Songs & Stories

Episode Overview: Join host Steven Roby on this special episode of Backstage Sonoma as he sits down with renowned acoustic folk artist Joshua Radin, whose journey from screenwriter to celebrated singer-songwriter is as heartfelt as his music. 

With over a billion streams and hits like “I’d Rather Be With You,” Joshua opens up about his early days, serendipitous breaks, and upcoming independent double LP, One Day Home. Discover the stories behind his new tracks, reflections on touring with Ron Pope, and the cherished atmosphere of venues like the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley.

Key Takeaways:

Featured Music:

Sound Bites:

Upcoming Live Show: Catch Joshua Radin live with Ron Pope at the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley on Tuesday, November 12th. Doors open at 7 PM, and showtime is at 8 PM. Get tickets here.

Connect with Joshua Radin:

Venue Info:

Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #JoshuaRadin #SweetwaterMusicHall #IndieFolk #OneDayHome #RonPope #MusicInterviews #LiveMusic

Credits: Hosted by Steven Roby
Guest: Joshua Radin
Production: Backstage Sonoma Podcast Team
Listen and subscribe to the show on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple podcasts!

In this engaging interview on Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby sits down with Daniel Pingrey from Tae and the Neighborly to discuss the band's origin, creative process, and their debut album, Self Help.

 Daniel shares candidly about the band's formation during COVID times, highlighting the unique musical backgrounds of each member and the synergy that led to their genre-blending sound. He delves into the story of the band's unexpected “cake baking” bio, an amusing anecdote that has stuck with them since, and the themes of positivity and fun they aim to convey through their music.

 Daniel also touches on the personal and collective experiences that have influenced their songs, such as managing life on the road with a newborn and the emotional depth behind tracks like “Missing You” and “Let It Rain.”

 The interview is peppered with stories and insights into the band's dynamic and the inspiration behind their music, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of Tae and the Neighborly's artistic vision.

Daniel emphasizes the importance of live performances in shaping their sound and the joy they find in connecting with their audience. He hopes the album's positive and uplifting messages resonate with listeners and encourage them to join the band's energetic live shows. From composing soulful ballads to crafting upbeat pop tunes, Daniel offers listeners a peek behind the curtain of his musical world.

The conversation wraps up with a preview of their upcoming Little Saint performance, inviting fans and newcomers alike to experience their vibrant sound live in Healdsburg (see venue link below).

Episode Highlights

Featured Songs

Links

Social Media Hashtags:

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby chats with Keith Frazier, a founding member of the legendary Rebirth Brass Band. Rebirth has been a cornerstone of New Orleans brass for over four decades, blending the Crescent City's traditional sounds with modern funk, soul, and hip-hop influences. The band’s infectious energy and genre-defying innovation have earned them two Grammy Awards, and they continue to inspire a new generation of music lovers worldwide.

In this exclusive interview, Keith dives into the band’s evolving sound, songwriting process, and what it’s like to keep the spirit of New Orleans alive while continually pushing boundaries. Whether they’re parading down the streets of their hometown or taking the stage at iconic venues like Sweetwater Music Hall, Rebirth Brass Band remains a force of musical celebration. Tune in as Keith shares some of his favorite memories, from collaborations with Ani DiFranco to the origins of their iconic hit, "Do What You Want To."

Episode Highlights:

Featured Songs:

Links:

Social Media Hashtags:

#RebirthBrassBand #NewOrleansMusic #BrassBand #SweetwaterMusicHall #BackstageSonoma 

In this special episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with renowned cellist, composer, and activist Ben Sollee. Hailing from Kentucky, Sollee is known for blending various musical genres—classical, folk, jazz, and R&B—into a distinctive, soulful sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. His work doesn’t stop at music; Sollee is deeply involved in activism, particularly environmental causes, making his art a powerful tool for change.

In this interview, Ben discusses his latest projects, the emotional depth of his music, and how his Appalachian roots influence his unique sound. He also gives listeners a sneak peek at his upcoming show at Little Saint in Healdsburg and the community-building power of music.

Tune in for a conversation that blends art, activism, and personal stories from one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music.

Episode Highlights:

Featured Songs:

Links:

Social Media Hashtags: #BackstageSonoma #BenSollee #MusicWithPurpose #LittleSaintHealdsburg #CelloMagic #AppalachianSoul

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby is joined by bassist and bandleader Darryl Anders of AgapéSoul. Darryl shares his deep-rooted passion for creating soul-driven music that resonates personally and emotionally. He reveals the stories behind AgapéSoul's music, from its creative inception to the powerful connections it forms with audiences.

Darryl takes listeners through his musical journey and how collaborations with top-tier musicians have helped AgapéSoul evolve. Through humor, insight, and heart, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the grooves, melodies, and meaning that drive Darryl and his band to continue creating music that matters.

Episode Highlights:

Featured Songs:

Links:

Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #AgapéSoul #DarrylAnders #SoulMusic #Groove #OaklandMusic #NewMusic #MusicPodcast #MusicInterview

Show Notes

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re joined by the multi-talented singer-songwriter Pearl Charles, whose unique fusion of genres has taken her from garage rock to the forefront of modern Americana. 

Raised in Hollywood, Pearl's sound draws on various influences, blending American folk, country, disco, and cosmic Americana. With a career that spans over a decade, she’s gearing up to release her highly anticipated record, Desert Queen, in April 2025. 

Our interview explores her latest singles, “Does This Song Sound Familiar?” and “Smoke in the Limousine,” her upcoming West Coast tour, and how her California roots have shaped her musical identity.

This episode offers listeners a backstage pass into Pearl's creative process, touching on her eclectic influences and her journey in the music industry. Whether you’re a fan of her vibrant stage presence or just discovering her sound, Pearl's openness and authenticity will make you feel like you’re part of the ride.

Episode Highlights:

Featured Songs:

Links:

Social Media Hashtags:
#BackstageSonoma #PearlCharles #DesertQueen #NewMusic2025 #Americana #Disco #WestCoastTour

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews acclaimed singer-songwriter Jeffrey Foucault for an intimate conversation about his musical journey, creative process, and new album, The Universal Fire. Known for his deep, introspective lyrics and distinctive Americana sound, Jeffrey shares the influences that shaped his music, from his early days in the Midwest to his latest releases.

Throughout the episode, Jeffrey offers fascinating insights into the songwriting craft, revealing how he finds inspiration in everyday life and how his experiences on the road inform the themes of his work. With a discography that spans more than two decades, this conversation dives deep into his style of music, a solid mixture of country, folk, and good ol’ rock and roll.

Episode Highlights

Jeffrey talks about the influence of his upbringing on his music, from growing up in rural Wisconsin to discovering the world of folk and country music.

 Insights into his creative process: how he approaches songwriting and storytelling's role in his work.

 Jeffrey reflects on the evolution of his sound and the musicians that have helped shape his albums over the years.

 Jeffrey discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing life on the road with family and personal life.

 Featured Songs:

"Universal Fire"

"Solo Modelo"

"Night Shift"

Links:

Jeffrey Foucault's Official Website

Listen to The Universal Fire

Tix for Sweetwater Music Hall show

Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #JeffreyFoucault #AmericanaMusic #Songwriting #FolkMusic #LiveMusic

Show Notes 

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re excited to sit down with Megan McLaughlin, singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the Sonoma County-based folk quartet, The Musers.

Known for their unique blend of free-range folk, bluegrass, and Americana, The Musers are a local favorite, delivering dynamic harmonies and multi-instrumental performances that enthrall their audiences. 

In this interview, Megan dives deep into the band’s creative process, the inspiration behind their recent releases, and what makes their genre-defying music so unique. We’ll explore their latest singles, “Women Are” and “Poppy in the Rain,” and take a look at the thought-provoking visuals for their video “Pot o' Beans.” With an upcoming performance at The Lost Church, The Musers are gearing up for a lively show you won’t want to miss. Join us as we go backstage with Megan McLaughlin.

Episode Highlights:  

- Megan introduces The Musers and shares the band’s origin story.

- The concept of “free-range folk” and how it reflects The Musers' eclectic musical influences.

- Behind-the-scenes stories of the singles “Women Are” and “Poppy in the Rain.”

- Insights into their new music video for “Pot o' Beans.”

- Megan’s thoughts on songwriting within the group and their collaborative dynamic.

- A preview of The Musers' upcoming show at The Lost Church in Santa Rosa.

Memorable Quotes:  

- "We call it free-range folk because it gives us the freedom to blend folk, bluegrass, and Americana without being boxed into a single style."

- “Women Are is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the often-unseen work that women do—it’s a song for everyone who’s ever felt underestimated.”

- “With so many instruments at our disposal, it’s really about finding the sound that best serves the song, whether it’s a mandolin, banjo, or fiddle.”

Featured Songs:  

- "Women Are" 

- "Poppy in the Rain"  

- "Pot o' Beans"

Links:  

Official website for The Musers: https://www.themusersband.com/

- Watch the video for “Pot o' Beans” on YouTube: (https://youtube.com).  

- Get tickets to The Musers' show at The Lost Church: [The Lost Church](https://thelostchurch.org).

Social Media Hashtags: 

#BackstageSonoma #TheMusers #FreeRangeFolk #WomenAre #PoppyInTheRain #SonomaCountyMusic #FolkMusic #AmericanaMusic #LiveMusicSantaRosa #SupportLocalBands

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews Kellen Coffis of The Coffis Brothers, a band that has carved its path in the Northern California music scene. 

With the highly anticipated release of their sixth studio album, Kaw-fis Bruth-urs, on November 29, 2024, Kellen opens up about making the record, which longtime collaborator Tim Bluhm produced. He delves into the inspiration behind the music, the significance of their Santa Cruz roots, and how the band has evolved. 

Fans will enjoy this insightful look into the creative process of a group that is growing musically while staying true to its classic Rootsy Rock ‘n’ Roll sound.

Kellen also reflects on the band's touring experience, the camaraderie between members, and the recording sessions at various studios, including Space Camp and Mosswood Sound. This interview provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Kaw-fis Bruth-urs and gives listeners a preview of what to expect from The Coffis Brothers' latest chapter.

Episode Highlights:

Featured Songs:

Links:

·       The Coffis Brothers Official Website

·       Tickets for The Coffis Brothers at Sweetwater Music Hall 

·       Backstage Sonoma Podcast

Social Media Hashtags:
#TheCoffisBrothers #KawfisBruthurs  #TimBluhm #CaliforniaMusic #RootsRock #NewMusic2024

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby explores the artistry of singer-songwriter Jane Beeson, whose evocative lyrics and soul-baring music have captured the attention of indie music lovers. With a unique blend of emotional depth and musical precision, Jane shares her journey as a songwriter and the personal stories that inspire her work. With her upcoming show at Café Du Nord in San Francisco on November 10, Jane is poised to continue captivating audiences with her heartfelt performances.

The conversation takes a deep dive into Jane’s songwriting process as she discusses the meaning behind fan-favorite tracks like "Just For Now," "Swimmer," and “I Haven’t Seen You Since The Summer." Jane opens up about how life experiences, self-discovery, and vulnerability shape her music, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist committed to authenticity and creative exploration.

Episode Highlights:

- Jane Beeson talks about the inspiration and emotions behind her songs.

- An in-depth discussion of "Just For Now," "Swimmer," and “I Haven’t Seen You Since The Summer."

- Insights into her upcoming performance at Café Du Nord.

- How life changes and personal growth influence her music and writing.

- The balance between creating relatable music and staying true to her own experiences.

Featured Songs:

- "Just For Now"

- "Swimmer"

- “I Haven’t Seen You Since The Summer"

Links:

- Beeson Instagram

- Café Du Nord Tickets

Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #JaneBeeson #IndieMusic #SingerSongwriter #SongwritingJourney #CaféDuNord #JustForNow #Swimmer #GapTeeth #MusicInterview #LiveMusicSF #SanFranciscoEvents