My Weekly Mixtape

This week, we’re turning the tempo way up with a punk rock workout playlist built for maximum intensity. Joined by Patreon Mixtaper Tom Hutchinson, we’re cranking through 20 high-energy punk rock songs designed to keep you moving — whether you’re lifting heavy, running hard, cycling, or just trying to survive that last brutal set.

From blistering tempos and shout-along choruses to relentless drums and no-frills riffs, these tracks were made for motion. Punk rock has always thrived on urgency, and that same urgency makes it the perfect soundtrack for pushing through fatigue, staying focused, and finishing strong.

We talk about what makes a great workout song, why punk’s speed and aggression translate so well to exercise playlists, and the tracks we personally reach for when motivation starts slipping.

No ballads. No cooldowns. Just fast, loud, and unapologetic energy from start to finish This episode doesn’t believe in rest days.

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🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

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This week, I take a deep dive into six radically different cover versions of Taylor Swift’s chart-dominating hit single “Cruel Summer,” exploring how artists from across the rock, punk, pop, and alternative worlds reinterpret one of the most recognizable songs of the modern pop era.

From high-energy punk makeovers to emotionally stripped-down vocal performances, each cover brings something distinct to the table — proving just how flexible and universal Cruel Summer has become since its original release. I break down what works, what surprises, and how each artist puts their own stamp on the song’s melody, production, and emotional core.

Featured covers include bold reinterpretations by Versus Me, The Animal In Me, Punk Rock Factory, Music By Blanks, Teddy Swims, and G Flip. Whether you’re a die-hard Taylor Swift fan, a cover-song obsessive, or someone who loves hearing pop songs flipped into new genres, this episode highlights why Cruel Summer has become a modern go-to for creative reinvention.

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🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

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This week, I’m joined by Kevin Brown, host of The Tom Petty Project, to create the ultimate Tom Petty playlist. We’re taking a deep dive into the songs that defined his legendary career—from the driving rock of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers to his introspective solo work, the early sounds of Mudcrutch, the collaborative magic of the Traveling Wilburys and more!

Along the way, we break down the stories, influences, and moments behind each track, giving you a front-row seat to the making of Petty’s most iconic songs. Whether it’s chart-toppers, fan favorites or hidden gems, we cover it all.

If you’ve been a lifelong fan, or you’re just discovering the genius of Tom Petty, this episode is a must-listen guide to understanding the heart, craft, and legacy of one of rock’s most enduring songwriters.

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🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

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This week, I’m joined by guest curator Jason Whissell, host of both It’s Not That Bad and There Can Only Be One, for a stripped-down episode celebrating the best acoustic performances of the 1990s. We’re unplugging the pedals, turning the amps off, and revisiting the songs that proved great rock music didn’t need distortion to hit hard.

Together, we dig into iconic acoustic renditions and unforgettable live performances made famous by MTV Unplugged, VH1 Storytellers, and other intimate ’90s-era sessions. From raw reinventions of alternative rock staples to emotional performances that revealed an entirely new side of familiar songs, we break down what made these unplugged versions so powerful — and why they’ve endured decades later.

Whether you grew up glued to MTV, discovered these acoustic classics later, or just love hearing songs stripped to their core, this episode is a deep dive into the performances that defined ’90s acoustic rock and changed how artists approached live music.

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🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠

This week, I’m joined by Jay Sweet, my former Tunestiles co-host, along with friend of the show Jimmy Mitchell, as we return to the well for Volume 2 of our Golden Oldies & Doo-Wop mixtape series. Together, we’re curating another nostalgic collection of classic songs from the 1950s and 1960s — an era defined by street-corner harmonies, jukebox romance, and the early building blocks of rock and pop music.

Just like Vol. 1, this episode isn’t only about when these songs first topped the charts. We’re revisiting the songs that enjoyed a second life decades later, resurfacing in the 1980s and 1990s through high-profile cover versions, movie soundtracks, and cultural rediscovery. From songs that re-entered the charts thanks to films like Stand By Me, Dirty Dancing, and Back to the Future, to originals that suddenly found a whole new audience, we explore how this music transcended generations.

Along the way, we dig into why these timeless songs continue to resonate — the harmonies, the melodies, the emotional pull — and how they helped shape everything that followed in rock, pop, and soul. Whether you grew up with these records spinning on vinyl, discovered them through movies, or are just beginning to explore the golden age of rock ’n’ roll, this episode is a warm, nostalgic trip back to the music that never really went away.

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🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

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This week, I’m joined by Dan Dissinger and Manny Coelho from The Nostalgia Test, and together we’re diving deep into a mixtape celebrating the universal feeling of nostalgia. These aren’t just songs that make us personally nostalgic—they’re songs that are about nostalgia itself, capturing memories of past times, old friendships, first loves, childhood moments, favorite places, and even fleeting snapshots frozen in a (ahem) photograph.

From wistful melodies to lyrics that pull you back to another era, this playlist spans genres, decades, and emotions, exploring how music can transport us to the past. Whether you’re feeling sentimental, reflective, or just curious about how artists translate memory into song, this episode is packed with stories behind the tracks, why they resonate, and the unique ways they evoke that bittersweet sense of “remember when.” Get ready to feel time slip away as we explore the songs that make nostalgia come alive.

🎙️ LEARN MORE

🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠

Have Mercy! This week, Patreon Mixtaper David Lee Smith joins me to craft The Absolute ZZ Top — a definitive look at 20 songs that capture the spirit, style, and groove of “that little ol’ band from Texas.” With 15 studio albums, countless hits, and fan favorites spanning decades, we carefully curated a playlist that honors both the chart-toppers and the hidden gems that make ZZ Top legendary.

Along the way, we showcase their signature blues-rock riffs and quirky humor, explore the songs that shaped their career and influenced generations of rock and blues fans. We also dive into the stories behind the tracks, the evolution of their iconic sound, and why their music still resonates today.

Whether you’re a longtime fan reliving their hits or a newcomer discovering the grit and groove of Texas rock, this episode is a celebration of ZZ Top’s enduring legacy, unforgettable riffs, and the playful, larger-than-life personality that makes them one of rock’s most beloved bands. Tune in for a guided tour through the absolute essentials of ZZ Top’s catalog. A-haw haw haw-haw…

🎙️ LEARN MORE

🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠

This week, I’m joined once again by legendary songwriter and producer Desmond Child for a deep dive into the stories behind some of the most iconic songs in rock and pop history. From arena-shaking anthems to unexpected chart-toppers, Desmond pulls back the curtain on the creative process behind songs he’s written and co-written with KISS, Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Ratt, Dream Theater, Katy Perry, Ava Max, and yes — even Kermit the Frog.

We talk about how these songs came together, what makes a chorus truly timeless, and how Desmond adapts his songwriting approach across genres — from hard rock and metal to modern pop. Desmond also shares insights from his recent songwriting sessions with Paul Williams, reflecting on collaboration, legacy, and finding inspiration after decades at the top of the industry.

Plus, we discuss the brand-new Desmond Child & Rouge single, “Unpredictable,” and what fuels his creativity today. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, modern pop, or the art of songwriting itself, this conversation offers rare behind-the-scenes stories from one of music’s most influential hitmakers — and a reminder that great songs always start with a great story.

For even more music and memories, be sure to check out Vol. 1.

🎙️ LEARN MORE

🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠

This week, I’m joined by singer-songwriter ⁠ZZ Ward⁠ to explore the stories behind every track on her new EP Mother, released on the iconic ⁠Sun Records⁠ label. This EP includes songs that will appear on her upcoming Liberation album, as well reinterpretations of two songs originally recorded for her Til The Casket Drops album: "Put The Gun Down" and "Lil Darlin."

We dig into the creative process behind Mother and how it contrasts stylistically with her other 2024 EP, Where Did All The Love Go?. ZZ also talks about her experience on Slash’s 2024 S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Tour, and her exclusive Record Store Day guitar pick-shaped vinyl single featuring “Put The Gun Down (Dirty Sun Version)” and “Cadillac Man."

Don’t miss this in-depth look at one of today’s most dynamic voices in blues-rock and soul.

🎙️ LEARN MORE

🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠

This week, I’m joined by guest curator and musical powerhouse Emily Wolfe to build a playlist spotlighting the best female rock artists and bands of the 1990s. From grunge to alt-rock, we’re celebrating the women who helped define the decade with bold songwriting, fearless performances, and era-shaping records.

We also dig deep into Emily’s 2023 album The Blowback, exploring why she chose to self-produce the record, how she pushes lyrical boundaries on tracks like “Walk In My Shoes,” and the role her ever-growing guitar and gear collection plays in shaping her unmistakable sound. Along the way, we talk about her powerful cover of ’Til Tuesday’s “Voices Carry,” her time on tour with The Gaslight Anthem, and the ways their musical paths naturally intersect.

A wide-ranging conversation that blends playlist curation, artist insight, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of modern rock’s most compelling voices.

🎙️ LEARN MORE

🎵 Hear the Playlists / Browse the Catalog:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com⁠

💬 Join the Mixtaper Community (Patreon):⁠ https://patreon.com/myweeklymixtape⁠

🌐 Connect on Social:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/social-media⁠

📧 Email the Show / Contact:⁠ https://myweeklymixtape.com/contact⁠