. The New York Times praised their debut album, BiRd-BrAiNs, as “a confident do-it-yourselfer’s opening salvo,” and relentless touring established Garbus as a commanding live performer.

Garbus stepped into the producer role with 2011’s w h o k i l l, a bold and sonically inventive album that earned critical acclaim, including the #1 spot on The Village Voice’s Pazz and Jop poll. By 2021’s sketchy., Garbus and bassist Nate Brenner had solidified their partnership, creating a fully collaborative work. The duo has announced their sixth studio record, Better Dreaming, to be released on May 16, 2025 on 4AD. 

Tune-Yards also excels in scoring, contributing to Boots Riley’s Sorry to Bother You, I’m A Virgo, and the forthcoming I Love Boosters. Their artistry continues to expand across music, film, and television.

Esotérica Tropical:

https://www.esotericatropical.com/

https://www.instagram.com/esotericatropical/

https://www.facebook.com/esotericatropical

https://soundcloud.com/esotericatropical

https://esotericatropical.bandcamp.com/

Esotérica Tropical BIO:

Esotérica Tropical is a queer Boricua bruja who transcends musical boundaries with her commanding voice, intuitive folk harp, and a fusion of Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba rhythms and electronic innovation. Her work boldly challenges colonial mentality, advocating for sovereignty and surrealism. A chance encounter with a Celtic harp on a Puerto Rican beach in 2009 transformed her from an acupuncturist into a genre-defying musical magician. Drawing on 20 years as a healer, Esotérica’s ritualistic performances have captivated audiences at major venues and festivals worldwide including, Festival Color Caribe (PR), Oakland Museum of California, Teatro Municipal de Cusco (Perú), and Teatro el Supremo (CDMX). 

 In 2022, she featured on Argentinian producer Chancha Via Circuito’s album La Estrella. Her self-titled debut album was named the Best Bay Area Music in 2024 by KQED. 

Ever wonder what it's like to be part of rock history? Our latest LaunchLeft episode pulls back the curtain on Big Star's legacy.

Rain Phoenix hosts an illuminating conversation with Jody Stephens, drummer of the legendary band Big Star. The discussion delves into Jody's early musical influences in Memphis, his experiences with Big Star, and the band's enduring legacy. Jody shares insights about recording at Ardent Studios and working with John Fry, offering a glimpse into the creation of Big Star's iconic sound. 

Jody then launches Luther Russell. They discuss their collaboration in their band Those Pretty Wrongs, exploring their songwriting process and creative dynamic. Luther provides additional perspective on their partnership and his own musical journey. The episode also touches on Jody's recent induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and Luther's latest solo album. Throughout, the conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a joyful, pressure-free approach to creativity in music.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

(00:00) Introducing Jody Stevens of Big Star

(05:21) Jody’s early musical influences in Memphis

(09:06) Rain on discovering Big Star in Costa Rica

(15:22) John Fry's influence on Big Star's iconic sound

(24:17) Working at Ardent Studios after Big Star

(31:49) Changes in the music industry over time

(47:50) Luther Russell is launched

(49:17) Collaborative songwriting process for the band

(56:32) Recording at Abbey Road with John Leckie

(59:52) Luther Russell's new solo album Happiness for Beginners

(1:02:39) Upcoming shows and future recording plans

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

Music creation should be a joyful, pressure-free process. By focusing on having fun and avoiding self-imposed stress, artists can collaborate effectively long-distance and produce multiple albums together. This approach has allowed creativity to flow naturally.

The music industry has changed dramatically, but there are still "gatekeepers" in new forms. While technology has democratized distribution, the sheer volume of content makes it challenging to break through. Having a passionate fanbase who will share your music remains crucial.

Revisiting and performing older material can lead to unexpected new creative partnerships. What started as playing some shows together to support a documentary evolved into a fruitful songwriting collaboration and multiple albums. Being open to these opportunities can take your career in exciting new directions.

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

JODY STEPHENS BIO:

Jody Stephens (born October 4, 1952, in Memphis, Tennessee) is an American drummer best known as a founding member of the influential power pop band Big Star. Formed in 1971, Big Star’s original lineup included Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Andy Hummel, and Stephens. The band released three albums—#1 Record (1972), Radio City (1974), and Third/Sister Lovers (recorded in 1974, released in 1978)—which, despite initial commercial struggles, later garnered critical acclaim and influenced numerous artists .

In 1993, he participated in a reformation of the band alongside Chilton and members of The Posies, resulting in the 2005 album In Space. 

Beyond Big Star, Stephens has collaborated with various groups. He joined the alt-country supergroup Golden Smog (with Jeff Tweedy of Wilco), contributing to albums like Weird Tales (1998) and Another Fine Day (2006) . In 2015, he formed Those Pretty Wrongs with Luther Russell, releasing their self-titled debut in 2016, followed by Zed for Zulu (2019) and Holiday Camp (2023) .

Stephens has also been a longtime fixture at Ardent Studios in Memphis, where Big Star recorded their albums. He joined the Ardent staff in 1987 and has served as Vice President of Production am— and other titles, working under founder John Fry (who died in 2014 at age 69). Under his tenure, Ardent has continued to be a vital recording venue for artists across genres. 

Today, Jody Stephens remains active in music, performing, recording, and contributing to the legacy of Big Star and Ardent Studios (he still works at Ardent). He is the last surviving member of Big Star’s original lineup, but still plays the music with the Big Star Quartet at shows across the world. 

Kristin Hersh of THROWING MUSES joins Rain Phoenix on LaunchLeft for a raw, unfiltered conversation about artistic integrity and the music industry's dark underbelly. Kristin reflects on her journey in the music industry, discussing her experiences with major labels and her commitment to making music that feels true to her. She shares insights into her creative process, including her approach to songwriting and production. The conversation touches on themes of authenticity, the spiritual aspects of music, and the challenges of maintaining artistic vision in a commercial industry. Kristin Hersh then launches Wallace False, who offers his unique perspective on creating original music and art. The episode provides a fascinating look into two generations of musicians who prioritize creative expression over commercial success, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of independent and experimental music-making.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

KRISTIN HERSH LINKS:

https://www.kristinhersh.com/

WALLACE FALSE LINKS:

https://dondekko.bandcamp.com/album/signal

https://medium.com/@wyatt.true.oconnell/the-fortune-letters-bc68e47777ea

BIOGRAPHIES: 

KRISTIN HERSH:

"One of indie rock's most fascinating figures" - The Guardian

The inimitable Kristin Hersh is a musician's musician, a songwriter's songwriter, and an innovator's innovator. The Queen of Grunge's first band, Throwing Muses, began recording and playing out when they were just 14 years old and they're still going. 2020's critically acclaimed Sun Racket was hailed as a "perfect record."

Hersh's refusal to participate in a corporate industry saw her leave a Warner Brothers recording contract at the top of her success in order to become listener-supported. "Music is humanist and so are we," as she puts it. Wildly prolific, she has released more than 20 albums - solo, with Throwing Muses, and her noise rock band 50 Foot Wave ("A group that runs laps around most rock bands" said Pitchfork, on 2022's Black Pearl).

She's also a celebrated author: Rolling Stone named her first book, Rat Girl (Penguin) one of the ten best rock memoirs of all time. NPR said of her second book, Don't Suck, Don't Die, "Not only one of the best books of the year, but one of the most beautiful rock memoirs ever written." Her third book, the game-changing Seeing Sideways, pushes the envelope of creative non-fiction while telling the story of raising her 4 sons on a tour bus.

Hersh lives in New Orleans and New England.

WALLACE FALSE:

Wyatt True, sometimes known as Wallace False, is a writer, animator, and musician. True was born in Rhode Island and raised just about everywhere else. He now resides in the Deep South. The common thread in True's work is a grotesque dismantling of any and all familiar structures. Guitars twang sour, sorrowful sonatas, protagonists are lost amongst melting walls and rooms that time forgot.

He is mostly docile and will only bite if cornered.

LaunchLeft, Music, Live Music, Music Inspiration, Musician Stories, Kristin Hersh, THROWING MUSES, Wallace False, music industry critique, artistic integrity, independent music, creative process, songwriting, music production, alternative rock, female musicians, Warner Brothers, music marketing, artistic authenticity, music streaming, musical literacy, studio recording techniques, sound experimentation, music collaboration, music touring, European music scene, music inspiration, music and spirituality, artistic personality, experimental music, DIY music production, music ownership

Indie rock pioneers Clap Your Hands Say Yeah are celebrating 20 years with a special reissue. But what's the real story behind their unconventional rise to fame? In this episode of LaunchLeft, host Rain Phoenix and CYHSY frontman Alec Ounsworth, meet at Licorice Pizza in Studio City to unpack the band's journey from DIY darlings to indie rock icons. They touch on CYHSY's decision to remain unsigned. It wasn't just about rebellion, it was a commitment to artistic integrity that shaped their entire career. Ounsworth candidly discusses how his stubborn streak both helped and hindered the band's trajectory. Twenty years on, Alec reflects on how his views on collaboration and the music industry have matured. Alec then launches the up-and-coming Philly band Knifeplay, who'll be supporting CYHSY on tour. The generational exchange offers a fascinating glimpse into how the indie landscape has shifted. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of indie music and the challenges of maintaining artistic authenticity in a changing industry.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

(00:00) Intro: LaunchLeft podcast with Rain Phoenix

(05:03) Early 2000s indie music scene and industry changes

(10:27) Alec's approach to independence and a discussion about self-sabotage

(15:00) CHYSY’s approach to music videos

(20:55) Alec's songwriting process and lyrical influences

(31:40) Knifeplay is launched and TJ joins the conversation

(34:58) TJ's musical influences and background

(37:37) Using social media as musicians in a digital landscape

(43:24) TJ's balanced approach to using social media

(48:40) Authenticity and sustainability in music careers

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

Maintaining artistic integrity can be challenging but is crucial for genuine connection with audiences.

The music industry has seen significant changes, making it harder for new artists to break through. Collaboration can be a way for artists to promote each other and expand their audience.

Social media presents both opportunities and challenges for musicians striving to balance authenticity with promotion.

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

CYHSY LINKS:

https://www.cyhsy.com/

https://www.facebook.com/clapyourhandssayyeah

https://www.instagram.com/clapyourhandssayyeah/

https://www.youtube.com/clapyourhandssayyeah

Knifeplay Links:

http://instagram.com/knifeplay_music/

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah celebrate the 20th anniversary of their landmark self-titled debut album throughout 2025 with a worldwide tour performing the album in its entirety alongside other surprises, and an exclusive new reissue.

A heady blend of leftfield pop and melodic, exuberant indie rock, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah is unquestionably among the finest and most influential independent releases of the 2000s. The celebration officially gets underway with the premiere of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s original 2004 version of the fan favorite, “Heavy Metal”. The newly remixed and mastered track was recently discovered among the original project files and captures what Clap Your Hands Say Yeah founder and frontman Alec Ounsworth calls “a special moment in time – a young group of guys all piling into one hotel room to wake up and go to a real studio (!) to try to come up with something special just for the fun of it.” 

In addition to the digital anniversary release featuring the original version of “Heavy Metal,” a special deluxe reissue will arrive on limited edition vinyl LP in early 2025, released on CYHSY’s own label via Secretly Distribution, the defiantly independent home to over two decades of Alec Ounsworth’s music.

Knifeplay is a band that eludes definition, existing somewhere between the nihilistic detachment of shoegaze and the emotional honesty of folk songwriting. Originally a solo bedroom recording project of Tj Strohmer’s, they’ve made a slow and careful shift into a collaborative, production focused, studio recorded band. Through their ever-expanding genre palette, range of fidelities, and long list of collaborators runs a unique current that ties everything together.

Informed by his experiences living in Philadelphia and their contrast with his rural southern Maryland upbringing, Strohmer’s sometimes straightforward, sometimes dreamlike, but always philosophical lyrics feature scenes of darkness from many different aspects of life. He deals with themes of death, drugs, heartbreak, abuse, and self-destruction, all expressed through a delicate vocal style, which, combined with the band’s lush orchestral instrumentation gives a beautiful lightness to the heavy subject matter.

Since their 2017 debut of home-recorded EPs, Knifeplay have earned a dedicated cult following through acclaimed debut album Pearlty (2019) and a lengthy B-Sides Compilation (2020), all either self-released or through small run tape labels. In 2021 they entered the studio with producer Jeff Zeigler, known for his work with Kurt Vile, Nothing, The War on Drugs, and more, first producing the Hurt Someone EP (Born Losers Records) before recording their upcoming sophomore full-length, Animal Drowning, to be released via Topshelf Records on October 19, 2022.

Today on LaunchLeft, Rain Phoenix hosts an insightful conversation with acclaimed music producer Don Was, who shares his journey through the music industry and his philosophy on creativity. Don reflects on his diverse career, emphasizing the importance of avoiding being pigeonholed and the value of one’s emotional connection in music. Don recounts his experiences working with iconic artists like Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, and the Rolling Stones, highlighting the timeless nature of genuine artistry. The discussion also touches on Don's roots in Detroit's vibrant music scene and his latest project, the Pan Detroit Ensemble, which celebrates the city's rich musical heritage. Later, Don launches Maya Delilah, whose debut album, "The Long Way Round," is set to release with Blue Note Records. Maya shares her journey from social media sensation to recording artist, expressing gratitude for the creative freedom and support she received from the label. The episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of legacy and emerging talent, underscoring the enduring power of authenticity in music.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

DON WAS LINKS:

https://donwas.com/

https://www.instagram.com/donwas/

MAYA DELILAH LINKS:

https://www.mayadelilah.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mayadelilahh/

https://www.facebook.com/mayadelilahh/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mayadelilahh

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHZBLbph9tL9e7LAfZm_pjg

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Don Was is one of music’s most significant artists and executives, excelling in multiple roles and serving as one of the industry’s beacons for integrity and forward-thinking. 

As an in-demand, highly acclaimed and commercially successful producer since the late 1980s, Was has been honored with Grammy Awards for his production work in each of the past four decades:   In 1989 for producing Bonnie Raitt’s breakthrough classic Nick Of Time, in 1994 as Producer Of The Year for his work with artists ranging from The Rolling Stones to Willie Nelson to Roy Orbison, in 2009 for his production work on Ziggy Marley’s Best Musical Album For Children, Family Time, in 2018 for helming The Rolling Stones’ Best Traditional Blues Album. Blue & Lonesome a, and in 2019 for producing Intocable’s Latin Grammy-winning  Best Norteño Album, percepción.  The artists Was has produced in this decade alone are a testament to his talents as a producer spanning a broad array of music genres:   The Rolling Stones’ aforementioned worldwide hit album (Blue & Lonesome) Gregg Allman’s final album (Southern Blood), John Mayer (two of his most recent albums, Born And Raised and Paradise Valley), Aaron Neville (My True Story, co-produced with Keith Richards), French superstar Johnny Hallyday (Rester Vivant) and Neil Diamond’s Melody Road.  Albums produced by Was have achieved dozens of multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications and have sold more than 90 million copies worldwide.

As the President of Blue Note Records since 2011, Was is both the company’s leader and an ambassador for its music, charged with bringing the label’s 21st Century jazz artists and its expanding pallet of contemporary musicians to larger audiences.

Maya Delilah is an English singer-songwriter and guitarist. Maya Delilah has been signed to jazz record label Blue Note Records since 2022.

For episode 160 of the podcast, join Rain Phoenix at Licorice Pizza as she hosts an engaging conversation with legendary songwriter Diane Warren and rising musician Mergui. This episode offers a deep dive into Diane's illustrious career, her creative process, and her collaboration with Mergui on the song "Criminal." The discussion provides unique perspectives on the music industry, including insights from one of modern music’s most celebrated songwriters.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

[5:05] Diane Warren's early musical influences

[11:10] Writing I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing and OSCAR nominations

[13:00] Diane launches Mergui

[15:28] Diane's versatility across musical genres

[20:00] Mergui’s insights on sampling Elton John’s song

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

Diane Warren's journey into songwriting began at a young age, sparked by her fascination with record credits. She would study the names of songwriters on albums, dreaming of seeing her own name there one day. This early passion and determination set her on a path to becoming one of the most successful songwriters in the industry.

Despite the challenges faced by women in the music industry, Diane never let her gender define her capabilities. Inspired by trailblazers like Carole King, she pursued her career with confidence, never doubting her potential to succeed as a songwriter.

Collaboration with artists like Mergui showcases Diane and Mergui's ability to adapt and thrive in different musical genres. Diane’s intuitive sense for matching songs with the right artists has led to successful partnerships, allowing her to continue creating timeless music across various styles.

It’s important for songwriters to find the right artist to sing and produce their songs, someone who will honor and preserve the meaning and the music. That’s when the magic happens.

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

DIANE LINKS:

https://www.realsongs.com/

https://x.com/Diane_Warren

https://www.instagram.com/dianewarren/

https://www.facebook.com/DianeWarrenMusic

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGZlUzfjZd10wW5yDYUKJ0g

Mergui LINKS:

https://www.Mergui.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@Mergui

https://www.instagram.com/Mergui

https://www.facebook.com/Merguiofficial/

https://x.com/Mergui

https://www.youtube.com/@Mergui_

BIOS: 

Diane Warren is one of modern music’s most celebrated songwriters. She has penned nine #1 and thirty-three top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and is tied for having written the most #1 songs as a sole writer in Billboard history. She was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2001 and received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award from the organization in June 2024.

She has received 16 Academy Award nominations, is a GRAMMY winner with 15 nominations, an EMMY winner, and is a two-time Golden Globe winner whose songs have been featured in more than 150 films.

In November 2022, Warren became the first songwriter in history to receive an Honorary Oscar, as voted on by the Academy's Board of Governors. She recently wrote the original song "The Fire Inside," performed by Becky G for the film Flamin' Hot, directed by Eva Longoria, which marked her 15th Oscar nomination. She most recently wrote the original song “The Journey” performed by H.E.R. for the feature film The Six Triple Eight directed by Tyler Perry which marked her 16th Oscar nomination.

She is the sole owner of her publishing company Realsongs, the most successful female-owned and operated business in the music industry. Warren is a recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a nod to her legendary career, having worked with many of today's most popular artists, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, H.E.R., Snoop Dogg, Paloma Faith, Jon Batiste, Maren Morris, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Andra Day, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Hudson and Janelle Monáe, in addition to having written songs for iconic artists such as Whitney Houston, Cher, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and many more.

Mergui has made it his mission to push the limits of modern pop music. He’s accomplished some incredible feats such as opening for Bruno Mars and Maroon 5. His talent has been recognized by publications such as Rolling Stone, Billboard, Wonderland Magazine, and Notion. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of early 20th-century Italian opera and the nostalgic allure of ‘70s AM pop, Mergui’s sophomore EP Shadows of Blue was a remarkable fusion of influences. Notable tracks from the EP include the Elton John-approved “Cry,” and “Happy Now?”, which he performed on The Kelly Clarkson Show and NBC’s The TODAY Show, resulting in the track skyrocketing to the Top 10 on the U.S. iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts. Mergui’s music has been featured in top-notch editorial playlists across digital service platforms including Spotify’s New Music Friday (US & Global), Chill Pop, New Pop Picks, and Just Good Music. Mergui’s unguarded sense of vulnerability shines through in his art, landing him a coveted spot on People Magazine’s Emerging Artists of 2024 list. Following a successful tour with Forest Blakk and a collaboration with Sam Feldt in the latter half of 2024, Mergui is ready to take 2025 by storm with the release of his latest EP Nobody Really Knows.

In this episode of LaunchLeft captured at Licorice Pizza, Rain Phoenix welcomes Courtney Taylor-Taylor of The Dandy Warhols. They delve into The Dandy Warhols' history, touching on the 90s and how the band has adapted over three decades and the changing landscape of the music industry, from the MTV era to the current digital age. Courtney launches Miranda Lee Richards, who offers insights into her own musical career. The discussion shifts to the creative process, with both Courtney and Miranda sharing their approaches to songwriting. The episode culminates in a special acoustic performance of Kristin Hersh’s iconic song “Your Ghost”, showcasing the raw talent of both artists.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

[02:04] The Dandy Warhols' 30-Year Journey: Courtney reflects on the band's longevity and the importance of listening to each member's voice.

[06:11] Songwriting and Creative Process: Discover how music serves as therapy and the balance between creating art and entertainment.

[35:52] Music Industry Transformation: Explore the impact of MTV's decline and the current state of the music industry.

[44:29] Protest Songs and Social Commentary: A discussion on the absence of protest songs and the challenges of writing socially conscious music.

[57:51] Touring and Recording Experiences: Miranda and Courtney share stories from their European tour, highlighting the balance of work and fun.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

Maintaining a long-running band requires adapting to changing dynamics and respecting each member's creative input

The shift from the MTV era to the current digital landscape has dramatically altered how artists create and distribute music.

Songwriting often involves a balance between conscious effort and subconscious inspiration, with the best lyrics often surprising the writer

Collaborations and live performances continue to be vital aspects of the music industry, offering unique experiences for both artists and audiences

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

@launchleft

DANDY WARHOLS:

https://www.dandywarhols.com/

https://www.instagram.com/thedandywarhols

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-HcL5BBMRHXkijhIniuu0Q

Wine Acoustics Podcast

MIRANDA LEE RICHARDS:

https://www.mirandaleerichards.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mirandaleerichards/

https://www.facebook.com/mirandaleerichards

https://x.com/MirandaRichards

https://soundcloud.com/mirandaleerichards

https://www.youtube.com/user/MirandaLeeRichards1

BIOS: 

Courtney Taylor-Taylor is an American singer-songwriter from Portland, Oregon. He is the lead singer and guitarist of alternative rock band The Dandy Warhols, a band he co-founded. Taylor-Taylor has written the majority of the band's songs.

Miranda Lee Richards is known for her distinctive brand of enchanting “chamber folk rock meets cosmic country," Miranda Lee Richards’ latest long-player, Existential Beast, is provocative in every sense, from the breadth of musical ambition to its politically-driven lyrics (10/10 Americana UK).

She has collaborated in the studio and/or performed onstage with The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Mark Gardener of Ride, The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Dandy Warhols, Bridgette St. John, Susan Vega, Grant Lee Philips, The Cordovas, Juliana Hatfield, Albert Hammond, GospelbeacH, The Beachwood Sparks, and Charlie Overbey, among many others. Miranda Lee Richards is currently working on an album of solo Americana material, and two collaborative folk albums: one with the U.K.-based Lords of Thyme and another with the Los Angeles-based MIROMA trio. In 2019, she was voted best folk-roots artist by the LA Weekly.

Today on the LaunchLeft Podcast, Rain Phoenix engages in a rich dialogue with renowned music producer and composer, Tony Visconti. Tony reflects on his early influences, including his high school music teacher and his family's musical background. He shares fascinating stories about his collaborations with David Bowie and Brian Eno, highlighting the innovative techniques used in producing albums like Heroes and Low. The episode also explores Tony's work with T. Rex and Paul McCartney, offering listeners a glimpse into the unique creative processes behind some of rock music's most iconic records. Then, Tony launches Daisy the Great. Mina and Kelly, the voices behind the raw and playful album Spectacle: Daisy the Great vs. Tony Visconti give us a glimpse into their creative process and co-writing with Toni Visconti. The conversation is both nostalgic and insightful, providing a deep dive into the world of music production.

----------------- 

LAUNCHLEFT OFFICIAL WEBSITE
https://www.launchleft.com 

LAUNCHLEFT PATREON 
https://www.patreon.com/LaunchLeft 

TWITTER 
https://twitter.com/LaunchLeft 

INSTAGRAM 
https://www.instagram.com/launchleft/ 

FACEBOOK 
https://www.facebook.com/LaunchLeft 

---------------------

IN THIS EPISODE: 

[1:57] Tony discusses his unique and creative work with David Bowie and how they captured the unique vocal sound in the album Heroes

[14:28] Tony reflects on how his high school music teacher, Dr. Israel Silberman, inspired him and helped build his foundation for music theory and love for music composition

[20:00] Tony discusses the musical talent in his family, then how music found him

[27:15] Tony reflects on his collaborations with David Bowie and Brian Eno

[37:03] How Tony ended up composing for Paul McCarney

[43:29] Meet Mina and Kelly, the voices behind Daisy the Great, and hear how their latest EP Spectacle: Daisy the Great vs. Tony Visconti came to be and a discussion about collaborating with Tony.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

From a young age, Toni studied the master sheet music of classical artists like Mozart and Beethoven, learning each instrument’s part, then figuring out how they came together. This is how his passion for producing music was sparked and led him to dive straight into the music industry after high school

Tony, David Bowie, and Brian Eno worked so well together and each brought their own innovative skill sets and creative energy into the studio. Together, they created some of rock music's most iconic records. Even so, each artist would still create their own work or have other collaborations in progress, which was ideal, because it kept them from growing stagnant as artists. They were constantly learning and trying new techniques or experimenting with equipment, which they would bring into their next album together

After decades creating music with icons, Tony is still passionate about learning from and collaborating with artists. For instance, while working with Mina and Kelly, his co-writing experience was something that he had never experienced before. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

Daisy the Great Links:

Daisy The Great - Website

Spectacle: Daisy the Great vs. Tony Visconti

Daisy the Great - Instagram

Daisy the Great - TikTok

Daisy the Great - YouTube

Spectacle: Daisy the Great vs. Tony Visconti is the most expansive release from Daisy the Great yet. It is a masterclass in sonic storytelling — a dazzling exploration of the indie innovation that has defined the duo since the release of their hit “The Record Player Song” and its certified-gold follow-up, “Record Player” with AJR. The five new tracks were co-created with Grammy-winning producer Tony Visconti (David Bowie, T. Rex), and capture the New York City duo honing in on their unique brand of genre-defying music where interlocking double lead vocals and striking harmonies give their sound an artful and kaleidoscopic twist.

Tony Visconti Links:

Tony Visconti - Instagram

Tony Visconti - X

Tony Visconti - Facebook

Tony Visconti is recognized as one of the top music producers in the history of rock music.

For this episode of LaunchLeft Podcast, Rain is joined by renowned producer and musician John Congleton, who shares his journey in the music industry and his collaboration with emerging artist Sarah Kinsley. They explore the creative process, the significance of authenticity in art, and the unique dynamics of producing music. John Congleton shares his early musical influences and the pivotal moments that led him to become a producer, reflecting on his upbringing in a musically rich environment and the profound impact of punk rock on his creative journey. John launches Sarah Kinsley who reflects on working with John on her latest album, “Escaper”, highlighting the collaborative nature of music production and the challenges of translating studio work to live performances.

----------------- 

LAUNCHLEFT OFFICIAL WEBSITE
https://www.launchleft.com 

LAUNCHLEFT PATREON 
https://www.patreon.com/LaunchLeft 

TWITTER 
https://twitter.com/LaunchLeft 

INSTAGRAM 
https://www.instagram.com/launchleft/ 

FACEBOOK 
https://www.facebook.com/LaunchLeft 

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In This Episode:

[5:30] John Congleton's Early Music Journey

[10:48] The Role of Artists and Creativity

[16:43] Mentorship and Influence of Steve Albini

[21:33] John launches Sarah Kinsley

[27:06] Creating Music with Physical Instruments

[33:07] The Impact of Technology on Music Creation

[38:25] Social Media and Artistic Perception

Key Takeaways:

​Everyone is inherently creative, akin to breathing. It's about recognizing and nurturing that creativity in everyday life.

Congleton believes that creativity is as natural as breathing. Everyone possesses it, but often, people forget their innate artistic potential. Recognizing and nurturing this creativity can lead to personal fulfillment and innovation.

Artists serve as conduits for expressing the human experience. They capture the essence of what it feels like to be alive at a particular moment in time, offering insights that go beyond mere information through all forms of art and expression. 

The digital age presents new challenges, such as the instant playback of music and the pervasive influence of social media. Artists must balance these tools with their creative instincts to maintain authenticity.

Performing live offers a unique opportunity to connect with audiences in a shared, ephemeral experience. It allows artists to reinterpret their work and engage with listeners on a deeper level.

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

Links for John Congleton

https://www.instagram.com/congletonjohn

Links for Sarah Kinsley 

https://www.instagram.com/sarahkinsleyd

https://www.tiktok.com/@sarahkinsleyd

https://twitter.com/sarahkinsleyd

https://www.sarahkinsleymusic.com/

John Congleton’s Bio 

Producer of some of the most cutting edge music over the past ten years, Grammy award-winning producer John Congleton is known for challenging the artists with whom he works and the listeners who enjoy their work. From his astounding drum sounds to the aggressive guitar sounds he conjures, Congleton defines modern record production.

Starting as a teenager in Dallas, Congleton studied and learned the craft of engineering from the ground up. While recording bands on the local scene he developed into an engineer of note. Soon he was being called to record projects as diverse as Kirk Franklin, Erykah Badu and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, all the while continuing to work with the local indie rock scene. 

Upon returning to Dallas, Congleton quickly established himself as the best producer in town. It was while working with the Polyphonic Spree he met Annie Clark, now better known as St. Vincent. Their partnership over six albums has won Grammy awards and been universally praised by critics as some of the most important music of our times.

Now based in Los Angeles, Congleton continues to grow and flourish. In addition to the repeat business from long-time clients, he’s now established among the best of the best. Recent productions include Death Cab for Cutie, The Murder Capital, Tegan and Sara, Regina Spektor, Wallows, Angel Olsen, Sharon Van Etten and many more.

Join us in celebrating Tom Petty’s birthday by welcoming his daughter, artist/director Adria Petty to the pod. Adria talks about what it was like losing her father and how she is working through the emotions by honoring him. She shares deeply about the impact he had on her as an artist and her commitment to keeping his legacy alive by releasing and reissuing music and film from his archive. We talk about his Gainesville roots, his first band Mudcrutch, the film ‘Heartbreakers Beach Party’, his generosity and so much more! Adria then launches Amy Helm who discusses her new album, ‘Silver City’, and her experiences on the road from her current tour. She talks about collaborations she has done, and what is next for her. Stay till the end to hear a live version of her song, ‘Money on 7’.

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IN THIS EPISODE: 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

Links for Adria Petty:

Adria Petty's Instagram 

Adria Petty's Website 

Links for Amy Helm:

Amy Helm's Instagram 

Amy Helm's Facebook 

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Adria Petty’s Bio

Adria Petty is an American director, editor, art director, and artist. 

Amy Helm’s Bio

When creating her fourth album, the soulful and reflective Silver City, Amy Helm was guided by her North Star: women’s voices. “Women whispering, singing, shouting their stories - speaking the truth. I wanted to dig into that inherited narrative and reach for what I could.” The epistolary anthology is a collection of conversations that travel through time, exploring and celebrating womanhood in all its complexities. Silver City blends the folk twang of Helm’s childhood with gospel and soul, drawing inspiration from varied stories: the life of Helm’s great-grandmother, the story of a young fan struggling with substance abuse, Helm’s own life as a single mother and hard-touring singer. Recorded at Levon Helm Studios in Woodstock, New York, and produced by Josh Kaufman, the album finds Helm exploring themes of womanhood, single motherhood, and personal struggles, offering songs that are deeply personal and narrative-driven. With Silver City, Helm embraces the beauty of age, survival, and transformation through her powerful, story-rooted performances.