Songs & Stories

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with iconic alternative-country artist Robbie Fulks to dive deep into his latest album, Bluegrass Vacation. Fulks, known for his storytelling prowess and sharp musicianship, shares the inspiration behind his shift into pure bluegrass and what it was like working with legends like Sam Bush and Jerry Douglas. From songwriting processes to collaborations with artists like Jenny Scheinman, Fulks provides an intimate look at the creation of his music.

The interview also touches on Robbie's evolution as a songwriter and performer, reflecting on personal memories, career highlights, and his passion for creating music that defies traditional genre boundaries. With a special preview of his upcoming performance with Jenny Scheinman at Hop Monk Tavern, this episode is a must-listen for fans of bluegrass, Americana, and heartfelt storytelling.

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Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #RobbieFulks #BluegrassVacation #AlternativeCountry #JennyScheinman #Bluegrass #AmericanaMusic #HopMonkTavern #LiveMusicCalifornia

In this exciting episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Christian Gates, the multi-talented artist known as The Philharmonik.

Christian shares the inspiring journey behind his rapid rise to success, including his recent win at the NPR Tiny Desk Contest and his triumph at last year’s American Songwriting Contest. With a background in multiple instruments and a deep love for music, Christian’s creative process is as eclectic as his sound.

During the conversation, Christian opens up about his challenges, unique songwriting approach, and the concept behind his hit songs "What's It All Mean?" and "Pay Me." He also discusses the intricacies of managing a nine-member band and what fans can expect from his upcoming show at the Mystic Theater in Petaluma. This episode is filled with insightful reflections on his life in music and the passion driving his art.

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Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #ThePhilharmonik #ChristianGates #TinyDeskWinner #WhatsItAllMean #MysticTheater #PayMe

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby has an in-depth conversation with renowned Brazilian guitarist and singer Badi Assad.

With over 35 years in the music industry, Badi shares the triumphs, challenges, and personal growth that have shaped her career, including her battle with focal dystonia and deep connection with the San Francisco Bay Area.

Through compelling stories and musical insights, Badi discusses her diverse musical influences and collaborations and how she continues to captivate audiences with her unique blend of jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and world music.

The conversation also highlights Badi’s upcoming concerts, her reflections on the powerful messages behind her songs like "If I Want to Talk to God" and "Island of Flowers," and her exciting new project featuring 22 immigrant and refugee musicians. Whether you’re a fan of her music or new to her work, this interview offers a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of one of the world's most innovative musicians.

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Social Media Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #BadiAssad #BrazilianMusic #WorldMusic #Jazz #RomeroLubambo #IlhaAlbum #IslandofFlowers #LiveMusic #BlueNoteNapa #EveryBlueMoonConcerts #GuitarArtistry #MusicHealing

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby interviews acclaimed violinist and composer Jenny Scheinman. Jenny shares insights into her latest album, All Species Parade, which is deeply influenced by her return to the remote Lost Coast of Humboldt County. She reflects on how reconnecting with nature and rural life, especially during the pandemic, has reshaped her musical direction. The conversation also explores the challenges of balancing her artistic career with motherhood and how the isolation of 2020 led to a period of creative growth. 

Jenny also discusses her long-standing collaborations with guitarists Bill Frisell, Julian Lage, and Nels Cline, highlighting how their unique styles contributed to the album's sound. The episode delves into her approach to genre-bending, improvisation, and composing music that reflects the natural world and her journey. As a special preview, Jenny shares details about her upcoming performances at Mr. Tipple's Jazz Club in San Francisco, offering fans a glimpse of what to expect from these intimate shows.

Episode Highlights:

- Jenny’s transition from the urban landscape of New York to the rural beauty of Humboldt County.

- The inspiration behind her new album All Species Parade and its connection to nature.

- Collaborations with Bill Frisell, Julian Lage, and Nels Cline and their impact on the album.

- Navigating the challenges of motherhood and creativity, especially during the pandemic.

- Details about her upcoming performances at Mr. Tipple's Jazz Club in San Francisco.

Featured Songs:

- “Nocturne for 2020”

- “Ornette Goes Home”

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Show Notes

In this episode, Backstage Sonoma host Steve Roby delves into the world of viral ukulele sensation Feng E. From his early start at age five to becoming a global musical force, Feng E shares the story behind his rise to fame. The conversation explores his unique blend of genres on the ukulele, the creative process behind some of his standout compositions, and the mentorship he's received from guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel. As Feng E embarks on his first U.S. tour, he reflects on how performing live constantly sparks new ideas and allows him to connect deeply with audiences.

Highlights

Feng E talks about how he started playing ukulele at six due to concerns about his finger strength, only to fall in love with performing after his first competition.

Discussion on the unique sound and feel of the ukulele compared to the guitar, including how Feng E designed his signature ukulele model with Enya Music.

Insight into his creative process behind original compositions like Stalker in the Shadow and 8 Plus.

Feng E shares his experience performing Classical Gas alongside guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel, who has deeply influenced his style and approach to music.

Preview of Feng E’s upcoming first U.S. tour, with Bay Area and Sacramento shows.

Featured Songs

“Stalker in the Shadow” is Feng E's original composition, with a captivating melody and intricate energy.

“8 Plus” – A playful, harmonic-driven piece inspired by Feng E’s love of technology.

Upcoming Show

Feng E will perform at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley on September 18. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at thefreight.org.

Follow Feng E

YouTube: Feng E

Instagram: @fengeofficial

Social Media Hashtags

#BackstageSonoma #FengEMusic #UkuleleProdigy #LiveMusic #FreightAndSalvage #BayAreaMusic #SteveRobyInterviews

Show Notes

Highlights:

Pete Floyd's Formation: Pete Delaney shares how the pandemic inspired the formation of the tribute band Pete Floyd alongside Pete Hale, who profoundly loves Pink Floyd’s music.

- Band Lineup: The group features a powerhouse lineup of local musicians, including saxophonist Alex Garcia, keyboardist Bob McBain, bassist Toby Tyler, drummer Sean Englund, vocalist Paige Clem, vocalist and guitarist Teal Collins, and guitarist Pete Hale, each adding unique depth to the performances.

- The Music: Pete Delaney discusses their approach to covering Pink Floyd's extensive catalog, focusing on albums like Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, and The Wall, blending live elements from iconic performances.

Visual Experience: Pete Floyd offers a full visual experience, complete with coordinated lighting designed by its new lighting director, adding a dynamic visual component to its live shows.

- Special Moments: Delaney recalls memorable performances, including their third show at the Phoenix Theater in Petaluma and the incredible energy felt during the "Comfortably Numb" performance at The Chapel in San Francisco.

- Upcoming Shows: The band will perform at Sebastiana Theater on Friday, September 20th, with a special laser light show. They are also preparing a 50th-anniversary tribute to Wish You Were Here for 2025.

 Featured Songs

- “Great Gig in the Sky” – Pete Floyd’s rendition featuring Teal Collins on vocals.

- “Dogs” – A segment from their live performance featuring Pete Hale’s exceptional guitar work.

 Links

- Pete Floyd Official Website: https://petefloyd.com

- Sebastiana Theater Tickets: https://www.sebastianitheatre.com

 Social Media Hashtags

#PeteFloyd #PinkFloydTribute #SonomaMusic #LiveMusic #SebastianiTheater #WishYouWereHere #DarkSideOfTheMoon #BackstageSonoma

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, Steve Roby sits down with the iconic frontman of Cherry Poppin' Daddies, Steve Perry, ahead of their performance at the Hop Monk Tavern in Novato on September 29th. Known for their genre-blending style, Perry takes us through the band's evolution from the breakout success of "Zoot Suit Riot" to their latest album, At The Pink Rat. Get insights into their eclectic fusion of ska, swing, punk, and funk, and hear how Perry continues to challenge himself musically.

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In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Julie Gussaroff, upright bassist, vocalist, and mandolin player for The Sweet Lilies, to discuss the band’s unique fusion of Americana, folk, rock, and even hip hop. Julie shares the band's origins, her creative process, and what it's like working with producer Sergio Rios in Los Angeles. From the band's beginnings as a string duo to evolving into a full four-piece with drums, Julie dives deep into how the band’s sound has matured.

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Highlights of the conversation include:

The music featured in this episode was from The Sweet Lilies' latest album, Cover to Cover, including their rendition of "Bad Moon Rising" and the tracks "Tables Turning"  and “Words” from their Equality album.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Tune in to catch more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes conversations with musicians nationwide! Go to: https://www.backstagesonoma.com/

Hashtags:
#BackstageSonoma #TheSweetLilies #JulieGussaroff #AmericanaMusic #StringBand #SweetwaterMusicHall #LiveMusic #MusicInterviews #FolkRock #SergioRios #NewMusic

🎸 In This Episode 🎸
Join us for an engaging conversation with blues icon Tommy Castro. Over the past few decades, Tommy has become a central figure in the Bay Area and international blues scenes. We discuss his early influences, such as Elvin Bishop and Tower of Power, his experiences touring with legends like B.B. King, and the making of his latest concept album, A Bluesman Came to Town. Tommy also shares behind-the-scenes stories about his journey, the impact of the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, and his excitement about his upcoming album, Closer to the Bone.

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Upcoming Event:
Catch Tommy Castro & The Painkillers at the Hop Monk Tavern in Novato on September 22nd, 6 PM! Grab your tickets here: KCTurnerPresents.com.

Links & Resources:

🎙️Subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on your favorite podcast platform for more conversations with incredible artists like Tommy Castro.

Social Media Hashtags:
#BackstageSonoma #TommyCastro #BluesLegend #BluesMusic #LiveMusic #HopMonkTavern #BluesBeyondBorders #BayAreaMusic #ConceptAlbum #BluesJourney

Welcome to Backstage Sonoma—your all-access pass to the heartbeat of the Bay Area music scene!

From jazz to rock, blues to world music, we bring you intimate conversations with the artists shaping our soundscape. Hear their stories, explore their inspirations, and dive deep into the creative process that makes each performance unforgettable.

Hosted by Steve Roby, seasoned radio personality and best-selling author, Backstage Sonoma has featured Grammy winners like Judy Collins, Colbie Caillat, Leslie Mendelson, and chart-topping guitarist Adam Hawley. With over 200 episodes and four years of exclusive content, we keep you connected to the local and touring musicians making waves today.

Whether you're a lifelong music lover or discovering new tunes, join us on Backstage Sonoma, available on all major streaming platforms, including YouTube. Don't miss a beat—subscribe now and be part of our growing community of listeners.