Livewire

Episode 36 of The Livewire with Branden features pianist Jon Shorter, a familiar name to longtime listeners and a standout performer with deep roots in Fayetteville’s music scene. From rocking the stage at George's Majestic Lounge to now performing for packed, high-energy crowds across Australia and 3 other continents, Jon’s journey is nothing short of incredible. In this episode, we catch up on where life has taken him, his evolution as a musician, and what it’s like playing night after night for wild audiences abroad. It’s a full-circle conversation with an old friend, filled with stories, growth, and music.

Episode 35 of The Livewire with Branden features Sean Bing, bassist for Fightdream, in a laid-back conversation recorded at City Park in Fayetteville. We shine a light on the often-overlooked role of the bassist while diving into Sean’s influences, his approach to playing, and what it takes to hold down the foundation of a band. A passionate supporter of the Northwest Arkansas music scene, Sean shares stories, local artist shoutouts, and insight into the community that continues to inspire him. It’s a genuine, easygoing episode full of music talk, creativity, and appreciation for the artists shaping the local sound.

Episode 34 of The Livewire with Branden features Bentonville-based musician Robert Kipness, a multi-talented artist bringing a fresh, roots-inspired sound to the show—highlighted by haunting lyrics layered over banjo, a style we haven’t explored before. Robert talks about performing at open mics, recording his music, and the creative process that keeps him evolving. He also shares his deep appreciation for the local music scene and why supporting hometown artists matters more than ever. It’s an authentic conversation about creativity, community, and staying true to your sound while carving out your own lane in Northwest Arkansas.

pisode 33 of The Livewire with Branden features Kelcey Phillips, Communications Director at Equestrian Bridges, a nonprofit dedicated to changing lives through the healing power of horses. Kelcey shares the heart behind the organization, how their programs impact individuals and families, and what makes their mission so unique in Northwest Arkansas. We also dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming Mini Derby in Rogers and how the community can get involved. It’s an inspiring, feel-good conversation about purpose, connection, and making a real difference—one ride at a time.

On Episode 32 of The Livewire with Branden Lee, we connect with rising Little Rock rock band Way Away for a fun and energetic conversation with the entire band via Zoom. They join Branden to debut brand new music and talk about the creative spark behind their sound. The band dives into their musical influences, the edge behind their haunting vocals, and what it’s like coming up in the vibrant Little Rock music scene. From songwriting to the thrill of performing live, Way Away shares their passion, experiences, and the raw energy behind their music—one listen and they’re sure to grab your attention.

Episode 31 of The Livewire with Branden features William Alexander, frontman of Senses Divide and solo artist William "Don Alejandro" Alexander, also creating under Natural State of Mind. Branden met William at his Rogers home practice space — the creative ground zero where ideas are written, refined, and shaped before heading into a professional studio to record. The conversation dives into songwriting, balancing band life with solo artistry, and the discipline behind building music from scratch. More than anything, it’s about enjoying life, trusting the process, and what it truly means to live — and love — the musician’s life every day.

Episode 30 of The Livewire with Branden features RANEY — a rising alternative rock band built on real friendship, shared influences, and undeniable chemistry. Branden sits down with Dustin, Caleb, and Cliff to talk about how the band came together and how late-night writing sessions turned into their debut release, Healing. The conversation dives into their creative process, the emotion behind the music, and the driving, anthemic sound that feels like a soundtrack to the open road. It’s raw, honest, and a glimpse at a band just getting started but already making noise.

On the latest episode of LIVEWIRE, I sit down with someone who knows me better than anyone—my partner in life and the mother of my child, Sarah Angela. A musician who spent over a decade touring the country in multiple bands, Sarah shares stories from the road, the songs that shaped her, and the artists who influenced her sound. We also dive into her evolution into photography, creative inspiration, and the moments that still give her chills. It’s fun, honest, a little nostalgic, and full of music memories you won’t want to miss.

Episode 28 of The Livewire features stand-up comedian Kendrea James. Based in Northwest Arkansas and performing across the country, Kendrea joins Branden Lee for a fun, unfiltered conversation about the NWA comedy scene, her favorite local comics, and life on the road. Branden even attempts to convince her to steal another comedian’s joke — purely hypothetical, of course — and Kendrea fires back with a few jokes of her own. It’s laid-back, honest, and full of laughs as they talk comedy, community, and what it takes to keep chasing stage time wherever the mic is hot.

Episode 27 of The Livewire with Branden welcomes back fan-favorite musician Benjamin Del Shreve for a feel-good, soul-fueling conversation. Benjamin talks about his involvement with To The Table and Executive Chef, Justin Malonson, supporting Feeding NWA, and why showing up for your community matters now more than ever. We dig into his solo writing and acoustic process, how songs come together in real life, and why choosing joy is sometimes the most creative act of all. It’s a playful, thoughtful chat about music, kindness, and finding reasons to smile when the world feels a little extra loud.