Songs & Stories

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Carolyn Kendrick, a Stockton-born singer-songwriter, fiddler, and producer, to discuss her highly anticipated album, Each Machine, which will be released on December 6th. 

Known for blending traditional folk music with modern themes, Kendrick takes listeners on a deep dive into the inspiration behind her new project, which fuses Appalachian melodies, archival audio, and poetic storytelling to reflect on the societal "machines" that shape our lives.

Carolyn shares insights into her creative process, her early musical influences (from Billie Holiday to The Grateful Dead), and the collaborations that helped shape the record. She also discusses how researching the Satanic Panic for the podcast You’re Wrong About influenced the album's conceptual and lyrical themes. 

Tune in for an intimate conversation and exclusive previews of tracks like “Perfect World,” “Devil’s Nine Questions,” and “Leela.”

Guest Information:

Carolyn Kendrick

Don’t miss Carolyn’s live performance at The Backroom in Berkeley on December 5th!
Get tickets here.

Call-To-Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more intimate conversations with the Bay Area’s most exciting artists. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow music lovers!

Episode Takeaways:

Hashtags:

#BackstageBayArea #CarolynKendrick #EachMachine #FolkMusic #BayAreaMusic #SingerSongwriter #PodcastLife

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby dives into an insightful conversation with Njioma Chinyere Grevious from the Abeo Quartet, a dynamic group of musicians redefining chamber music with passion and precision. 

Described as “superb” by the Chicago Classical Review, violinist Njioma Chinyere Grevious is an emerging, passionate, and versatile solo, chamber, and orchestral musician and performer. She is a graduate of The Juilliard School and a winner of its John Erskine Prize for scholastic and artistic achievement, and in 2024 was awarded an Avery Fisher Career Grant.

From their creative processes to their upcoming live concert, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Abeo Quartet balances artistry, collaboration, and storytelling through music. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply curious about the world of string quartets, this episode will inspire you.

Guest Information:

Abeo Quartet
The Abeo Quartet has been captivating audiences with their innovative approach to chamber music. Known for their technical brilliance and passionate performances, the quartet aims to create meaningful experiences through their craft.

Call-To-Action:

Don’t miss Abeo Quartet’s upcoming concerts in Inverness (December 6-7). Get your tickets now.
Enjoy this episode? Subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more intimate conversations with artists shaping today’s music scene.

Episode Takeaways:

1.    The Abeo Quartet’s mission is to connect classical music with modern audiences.

2.   The significance of community engagement through music.

3.   How collaboration shapes their unique sound.

Hashtags:

#AbeoQuartet #ChamberMusic #MusicEducation #ClassicalMusic 

Show Notes

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes Grammy-winning bluegrass icon Laurie Lewis for an intimate conversation about her latest album, Trees. Laurie shares insights into creating music without her longtime collaborator, Tom Rozum, and how her songs' themes of loss and hope are interwoven.

The discussion includes stories behind tracks like Just a Little Ways Down the Road and Rock the Pain Away, as well as her love for physical media as a meaningful way to connect with listeners.

Laurie also previews her December 1st performance at the Hop Monk Tavern in Novato, her plans for a 2025 album release, and reflects on her enduring passion for storytelling through bluegrass, folk, and Americana music. Don’t miss this heartfelt and inspiring conversation with one of bluegrass’s most beloved voices.

Guest Information

Laurie Lewis

Catch Laurie Lewis and The Right Hands live at the Hop Monk Tavern on December 1st. Get your tickets here.

Call-To-Action

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with fellow music lovers!

Episode Takeaways

1.    Laurie Lewis’s journey through loss and resilience in her music.

2.   The evolution of her sound and connection to the natural world.

3.   Why physical albums remain a vital part of her creative process.

4.   A sneak peek into her 2025 album, tentatively titled Wheel of Life.

Hashtags

#LaurieLewis #BluegrassMusic #BackstageSonoma #TreesAlbum #AmericanaMusic #FolkMusic #HopMonkTavern

Episode Description:

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with Jimmie Herrod, the sensational vocalist celebrated for his breathtaking performances and unique artistry. Known for his work with Pink Martini and his memorable run on America’s Got Talent, Jimmie shares personal insights into his journey as a musician, his creative process, and the transformative power of jazz.

Listeners will get an exclusive glimpse into Jimmie’s upcoming projects, including his highly anticipated show at SFJAZZ, and his reflections on authenticity in music. From poignant anecdotes to his advice for aspiring artists, this episode delivers inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the world of contemporary jazz.

Guest Information:

Jimmie Herrod
Jimmie Herrod is a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter blending jazz, pop, and soul into a truly mesmerizing sound. Rising to fame as a finalist on America’s Got Talent, he is also a longtime member of the global music ensemble Pink Martini. With his theatrical presence and unparalleled vocal range, Jimmie continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Don’t miss Jimmie Herrod live!
Catch him performing at SFJAZZ. Get your tickets here: SFJAZZ Tickets

Call-To-Action:

Love what you hear? Be sure to subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for exclusive interviews with today’s most exciting musicians. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share the podcast with your fellow music lovers!

Episode Takeaways:

Hashtags:

#JimmieHerrod #BackstageSonoma #JazzMusic #PinkMartini #SFJAZZ #AmericasGotTalent #LiveMusic #PodcastInterview

Show Notes: In this inspiring episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes jazz and blues vocalist Marina Crouse for an intimate conversation about her musical journey, her passion for honoring jazz greats like Ernestine Anderson, and how she connects with audiences through her soulful performances. Marina shares her thoughts on preserving jazz traditions while adding her unique voice to the genre.

Guest Information:
Marina Crouse
A captivating jazz and blues vocalist, Marina Crouse is known for her rich tone, heartfelt delivery, and passion for the timeless artistry of the jazz greats. Whether interpreting classics or exploring new musical territory, Marina’s voice leaves a lasting impression on her audiences.

Catch Marina live at SFJAZZ as she celebrates Ernestine Anderson's music: ⁠Tickets are here.

Episode Takeaways:

Call-To-Action:
Enjoy the conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on your favorite podcast platform for more behind-the-scenes stories from the music world. Leave us a review—it helps more music lovers find the show!

Hashtags:
#BackstageSonoma #MarinaCrouse #JazzVocalist #JazzLegends #SFJAZZ #LiveMusic #MusicPodcast #JazzTradition

Show Notes 

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby welcomes acclaimed singer-songwriter Peter Bradley Adams from Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his signature Americana sound that wraps listeners in a warm embrace, Peter discusses the inspiration behind his soulful music, insights into his side project Down Like Silver, and an exciting new album in the works. 

As a special treat, Peter previews what fans can expect at his upcoming performance at HopMonk Tavern in Novato. Tune in to catch all this and more, accompanied by the heartfelt song "My Arms Were Always Around You" from his 2017 album A Face Like Mine.

Guest Information:

Links:

Episode Takeaways:

Call-To-Action: Subscribe to Backstage Sonoma for in-depth conversations with your favorite musicians. Please leave us a review and share this episode with your friends!

Social Media and Contact Information:

Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #PeterBradleyAdams #AmericanaMusic #LiveMusic #HopMonkTavernNovato #MusicInterview #SingerSongwriter

Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Eric McDonald, the guitarist, mandolinist, and vocalist from the acclaimed folk trio Kalos. 

With their unique blend of Scottish, Irish, Scandinavian, and North American music traditions, Kalos redefines contemporary folk. Eric discusses their latest album, Headland, dives into the stories behind standout tracks like "Fare Thee Well" and "Fanny Vanilla," and previews their upcoming performance at the Raven Theatre in Healdsburg. 

Listeners are treated to insights into Kalos’ creative process, the band's evolution, and what makes their live shows unforgettable. 

This episode kicks off with the captivating tune "Grasshopper Spiff" from Headland.

Guest Information:

Episode Takeaways:

Call-To-Action: Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more fascinating musical stories to the airwaves. Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates.

Social Media and Contact Information:

Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #KalosMusic #FolkTraditions #LiveMusic #HeadlandAlbum #EricMcDonald #PodcastInterviews #RavenPerformingArts #FolkFusion #MusicInsights

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jeffrey Martin, known for his profoundly moving storytelling and soulful folk sound. 

From being an English teacher to becoming a full-time musician, Jeffrey shares his creative process and stories behind some of his most compelling songs, such as “Garden,” "Red Station Wagon," and "Lost Dog." 

Jeffrey’s latest album, Thank God We Left the Garden, recorded in a hand-built shack, exemplifies raw, honest music with a profound connection to nature. Listen in as Jeffrey discusses his inspirations, songwriting journey, and upcoming performance at the Sweetwater Music Hall.

Timestamps:

Guest Information:

Links and Resources:

Call-To-Action: Don’t forget to subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on your favorite podcast platform! Leave a review and share this episode with fellow music lovers. Follow us for more inspiring conversations with artists who bring stories to life through their songs.

Social Media and Contact Information:

In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Brian Watch-horst, guitarist and vocalist for Yellowwood Junction. 

Formed in San Francisco in 1993, this six-piece band has captivated audiences with their sophisticated adult alternative rock sound, blending Steely Dan’s complexity with singer-songwriter melodies. 

Yellowwood Junction built its reputation by touring extensively across the Western U.S., earning acclaim as one of the Bay Area’s most promising unsigned bands in the mid-1990s and sharing stages with acts like Train.

Coming up in today’s conversation, we’ll explore the band’s unique musical evolution, the stories behind their fan-favorite tracks like “Fade to Blue” and “After Today,” and what fans can expect at their upcoming show at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley. 

Key Takeaways:

Sound Bites:

Links:

Relevant Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #YellowwoodJunction #LiveMusic #BayAreaBands #SweetwaterMusicHall #AlternativeRock #IndieMusic #MusicInterviews #BayAreaMusicScene

Tune in to experience the compelling stories behind the music and get a sneak peek of what’s next for this timeless Bay Area band!

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with David Noble, the talented guitarist and vocalist from the San Francisco-based band Wreckless Strangers. 

Known for their distinctive "Bay Area Gumbo" style—a seamless blend of blues, rock, Americana, and funk—Wreckless Strangers brings a unique flavor to the region’s rich musical landscape. 

David shares insights into the making of their new EP , Blue Sky Fantasy, produced by the acclaimed four-time Grammy-winning producer Dave Way, and discusses their upcoming show at Sweetwater Music Hall. The conversation also highlights the band's dynamic songwriting, collaborative spirit, and musical roots that tie into the San Francisco tradition.

Links:

Top Takeaways:

1.    The Creation of "Blue Sky Fantasy": Noble discusses the inspiration and collaborative process behind their EP, produced by Dave Way.

2.   Musical Heritage and Influence: Wreckless Strangers pay homage to the San Francisco rock and roll legacy through innovative songwriting and live performances.

3.   Upcoming Show Details: Insights into what fans can expect from their show at Sweetwater Music Hall, including special guest appearances.

Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #WrecklessStrangers #BlueSkyFantasy #SweetwaterMusicHall #BayAreaMusic #DavidNoble #LiveMusic #MusicInterviews #AmericanaRock #Podcast