Back in the '90s, Troy Fernandez and Ernie Cruz Jr sparked a ukulele revival that still echoes today. Their show-stopping style brought local Hawaiian culture to the world stage and their influence still echoes today. In this short, fascinating chat, Cameron Murray talks to Troy about those heady early days and the evolution of the international ukulele scene.

Alex Beds isn’t just a shop owner – he’s a musician, innovator and passionate ambassador of the ukulele who believes this humble instrument can heal, inspire, and connect. With decades of experience, he offers a fresh perspective on where the ukulele is heading and why it’s more exciting than ever. Whether you're curious about the latest trends, looking for expert buying tips, or inspired by the power of music, this conversation will leave you motivated to pick up your uke and make your own magic.

First released in 2019, this episode features my chat with great Australian entertainer Mic Conway. Unfortunately, some of the early episodes of Ukulele Stories don't seem to be available on all pod and streaming services, so I've decided to re-release a select few over the coming months. Mic and his brother Jim were recently the subjects of a fantastic documentary called Whoopee Blues, so I thought now was a good time to revisit our interview. Tune in for a brand-new episode in April!

Cameron

Oregon-based Dani and Perry are two of the most generous people in the ukulele world. In our fun chat, we discuss their experiences in teaching and building a community around music, as well as their stewardship of the excellent Reno Ukulele Festival. We also talk about our shared friendship with renowned artist Daniel Ho and luthier Pepe Romero Jr, as well as advice for uke players of all levels. Enjoy! And don’t forget to subscribe to Ukulele Stories so you never miss an episode.

https://starlightukes.com/home

https://buymeacoffee.com/kamuke

Brisbane-based David Megarrity is an artist's artist. As his stage persona Tyrone, he's been a regular on the Aussie uke scene for the past 25 years. With his collaborator Samuel Vincent, he's one half of Tyrone and Lesley, whose projects are always fascinating. On the cusp of the release of the duo's tenth studio album, I had a chat with David about the evolution of Tyrone, creativity, the impact of performance spaces on musical expression, and many other topics. I hope you enjoy it! Cameron

https://www.facebook.com/tyroneandlesley/
https://tyroneandlesley.wordpress.com/
https://buymeacoffee.com/kamuke

Jim Beloff was at the vanguard of the Third Wave of Uke. He and his wife Liz founded Flea Market Music in 1992 and the company has helped countless people around the world discover the magic of the instrument. Here, we chat about those heady early days, Jim's brushes with famous uke fans such as George Harrison and Bette Midler, and his brilliant new album mid-century modern.

Enjoy!

Cameron

Flea Market Music

I've known Seattle-based uke pro Matt Dahlberg for about 15 years, so it was great to finally catch up with him for a chat! He gave me three great tips for beginners, as well as one of the best definitions of success I've ever heard...

Hope you enjoy it!

Cameron

https://mattukulele.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/mattdahlberg

https://www.patreon.com/cw/mattukulele

I've known Seattle-based uke pro Matt Dahlberg for about 15 years, so it was great to finally catch up with him for a chat! He gave me three great tips for beginners, as well as one of the best definitions of success I've ever heard...

Hope you enjoy it!

Cameron

https://mattukulele.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/mattdahlberg

https://www.patreon.com/cw/mattukulele