Peach Jam Podcast

#### Episode Overview

In this episode of the Peach Jam podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with Rex Evans, a talented musician from Newnan, Georgia, who creates soulful R&B and hip-hop music. Despite growing up in a musical family, Rex initially resisted pursuing a career in music. This episode delves into his journey, influences, and the authenticity he brings to his work.

#### Key Points

- **Artist Background:**

- Rex Evans, hailing from Newnan, Georgia, is influenced by his mother, Debra Killings, a notable bassist and vocalist who worked with icons like TLC and Outkast.

- Growing up surrounded by music, Rex rebelled against becoming an artist himself, opting for sports and other interests during his teenage years.

- **Musical Style:**

- Rex describes his sound as a blend of soulful R&B and hip-hop, characterized by classic Southern elements like 808s and synths.

- He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in his music, stating that he can only create from personal experiences.

- **Journey into Music:**

- Rex's musical journey began about six years ago when a friend encouraged him to record in a studio.

- He reflects on his past resistance to music and now acknowledges it as an integral part of his identity.

- **Performing with Family:**

- Rex shares the comfort of performing alongside his mother, who supports him during live shows but challenges him during rehearsals.

- **Industry Insights:**

- Discussing the music scene, Rex notes the camaraderie in Atlanta compared to more competitive environments outside the city.

- He highlights the differences in audience reception in places like Orlando and New York, appreciating their openness to genuine music.

- **Themes in Music:**

- Rex prefers to explore deeper themes of love and relationships, focusing on the struggles and triumphs rather than surface-level sensuality.

- **Musical Therapy:**

- He describes how his artistic process serves as a form of therapy, helping him learn more about himself and navigate his emotions.

#### Musical Highlights

- Featured song snippets from Rex's performances, showcasing his unique blend of R&B and hip-hop.

- Collaborative tracks, including a highlight from his previous work with fellow artist Cantrell.

#### Closing Thoughts

Rex Evans embodies a refreshing authenticity in his music, shaped by his personal experiences and family legacy. His journey from rebellion to embracing his musical identity is both inspiring and relatable.

---

**Follow Us:**

- Instagram: [@PeachJamPodcast](https://www.instagram.com/peachjampodcast)

### Peach Jam Podcast: Episode - The Muckers

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell introduces us to The Muckers, an Irish punk band based in Atlanta. Join Jeremy and band members Randall English, Jeff Costello, Eric Petzel, Ty Watkins, Dave Long, and Jeff Shaw as they dive into their unique blend of Celtic rock and their experiences in the vibrant Atlanta music scene.

**Key Topics Discussed:**

- **Introduction to The Muckers:** Learn about the band's origins and their unique sound, which infuses traditional Irish music with punk rock elements.

- **The Celtic Rock Genre:** Jeff Shaw and Dave Long discuss what Celtic rock means to them and how it differs from traditional Irish music.

- **Atlanta's Irish Music Scene:** The band reflects on why an Irish punk band thrives in Atlanta and their experiences connecting with other musicians in the community.

- **St. Patrick’s Day Gigs:** A look into the band’s hectic schedule around St. Patrick's Day and the challenges they face while balancing performances.

- **Day Jobs and Music Life:** Insights into how the band members manage their full-time jobs and family lives alongside their passion for music.

- **DragonCon Performances:** The Muckers share their experiences playing at DragonCon and the unique crowd that comes to see them.

**Musical Performances:**

Enjoy live performances by The Muckers, showcasing their energetic Celtic rock style, and stay tuned for some exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from their shows.

**Next Episode Teaser:**

Join us next time as we meet Rex Evans, who shares stories about his childhood encounters with famous babysitters from Destiny's Child.

**Listen & Subscribe:**

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Peach Jam Podcast on your favorite platform and support local music!

**Follow Us:**

- Instagram: [@PeachJamPodcast](https://www.instagram.com/peachjampodcast)

### Episode Summary

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell introduces listeners to Soap, a vibrant rock band from Savannah, Georgia. The band members share their musical journey, diverse influences, and the thriving music scene in Savannah, a town often perceived as a tourist destination. They discuss their unique sound, award-winning status, and the importance of community in their artistic endeavors.

### Key Topics Discussed

- **Introduction to Soap**: The band describes their eclectic style, which blends rock, reggae, R&B, and more.

- **The Savannah Music Scene**: Members reflect on Savannah’s rich musical culture, highlighting its community of intertwined artists.

- **Awards and Recognition**: Soap has been voted as the best rock, blues, and Americana band in Savannah.

- **Live Music Venues**: Recommendations for local spots like Starland Yard and Victory North, where the band and other artists perform.

- **The Band’s Dynamic**: Insights into their creative process and the evolution of their sound over the years.

- **Motivation and Teamwork**: Discussion on the roles of their manager and the importance of collaboration within the band.

### Notable Quotes

- "We just wanted people to dance, and people can't stop dancing." — Joa

- "It's a musical town. We're lucky to be here." — Antar

- "Music is not just tolerated; it’s demanded in Savannah." — Jeremy Powell

### Featured Music

- Live performances by Soap featured throughout the episode.

### Behind the Band Name

- The story behind the name "Soap," including its humorous acronym “Sex on a Platter,” and how it reflects the band’s playful identity.

### Final Thoughts

- The band emphasizes the joy of performing and the deep connections formed through music, providing a heartfelt look at their passion and dedication.

### Call to Action

- Support local music! Find and enjoy live performances in your area, and check out independent record stores.

#### Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with Atlanta native Michelle Malone, a talented Americana musician who has navigated the ups and downs of the music industry while remaining true to herself. Michelle shares her journey from early influences and collaborations with the Indigo Girls to her decision to walk away from a major record deal in pursuit of authenticity.

---

#### Key Points:

- **Authenticity in Music:**

Michelle emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself, recounting her struggles with authenticity when faced with industry pressures to conform.

- **Musical Journey:**

Growing up in Atlanta, Michelle was inspired by local legends like the Indigo Girls and the Georgia Satellites. She describes how these early experiences shaped her diverse musical style, which spans Americana, rock, and blues.

- **Record Deal Experience:**

At 23, Michelle signed a record deal with Clive Davis’s Arista Records but ultimately left when the label wanted her to change her sound to fit a different mold.

- **Georgia's Music Scene:**

The discussion highlights Georgia as a rich musical crossroads, blending elements of blues, rock, and country. Michelle appreciates the tight-knit community of musicians in Atlanta.

- **Personal Growth:**

Reflecting on her teenage years, Michelle shares her journey of self-discovery and the challenges she faced. She offers insight into how her past experiences helped her grow and evolve as an artist.

- **Current Projects:**

Michelle continues to produce her own music independently while collaborating with a supportive team. She expresses her love for local musicians and studios.

---

#### Featured Music:

- Live performances by Michelle Malone in the GPB studios (available on the GPB YouTube page).

---

#### Next Episode Preview:

Join us next week as we explore the vibrant party band scene in Savannah, featuring artists who contribute to the city’s rich musical tapestry.

---

#### Follow Us:

- **Instagram:** [@PeachJamPodcast](https://www.instagram.com/peachjampodcast)

#### Episode Summary

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with country musician Tony Evans Jr. from Stockbridge, Georgia. At just 24 years old, Tony shares his journey into music, starting from signing his first deal at 11 to finding his own unique brand of country music influenced by legends like George Strait and Keith Whitley.

#### Key Highlights

- **Early Beginnings:**

- Tony reflects on his early career, signing his first music contract at age 11 and performing at local venues like Eddie’s Attic and the Red Clay Theater.

- **Musical Influences:**

- Discusses how a mix of classic artists—from Michael Jackson to Nat King Cole—shaped his songwriting and perspective on relationships.

- **Maturity Beyond Years:**

- Despite his age, Tony's thoughtful approach to songwriting stems from deep reflections on love and relationships.

- **Family Matters:**

- Family plays a crucial role in Tony's life and music. He discusses the impact of his grandmother and the support from his father, who also manages his career.

- **Navigating Identity:**

- Addresses the complexities of being a Black artist in the country music genre, expressing both pride and the challenges that come with it.

- **Advice for Young Artists:**

- Encourages aspiring musicians to study the roots of their genre and develop their unique sound, emphasizing hard work and authenticity.

#### Musical Performances

The episode features live performances of Tony's original songs, highlighting his storytelling abilities and vocal talent.

#### Quotes

- "Family means absolutely everything. As a man, I have nothing without family."

- "I realized that... love and music isn't enough to do this career. You got to have something that really grounds you."

#### Where to Find Tony

- Follow Tony Evans Jr. on social media for updates on new music and upcoming shows.

### Peach Jam Podcast: Episode – Thoughts Are Nuclear

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of Peach Jam, host Jeremy Powell connects with the band Thoughts Are Nuclear from LaGrange, Georgia. The band, consisting of Gordon Edgar, Allen Epperson, Josh Purgason, and Matt Hunter, dives into their journey as musicians, their experiences in the West Georgia music scene, and the challenges of balancing their passion for music with their everyday lives. Join us as we explore their commitment to their craft, their creative process, and their dedication to giving back through their music.

**Highlights:**

- **Band Introductions:** Meet the members of Thoughts Are Nuclear: Gordon Edgar (bass), Allen Epperson (drums), Josh Purgason (vocals and guitar), and Matt Hunter (lead guitar and keys). The band shares their unique musical style, blending alternative rock with a 90s flair.

- **LaGrange Music Scene:** The band discusses the music scene in LaGrange, noting the predominance of country and acoustic acts, and their efforts to make an impact by traveling to nearby cities like Atlanta and Carrollton for performances.

- **Balancing Music and Work:** Thoughts Are Nuclear members talk about juggling their music careers with full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Gordon handles escalations for a home warranty company, Allen is a plumber, Josh builds doors for a sister company, and Matt also builds doors and is a devoted father.

- **Musical Inspirations and Goals:** The band reflects on their journey, including their early experiences and influences. They discuss their goal of making music a full-time career and the personal fulfillment they derive from creating and performing.

- **The Healing Power of Music:** Josh Purgason shares how music has been a therapeutic outlet for him, helping him cope with personal struggles and family issues. The band collectively believes in the power of music to connect with people and provide solace.

- **Commitment and Passion:** The members talk about their dedication to music, emphasizing that while they may not be seeking fame, their primary goal is to support their families while pursuing their passion. They are committed to making music a significant part of their lives, despite the challenges.

- **Memorable Moments:** The band reminisces about memorable performances, including their experience playing at the Atlanta Motor Speedway and their first performance at a venue that typically hosts tribute bands.

**Follow Peach Jam Podcast:**

- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/peachjampodcast)

- [Georgia Public Broadcasting](https://www.gpb.org/peach-jam-podcast)

**Credits:**

- **Host:** Jeremy Powell

- **Executive Producer:** Sandy Malcolm

- **Sound Engineering and Recording:** Sounds Good

Peach Jam Podcast Episode: Wiley From Atlanta

In this episode of Peach Jam, host Jeremy Powell sits down with Wiley From Atlanta, a unique artist whose blend of alternative blues and R&B defies conventional genre boundaries. Join us as we explore Wiley's journey from his early music days to his current experiments in sound, his experiences with ballet, and his thoughts on Atlanta's influential music scene.

---

**Episode Highlights:**

**1. Introduction to Wiley From Atlanta**

- Wiley discusses his musical beginnings in Clarkston, Georgia, and his early challenges with recording himself.

- He describes his genre as "alternative blues" or "alternative R&B," emphasizing a bluesy feel with rhythmic elements.

**2. The Creative Journey**

- Wiley reflects on his initial struggles with music and how being made fun of didn't deter him. His confidence grew over time as he became more committed to his craft.

- He reveals his eclectic music influences and how his genre-blending style often surprises listeners and algorithmic platforms.

**3. The Influence of Montessori and Ballet**

- Wiley shares how his Montessori school experience fostered his creativity and independence.

- He discusses his eight years of ballet training, the enjoyment he found in performing, and the impact this had on his stage presence and confidence.

**4. The Atlanta Music Scene**

- Wiley explains how Atlanta is a major player in shaping current hip-hop trends and sounds.

- He highlights the city's innovative spirit and the supportive yet competitive environment among local artists.

**5. Fame and Recognition**

- Wiley talks about his experiences with fame, including moments of recognition and his surprising popularity in Australia.

- He expresses his thoughts on what it means to be famous and the nuances of public recognition.

**Music Featured in This Episode:**

- Original tracks by Wiley From Atlanta, showcasing his unique blend of alternative blues and R&B. (Note: Complete musical performances can be found on the GPB YouTube page.)

**Follow Peach Jam Podcast:**

- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/peachjampodcast/)

- Watch episodes on [Georgia Public Broadcasting TV](https://www.gpb.org/tv)

**Support Local Music:**

- Discover and support live local music and independent record stores in your area.

---

*The Peach Jam Podcast is produced, edited, and hosted by Jeremy Powell. Executive Producer: Sandy Malcolm. Sound Engineering and Recording by Sounds Good.*

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with Ryan Oyer, a singer-songwriter from Ringgold, Georgia. Ryan's journey from small-town musician to recording artist is a fascinating tale of passion, persistence, and personal growth. Ryan shares insights into his eclectic music style, the challenges of balancing music with a full-time job, and the joy of creating music with his family.

**Guest:**

**Ryan Oyer**

- **Location:** Ringgold, Georgia

- **Genres:** Pop and Americana-influenced songwriter music

- **Current Projects:** Working on his seventh record; recent release on vinyl

**Key Topics Discussed:**

1. **Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings:**

- Ryan reflects on his first major music experiences at the Tabernacle and how far he's come since then.

- He started writing music at 18 and performing regularly around age 25.

2. **Music Style and Process:**

- Ryan describes his genre-blending style, which he attributes to allowing the song to dictate its own direction.

- He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and openness to new ideas, particularly in his work with multi-instrumentalist Butch.

3. **Recording and Production:**

- Ryan shares his unique approach to recording, including the DIY methods used during the pandemic with an iPhone and GarageBand.

- He discusses his experience with vinyl pressing and the emotional impact of hearing his music on vinyl.

4. **Balancing Music with Other Responsibilities:**

- Despite music being a major passion, Ryan works full-time at a flooring company and supports his music through gig income.

- He explains how he manages his music career around family commitments, particularly focusing on his young children.

5. **Local Scene and Performance Venues:**

- Ryan talks about the music scene in northwest Georgia, his regular performances at local hotels, and his involvement with other local musicians.

- He reflects on the contrast between performing in intimate settings and larger events.

6. **Thoughts on Success and Fame:**

- Ryan defines success as the ability to continue creating music that he is proud of and finding personal satisfaction in his work.

- He discusses his preference for a more private life over seeking mainstream fame and the fulfillment he finds in smaller-scale achievements.

7. **Advice and Hopes for the Future:**

- Ryan shares his hopes for his children to find their own passions and pursue them with the same dedication he has for music.

**Episode Credits:**

- **Host:** Jeremy Powell

- **Executive Producer:** Sandy Malcolm

- **Sound Engineering and Recording:** Sounds Good

**Connect with Peach Jam Podcast:**

- [Instagram](https://instagram.com/peachjampodcast)

**Support Local Music:**

- Find and support live local music and independent record stores in your area.

**Listen to Peach Jam Podcast:**

- Available wherever you watch Georgia Public Broadcasting.