The City's Backyard

Get ready for some serious blues-rock, because BEYOND 1969 is dropping their new original album, Comin' Back To The Blues April 24th, 2026! 

This isn't just any blues album, it's packed with raw passion, thanks to the incredible lineup in this killer blues-rock band! 

Our special  guest on this episode is Tom Forst (The Suit): He's not just "The Suit" he's a blues /rock Hall of Fame inductee, handling songwriting, vocals, and guitar.

Tom explains about the songs, "They're Deep... Tracks like "Consolation Man" flipping the script on abusive relationships, and "Comin' Back To The Blues" which is about exploring the struggle to keep the blues alive and fresh. Basically it's an emotional rollercoaster Forst says! Definitely an interesting conversation about the blues, the new album and we get to hear a couple of the tracks! 

For more on the band: 

https://beyond1969.com

Growing up in the Money family, Jesse and Dez were immersed in music from the very beginning. Sharing the stage with their father wasn’t just a performance — it was an education, a bond, and a blueprint for what it means to live a life rooted in passion and authenticity.

Those moments taught them more than just the craft of music — they learned connection, resilience, and the power of storytelling through song.

Today, Jesse and Dez carry on Eddie’s legacy by performing his iconic hits, keeping his spirit alive for lifelong fans and new generations alike. At the same time, they’re stepping into their own artistry — writing, recording, and performing original music that reflects their unique voices while staying true to the roots that raised them.

This is more than a tribute. It’s a continuation of the journey — fueled by love, family, and the music that will never fade.

For more on Jesse & Dez and the tour click here:

https://www.eddiemoneylegacy.com

Our guest is classic rock legendary drummer "Corky" Laing from Mountain! Mountain was one of the last bands to play the legendary Fillmore East before it's closing and famous for their song Mississippi Queen!  In this episode Corky talks about coming back to Westport, CT (where he used to live) to play The Westport VFW on Saturday April 11th with The Ten Grand Band as a featured guest for a very special intimate appearance!  

Corky has played all over the world with Mountain and he has the stories to tell about some of the classic rock icons he used to know such as Jimi Hendrix and Keith Moon from The Who. 

For tickets to The Westport VFW show on Saturday April 11th with Corky click here before it sells out:

https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/ten-grand-band/ten-grand-band-with-special-guest-legendary-drummer-corky-laing-from-mountain-1147677821?fbclid=IwY2xjawQ3rLJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6bTVHb0dQekVxYVhSRWpEc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjhX27BdgCA2tR5MPBTQIQ3Cgp5TOh8342sZGtgLSUassShYhSh6pkQ6bQ_G_aem_OANrhHQeAqPNP8omgAhNmw

To find out moreabout Corky and his career with the band Mountain ...click on the link below!

https://www.corkylaingworks.com

Eliot Lewis spent almost 20 years with Hall & Oates and is always a blast to chat with as one our favorite regular guests on the podcast...he was also on the TV show Live From Daryl's House playing with some of top artists in the music industry.... and before all of that he was in the Average White Band! 

Upcoming shows in the backyard of NYC:

Eliot Lewis in concert at Factory Underground in Norwalk, CT with guests Owen Daniel and Ashley Jo. The show will also exhibit iconic music portraits by Norwalk artist Robert Abriola, including a portrait of Eliot Lewis to be auctioned off to raise money for music education. March 27, 2026. 5:30 Doors 6pm Cocktails 7pm Show $20

Eliot Lewis appearing Live at The Westport VFW Friday April 17th for an intimate show! Eliot Lewis - Multi-instrumentalist and solo artist, returns to Westport, CT for this very special performance that only cost $15 advance $20 at the door! 

Eliot Lewis has performed with many of the biggest names in the music business including, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top), Joe Walsh, Todd Rundgren, Train, Cheap Trick, Grace Potter, Ben Folds, Sammy Hagar, BlackBerry Smoke, Squeeze and many others.
Eliot has appeared on every episode of Daryl Hall’s incredibly popular, "Live From Daryl's House” show all while keeping his own solo career going at a seemingly impossible pace.
"Eliot is a musician who can do it all, great singer, songwriter and guitarist. He rocks and he's got soul. No one does it quite like him" - Daryl Hall
Eliot’s show is truly unique and will find him moving from one instrument to another using live looping to seamlessly construct songs and arrangements on the spot and in the moment. If Eliot plays a cover song, it’s typically a song he’s performed with that artist. Not to be missed~ Purchase tickets below by clicking the ticketleap link!  

https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/wwweliotlewiscom/eliot-lewis-live-in-westport-ct-1226107075?fbclid=IwY2xjawQuszpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsS0kwSHI2ajRTck10VWRqc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHqwE78i1UWM7KtnZ_AftLQ6PhDXyczYEfuWCziBSrOTT0wblxUMCIcupafUi_aem_fWG2kYww_PL_YM3HfH8QAw

While it would be easy to categorize the work of OTIS as Southern Rock, being from Kentucky, their musical background is much broader. In addition to being guided by the classic rock giants of the 1960s and 70s era, the members of OTIS draw inspiration from true greats—people like Muddy Waters, Leadbelly, and the artists of Motown—to create their own unique rock and roll sound.

With Boone Froggett on guitar and vocals, John Seeley on bass, Alex Wells on guitar, and Dale Myers on drums, the members of The Otis Band are staying connected to their Kentucky roots. Growing up around traditional instruments like piano, fiddle, and guitar instilled in them an appreciation for country-rock, bluegrass, gospel, and folk music. Kentucky's rich musical heritage led them to discover the Rock and Blues heroes that continue to influence the bands original material.

After releasing Tough Times: A Tribute to John Brim,—Former Chess Records Blues Recording Artist— in 2014, OTIS joined Cleopatra Records in 2017, with the release of their second album Eyes of the Sun. A chance meeting with ZZ Top's Billy F. Gibbons led to the legend listening to Otis and becoming a fan—even handing their albums off to the likes of Buddy Guy and Jeff Beck! Four songs from Eyes of the Sun were also included in the soundtrack of the 2020 film Street Survivors.

OTIS has a new track out called I'm Wicked part of a forthcoming album out sometime in 2026!

For more on the band checkout their website! 

https://theotisband.com

James Barnes — known to audiences throughout the region as JB — carries the blues in his blood. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in New Jersey after his family moved east in 1965, he grew up steeped in the sound and spirit of the music. On his father’s side, JB traces his lineage back to Mississippi, the wellspring from which so much of this tradition flows. Those “Mississippi Roots” became more than just family history; they formed the bedrock of his artistic calling.

JB didn’t come to the blues casually. He studied the greats —those who laid the path before him, those who continue to shape the form today. That study became devotion, and in 2016, the New Jersey Blues Hall of Fame recognized that devotion, honoring him as a “Great Blues Artist.” His first recording, JB’s Favorite Things (2023), established him as an independent artist with something genuine to say. His long-running band, BBD Rhythm & Blues, which he founded in 2012, has been carrying that message across clubs, festivals, and concert halls throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware for more than a decade.

JB’s mission is plain spoken yet profound: to honor the artists who came before him while ensuring the blues remains vibrant in the present. His latest project makes that mission personal. My Mississippi Roots, was released in the fall of 2025, and is more than a record — it is a testimony. The title track tells the story of JB’s father, Jerry Lee Barnes Sr., a man of quiet determination who journeyed from the deep South to the industrial North in search of work and a better life for his family. “His Mississippi Roots,” JB says, “are my Mississippi Roots.”

Produced by guitarist, songwriter, and longtime friend Anthony Krizan, My Mississippi Roots combines JB’s storytelling with contributions from a host of musicians —including his son, Jarred “Arktkt” Barnes — whose playing brings fresh fire to the tradition. The record traverses the landscape of the blues and beyond: original compositions, heartfelt tributes, and reimagined classics all rendered with conviction. 

For more info on James and his tour dates:

https://www.jbkeepingthebluesalive.com

Special Guest Elizabeth Hines the widow of the late Denny Laine from Paul McCartney and WINGS and earlier The Moody Blues talks about her take on the film and her late husband's career with WINGS. Man on the Run is a 2025 documentary film directed by Morgan Neville about the life of Paul McCartney from his formation of Wings through the 1970s. McCartney is credited as an executive producer.

The film coincides with the 2025 box set Wings, and the book Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run.

Listen to previous interviews with Denny here:

https://thecitysbackyard.buzzsprout.com/939277/episodes/12103946-the-city-s-backyard-s3-e9-denny-laine-from-the-moody-blues-and-paul-mccartney-and-wings-chats-about-his-songs-stories-tour-plus-his-days-with-the-moody-blues-and-wings

This next one was recorded live on the radio!

https://thecitysbackyard.buzzsprout.com/939277/episodes/12228137-the-city-s-backyard-s3-e12-rocknroll-hall-of-famer-denny-laine-from-the-moody-blues-and-paul-mccartney-wings-drops-by-the-city-s-backyard-live-streaming-rock-show-on-factory-underground-radio-to-chat-about-his-

 "A wonderful guitar player and great songwriter " - Steve Miller      "Curry is the next guitar hero" - Peter Frampton  

   Acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew Curry returns with his new album ONE FOR THE RIDE, a dynamic and heartfelt collection that showcases the full range of his musicianship -- from fiery, virtuostic guitar work to intimate, emotionally rich songwriting. The album explores life on the road, love celebration, personal reflection, and Americana storytelling, all delivered with Curry's signature depth and gritty authenticity.

   Born and raised in Bloomington, Illinois, Curry picked up the guitar at age four, was performing live by eight, and leading his own band by eleven. Curry's distinctive blend of blues, rock, southern rock, and old-school country has earned him a devoted audience across the globe. Over the years, Matthew has toured with major icons including the Doobie Brothers, Steve Miller Band, Peter Frampton, Journey, Don Felder, with Steve Miller praising Curry as "a wonderful guitar player and great songwriter in the league of Stevie Ray Vaughan."

   One For The Ride captures Curry's life on the road, his love for storytelling, and the musical influences that shaped him. The album bursts open with high-energy southern rock flair, drawing inspiration from the raw spirit of bands like ZZ Top and the timeless road-song tradition.Tracks like "Rum Stumblin'" showcase Curry's knack for crafting fun, bluesy, party-driven grooves, while "Born Behind The Wheel" leans into gritty riffs and harmonies rooted in the southern rock Curry grew up listening to.

For more on Matthew Curry check at the website:

https://matthewcurry.com

May Pang is our guest this week on The City's Backyard Podcast! Few people knew John Lennon as intimately as May Pang. Pang was Lennon’s lover during the infamous “Lost Weekend” which lasted 18 months. During this creative time for Lennon, Pang took candid photos of Lennon in a comfortable, relaxed environment.

Matt Zako interviews May about her relationship with John Lennon, her documentary called The Lost Weekend and the May Pang "The Lost Weekend" photo exhibition! 

Check out the May Pang “The Lost Weekend” photo exhibition. Free Admission, All Photographs available for purchase. May Pang will be in attendance.

***Please note – As per gallery requirements, May can only autograph items purchased at the exhibition.

Friday, February 20 – Sunday, February 22, 2026

Athens, GA (Winterville, GA)

Winterville Cultural Center, 371 N. Church St, Winterville, GA

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Friday 4p-8p, Saturday 12p-6p & Sunday 1p-5p

Tuesday, February 24 & Wednesday, February 25

Roswell, GA (Atlanta area)

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring appearance by May Pang

Mimms Museum of Technology & Art, 5000 Commerce Parkway, Roswell, GA

Hours: 12p – 7p

Friday, February 27 – Sunday, March 1

Macon, GA

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Gallery West, 447 3rd Street, Macon, GA

Hours: Friday 12p – 7p (opening reception 5p – 7p), Saturday 11a – 5p & Sunday, 12p – 4p

Friday, March 13 – Sunday, March 15

Jacksonville, FL

Gallery 725, 13475 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Friday 5p – 8p, Saturday 1p – 6p and Sunday 12p – 4p

Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22, 2026

Winter Garden, FL (Orlando, FL)

The Grotto at Stoneybrook West, 12572 Stoneybrook West Pkwy, Winter Garden, FL

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Friday 4p – 7p, Saturday 12p – 6p & Sunday, 12p – 4p

Saturday, March 28 – Saturday, April 4

“Flower Power Cruise featuring the Beach Boys, Rascals, Micky Dolenz, Tommy James, Cowsills & more!

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Friday, April 17 – Sunday, April 19, 2026

Roanoke, VA

Wilson Hughes Gallery, 117 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke, VA

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Friday 4p – 7p, Saturday 12p – 6p & Sunday, 12p – 4p

Tuesday, April 21 & Wednesday, April 22

Richmond, VA

anne’s Visual Art Studio gallery, 208 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: 1p – 7p

Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26, 2026

Virginia Beach, VA

Stravitz Sculpture & Fine Art Gallery, 1217 Larkin Rd, Virginia Beach, VA

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Friday 10a – 6p, Saturday 10a – 6p & Sunday, 12p – 4p

Friday, June 5 – Sunday, June 7

Rochester, MN

Studio 324 (First Floor in the Fagan Studios Bldg.), 324 Broadway Ave S, Ste 100, Rochester, MN

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

Hours: Fri 2p – 7p, Sat 12p – 6p & Sun 12p – 4p

Tuesday, June 9 & Wednesday, June 10

Fargo, ND

Underbrush Gallery, 1450 25th Street South, Fargo, ND

“The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang” featuring May Pang appearance

For more info and dates click on the link:

https://www.maypang.com/

We check in with our friend Dan Halen from MULLETT! He talks about what makes this 80's tribute band fun and why they stand out from other tribute bands out there! They are playing locally in Old Saybrook, CT and Norwalk, CT soon!

Since 2010, Mullett has stood as the nation’s definitive 80’s rock-and-roll powerhouse! This isn't just a tribute; it’s a high-voltage time capsule. By fusing iconic "big hair" aesthetics with massive visual production and fanatical attention to sonic detail, Mullett recreates the arena-rock glory days with unrivaled conviction. From elite corporate events and sold-out theaters to high-stakes casinos and legendary nightclubs, Mullett possesses the rare ability to command any stage and electrify any audience. They don’t just play the hits—they embody the era. Fans and critics alike agree: witnessing Mullett is the closest you can get to the raw energy of Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Van Halen, Journey, and Motley Crue without needing a Flux Capacitor or tricked-out DeLorean. Grab your spandex, catch Mullett at a venue near you, and let the 80’s live forever!

To check where they will play next click on their website! 

https://www.mullettrocks.com/tour-dates