The Music History Project

Instrument repair technicians are the unsung heroes of the music products world. This replay episode of the Music History Project is dedicated to those technicians and the NAPBIRT organization that works to breathe new life into our long loved and often battered and bruised instruments.

For this episode of the Music History Project, we explore the life and legacy of one of rock and roll’s most influential—and often overlooked—voices: Clyde McPhatter. Joining us is author Steve Bergsman, whose book Have Mercy Baby brings new depth to the story of the singer whose soaring tenor helped define early rhythm and blues and rock. Rooted in the gospel traditions of North Carolina, Mr. McPhatter brought a powerful emotional intensity to popular music. As a member of Billy Ward and the Dominoes, his voice helped propel doo-wop into the mainstream, and as the founder of The Drifters, he shaped a sound that would influence generations. In addition to this conversation, this episode also features Steve’s full NAMM Oral History interview, offering listeners a deeper look into his research process and his passion for preserving the stories of artists whose contributions might otherwise be overlooked.

In this inspiring episode, we celebrate women who have shaped the world of audio engineering. Our guest host is Cato Zane, an accomplished audio engineer and founder of Lost & Sound Foundry in San Diego. With a background in both music and physics, Cato brings insight, passion, and a strong commitment to mentorship. She guides us through powerful interview segments with pioneering engineers including Lenise Bent, Fela Davis, Sylvia Massy, Leslie Ann Jones, and Apogee President Betty Bennett—each sharing their personal stories and contributions to the craft, culture, and future of sound.

If you’ve ever watched a Disney movie or visited a Disney park, chances are you’ve heard the unforgettable music of Richard Sherman. As one half of the legendary Sherman Brothers, Richard helped create some of the most beloved songs in film history. In this podcast replay, he reflects on his remarkable career writing music with his brother Robert for classics like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book, including their iconic song, “It’s a Small World (After All).” Heard by millions each year, his music continues to bring joy around the world.

If you’ve ever watched a Disney movie or visited a Disney park, chances are you’ve heard the unforgettable music of Richard Sherman. As one half of the legendary Sherman Brothers, Richard helped create some of the most beloved songs in film history. In this podcast replay, he reflects on his remarkable career writing music with his brother Robert for classics like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book, including their iconic song, “It’s a Small World (After All).” Heard by millions each year, his music continues to bring joy around the world.

In this special episode, we explore the influential legacy of The Ventures, the iconic instrumental rock band that shaped generations of musicians with their driving sound and distinctive style. Joining us is guest host Jeff Schermer—lifelong music advocate, NAMM volunteer, and oral history contributor—who brings personal insight and passion to the conversation. The episode features interviews with Ventures members Don Wilson, Nokie Edwards, and John Durrill, along with Mosrite Guitar co-founder Andy Moseley. We’re also thrilled to include Jeff’s recent interview with Fiona Taylor, wife of drummer Mel Taylor, now part of the NAMM Oral History collection.

Tune in to this week’s podcast replay: Composer Suzanne Ciani began her musical journey with the piano, but after discovering Don Buchla and the world of electronic music, she never looked back. Ciani has been a pioneering force in bringing electronic instruments into mainstream pop culture, shaping film, television, and music along the way. Join Dan, Mike, and Ashley as they dive into the remarkable career of one of America’s trailblazing female synth icons.

Digging deep into the NAMM Oral History collection, our podcast team unearthed some remarkable jazz treasures we’re excited to share with you! In this special episode, we’re joined by Father Doran Stambaugh, priest at St. Michael’s Church in Carlsbad and host of a unique weekly jazz service called Evening Song. Together, we’ll explore powerful interview moments from some of jazz’s most iconic voices, including Miles Davis’ bassist Ron Carter, Louis Armstrong’s trombonist Trummy Young, Clora Bryant of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, New Orleans trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard, and legendary Blue Note recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder.

Folk singer-songwriter and one-third of the legendary group Peter, Paul and Mary, Peter Yarrow, passed away earlier this year. In honor of his memory and his profound contributions to music, we’re reposting the podcast episode of Peter's full NAMM Oral History interview we conducted with him in June 2017. We remain grateful for the time he shared with us and for his friendship. He is deeply missed.

To celebrate the bass players we have interviewed over the years, the podcast team called on NAMM’s Membership Coordinator and bassist Malcom Holman. Join us as we hear from Verdine White, Victor Wooten, Mohini Dey, Stanley Clarke and the legendary Ron Carter.