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What if one month could transform your understanding of a vibrant culture? Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the dynamic Fanny Villarreal, a beloved Latino leader in Central New York. This episode is an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino contributions, set against the backdrop of the independence days of several Central American countries. Fanny shares her personal anecdotes which highlight the beautiful cultural exchanges within our community.

Over her 33 years in Central New York, Fanny has made a significant impact, particularly through her work at a local radio station now celebrating its 31st anniversary. We discuss how Hispanic culture has enriched mainstream American culture, likening it to a vibrant, diverse salad. Fanny clears up common misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day, and the terms Hispanic and Latino. She passionately talks about the importance of non-Hispanic participation in Hispanic Heritage Month, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation and understanding.

In the final segment, we celebrate the infectious energy of Hispanic music and dance, showing how they bring unity and joy to community gatherings. Fanny details her role in educating others about Latino cultures through her radio show, Nosotros Radio, which features community events, music, and spiritual well-being segments. As we wrap up, Fanny shares her gratitude for the opportunities she's received and her hopes of reconnecting with her roots in Peru. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse and vibrant Hispanic community in Syracuse and beyond.

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What if you could trace your musical roots back to a legendary jazz guitarist? That's exactly what our guest, Macartney Reinhardt, shares with us on this enchanting episode of Skip Happens. Hailing from the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, Macartney takes us through her musical journey, heavily influenced by her father, a musician with his own home studio. With her father playing bass in her band and her mother managing the business side of her career, Macartney reveals the unique insights and loving support that have shaped her path in the music industry.

Macartney's small-town upbringing in Georgia comes to life as she recounts touching stories of her grandparents, whose legacy is beautifully woven into her songs. From her grandmother's cherished flower shop to her grandfather's auctioneering, these personal anecdotes provide a heartfelt backdrop to her music. We also dive into her unexpected nomination for Teen Artist of the Year at the 2020 Georgia Country Awards and her unforgettable moments at local events like the Crazy Bowl in Macon. Despite facing health challenges and the pandemic, Macartney's dedication to connecting with her fans shines through, highlighting the importance of personal interactions in her career.

Join us as Macartney shares her surreal experiences performing at iconic Nashville venues like the Bluebird Café and the Commodore. From her early days playing on Broadway at just 16 to balancing her social media presence and performing alongside her boyfriend, a guitarist at the Opry for Neon Union, Macartney's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We wrap up this episode with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners and an invitation to subscribe to Skip Happens for more captivating stories from both new independent artists and well-established musicians. Don't miss this deeply personal and inspiring episode with the talented Macartney Reinhardt!

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Crystal Gale, the iconic voice behind "Don't Make My Brown Eyes Blue," takes us on a heartfelt journey through her storied career in country music. From her humble beginnings performing at local rodeos to receiving prestigious awards like the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year in 1977 and 1978, and the American Eagle Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2017, Crystal opens up about the moments that shaped her path. She shares touching memories of her induction into the Grand Ole Opry, a special event graced by her sister, Loretta Lynn, and reflects on her family's significant influence on her success. 

Crystal's passion for music is as strong as ever, and she talks about her busy tour schedule, including upcoming stops in Glen Falls, New York, and Rhode Island. We celebrate her enduring impact on country music and the authentic emotion she brings to each performance, which continues to resonate with fans across generations. This episode is a warm tribute to Crystal's remarkable legacy and a testament to her genuine connection with her audience. Join us for this special conversation with a true legend of country music.

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Can unpredictable weather make a live performance even more electric? Find out as we chat with Brian Kelly, who opens up about the thrill of performing at the New York State Fair and his recent headline show in Rhode Island. Brian takes us behind the scenes, sharing how he transitioned from a successful duo to establishing himself as a solo artist. He reflects on the inspiring journey that began when he moved to Nashville in 2007, and he promises us an exclusive look into the creative process fueling his upcoming solo album set to release later this year.

Join us for a heartfelt discussion where Brian's passion for songwriting and collaboration with his band members shines through. From his unfiltered take on the joy of making music that resonates with fans to his deep appreciation for their unwavering support, Brian's story is both inspiring and engaging. This episode promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into every performance. Whether you've followed Brian for years or are just discovering his work, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

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Ever wondered how an artist transitions from a small-town dreamer to a U.S. headlining sensation? Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented Josh Ross at the New York State Fair. From his roots in Ontario, Canada to his brave move to Nashville six years ago, Josh shares his journey with us—highlighting his memorable Christmas show performance last December and his experiences on his first headlining tour in the U.S. We dive deep into the personal stories behind his hit singles "Trouble" and "Single Again," and explore the dynamics of performing with his band. Josh also opens up about his exciting collaboration with Julia Michaels on "I Want This Beer" and teases his upcoming plans to tour in Australia.

Beyond the music, we uncover the vital role of collaboration in the industry, focusing on the strong bond between artists and The Wolf radio station. Reflecting on the joy of engaging with fans and the mutual appreciation that fuels future events, we recount the fun-filled moments from last December's event. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of music, community, and the shared excitement for what's to come. Don't miss out on these behind-the-scenes stories and the genuine connections that make the music world so special.

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What happens when a celebrated pop and rock star from Israel decides to pursue his country music dreams in Nashville? This episode takes you through the extraordinary journey of Omer Netzer, who swapped his life in Israel for the musical heartland of the U.S. Hear about his transformative experience of opening for Bon Jovi, a pivotal moment that steered his path towards songwriting and a new musical ambition. We delve into Omer's courageous service as a combat medic and police officer, reflecting on the emotional toll of tragic events, including the harrowing impact of October 7th.

Discover the profound resilience and healing power of music as Omer shares the deeply personal story behind his song, "God Works in Mysterious Ways," inspired by a friend's dying note. Learn how music provided him with a lifeline during times of loss and how his performances across Europe and the U.S. have helped him bridge cultural divides. Omer's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unifying power of country music. 

Join us as we explore the cultural richness of Israel and the indomitable spirit of an artist who continues to rise in the music industry. Omer talks about his dream collaborations, his travels across the U.S., and the unwavering support of his family. This episode is a celebration of dreams, perseverance, and the incredible journey of a musician who refuses to be defined by borders. Tune in to be inspired by Omer Netzer's story and his unwavering commitment to his art.

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Ever wondered how a long-haul trucker balances life on the road with the high-energy world of country rock? Join us for an unforgettable episode of Skip Happens Podcast as Barry Lefroy from the Lefroy Band shares his incredible journey from Toronto to Southern California and now to Anderson, Alabama, near the iconic Muscle Shoals. You'll get a front-row seat to the band's evolution over the past eight years and learn about the stellar contributions from legendary musicians like Laurence Juber, Josh Freese, Greg Leisz, and Jeff Babko. Barry also opens up about their unique spin on Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door".

In this captivating conversation, Barry discusses the Lefroy Band's latest hit single, crafted by Dean Chance, and its triumphant climb on country radio stations. We uncover the intricate process of recording, blending sounds from Muscle Shoals and Studio City, and the unique challenges Barry faces balancing his dual passions for music and trucking. Barry also shares some heartfelt and humorous anecdotes from nearly five decades behind the wheel, giving us a glimpse into the life of a musician who finds solace in the driver's seat of his 90-foot truck.

Our episode wraps up with Barry's exhilarating tales of classic car collecting, including some high-octane moments doing burnouts in a restored muscle car for an auction. Discover how his wife unexpectedly became a part of their recording process, leading to her impressive debut on their EP. Barry offers invaluable advice to aspiring artists, touching on his own musical history, from playing with small local bands to jamming with April Wine. Tune in to hear about Barry's favorite instruments, nostalgic memories of Toronto and Syracuse, and the Lefroy band's growing online presence. This episode is packed with music, stories, and inspiration you won't want to miss!

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Country music fans, this one's for you! Ever wondered what it's like to pick up and move to the heart of the music scene in Nashville? Connor Daly, an emerging country artist, shares his heartfelt journey from Northern Virginia to his new home in Franklin, Tennessee, complete with a backyard for his soon-to-arrive golden retriever. Connor's transition from apartment living marks a new chapter in his life and career, setting the stage for his debut album "Colors Fade," released on July 26th. With over 200 songs written since he began songwriting in 2019, Connor opens up about his prolific creative process and the big dreams that fuel his passion.

What does it mean to support a loved one through tough times? Connor's track "I Ain't Got a Cape" offers a raw, emotional take on this universal struggle, spotlighting the mental health themes that permeate his music. Against the scenic backdrop of Franklin, Tennessee, Connor discusses the metaphorical nature of his lyrics, drawing profound parallels between life, nature, and relationships. From classical guitar training to self-taught contemporary styles, Connor's musical evolution is as inspiring as it is relatable, proving that inspiration can strike anywhere, even during a simple drive.

Life is all about balance, and Connor Daly's story exemplifies this principle. From high school jobs at a candy store and DoorDashing in college to gigging at local venues and working as a government auditor, his journey is a testament to persistence and passion. We talk about his integration into the Nashville music scene, the unwavering support from his family, and his aspirations as he navigates this new chapter. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted moments including childhood food aversions and the joys of grilling. Don't miss this engaging conversation as Connor Daly shares his experiences, dreams, and the road ahead in the world of country music.

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Ever wondered what it takes to fuse the raw energy of Memphis rock and roll with the heartfelt storytelling of 90s country? We’ve got the perfect episode for you. Join us as we sit down with Anthony Von, a seasoned country artist from Toronto, who brings over 25 years of industry experience to the table. Anthony shares his unique musical influences, drawing from legends like Elvis Presley and George Strait, and gives us an insider's perspective on the differences between the Canadian and American country music scenes. We also dive into his experiences performing at the iconic CMA Fest in Nashville and the warm reception he received during his U.S. radio tour.

Balancing a thriving music career with another profession is no easy feat, but Anthony makes it look effortless. We get a firsthand account of the demanding life of an independent artist on a radio tour, from hitting up to 25 radio stations across different states to early morning performances. Anthony also opens up about his background in landscape architecture, sharing valuable advice from his late father on the importance of learning a trade. Tune in to hear about his creative songwriting process, memorable TV appearances, and thrilling performances at major sports events. Plus, get a sneak peek into his future plans for Nashville and the Country Radio Seminar. This episode is packed with inspiration, valuable insights, and a few personal anecdotes that you won’t want to miss!

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Ever wondered what it's like to be thrust into the limelight at just 15, only to have the rug pulled out from under you? Join us as we sit down with the incredibly gifted Tristan McIntosh, who shares her whirlwind journey from Nashville roots to American Idol fame and beyond. Tristan opens up about discovering her singing talent at a tender age, her intense yet rewarding stint on American Idol, and how she bounced back after the show's unexpected tour cancellation. Listen to her recount collaborations with industry titans and how she learned to roller skate for a role in Sam Hunt's music video "23."

Imagine performing at a venue owned by a rock legend while a friendly dog roams the bar area. We chat with Tristan about her memorable gig at Daryl's House in Syracuse, New York, and the enchanting atmosphere it offers. She also gives us a peek into her life as an independent artist, maintaining a vibrant social media presence on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Tristan shares the challenges of staying independent, the invaluable lessons from her time on American Idol, and her unforgettable performance at the Grand Ole Opry with Darius Rucker.

But that's not all—our conversation takes delightful detours into favorite Linda Ronstadt songs, the joys of keeping a blue-tongue skink as a pet, and aspirations for global travel. From her bustling performance schedule and late-night gigs to her hobbies like skateboarding and collecting vinyl records, Tristan paints a vivid picture of her daily life. We touch on childhood memories, love for fantasy fiction, and the excitement surrounding her upcoming single, "Burn the Bed," featuring Kim Carnes. Tune in for a heartfelt episode that underscores the power of passion, perseverance, and family support in chasing dreams.

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