Inside MusiCast

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back a perennial favorite, Steve Lukather.  We all know Luke as one of the finest guitarists and musicians in the recording industry, but he’s also one of the most candid and honest that you’ll ever meet.  He wears his heart on his sleeve and is as forthcoming about his perspective on music as he is about life.  His new solo album “Bridges” drops this coming Friday, June 16 and he’s turned to his lifelong bandmates, David Paich and Joseph Williams, to assist with creating this incredible collection of eight new songs.  The album includes contributions from other musicians and writers Toto fans will recognize, such as Simon Phillips, Shannon Forrest, Lee Sklar, his son Trev, Randy Goodrum, Stan Lynch, and several other stellar musicians.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Steve Lukather. 

Sonny Abelardo has been the man behind the curtain for a variety of musical acts for a large portion of his career in the music industry.  He’s worked as a professional music and production manager for decades, managing all the details that bring an artist to the stage - and there’s a lot to organize in order to move crew, equipment, and the musicians themselves so that we fans can enjoy great shows. But there’s a lot more to Sonny’s resumé that we’ll uncover today, as he reveals some very interesting moments in his career path that surprised even us.  Inside MusiCast is excited to welcome Sonny Abelardo.

Marc Jordan continues to challenge and reinvent himself as a songwriter, composer, and vocalist.  On his latest album release, titled “Waiting For The Sun To Rise”, the Juno award winning artist has penned several original songs, blended with a few new arrangements of some well-known tunes, such as the Tears For Fears classic “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”.  The album contains a harmonious blend of jazz, folk, and pop.  Lyrically, Marc reflects on his time living in the American West, thoughts about the problems our world is facing, loneliness sparked by the pandemic, and the joys of the natural world.  This is arguably his most introspective collection of songs in his vast canon of work, backed by lush strings from the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, with collaborations from Lou Pomanti and Randy Brecker.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Marc Jordan. 

Earlier this year, an iconic voice in the music world left us: David Crosby.   From the Byrds, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, his duo projects with Graham Nash, CPR, his solo projects and so much more, Croz continued to tour and create new music until the very end.  For the past three decades, an integral part of Crosby’s creative process was guitarist Jeff Pevar.   On this episode of Inside MusiCast, Jeff joins us to chat about his relationship with Croz, including how they discovered each other back in the early ‘90s, along with stories about performing, touring, writing and recording with this iconic musician.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Jeff Pevar. 

Inside MusiCast hits the road to Chicago to catch up with Shawn Lee and Andy Platts of Young Gun Silver Fox, as the band is on its inaugural tour of North America.  Chicago is the third stop on this five city tour and the guys sat down with IMC's Eddy Cabello in the green room after sound check at Lincoln Hall to chat about the tour and how it's progressing.   

In the late ‘70s, a group of incredible studio musicians came together to form a prolific, legendary band who shook-up the music scene with well crafted and expertly produced songs with a West Coast/AOR sound.  Here in the States, you’d imagine that we’re referring to Toto.  However, this group of musicians hails from Norway and their band is Lava.  On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re chatting with one of the group’s founding members, Svein Dag Hauge, to discuss the origins of Lava, the band’s rise to notoriety in Scandinavia, and where they’re headed next - including discussion about their upcoming box set that features a brand new album titled ‘X’.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Svein Dag Hauge. 

Mica Millar is not well known in the States, but word is quickly spreading about her incredible vocals and well-crafted songs. The Manchester UK-based singer recently released her debut album titled, “Heaven Knows”, and when you hear it, you’ll know that the name Mica Millar will be known everywhere very soon. What makes her story and music even more remarkable is the fact that she suffered a horrible spinal injury at the onset of recording her new album. It stopped everything cold. Today, Mica talks to us about the miracle of her music, the challenges, and the eventual release of “Heaven Knows”. Inside MusiCast welcomes Mica Millar. 

Growing-up in Queens, Lionel Cordew was surrounded by music inside his home, in his neighborhood, and in church.  His brothers were all involved in music, his mother sang in the gospel choir at the church where his father was the minister, and his neighborhood hosted block parties where cats like Lenny White, Marcus Miller, Omar Hakim, Najee and many others would often play.  Lionel absorbed and adapted to many styles of music, which he’s used to his benefit throughout the course of his career, as he’s recorded and toured with a diverse list of musicians, including Mike Stern, Gino Vannelli, Jeff Lorber, Roberta Flack, Bill Evans, Chuck Loeb, Chieli Minucci, Wayne Krantz, and in 2015 he replaced Lee Pearson as the drummer in the legendary jazz group, Spyro Gyra.  Here to discuss his musical journey in more depth is none other than Lionel Cordew. 

Inside MusiCast rings in the new year with our first guest for 2023, guitarist Dean Parks!  Dean is no stranger to liner notes geeks around the world and was home grown in the state of Texas. In fact, he was a member of the “One O’clock Lab Band'' at North Texas State while in college. Whatever it is that’s in the water at North Texas, he drank it – along with other top musicians who have come out of that amazing music program - like David Hungate, several Snarky Puppy band members, Norah Jones, Jeff Coffin, Don Henley, Lyle Mays, and others. Fast forward to today and we find Dean still engaged with contributing his talents to new projects from Lyle Lovett, LeAnn Rimes, Herbie Hancock, Diane Warren, and so many others. This only confirms that after decades of playing LA sessions, Parks still remains an A-list guitarist.  His iconic work for Steely Dan, Al Jarreau, America, Streisand and so many other great projects speaks for itself. Today we’ll help fill in some of the gaps of his amazing career. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Dean Parks.

Honing her musical skills while growing-up on the East coast, Deborah Holland found her way to Los Angeles in the late ‘70s in an attempt to break into the music business.  A demo of two of her songs landed in the hands of Stewart Copeland and Stanley Clarke, who were searching for a female vocalist to front their new band project, which became Animal Logic.  She got the gig, which was a major stepping stone in propelling her career.  After making two albums with Animal Logic, Deborah has since recorded and released several solo albums, she’s a member of the folk supergroup The Refugees, a film scorer and educator, and in 2020 she released her latest EP titled “Fine, Thank You.”   Recently, two new Animal Logic songs have been released - the first new music from the trio in over three decades.  Here to talk to us about this new music and her career in music is Deborah Holland.  

Shawn Lee and Andy Platts are back with Ticket To Shangri-La, their fourth Young Gun Silver Fox album in the last seven years. Their undeniable, West Coast groove is a prominent ingredient once again, but the addition of some incredible horn arrangements, a heavier lean on the acoustic guitar, and Andy's silky smooth vocal harmonies make for another stellar collection of tunes with the feel-good vibe you've come to expect from this UK-based duo.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Shawn Lee and Andy Platts of Young Gun Silver Fox.

In 1980, Scottish born singer-songwriter, Ali Thomson, released his first album on A&M Records titled “Take A Little Rhythm”.  The title track garnered heavy airplay in countries around the world and reached as high as #15 on the Hot 100 in the USA.  He then went on to record a second album for A&M the following year titled “Deception Is In Art.”  While the pop scene delivered success for Thomson, his sights were set on creating music that contained more depth and musicality.  Ali continued writing songs for a variety of musicians over the years, but a few decades later he returned to writing songs for himself and released “Songs From The Playroom” in 2019 that featured a track titled “Aqua Blue”.  During the Covid pandemic, he went back to work creating yet another new album titled “The Last Rodeo” which was released in September.  Here to talk to us today about his career and this incredible new album release is Ali Thomson.  

In 2013, the world of contemporary jazz welcomed a newcomer who released her debut, self-titled album, Lindsey Webster.  Since then, Lindsey’s roots have continued to grow as she’s released a total of six albums, with her latest album, “Reasons”, dropping in early September.  In fact, the first single from the new album, “I Didn’t Mean It”, features Brian Culbertson and hit the Top 10 on the Billboard jazz chart.  Success is no stranger to Lindsey, as she and her writing partner, Keith Slattery, have produced two number one and eight top tens on the Billboard charts.  In fact, in 2016 Webster became the first vocalist to hit #1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz charts since Sade. On “Reasons”, Lindsey invites an incredible cast of guest performers, including Nathan East, Randy Brecker, Brian Culbertson, Lenny Castro, Nicholas Payton, Kev Choice, and Lil John Roberts.  While there’s no shortage of talent with her supporting cast, Lindsey’s vocals are undeniable and the star of the show.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Lindsey Webster.

For decades, David Paich has been an icon in the LA music scene, having composed, arranged, written, produced, and performed on hit songs for some of the biggest artists in the music business. Then there’s his legendary band, Toto, which he’s poured his heart and soul into for the past 45 years. Despite this incredible resumé, he’s never released a solo project, until now. David’s debut solo album, “Forgotten Toys”, is set to release on Friday, August 19. With contributions from his Toto bandmates, Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, the EP contains seven tracks and enlists an incredible cast of musicians, friends, and even family that make this a memorable musical experience. Here to talk to us about this brand new collection of songs is our good friend, David Paich.

Don Breithaupt is back with a brand new Monkey House album titled “Remember The Audio” - an 11 track project that was conceived during the pandemic and arguably their finest collection of songs in the Monkey House canon.  The core of the band remains steady, with Breithaupt on lead vocals and keyboards, Mark Kelso on drums, Pat Kilbride on bass, and Justin Abedin on guitar.  The album also contains guest appearances, including trumpeters Randy Brecker, Guido Basso and Michael Leonhart, guitarist Drew Zingg, and singers Lucy Woodward and David Blamires. "Remember The Audio" is set to release on July 15 on Alma Records and we’re pleased to have Don back for a fourth time and to talk about this fantastic new record. Inside MusiCast is please to welcome Don Breithaupt.

Jim Keltner’s career in music has been nothing short of iconic. For those who go deep into discographies and liner notes, you know that the name Keltner is associated with a litany of some of the biggest names in the world of music, including George Harrison, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Joe Cocker, Carly Simon, Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, Seals & Crofts, Randy Newman, The Bee Gees, The Traveling Wilburys, Brian Wilson and so many more. From his early beginnings with Gary Lewis and the Playboys, to the Concert for Bangladesh, to Steely Dan’s “Josie” and so much more, we’re here to talk to a musician who’s seen it all and played it all. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jim Keltner.

It’s been nine years since we last spoke to Marilyn Scott, so we’re pleased to have her back today to talk about her brand new album, “The Landscape”, which was recently released on Blue Canoe Records - her first album release since 2016’s “Standard Blue”.  The seven-track project focuses on putting yourself in front of nature, embracing our surroundings, and letting go.  Marilyn enlists an incredible group of musicians, including Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante, Gary Novak, Vinnie Colaiuta, Alex Acuna, Mike Landau, Steve Khan, and many others.  It’s a beautiful album, both lyrically and musically, and was created and produced during the pandemic.  Here to talk to us about this new album is none-other than Marilyn Scott.

Steve Dorff never wanted the spotlight. As a young musician and budding songwriter, he had his sights set on writing great songs for the most prominent voices in popular music - and he did just that. Early on, his songs landed in the hands and voices of several country and Western artists, which seemed like an unusual pairing considering that Steve grew-up in New York City. In fact, the first top ten song he wrote was for the legendary Roy Rogers with a tune called “Hoppy Gene and Me.” From there, a chance meeting with actor Clint Eastwood not only brought him additional songwriting hits, but it was also his foray into scoring for films and eventually television. Throughout his career, Steve has written over 20 top ten hits for pop and country artists, including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Blake Shelton, Smokey Robinson, Kenny Rogers, Ray Charles, Anne Murray, Whitney Houston, George Strait, Dolly Parton, Judy Collins, Cher, Dusty Springfield, Ringo Starr, and Garth Brooks. Here to talk to us about his incredible, musical journey is Steve Dorff.

After a short break, Inside MusiCast is back with this brand new episode featuring Canadian singer/songwriter, Chris Smith. Chris’ career in music started to take off in the ‘80s when he left Humber College to join a band called The Graduates, an original R&B, pop band made up of other Humber non-grads that played the clubs on the Ontario circuit. From there, he became a member of Regatta, a late '80s AOR band who garnered success, but broke-up after a few years.  Chris then turned his attention to his solo career, where he has released four albums since 1995 and is currently working on new material for a forthcoming release.  His music is a blend of jazz, blues, rock, and soul and has a sound that is timeless.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Chris Smith.

From his early days as a recording engineer and producer, to his involvement with legendary acts such as Buffalo Springfield, Poco, and Kenny Loggins - not to mention his collection of solo work - Jim Messina has carved a stellar reputation for himself in the music industry as an artist who can do it all. And he hasn’t stopped. He’s back on the road for an extensive solo tour this Spring and will reunite with Kenny Loggins this summer in Los Angeles for a handful of shows. Today, we’ll take a trip through his storied career, relive some of moments that catapulted him into the music business, and find out where he’s headed next. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jim Messina.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a legendary, Grammy-winning jazz artist who has been creating music since the early ‘60s when he recorded an album produced by Quincy Jones. Bob James has recorded 60 albums in 60 years, which includes his involvement as a founding member of the band Fourplay and is widely known for composing “Angela”, the theme song for the hit TV show Taxi. While jazz is his forté, his genre-bending sound has often been sampled by major hip-hop artists. It’s no surprise, as his music has grooves and hooks that appeal to all. We’re so glad to welcome Bob James to Inside MusiCast.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a three time Grammy-nominated jazz artist who’s recorded 40 albums throughout his career, David Benoit. David has enjoyed a solid presence in the jazz scene ever since his debut album on Blue Moon records in 1977. During his career, he’s worked with Russ Freeman of the Rippingtons and has also arranged and performed for artists such as Michael Franks, Kenny Loggins, David Pack, Dave Koz, Patti Austin, Brian Bromberg, and David Sanborn among others. Today we’ll chat with David about his amazing career, along with his new solo album, A Midnight Rendezvous, that was released on February 18 on Shanachie Records. He’s got some great contributors and has even recorded with his new band – The Midnight Rendezvous Big Band. Inside MusiCast welcomes David Benoit.

The past few years have presented some life altering challenges for Simon Phillips.  In late 2017, fires that ravaged Southern California destroyed his home and his recording studio.  Two years later, the COVID-19 pandemic took Simon off the road from a busy touring schedule leaving him with questions about the immediate future.  Yet, Simon’s resiliency persevered. The pandemic afforded him new opportunities, along with plenty of time to explore his own creativity.  He forged ahead with a new plan for recording his projects, including the newly released Protocol V album that features bandmates Ernest Tibbs and Otmaro Ruiz, along with two new additions: Jacob Scesney on sax and Alex Sill on guitars.  The Protocol band has emerged as a quintet and sounds better than ever.  Here to chat with us about this incredible new album is Simon Phillips.

Steve Vai is arguably one of the finest rock guitarists on the planet. His inventive approach to the instrument has afforded him some incredible opportunities over the past 40 years and today we’ll explore some of them, including the importance of meeting and working with Frank Zappa. We’ll also discuss his upcoming album release titled "Inviolate", which is set to drop this Friday, January 28. This is Vai's tenth solo album and quite possibly his most musically diverse collection of compositions. Yet, when you lay your ears on this record you'll hear Vai's classic signature from start to finish, especially when you experience the track "Teeth Of The Hydra", which was recorded with a very unique guitar that he named 'Hydra' that was built through a collaboration with designers at Hoshino. We’ll discuss this and so much more on this episode of Inside MusiCast.

After a two month break, Inside MusiCast is kickin’ off the new year with a new artist whose debut album was a 2021 Inside MusiCast Album Of The Year selection, Anastasia Lynne! During the last week in December, the Inside MusiCast team each chose an Album Of The Year - 11 great albums that were released in 2021 that really pushed our buttons. When IMC Correspondent Scott Gross chose Anastasia Lynne’s album, “Girl With The Hourglass Eyes”, it sparked a lot of interest with our team and our listeners. We were struck by her incredible voice and the lush vocal harmonies, not to mention the stellar musicianship and the well-crafted arrangements of her songs. We then discovered that the album was co-produced by Ken Stacey and Doug Petty, so we knew Anastasia had put herself into great hands and ears that resulted in a stellar debut album. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Anastasia Lynne.

Burleigh Drummond and Mary Harris have shared the stage, a family, as well as a home for decades.  While Burleigh is a founding member of the progressive and pop band Ambrosia, his wife, Mary, has been performing alongside him in the band for over 20 years.  The two are also involved in another musical entity called Tin Drum, an ever-evolving project which formed in the ‘90s and now incorporates their children, their grandchildren, and other noteworthy musicians including guitarist Marc Bonilla.  Here to talk to us about their expansive careers are Mary Harris and Burleigh Drummond.

In a career that’s spanned more than 50 years, Larry Carlton has been involved with thousands of projects that span a wide variety of musical styles.  From solo projects, to countless studio sessions with some of the biggest names in the music industry, to performing on one of the most popular television theme songs, Larry’s work has garnered multiple Grammy awards and worldwide notoriety for his unique sound and his immense talent.  He earned the name “Mr. 335”, as for decades Larry’s guitar of choice was a 1969 Gibson ES-335.  He’s now teamed-up with Sire to create his own, signature guitar - the Larry Carlton S7, which he plays exclusively on his brand new album from Shanachie Records titled “Soul Searchin’”, a duo with fellow guitarist Paul Brown.  Here to talk to us about this brand new record and so much more is Larry Carlton. 

Dash Crofts and his longtime musical partner, Jimmy Seals, both grew-up in Texas and started performing together in the late 1950’s. Before they struck out on their own as the legendary duo Seals and Crofts, Dash and Jimmy performed with several bands and musicians, including Dean Beard and the Crew Cats, The Champs, Eddie Cochran, Glen Campbell and the GC’s, and The Dawnbreakers. Through their connection with The Dawnbreakers, the two found the Baháʼí faith, which ultimately influenced the lyrical creativity in their songs.  The duo formed Seals and Crofts in 1969 and landed their first record deal with Talent Associates, but it wasn’t until their second album with Warner Brother in 1972 did they find their way to a major hit with Summer Breeze.  From that point forward, Seals and Crofts sold millions of albums and is considered one of the most successful duos of the 1970’s.  Here to chat more about this incredible, musical journey is Dash Crofts. 

When he was young, James Raymond knew he had a special gift for music, yet he somehow felt that this natural ability stemmed beyond what his adoptive parents and his education seemed to provide.  At the age of 30, he began the arduous task of finding his birth parents.  When he secured his birth certificate, the name David Crosby appeared.  When James finally had a chance to meet his legendary birth father, the two of them hit it off and almost immediately started making music together, including the two, incredible CPR albums from the late 90's and early 2000's that also featured guitarist Jeff Pevar.  Aside from his integral work with Crosby, James has also carved out a niche with writing, composing, and producing music for television and film, along with a collection of his own songs. 

His latest project found him back in the studio with David Crosby, as he produced his latest album "For Free." He wrote and co-wrote several tracks with guests Michael McDonald and Donald Fagen, contributed backing vocals, arranged horns, and played several instruments including piano, synths, and programmed drums. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome James Raymond.

Luis Conte is one of the most heralded percussionists in the music industry, but had it not been for the encouragement of his parents and a three week window of time, his massive career performing for and touring with some of the biggest artists may never have happened.  A few weeks before he turned 15 years old, his father encouraged him to leave his home country of Communist Cuba before he became eligible for the military.  Luis made his way to Spain, alone, and later found his way to the United States and settled in Los Angeles where his music career eventually flourished.  Throughout his career, he’s recorded and toured with the likes of James Taylor, Phil Collins, Jackson Browne, Dave Matthews, Madonna, Pat Metheney, Ray Charles, Cher, Eric Clapton, Celine Dion, and so many more.  He’s also released many solo projects over the years, has written a book, and is an educator.  Here to talk to us about his incredible career in music is the maestro himself, Luis Conte. 

Hailing from San Francisco and finding his musical roots in Texas, Mark Lettieri is no stranger to diversity when it comes to how he approaches the guitar. Throughout his career, he’s released six solo albums, has been involved in countless recording sessions, and has toured with many well-known music acts. Since 2008, Lettieri has been involved with Grammy-winning Snarky Puppy and is also a member of The Fearless Flyers with Cory Wong, Joe Dart and Nate Smith. All of these experiences have helped to expand his musical diversity - including rock, pop, funk, soul, gospel, jazz, and even various styles of country. His new album, “Deep: The Baritone Sessions, Volume 2”, continues this exploration and includes a fusion of a variety of styles. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Mark Lettieri.

For the last 25 years, a veteran songwriter’s album has been sitting on a shelf, waiting to see the light of day. Throughout Terry Sampson’s career in the music industry, the songs he’s written have been performed by Al Jarreau, Kenny Rogers, Carl Anderson, Nicolette Larson, Cece Winans, Vanessa Williams, and Kathy Lee Gifford, to name a few - not to mention an extensive collection of songs he’s written for children’s movies and television shows. Yet, his first solo album project titled “E, Just E” recorded 25 years ago sat dormant - until now - when Jörgen Johanson and Mikael Engström helped Terry breathe life into the album by getting a record deal to release it in Japan on P-Vine Records. Here to talk more about this incredible story, as well as the rest of his music career is Terry Sampson.

At some point you’ve heard Arnold McCuller’s rich, distinctive vocals. Perhaps as a long-time, featured vocalist with James Taylor, Phil Collins or for a number of A-list musicians. Once you’ve heard his voice, you know why many well-respected musicians still call on him today. But other than owning a golden voice, Arnold has also entertained a rather successful acting career in film and television. His singing career began with a national tour of the musical Hair. After singing in a few bands, he released his first solo album, including a series of singles in 1979. Since 1990, Arnold has released seven studio and two live solo projects that stylistically range from jazz to Latin-pop, to blues. It’s easy to see Arnold’s diversity, and he’s been busy, having collaborated with artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Dave Koz, David Benoit, and many more. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Arnold McCuller.

Born in Scotland and raised in Canada, Lawrence Gowan carved a path to a very successful solo career, having released six albums and selling millions of records and collecting two Juno awards over a 13 year span.  However, in 1997 his musical path took a turn when he had a chance to open for Styx in Montreal.  Tommy Shaw took notice of Gowan’s talent and charismatic stage performance and invited him to join the band two years later.  Fast forward 21 years, Gowan has become an integral part of this legendary band and on June 18 they’ll release their 17th studio album, “Crash Of The Crown.”  Here to talk to us about this new album project is Styx lead vocalist, Lawrence Gowan. 

We first spoke to Coen Molenaar back in 2015 when his band Tristan  released “2nd Phase”, and again in 2019 when they released “The Spice of Five”. This past year, Tristan faced a challenge in finding a new lead vocalist, after Evelyn Kallansee exited the band.  Enter Jaycilee Teterissa, a vibrant and talented vocalist whose style fits Tristan’s vibe perfectly and this past April they released their new album titled “What Could Possibly Go Wrong?”.  Along with Jaycilee, Coen and the other band members are heading in the right direction with this wonderful new album. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Coen Molenaar and Jaycilee Teterissa.

In 2005, Laurence Elder released his debut album “Surrounded” that incorporated a unique blend of jazz, pop, and a touch of blues.  Nearly 16 years later, he returns with his forthcoming album titled “Walk Another Mile”, which will be released on May 19.  This new album features many of the same musicians from his debut album, including Carlomagno Araya and the late Dan Warner.  Laurence also involved two special guests: guitarist Mike Stern and trumpet legend Randy Brecker.  The old adage “Good things come to those who wait” holds true, because while fans of Laurence Elder have waited a long time to hear new music from him, there’s no doubt they’ll be extremely pleased with these new compositions. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Laurence Elder.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a second-generation guitar player who just happens to be a multi-Grammy-winning songwriter and producer.  Nashville-based Gordon Kennedy is literally following in his father’s footsteps, and the similarities of their accomplishments are astounding. He co-wrote "Change The World" for Eric Clapton, which won "Song of the Year” at the 1997 Grammy Awards. He has written and produced for artists such as Peter Frampton, Alison Krauss, Bonnie Raitt, Garth Brooks, Ricky Skaggs, Don Henley, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw and many more. His guitar playing is second to none -  just ask Peter Frampton.  We’re glad to welcome an ever present icon in the Nashville scene, Gordon Kennedy. 

Martin Page had a tough career choice to make. As a semi-pro football player, he could choose soccer and try his luck at the professional level, or as a talented musician with a budding career, he could choose the musical path. Of course, he chose music and he gave it his all. It was a great decision, as a song he wrote and produced with his Q-Feel partner Brian Fairweather called “Dancing In Heaven” became an underground hit on KROQ radio in Los Angeles . This success prompted his move from London to Los Angeles, which opened the door to connections with many of his musical heroes, including Bernie Taupin, Maurice White and so many others. While Martin’s passion for soccer has never waned, music is still his first love and the career choice we’re all glad he chose to follow. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Martin Page.

You seldom catch Marcus Miller without his signature fedora hat. He wears them at every gig and on every stage. But, the symbolism is telling, as his long career has also allowed him to wear many musical hats – not only as a premier, first-call bassist, but also as a producer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, film and jazz composer, and even as a bass clarinet player. Throughout his illustrious career, Miller has played and shared the stage with greats such as Miles Davis, David Sanborn, Eric Clapton, Herbie Hancock, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, Bob James, Joe Sample, Grover Washington, Donald Fagen and many others who are at the top of the music chain. We’re glad to finally welcome Marcus Miller to Inside MusiCast.

For the past 15 years, we’ve been fortunate to have Steve Lukather as a recurring guest on Inside MusiCast.  And today, he’s back to talk to us about his brand new solo album dropping this Friday, February 26 titled “I Found The Sun Again”.

We’re also pleased to welcome Joseph Williams, who’s joining us for the first time, to discuss his new solo project, “Denizen Tenant”, which also drops this Friday - with both records being released on the Mascot Records label.

Not only do Luke and Joe contribute to each other’s new solo records, but they’ve enlisted some incredible musicians - including a heavy dose of Toto founding member, David Paich.  And speaking of Toto, we’ll also include some conversation about the newly resurrected version of the band and their “Dogz Of Oz” tour that’s slated to begin later this year.

Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Joseph Williams and Steve Lukather.

With over 20 albums under his belt, saxophonist Richard Elliot has delivered jazz music that has landed on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz charts over the past four decades. Early on, he played with Tower of Power and even the Yellowjackets, but it’s been five years since he’s released any fresh, personal work. With his new album, "Authentic Life" on Shanachie Records, we find Richard collaborating with some old friends and past Inside MusiCast guests, including Jeff Lorber, Philippe Saisse, and Rick Braun. And they’ve delivered a body of work that will impress you. We're glad to welcome Richard Elliot to Inside MusiCast.

The heart of Russell Ferrante’s career has been spent as keyboardist for the legendary jazz group, Yellowjackets.  In fact, he’s the only member who’s been in the group since its inception in 1980.  Outside of his Yellowjackets tenure, Ferrante has also recorded and toured with an incredible array of artists, including Lee Ritenour, Joni Mitchell, Larry Carlton, Robben Ford, George Michael, Take 6, Michael Franks, Dave Grusin, and many more.  However, throughout his lengthy and successful career, Ferrante had yet to release an album containing his own material - until now - as he’s teamed-up with bassist Michael Valerio and drummer Steve Schaeffer to create the Russell Ferrante Trio and the new album “Inflexion”, which is available now on Blue Canoe Records.  The 11 track album contains a mix of originals, covers, and a couple of new arrangements of Yellowjackets tunes.  Here to chat with us today about this beautiful new album is Russell Ferrante.  

2020 was a difficult year for everyone, but for Christopher Cross it was life changing. Chris caught the COVID-19 virus early and it progressed into an even more challenging scenario when he was diagnosed with Guillain Barré Syndrome. He spent a good portion of the year regaining the strength and ability to get back on his feet. However, this didn’t stop him from moving forward with finishing a beautiful package of his life’s work - a brand new box set titled “The Complete Works”, which he’s proud to offer to his biggest fans. Here to kick off 2021 and discuss the events that unfolded over the course of this past year, including his brand new box set, is none other than Christopher Cross.

As one of the most influential drummers of all time, Steve Gadd set a new standard in contemporary drumming techniques and performance, and for years everyone has tried to play like him. His work is unavoidably recognizable, from the military, cadence-like shuffle intro on Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”, to arguably one of the finest drum solos ever recorded on the title track from Steely Dan’s “Aja”, to his current touring gigs with James Taylor and Eric Clapton – Steve has a way of leaving his rhythmic stamp on most every track that he’s performed on over the past five decades. It’s good to know the native New Yorker is healthy and still going strong...and he’s here today to chat with us. Inside MusicCast is pleased to welcome the legendary Steve Gadd.

During the explosion of the British invasion in the 60’s, a 16 year-old boy from Manchester became the lead singer of the band Herman's Hermits and found himself in the middle of all the musical madness. Imagine traveling with your bandmates from gig to gig, performing with bands such as the Stones and the Beatles. Or having The Who warm-up for your band. Peter Noone lived it and his band, Herman’s Hermits, was making hit after hit. In fact, during the height of the band's career they played 360 shows in a single year and finished making a movie. We could go on, but we’d rather have Peter Noone tell you how it all really happened almost 50 years ago. Inside MusiCast welcomes Herman of Herman’s Hermits, Peter Noone.

David Foster was drawn to the piano. In fact, as the story goes, his mother was dusting off the family piano and struck one of the keys.  She was amazed when her young son correctly identified the note as an “E”. She quickly found that David had perfect pitch and they knew immediately that there was something special about their son and that the piano would play an important role in his life. This is where the musical legacy begins. Over the past several decades, David Foster has raised the bar of musicianship, arranging and producing in astronomical ways – and he has the hardware to prove it. David has been the guiding force behind dozens of hit songs for the biggest names in popular music.  He’s won 16 Grammy Awards, including three for Producer Of The Year, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and has racked up three Oscar nominations.  It’s been a long time coming, but we’re pleased to finally welcome David Foster to Inside MusiCast.

Three years after Tomi Malm’s critically acclaimed debut "Walkin' On Air", the talented Finnish songwriter, producer, and arranger returns with another great project titled “Coming Home” on the Contante and Sonante label. This new collaboration is loaded with some of the best in the business and features solid vocal performances from Bill Cantos, Marilyn Scott, Randy Goodrum, Jerry Lopez, Ole Børud, Andreas Aleman, Frank Ådahl, Ashton Moran, Michael Haddad, Wendy Moten and the late, great Warren Wiebe. The session players include Steve Lukather, Vinnie Colaiuta, Alex Acuña, Simon Phillips, Jimmy Haslip, Luis Conte, John “JR” Robinson, Neil Stubenhaus, Robbie Buchanan, Eric Marienthal and Brandon Fields, among others. In addition to Tomi, we’re also joined by the founder of the Contante and Sonante label, Gabriel Raya, to talk about Tomi’s new project and to share his insights about his unique record label. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tomi Malm and Gabriel Raya.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back the one and only, Bill Champlin. While the pandemic has put the brakes on much of the activity in the music industry, it hasn’t stopped the creativity of this legendary singer/songwriter. Bill has produced a brand new solo album titled “Livin’ For Love”, which is loaded with 14 new tracks that explore a lot of musical territory, from gorgeous ballads, to West Coast grooves, blues, pop, funk...it’s all in there. Bill has also invited some amazing guests, including Steve Porcaro, Vinnie Colaiuta, Lenny Castro, Alan Hertz, Gary Falcone, Bruce Gaitsch, Carmen Grillo, Gorden Campbell, George Hawkins, Jr., Jason Scheff, Greg Mathieson, Abe Laboriel, Marc Russo, and of course his wife Tamara and son Will. We’ll also chat with Bill about the new CWF 2 album that was recently released, with his bandmates Peter Friestedt and Joseph Williams. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Bill Champlin.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome journalist and author Robyn Flans to discuss her soon-to-be-released book titled "It’s About Time: Jeff Porcaro – The Man and His Music", which is being released through Hudson Music. This in-depth book provides insight into Jeff’s career in music. Starting with his childhood and formative years, the book recounts his establishment on the L.A. scene, rise to stardom with Toto, and legendary career as one of the most sought-after studio drummers in the world until his tragic death in 1992 at only 38 years of age. If you're a fan of Jeff Porcaro, you'll really love this chat with Robyn, who was as close a journalist to Jeff than any other. For the past five years, she took on the challenge of unearthing some treasures about Jeff that might even surprise his biggest fans. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Robyn Flans.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re pleased to welcome two Grammy winning musicians that have joined forces to create a brand new album titled “Double Dealin’”, which will be released on Shanachie Records in mid September - Randy Brecker and Eric Marienthal. Both Eric and Randy have storied careers in the world of jazz. Randy is notorious for his work with the likes of Blood, Sweat & Tears, Horace Silver, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Steely Dan, Bruce Springsteen, Parliament-Funkadelic and of course the Brecker Brothers with his brother Michael. Eric’s saxophone talent has led him to amazing gigs with Chick Corea, Patti Austin, Lee Ritenour, Elton John, Billy Joel, Jeff Lorber, Stevie Wonder and many more. Randy and Eric are good friends and they’ve performed together on many occasions. However, this is their first album collaboration and it’s filled with upbeat grooves and fantastic performances. Produced by George Whitty, the album also includes Dave Weckl on drums, John Patitucci on bass, and George on keys. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Eric Marienthal and Randy Brecker.

Rock, pop, fusion, jazz, Latin, soul, funk, Flamenco. These are just a few of the styles of drumming Joey Heredia has mastered over the course of his career. Like most of the musicians we interview, music was in Joey’s blood from a very early age, as he started playing in bands when he was 16 years old and never looked back. He became a sought-after studio and touring musician and has performed with many incredible musicians, including Billy Childs, Stevie Wonder, Sheila E., Michael Ruff, Sergio Mendes, Herb Alpert, Tania Maria, Scott Henderson, Steve Lukather, Dianne Reeves, Frank Gambale, and many more. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Joey Heredia.

Randy Goodrum is at it again. Making great music, that is. The singer/songwriter/instrumentalist/producer has just released RED EYE, his first original solo album in decades, and we’ve found that it was worth the wait. He co-wrote the album with veteran session musician Larry Williams, along with Douglas Carr, and they struck gold. If you’ve heard RED EYE, you know that Goodrum is on point, delivering “his” style of music and on his terms by collaborating with some of the best session players in the business, including Michael Landau, Vinnie Colaiuta, Marcus Miller, Gavin Harrison, Brian Bromberg, and others. The album contains 12 tracks and they're all brilliantly different, catchy, well-written and excellently produced. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Randy Goodrum.

Eliot Lewis is a musician who can do it all. The multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter has enjoyed a diverse and vibrant path in the music business and has worked with an elite cast of musicians. Eliot’s career has taken him from being a studio musician, to becoming a member of the Average White Band, to his eventual touring gig with Hall & Oates, as well as being a regular on Live From Daryl's House. He’s also delivered several solo albums and tours nationally in support of these projects. Aside from music, Eliot is a passionate photographer and has chronicled his travels as a touring musician through the lens of his camera. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Eliot Lewis.

From his early beginnings in the band Beatnik Beatch, followed by the success and cult following with his power-pop band Jellyfish in the early 90’s, Roger Joseph Manning, Jr. continues to explore and create music that contains musical excellence and well-crafted lyrics. The past three decades have been filled with a variety of projects for Roger, from Imperial Drag, to TV Eyes, to several solo and collaborative album projects - not to mention lending his talents to artists like Beck, Jay-Z, Blink 182, and the legendary Johnny Cash. Manning’s latest project reunites two of his past Jellyfish bandmates to form The Lickerish Quartet. The power-pop trio has just released their first, four song EP titled “Threesome Vol. 1”, which was released on May 15 and carries on the incredible musicianship and songwriting vibe that Jellyfish fans have grown accustomed to. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Roger Joseph Manning, Jr.

Todd Sucherman was destined to become a professional musician and his prowess behind the drum kit has already led him to a 45 year start. From his early days gigging in Chicago, to laying down tracks for jingles and scores, to landing the drumming chair with legendary rock band Styx, Todd has been one the busiest and most in-demand drummers in the business. But recently he’s taken another leap of faith to take on a challenge he wasn’t sure he could accomplish - to write, produce and record his first solo album. On May 2, this challenge became a reality when he released “Last Flight Home”, a ten track album featuring Todd not only behind the drum kit, but behind the mic and taking on lead vocal duties. Here to talk to us more about his career and this excellent new album is Todd Sucherman.

If one word can best describe Claudia Campagnol’s life and music, it would be fusion. Her gypsy spirit has taken her from Hungary, to Sweden, to Copenhagen, with many other travels and experiences that have shaped her musical upbringing. The Copenhagen-based musician, singer, and composer was baptized into jazz, R&B, soul, pop and groove at a very early age, heavily influenced by her parents. Even a chance encounter with Stevie Wonder played a big role in influencing and encouraging her musical journey. She's a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist who has delivered a mature sound on her debut album “I'm Strong”, which was released in 2019 on Giant Sheep Music. Here to talk to us about this incredible album, along with more about her musical path, is Claudia Campagnol.

It’s no secret that Abraham Laboriel has been on our bucket list for a long time, but we’ve always known that he doesn’t give many interviews. Abe tends to let his music do the talking and he purposefully stays “off the grid” and avoids the spotlight.  But thanks to the help of our New Jersey Correspondent, Yinka Oyelese, we’ve secured this exclusive chat with one of the most coveted and recorded bassists in modern music history. For over 48 years, Abe has captivated our musical senses with his intuitive and masterful control of rhythm through his bass playing. He’s worked with Fagen, Carlton, Jarreau, Mancini, Grusin, Rit, Q, Herbie, Felder, Summers, Streisand, Cobham, Elton, and on and on. He’s walked hand-in-hand with his good friend called music since he was a young boy, and he's shared his gift with us all over the past several decades. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Abraham Laboriel, Sr.

From his early beginnings as an assistant with Phil Ramone, to his foray into recording and mixing sessions for Steely Dan, Toto, Jimmy Buffet, Bruce Hornsby, the Eagles, the Foo Fighters and many others, to becoming a pioneer in the world of surround mixing, Elliot Scheiner is without question one of the elite producers, recording engineers, and mixers to ever set foot in a studio. He has recently been involved with the remastering process of Toto’s “All In” CD box set, as well as projects with Trey Anastasio and Phish. With nearly five decades under his belt and thousands of projects to his credit, Elliot’s passion for his craft is stronger than ever and he shows no signs of slowing down. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Elliot Scheiner.

Singer/songwriter Quint Starkie’s musical journey has taken him from the UK where he grew-up, to L.A., to Stockholm, Sweden. His career has enveloped a variety of opportunities that have stretched his talents, including work as a session musician, composer, producer, and a live performer. Quint has also been heavily involved in writing countless jingles and theme music for some of the industry’s biggest brands such as McDonald’s, Toyota, Diners Club, American Express, SAS, Coca Cola and Heineken. However, songwriting is a passion for Quint and in 2016 he released his first solo album titled “Ghost In My Heart”, a 14-track autobiographical collection of songs that displays his adept songwriting and vocal talents. We met Quint for the first time last month in Stockholm for the Pages tribute concert and in watching him perform, we knew we needed to have him on the show. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Quint Starkie.

Ben Shepherd exudes groove. Not only can you hear and feel it, but you can see it on the ear-to-ear smile on his face when he's layin' it down. The New Zealand native has been energized by music since he was a kid, with the bass guitar being his focus. Ben made his way to L.A., where he's held down the groove for some incredible artists, such as Peter Erskine, David Archuleta, Ellis Hall, Kendrick Lamar, Lee Ritenour, Chance The Rapper, Billy Childs, Patrice Rushen, Jeff Lorber, and many more. Ben also has his sights set on releasing his own material in the very near future. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Ben Shepherd.

While the rest of Los Angeles is sleeping, Jay Graydon is hard at work. His nocturnal schedule started when he was in high school and has persisted throughout his career, but this magical time of the day has afforded Jay with the creative timetable to write and produce countless gold, platinum and Grammy winning albums and songs. We last had Jay on the show ten years ago when we discussed various highlights of his career, so we’re pleased to have him back to update us on several recent topics, including the new JaR album, his ‘E’ Model Rhodes project, some guitars from his collection that he’s parting ways with, and so much more. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back Jay Graydon.

We first discovered Shawn Lee in late 2015 when we heard the news about a new, West Coast oriented band from the UK called Young Gun Silver Fox, but little did we know about his lengthy tenure in the music business and the variety of musical styles he’d been involved with, from country, to electronica, to West Coast, and more. Shawn has once again broadened his musical horizons with a brand new solo album titled “Rides Again” that was recently released and contains a series of songs that are reflective, autobiographical, and have a modern, country-soul vibe. This is a very personal album with songs that reflect on memories from his childhood, his family, and how he experienced life growing-up in Wichita, Kansas. Here to talk to us more about “Rides Again”, along with some insight into the new Young Gun Silver Fox project that’s in the works is our good friend, Shawn Lee.

It's been 11 years since our last connection with Robbie Dupree. At the time, he had just released his album ‘Time And Tide’, which featured his steady stable of musical colleagues - David Sancious, Rick Chudacoff, Peter Bunetta, Leslie Smith, and the late Larry Hoppen. Since that time, and with an understanding of the ever-changing landscape of the music business, Robbie has decided that writing and producing a full album of new songs isn’t on his radar. Instead, he’s taken the path of releasing single tracks at his own pace and when the inspiration strikes him. Along with his 2012, four song EP ‘Arc Of A Romance’, he has recently released three, beautifully produced singles with top-notch lyrical content and musicianship. For Robbie, it’s all about quality over quantity and it’s apparent in these new tracks. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Robbie Dupree.

Gary Husband is a musical rare breed. He’s a multi-instrumentalist who focuses on expression, textures, and improvisational thinking. That’s how he’s developed as a critically acclaimed drummer, pianist, composer and producer. Having world class skills in both piano and drums provided him with incredible diversity, which led to gigs with a vast and eclectic range of celebrated musicians including John McLaughlin, Allan Holdsworth, Jeff Beck, Jack Bruce, Gary Moore, Level 42, Billy Cobham, Al Jarreau, Mike Stern, John Wetton, Chris Squire, Andy Summers, Steve Hackett, Robin Trower, Sir George Martin, Quincy Jones and many others. Recently, Gary has released an ongoing series of standalone tuitional videocasts for musicians with a desire to establish their own voice in drumming. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Gary Husband.

Mike Stern and Jeff Lorber are both well-respected musicians and have each had long and successful careers in the music business, with jazz being the root of their musical craft. While they’ve each traveled down different avenues and have developed their own, unique style, their paths have recently crossed, which has ignited a collaboration that fused their creativity and resulted in a brand new album titled “Eleven”, which was released on September 27. The album features a mix of new and existing tracks by both Mike and Jeff, and co-produced by none other than Jimmy Haslip. In their first interview together to discuss this brilliant new album, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Mike Stern and Jeff Lorber.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re taking a trip to the smooth side of the jazz spectrum for an extensive chat with jazz trumpeter, songwriter, and vocalist, Rick Braun. However, 'smooth' doesn't pigeonhole Rick's music, as he incorporates a spectrum of jazz styles into his music, which is evident on his latest album "Crossroads" released a few weeks ago from Shanachie Entertainment. Rick also has an extensive resumé as a studio and touring musician, having recorded and performed with Crowded House, Natalie Cole, Glenn Frey, Tom Petty, Sade, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, and War, to name a few. He's also a good friend of Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon and co-wrote their Top 20 hit "Here With Me". Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Rick Braun.

Versatility. For A-list session players, it’s not only the ability to adapt to a variety of musical styles and genres, but to the artists who call them in for a gig. John Peña has made a successful career in music by having this ability to adapt to any musical scenario that comes his way. On today’s episode of Inside MusiCast, we’ll chat with John about his path to becoming a first call bassist in L.A. John’s gift of versatility has led him to gigs with a variety of artists and musical styles, including Carlos Santana, Julio Iglesias, Los Lobotomys, Natalie Cole, The Crusaders, Herb Alpert, Chaka Khan, Jerry Garcia, Chick Corea, Steve Vai, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Larry Carlton, Michael McDonald, Joe Sample, Michael Brecker, David Sanborn, Patti LaBelle, Patti Austin, and many others. He recently finished-up a tour with Oleta Adams and took some time to discuss life, music, computers, and even airplanes. Inside MusiCast welcomes John Peña.

Michael Thompson is proof that dreams do come true. The native New York guitarist knew at an early age that music was in his blood and he set his sights on becoming an elite session player. Having studied at Berklee with the likes of Pat Metheney, he eventually made his way to L.A. to pursue his dream at being an A-list studio musician. He quickly landed tours with Joe Cocker and Cher before breaking into the L.A. studio scene. Word spread about his talent and he’s now recorded and performed for many big names in the music industry, such as Stewart Copeland, Stanley Clarke, David Foster, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, Babyface, Quincy Jones, Mutt Lange, and so many more - not to mention forming his own band, the Michael Thompson band in 1989, who recently released a brand new studio album “Love & Beyond”. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Michael Thompson.

Don Breithaupt is a man of many talents. He’s a singer/songwriter, musician, producer, arranger, composer, author and even an Inside MusiCast Correspondent. From his steady gig with Brass Transit, to his Breithaupt Brothers collaboration with his brother, Jeff, to recently producing “True North: The Canadian Songbook” - an epic, 32 song project that celebrates Canada’s 150th birthday, Don’s passion for music keeps him on the road, in the studio, and constantly writing and creating music. However, the center of his musical world is Monkey House, a band he spearheads and has been intact for over 25 years. With four studio albums already to their credit, the band released their fifth studio album today titled “Friday” and contains 12 tracks, including their tribute to the Walter Becker song “Book Of Liars”. Here to discuss this brand new album is our good friend, Don Breithaupt.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re joined by two legendary musicians whose session work is as legendary as the artists they’ve worked with: Danny Kortchmar and Waddy Wachtel. Not only have these two performed and written songs for some of the most celebrated artists of the 70's and 80's, such as James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Don Henley, Warren Zevon, Linda Ronstadt, Stevie Nicks, Karla Bonoff, and Toto to name a few, they’ve recently reconnected with their musical brothers, Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, and Steve Postell to form the session-player super group, The Immediate Family. Today we’ll chat with Kootch and Waddy about this new group of old friends that are creating new music, revisiting classic songs they've been involved with throughout their careers, and taking their show on the road. You're gonna' love this chat. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Danny Kortchmar and Waddy Wachtel.

Warren Ham is one of the best vocalists and woodwind players in the business. Born and raised in Texas, Warren found his way into the band Bloodrock out of Fort Worth. He and his brother, Bill, then went on to form The Ham Brothers Band, who eventually became the backing band for Bread and Cher.  From there, Warren went on to perform and tour with some of the best in the business, including Kansas, AD, Olivia Newton John, Donna Summer, Toto, Ringo Starr and so many more. Decades later, he’s as busy now as he’s ever been, but he’s taken a timeout to chat with us. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Warren Ham.

As adaptable as Chris Rodriguez has been throughout his career in music, having performed with a wide range of well-known artists and music genres spanning from pop, to country, to CCM, and rock, he continues to expand his musical palate.  Recently, Chris embarked on a journey that has led him to explore elements of jazz. Having some down time on the road and in-between gigs has allowed him the opportunity to write over 70 songs and compositions, with 14 of them landing on a brand new solo album titled “Head, Hands and Heart”, which is now available as a digital download and on major streaming sites.  While he’ll still be providing guitars and vocals on the road with Kenny Loggins and Peter Cetera, Chris has a treasure trove of original music to share with the world. Here to talk with us today about the new album “Head, Hands and Heart” is our good friend, Chris Rodriguez.

Dominique Xavier Taplin may be a young musician, but his immense talent has led him to some amazing gigs with Ghost-Note, Prince, and most recently he's taken David Paich's place on the road with Toto. However, he doesn't take these experiences for granted. He fully understands the magnitude of these artists and is honored to not only be a part of their legacies, but to have the opportunity to add his own signature to their music. Soft-spoken, humble, and crazy-talented. You're going to love this chat with a rising star in the world of music. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Dominique Xavier Taplin.

Don Felder, is back with “American Rock 'N Roll”. It’s the second solo album by the former member of the Eagles and it comes nearly seven years after his debut solo effort titled “The Road To Forever.” On “American Rock ‘n Roll”, Don has enlisted some well known contributors who laid down parts for this all-star effort, including Slash, Bob Weir, Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Richie Sambora, Chad Smith, Mick Fleetwood, David Paich, Steve Porcaro, Alex Lifeson, Steve Gadd, Jim Keltner, Todd Sucherman, Nathan East and many more. The 11-track album explores a variety of musical territories, from straight-ahead rock, to late 70’s California country, to a Latin inspired ballad, to modern power ballads. “American Rock ‘n Roll” is a big effort and showcases the experiences and influences that Don has collected over the course of his lengthy career in music. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back Don Felder.

t's been four years since Inside MusiCast last interviewed Evelyn Kallansee and Sebastiaan Cornelissen from the Dutch band Tristan, but being that their brand new album "The Spice Of Five" just dropped it was high time we had them back on again. This time, we have the entire band joining us, including Evelyn and Sebastiaan, along with keyboardist Coen Molenaar, bassist Frans Vollink, and guitarist Guy Nikkels. The band is currently in the middle of a very busy European tour, but they’ve all taken time out to join us today to talk about this new 12-track album project that may be their finest effort yet. Joining us from The Netherlands, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tristan.

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, jazz/soul/R&B singer songwriter Maysa Leak has established herself as a bonafide vocalist. This was proven when she caught Stevie Wonder’s attention in the early years and was invited to audition for him and his vocal group Wonderlove. He even allowed her to finish college first before joining the band. In 1991 she was recommended to the British funk-jazz group Incognito by a friend. She also caught band leader Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick’s ear and soon she was part of the Incognito vocal arsenal of great singers just in time to sing on the 1992 album, “Scribes, Tribes & Vibes”. Since then she’s recorded several solo albums that have had an impact in the UK and US. Her 2017 release, “Love Is A Battlefield”, allowed her to cover soulful tune adaptations of classics from the Isley Brothers, Luther Vandross, Natalie Cole and Pat Benatar. Last year she even launched her new label, BLUE VELVET SOUL RECORDS on which she recorded her first single, "You Are Not Alone". We’re very happy to welcome Maysa to Inside MusiCast.

Like most musicians who are at the top of their game, Mike Lindup’s path to music began when he was very young.  His mother and father were both creative souls and musicians, which provided an important influence for Mike. It wasn’t long after attending the Guildhall School of Music that Mike found his way into a band that would prove to be his greatest gig, keyboardist with Level 42.  For nearly 40 years, Level 42 has released 11 studio albums, an EP and several live and greatest hits compilations and have continued to tour heavily throughout Europe. Mike has also released three solo projects and stays busy with sessions for other musicians, as well as performing in a periodic live gig called ‘Thriller Live’ which has had a ten year run in London’s west end.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Mike Lindup.

John Ferraro has enjoyed a panoramic drumming career that has allowed him to become a first call, A-list session drummer, and that doesn’t happen overnight. From his early tours and sessions with Larry Carlton and Barry Manilow to playing with Boz Scaggs, Burt Bacharach, and so many others, John has earned his stripes, has garnered respect among his peers in the music industry, and he’s created a long-lasting career in music.  John’s journey continues and we’re very pleased to finally have him on to talk about his amazing career. Inside MusiCast welcomes John Ferraro.

It’s been a few years since Jimmy Haslip has been a guest on Inside MusiCast, but we had to have him back. Since his departure from the Yellowjackets in 2012, Jimmy has been extremely busy and has had a hand in dozens of projects that keep his calendar full year after year. 2018 has been no different and has yielded some amazing projects, such as a second Arc Trio record that features Scott Kinsey and Gergo Borlai, as well as a collaboration with Otmaro Ruiz and Jimmy Branly on a record project called “Elemental”. Add a few months of touring, session work, and producing and his calendar is bursting at the seams. Hear to fill us in on his musical journey is none other than Jimmy Haslip.

It’s no surprise when we say that Steve Lukather wears his heart on his sleeve. We’ve known this about him for a long time and his recently released autobiography titled “The Gospel According To Luke” is a fascinating look into his career in music, yet it also contains very honest and candid accounts of the trials and tribulations of the business that he’s experienced along the way. His music, songwriting, and his prowess on the guitar is a gift he has shared with all of us for over 40 years and it’s earned him immense respect by his peers and fans as one of the greatest musicians to ever pick-up a guitar, but as fans we often don’t realize the sacrifice, the time and the work that it takes to achieve what Luke has accomplished. While the book contains an incredible variety of these accounts, memoirs and stories, it only scratches the surface. Since it’s been close to four years since we last had Luke on the show, it’s definitely time to catch-up with him, dig a little deeper into his mind, and we’ve included many questions from our listeners from around the world. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome our good friend, Steve Lukather.

In the mid to late 1980’s, if it was a Tuesday night at the Baked Potato in North Hollywood, it was Los Lobotomys night. The original band, an offshoot of David Garfield’s band Karizma, consisted of some of the best musicians in L.A., included Jeff Porcaro, Lenny Castro, Nathan East, Brandon Fields, Steve Lukather and David Garfield. Lines formed outside the Spud’s door with fans who wanted to experience the band’s instrumental rock, jazz fusion and be-bop. However, the Lobotomys’ door was always open and many guests appears with them throughout the years, including Carlos Vega, Joe Sample, Vinnie Colaiuta, David Sanborn, Gregg Bissonette, Sheila E., Marcus Miller, Larry Carlton, Slash, Pat Travers, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Alex Acuña, Chad Wackerman and many others. Fast forward to 2018 and the band is still going strong and has reinvented its lineup. With a new album on the way, Los Lobotomys is back as version 3.0 and consists of its founder, David Garfield, along with Lenny Castro on percussion, John Peña on bass, Chad Wackerman on drums and the latest addition, guitarist Doug Bossi. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back our old friend David Garfield and guitarist Doug Bossi.

Earlier this year, bassist and vocalist Jeff Coffey left his gig with the legendary band Chicago. Jeff will be the first to admit that it was a dream gig, especially for a musician who was just finding his way back into the business after taking a hiatus from all things music. He’s now focused on other musical aspirations, including work on his third solo project, which is still in production. He’s also found himself on the road again as a member of Don Felder’s band. Jeff has come a long way from his roots in the Orlando area and he’s here to share his musical journey with us. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Jeff Coffey.

As a writer, producer, composer and highly sought-after guitarist, James Harrah has left his musical imprint on countless projects, including his own. He’s a guitarist that is always in demand due to his versatility, from jazz to gospel, R&B to pop, AOR to folk and rock to funk, James has delivered at every level, in every genre. He’s credited for his work with Patrick Leonard, Richard Page, Herbie Hancock, Peabo Bryson, Valerie Carter, Peter Cetera, Ray Charles, Andrae Crouch, The Commodores, Kenny Loggins, Jewel, Madonna, Vonda Shepard, Wilson Phillips and many more. Plus, he has a new solo project in the works that will be available in the near future. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome James Harrah.

Being in the right place at the right time is often the foot in the door for many successful musicians, but you can never overlook the sheer talent that cracks the door open even wider. Snuffy Walden will admit that good timing had it’s good fortunes. From his early days in the blues rock band Stray Dog and opening shows for ELP, to becoming a first call studio musician having worked with artists such as Stevie Wonder, Chaka, Laura Branigan, Donna Summer, and Rita Coolidge, Snuffy eventually traveled down a musical path that he never expected with writing scores and themes for popular television shows such as The West Wing, Thirtysomething, and The Wonder Years. Through this work in television, Snuffy has earned ten Emmy nominations and has won an Emmy for his work on The West Wing. He’s been on our wish list for quite some time and today we’re honored to talk with Snuffy Walden.

It was just two years ago that we welcomed Lenny Castro to Inside MusiCast for the first time. Little did we know that in this short span of time since that interview that he would embark on creating the tracks that would become his debut solo album, “Hands Of Silk And Stone”. The album was released over the weekend on digital download sites, such as iTunes and Amazon Music and also appears on streaming platforms, like Spotify and Apple Music. So what musical path did Lenny take in creating this new project and what musicians did he enlist? Let’s find out. Joining us once again to discuss “Hands Of Silk And Stone” is our good friend, Lenny Castro.

If you’ve never heard the name Casey Young, you’ve definitely heard his contributions to many incredible albums.  Although he began honing his musical skills on drums, Casey eventually became fascinated with synthesizers after hearing the music of Todd Rundgren.  From that moment on, Casey became one of go-to guys for creating sounds and sound design. From building synthesizers, to helping artists find the right sound for the right place, to providing sound design support for major tours, Casey Young has collaborated with an astounding list of musicians, including Gary Wright, Yes, Madonna, Michael Sembello, Toto, Mr. Mister, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Greg Mathieson, The Manhattan Transfer, David Sanborn, Robbie Nevil, and many more.  Here to talk to us about all of this in-studio is none other than Casey Young.

Since 1976, Ross Pallone’s passion for live mixing and studio engineering has made an imprint on the musical landscape for some of the biggest names in the business.  His big break came in the early 80’s when he met Michael McDonald while engineering Amy Holland’s debut album “On Your Every Word.” This meeting evolved into a long term relationship with McDonald, but it also set his career in motion with engineering albums and providing live mixing for hundreds of artists, including Alan Parsons, Alice Cooper, Ambrosia, Barbara Streisand, Chaka Khan, Christopher Cross, David Foster, David Pack, Diana Ross, Earth, Wind & Fire, Elton John, Dean Martin, Donna Summer, Gladys Knight, James Newton Howard, Manhattan Transfer, Michael Jackson, and Prince, among many others.  Here to talk about the behind-the-scenes world of studio engineering and live mixing is Ross Pallone.

It’s been seven years since we last visited with Michael Franks, when he had just released his last studio album “Time Together.”  In a few weeks, his brand new album “Music In My Head” is set to be released and it continues in his tradition of combining elements of jazz, pop, and Brazilian styles, with his unmistakable voice leading the way.  “Music In My Head” was a collaboration with several producers, arrangers and musicians, including the late Chuck Loeb, Jimmy Haslip, Scott Petito, Gil Goldstein, Charles Blenzig, Bob Mintzer, David Spinozza, Eric Marienthal, Manuel Quintana, Rachel Z, Billy Kilson, Larry Koonse and many more.  The album drops in early June, but during our chat with Michael we’ll play a few samples to whet your appetite. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back Michael Franks.

If you’ve been listening to Inside MusiCast from our early beginnings in 2006, you’ll recognize this throwback show intro that was voiced by the talented singer/songwriter Jennie DeVoe. Today’s episode of Inside MusiCast is our 200th and we’re celebrating this milestone with a lighthearted conversation with one of our earliest guests and our good friend, bassist Lee Sklar. Lee is without question one of our favorite guests and we’re always pleased when he returns to the show to catch-up and to discuss his amazing career. This episode will also feature questions for Lee from our listeners from around the world. Eddy, our team of Correspondents and I thank you for your support of Inside MusiCast and for indulging us on our quest to take you inside the music one interview at a time. So for this 200th episode, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Lee Sklar.

40 years ago, the Dixie Dregs released “Free Fall”, their debut album on Capricorn Records with band members Andy West, Allen Sloan, Steve Davidowski, Rod Morgenstein and today’s Inside MusiCast guest, guitarist Steve Morse.  This incarnation of the band hasn’t been back together since the release of “Free Fall”, but from now until the end of April, the complete, original line-up is on the road for an extensive tour that will take them all across the USA.  Joining us to discuss all things Dixie Dregs, along with other career highlights, including his tenures with Deep Purple and Kansas, is guitarist Steve Morse.

Neil Stubenhaus is clearly one of the top A-list of bassists in the music business - and he doesn’t need to preach it. It’s proven with his discography and the select artists that he has been able to work with throughout his career. He’s sometimes under the radar, but he’s been on ours for a long time and we’re happy to have him on Inside MusiCast as a guest. From his early years with Blood, Sweat & Tears to playing with Gino Vannelli, from Larry Carlton to Karizma, Stubenhaus is about as solid as they come. He’s got something to say about the craft of playing the instrument, as the industry in general. Inside MusiCast is please to welcome Neil Stubenhaus.

David Garfield is as passionate a musician as he is talented. His latest project is massive undertaking and involves collaborations with the best musicians in the music business. “Outside The Box” is the working title and Creatchy has already amassed over 40 tracks - and he’s still going. This labor of love is a collection of original tracks, as well as new arrangements of classic songs. The guest list on this project is off the charts, including Vinnie Colaiuta, Greg Phillinganes, Joe Porcaro, Paul Jackson, Jr., Freddie Washington, Kirk Whalum, Doc Kupka, Eric Marienthal, Will Lee, Steve Ferrone, Chris Trujillo, Walt Fowler, Brandon Fields, David Paich, Shannon Forrest, Jimmie Lee Sloas, and so many more. Here to chat with us more about this amazing project is our good friend David Garfield.

Andy Timmons is one of the most talented and sought after guitarists in the business. He is often referred to as “The Tone King” by his peers and colleagues, as he possesses an arsenal of tones and is as versatile a guitarist as you will encounter. Andy’s career has led him to performing with the glam band Danger Danger, to a 15 year position as musical director for Olivia Newton John, to being a part of Simon Phillips Protocol projects. He’s also performed with artists ranging from Kip Winger, Paula Abdul, Paul Stanley, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Steve Morse, Mike Stern, Ted Nugent and many more. We’re pleased to welcome to Inside MusiCast, Andy Timmons.

Do you smell smoke? We do. And, where there’s smoke, there’s probably a fire somewhere. If you’re in Nashville, it was probably started by one of the area’s hottest arrangers and his smokin-est band, The Smoking Section. They burn it up at 3rd & Lindsley every few weeks. Tim Akers knows the Nashville scene better than anyone and is on the A-list of arrangers and session players who know how to get the job done. When you call on Tim Akers, you get the best arranger, keyboardist, and MD who can assemble the best team of A-list musicians to play for the best names in the biz: Michael McDonald, Keith Urban, Kenny Loggins, Patti LaBelle and so many more. He’s funky, can arrange tunes better than the original, and is just plain smokin’. Rick and Eddy have their fire extinguishers out to welcome Tim Akers to Inside MusiCast.

On this special edition of Inside MusiCast, we’re breaking down Toto’s second studio album track-by-track. After the success of their debut album, Toto pushes the limits with Hydra by infusing a progressive rock approach in what may be their most unique and conceptualized album in their entire catalog. Joining us for this trip back to 1979 is Toto keyboardist, programmer, and our good friend, Steve Porcaro.

Anthony Robustelli’s path to music started at a very early age.  His father was the leader of a big band and music was always prominent with a variety of instruments always at his fingertips.  Anthony’s career includes the role of musical director for Gloria Gaynor, a touring stint with Michael Franti and Spearhead, along with several solo projects under his belt.  It’s no secret that Anthony is in ardent fan of Steely Dan.  In fact, his most recent projects center around the Dan, including his new book titled “Steely Dan FAQ”, which contains incredibly detailed information about all aspects of the band.  He has also released a new album titled “The Steely Dan Sessions: Interpretations Of Unrealized Classics” that diehard Steely Dan fans will truly appreciate, as Anthony breathes life into lost classics from Fagen and Becker.  Here to discuss these projects and more is none other that Anthony Robustelli.

It’s been nearly a decade since Michael McDonald has released an album of original material, but he’s back with what may arguably be his finest effort over the course of his illustrious career. The 12 track album titled “Wide Open” is a musically diverse journey that explores elements of pop, rock, country, folk, jazz, blues and soul. Produced by Shannon Forrest, the album enlists an amazing cast of musicians, including Shannon, Amy Holland McDonald, Michael Landau, Robben Ford, Marcus Miller, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, Bernie Chiaravalle, Dan Huff, Tom Scott, Larry Goldings, Tommy Simms, Brandon Marsalis and many others. Yet, the heart of “Wide Open” is the lyrics. Perhaps for the first time in his career, Michael wears his heart on his sleeve, as he presents a very personal account of his path to becoming sober and forging ahead to live life in the open. Here to talk more about “Wide Open” is our good friend and past guest, Michael McDonald.

Steve Weingart and Renee Jones are a match made in music.  High school sweethearts, they spent their early years growing together with music being their mutual passion.  Eventually they made the move to Los Angeles, with Steve focusing on music as his profession.  Renee didn’t initially pursue music as her career path, but it was Steve’s invitation for her to perform on his solo album Dark Blue Dream that turned her focus to music as a profession, which she continues to pursue to this day.  Steve and Renee have recently collaborated on a brand new album project titled “Oasis” - a project spawned by Steve’s endorsement by Casio and features him performing on the new Casio GP500 Grand Hybrid, while Renee lends her talents on vocals and bass.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show Steve Weingart and his wife Renee Jones.

A few months ago when Toto announced the musician who would be filling the shoes of David Hungate and Mike Porcaro, we knew that it would raise a lot of curiosity amongst the band’s loyal fans when they heard the name Shem von Schroeck.

The truth of the matter is that we’ve known about Shem for quite some time. In fact, we interviewed him nearly a decade ago and discovered just how multi-talented he really is. Shem is not only a bassist, but a drummer, keyboardist, arranger, producer, operatic vocalist, author, recording engineer, video editor, and a diehard Trekkie. Toto fans who have witnessed one of his early performances with the band surely have a solid understanding of why Shem is a perfect fit to fill the coveted position of bass guitar and backing vocalist for the foreseeable future. He’s not only a perfect fit as a musician, but he has the humble, welcoming style of personality that embodies the spirit of his bandmates. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back Shem von Schroeck.

Stewart Copeland isn’t a one trick pony.  When he first joined us on Inside MusiCast four years ago, we spent nearly an hour and half talking about his various journeys in the world of music and barely spoke about his tenure with The Police.  From opera, avant garde, classical, jazz, pop, rock, reggae, to other forms of world music, Stewart Copeland lives for musical exploration and the quest for continued knowledge.  A brand new project is in the works that has found Stewart collaborating with some incredible musicians, including Vittorio Cosma, Adrian Belew and Level 42’s Mark King.  They call themselves Gizmodrome and we’re honored to have Stewart Copeland back to chat about this very cool project. 

Born and raised in L.A., Paul Jackson, Jr. was destined to become one of the most recorded guitarists in the music business. You’ve heard him play on major albums and for major artists over the past four decades - Michael Jackson, Daft Punk, Elton John, Michael Franks, Jeff Lorber, Rod Stewart, Lionel Richie, George Benson, and the list goes on. We’ve finally connected with the Grammy-winning guitarist to talk about his career, collaborations, solo work, and also how he remains a most sought-after session guitarist in this new global, digital session age. We’ve waited for this for a long time and we’re happy to welcome Paul Jackson, Jr. to Inside MusiCast.

Five years ago, Gino Vannelli joined us for our 100th episode of Inside MusiCast.  At the time, he was in the process of recovering from a nearly devastating in-ear monitor accident that he feared had permanently damaged his hearing.  Fortunately, through a variety of self-healing therapies and teaching himself new singing methods, Gino overcame the trauma and has been touring, writing and recording new music.  In fact, Gino has written over 40 songs since his last album project nearly eight years ago and is in the process of completing a brand new album.  To chat about this new album project among other topics, inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Gino Vannelli.

From playing clubs at the age of 16, to venturing off to London with his friend Zoot Money and formed Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band when he was 19, Andy Summers musical journey was just beginning to flourish.  Summers went on to perform with other bands and musicians including The Soft Machine, The Animals, Kevin Coyne, Jon Lord, Joan Armatrading, David Essex, Neil Sedaka, and Kevin Ayers.  But it was his gig with Strontium 90 that introduced him to Gordon Sumner and Stewart Copeland that catapulted his career into one of the most successful bands ever, The Police.  After the band’s final studio album, “Synchronicity” in 1983, Summers, like his bandmates, embarked on solo careers that continue to this day.  In fact, Andy recently released his 14th solo project “Triboluminescence” and he’s here to talk to us about it.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Andy Summers.

Jeff Lorber continues to climb to new levels as a musician and with his music.  With each new album project, his goal is to make improvements and create even better music than before.  The new Jeff Lorber Fusion project titled “Prototype” is the latest chapter in his musical saga and includes some familiar faces, as well a some new additions.  Once again, Jeff reunites with bassist Jimmy Haslip and drummer Gary Novak as the core of the Jeff Lorber Fusion.  Saxophonist Andy Snitzer makes his debut with the group and the album contains several incredible guest musicians, such as Nathan East, Chuck Loeb, Larry Koonse, Paul Jackson, Jr. and Dave Mann.  It’s been nearly four years since we last connected with Jeff, so we’re pleased to have him back to chat about the new record and to catch-up.  Inside MusiCast is please to once again welcome Jeff Lorber.

It’s been nearly seven years since we last connected with Bernie Chiaravalle, but it goes without saying that he’s been a busy musician.  His long standing relationship with Michael McDonald has kept him moving on the road and in the studio.  He played an integral role with Amy Holland’s latest album “Light On My Path” and he has released three additional solo projects since our chat with him back in 2010.  It’s only been a year since he released his last album “One Bright Moment” but on April 18, Bernie is set to release perhaps his most introspective and personal album to date, “Make Some Sense Of This” - an album project that he wrote, performed, engineered and produced from start to finish.  Here to talk to us more about this new album project is our good friend, Bernie Chiaravalle. 

The title of Raul Midón’s brand new album, “Bad Ass And Blind”, sums it up pretty nicely. True, Raul is blind and has been since birth, but when it comes to music he’s as badass as they come. The New York Times described him as “a one man band who turns a guitar into an orchestra and his voice into a chorus.” Since 1999, Raul has released eight solo albums that touch a variety of musical landscapes and features his blazing, percussive-style finger work on the guitar, as well as his soulful, silky vocals. His talents have also been featured on tours, sessions and album projects for artists such as Shakira, India Arie, Al Jarreau, Marcus Miller, Alejandro Sanz, Julio Iglesias, Stevie Wonder, Jason Mraz, and Herbie Hancock. His ninth studio album, “Bad Ass And Blind”, is set to be released on March 24 and will find Raul expanding into his jazz roots and featuring compositions that explore linear modal harmony, similar to the musical avenues taken by jazz legends Miles Davis and Wayne Shorter. To expand on his incredible journey in music and to chat further about his brand new album, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Raul Midón.

For those of you who love music and had hopes of someday performing in front of thousands of screaming fans and touring the world, meet Keith Howland.  His path to the music business began with those very same dreams that eventually became his reality.  In the early 80’s when Keith attended James Madison University, he caught a Chicago concert on campus and it turned out to be one of the best performances he’s ever witnessed.  After the show, he remembers catching a glimpse of Chicago guitarist Chris Pinnick and thought to himself, “That’s the luckiest guy in the world.  I wish I could get a gig like that.”  His wish eventually came true, but not before paying his dues and working his way into the audition that eventually changed his entire career.  Here to tell us about this incredible journey to the band Chicago is Keith Howland. 

Having studied classical organ at a young age, Bill Meyers thought of himself as a music snob. While his friends were into Led Zeppelin and other rock artists, Bill was focusing on the works of Bach. Bill honed his skills at the University of DePaul where he discovered a love for jazz, blues and R&B and started making his own music. A demo he created landed in the hands of Gino Vannelli and the rest is history. Bill joined Gino’s touring band, which eventually led him on his path in the music industry performing, producing, arranging and writing music for the likes of Madonna, Earth Wind and Fire, George Dukes, Boz Scaggs, Lou Rawls, David Foster, Natalie Cole, Sheila E, and many others. Here to expand on his incredible career is Bill Meyers.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we take you to Rio de Janeiro to chat with a multifaceted musician whose music explores many avenues, including jazz, soul, MPB, rock, funk, and a deep love for the West Coast sound – Ed Motta. Since launching his solo career in 1990, Ed has released 13 albums containing these various music elements, but it was his 2013 release “AOR” that caught our attention here at Inside MusiCast. For lovers of that smooth, West Coast vibe, “AOR” became an instant classic. Earlier this year, Ed followed-up “AOR” with “Perpetual Gateways”, a record that again explores similar West Coast territory, but takes a journey into some well-crafted jazz and includes some heavy duty guest musicians, including Hubert Laws, Greg Phillinganes. Patrice Rushen, and Marvin ‘Smitty’ Smith. Needless to say, Ed Motta is a musician’s musician and we’re excited to have him here with us today. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Ed Motta.

Stephen Duros, also knows as Astro, is a guitarist, lighting technician for TOTO, and a talented cartoonist.  His approach to lighting for Toto is literally ‘analog’ by today’s standards, as his lightning method includes very little automation.  He relies on his astute sense of Toto’s music in order to trigger lighting effects for their shows. If you’ve ever seen Toto live, you’ll understand just how accurate and artistic his work can be.  But Stephen’s talents go beyond the lights.  He’s also a brilliant guitarist with a focus on classical and Flamenco.  In fact, Stephen performed with the amazing Ottmar Liebert for several years and was even credited on Liebert’s Grammy nominated album The Scent Of Light.  Here to discuss his many talents, including his cartooning, is Stephen ‘Astro’ Duros.

From his humble beginnings in Nebraska, to working his way into a band as a backing vocalist, to fronting the band that eventually became The Tubes, Fee Waybill was born to entertain. But being the front man in the band wasn’t just about singing the tunes. The Tubes live performances were an extravaganza of bondage, simulated sex, chainsaws, phallic props, smashing televisions, and often partially nude dancers and band members. Not only were The Tubes pioneers of incorporating theatrics and shock value into their live shows, but they were also a band of brilliant musicians. Their early albums were a fusion of rock and jazz that were comparable to Zappa and incorporated lyrics that satirized pop culture, politics, religion and even sexual taboos. They garnered a cult following, but didn’t have a major hit on their hands until they connected with producer David Foster in 1981. Together with Steve Lukather, the Tubes scored their first major hit “Talk To Ya’ Later” and two years later topped its success with the even more successful “She’s A Beauty.” But as mentioned before, Fee is a man of many talents and he’s here to tell us all about them. Inside MusiCast welcomes Fee Waybill.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome Michelle Willis who hails from Toronto and is quickly gaining attention through her appearances opening and performing with Snarky Puppy, as well as her current tour in support of the legendary David Crosby.  Recently, Michelle released her debut solo album titled “See Us Through”, an album that was six years in the making and as mature a debut album as you could ask for.  The album features eight tracks of very personal lyrical accounts wrapped around gorgeous vocal harmonies, it’s beautifully engineered, and musically supported by some of the best players in Toronto.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Michelle Willis.

When he was only 13 years old, Joe Vana’s life was forever changed through a chance meeting with Survivor’s Jim Peterik. As Joe will tell you, Jim taught him everything he knew about music and the music business. But it wasn’t until he was 28 years old that he discovered his voice, but when he did he became Peterik’s in-house demo singer for many years. Joe and Jim eventually created a band called Project Voyager, which ultimately became Mecca. In 2002, Mecca released its debut, self-titled album that featured David Hungate on bass, Shannon Forrest on drums, Fergie Frederiksen and Joe on vocals, Mark Aquino on guitars and Jimmy Nichols on keyboards. Nine years later, Mecca released their follow-up titled “Undeniable” and on October 14 of this year, Mecca released the band’s third album “Mecca III.” Here to discuss the new album is Mecca’s Joe Vana.

When he was only 13 years old, Joe Vana’s life was forever changed through a chance meeting with Survivor’s Jim Peterik. As Joe will tell you, Jim taught him everything he knew about music and the music business. But it wasn’t until he was 28 years old that he discovered his voice, but when he did he became Peterik’s in-house demo singer for many years. Joe and Jim eventually created a band called Project Voyager, which ultimately became Mecca. In 2002, Mecca released its debut, self-titled album that featured David Hungate on bass, Shannon Forrest on drums, Fergie Frederiksen and Joe on vocals, Mark Aquino on guitars and Jimmy Nichols on keyboards. Nine years later, Mecca released their follow-up titled “Undeniable” and on October 14 of this year, Mecca released the band’s third album “Mecca III.” Here to discuss the new album is Mecca’s Joe Vana.

Amy Holland has been surrounded by music since the day she was born.  Her mother was a singer and performer and her father was also involved in the music industry.  She headed to LA when she was only 15 years old to pursue her own career in music, which is where she met Michael McDonald, who co-produced her first album and eventually became her husband.  Amy was on top of the world with her top 40 hit “How Do I Survive” and a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 1981, along with a follow-up album in 1983.  After a lengthy and difficult battle with cancer, Amy returned to music and released her third studio album in 2008 titled “The Journey To Miracle River.”  Amy’s musical journey continues and a few weeks ago she released the brand new album “Light On My Path.”  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Amy Holland.

Six years ago, Inside MusiCast discovered an incredible band out of Minneapolis called Terramara.  When we heard their music, we just knew we needed to invite the band’s front man, Rob Meany, to be a guest on our show.  Since that interview, Rob has focused his efforts on writing songs for a brand new album, but not for Terramara.  This time Rob has created a debut solo album titled Ferris Wheels Unbound which he released on May 1 and contains 12 new tracks that explore Rob’s singer/songwriter approach, as well as some tracks reminiscent of Terramara.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Rob Meany.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back Jon Herington to discuss his new album, “Adult Entertainment” that will be released tomorrow - June 14. This is Jon’s first studio release since “Time On My Hands”, which was released four years ago. Since then, Jon has been busy touring with Steely Dan, Madeleine Peyroux, completing his book of arrangements and tablature for guitar, as well an instructional video. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jon Herington!

Since 1992, Don Breithaupt has steered his band Monkey House on a path of musical progress.  In 2012 when we first connected with Don, the band had just released their third album “Headquarters,” which caught the attention of all us here at Inside MusiCast – most notably how their songs contained a heavy melodic approach reminiscent of Steely Dan. The band’s latest album “Left,” which will be released on June 3, picks up where “Headquarters” left off and includes contributions from some incredibly talented guest musicians, including Elliott Randall, Drew Zingg, Michael Leonhart, Jay Graydon. Kim Mitchell, and Lucy Woodward.  “Left” contains brilliantly crafted songs that may be the band’s finest collection to date.  In fact, during our chat with Don today, you’ll hear the world premiere of a few songs from the album.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Don Breithaupt.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome one of the greatest voices in the history of popular music, Jon Anderson. The original voice of Yes, Jon has been creating music for close to five decades and shows no signs of slowing down. He is currently on the road with Jean Luc Ponty and will soon reunite with Rick Wakeman and Trevor Rabin to create more Yes inspired music. But that’s only the beginning, as Jon’s musical spirit is filled with galaxies of music with his best work yet to come. Inside MusiCast is honored to welcome a music legend, Jon Anderson.

In cooking, there’s always that secret ingredient that make a dish special. In the LA music scene, Lenny Castro has been that secret ingredient for decades.  Lenny has recorded and toured with hundreds of major recording artists throughout his amazing career. His mastery of percussion has made him a first-call studio musician and one of the most recorded in the history of popular music.  Lenny had the good fortune to not have to “pound the pavement” for his first gigs in LA. It was Melissa Manchester who encouraged the teenage New York native to follow her to LA. He didn’t think twice and took the job.  One contact led to another and he found himself playing gigs on a regular basis. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome the legendary  Lenny Castro.

Michael Sherwood hails from a deep lineage of musicians, and similar to his family members, Michael has formed a solid career in the music industry. From his early days growing-up in Las Vegas and forming the band Lodgic, Michael eventually befriended the Toto band members, which led to his long-time friendship with Steve Porcaro. In addition to his songwriting collaborations with Steve, Michael has also worked with Air Supply, Anderson Bruford Wakeman and Howe, Chris Squire, Conspiracy, Circa, Lisa Loeb and Andrew Rosenthal and their incredible Swifty’s Bazaar album project. Recently, Michael was involved with both David Paich and Steve Porcaro with writing duties on Toto XIV and has co-produced Steve Porcaro’s soon to be released debut solo album titled “Someday Somehow”. Inside MusiCast welcomes Michael Sherwood.

While Inside MusiCast has focused on bringing you the legendary musicians who have helped to shape the world music, we’re always keeping our ears peeled for the next generation of musicians who will keep this spirit alive and ongoing. On today’s episode, we turn our attention to the Los Angeles based jazz, funk and soul trio, Organ Freeman. While the band’s name might make you snicker, their music will definitely put a smile on your face and a new groove in your soul. This fresh, new band is starting to make a name for themselves in Southern California and the Bay area, so we thought we’d help spread their music and their story. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome organist and key bassist Trevor Steer of Organ Freeman.

Call it divine intervention, but when Shawn Lee and Andy Platts met for the first time back in 2008, they knew they had a special musical chemistry. This duo from the UK each had their own path carved in the music scene; Andy with his band Mamas Gun and Shawn who had a deep run in various bands, including studio work in LA and a mix of renowned solo projects, such as his Ping Pong Orchestra. Yet, they discovered that they each had a passion for West Coast AOR that led them to their first album project as Young Gun Silver Fox, titled “West End Coast” – an album that has caught the attention of all of us at Inside MusiCast and West Coast lovers across the globe. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Shawn Lee and Andy Platts from Young Gun Silver Fox.

Great musicians make great albums, but when you add a world class recording engineer and producer to the mix, you can take your project to another level. For nearly six decades, this is exactly what Al Schmitt has done for the world of music. Since the late 1950’s, Al Schmitt has engineered and produced thousands of album projects for some of the most well-known artists in the world, such as Henry Mancini, Sam Cooke, Jefferson Airplane, George Benson, Steely Dan, Toto, Michael Franks, Pablo Cruise, Natalie Cole, Ray Charles, Al Jarreau, Larry Carlton, Joe Sample, Tower of Power and so many more. Al’s approach to recording and producing music is as much about simplicity as it is about technicality. His ears and his instincts are the heart of his craft, as well as his ability to be the musician’s best friend in the studio. At 85 years young, Al Schmitt continues to be a first call engineer and his plate is full for the coming year. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Grammy award-winning engineer and producer, Al Schmitt.

When we last spoke to Keiko Matsui in March of 2011, she had just released “The Road”, which featured an incredible lineup of musicians, such as Vinnie Colaiuta, Richard Bona, James Hara and Kirk Whalum. Since then, Keiko has released another solo project titled “Soul Quest”, as well as teaming up with the legendary Bob James for their album “Altair & Vega.” Outside of the studio, Keiko is a passionate and relentless world traveler, bringing her music to her fans all over the world. In doing so, she captured an incredible performance in her native country of Japan that has recently been released as a CD/DVD combo titled “Keiko: Live In Tokyo”. It’s her first live release in many years and it features past Inside MusiCast guest Kirk Whalum and guitarist Chuck Loeb. Here to talk to us more about this project is Keiko Matsui.

The influence of West Coast AOR runs deep in the souls of many career musicians. Ask any studio or touring musician about their inspirations and you’re bound to hear an answer that would include the talented players who laced the liner notes of the great albums from the 70’s and 80’s. Tim Cashion is no exception. For the past 15 years, Tim has provided keyboard and vocal support to the legendary band Grand Funk Railroad. Prior to that, he has toured with the likes of Takanaka, Robert Palmer, Jon Secada and Bob Seger. Yet deep in his musical soul there lied a passion for West Coast AOR. In 2005, Tim began to explore this musical path and created the tracks that became his personal Sargent Pepper’s titled “Find Us On The Dial.” The album sat in silence – until now. To tell us more about this incredible album and the unique story about its release is Tim Cashion.

Peter Friestedt is one of Sweden¹s premiere musicians and guitarists. Having studied music at several conservatories in Sweden, Peter eventually landed in Los Angeles to study at the Los Angeles Music Academy. There he studied under Frank Gambale and his guitar staff, but sometimes education will only get you so far.  Peter wanted his music in the hands and ears of Bill Champlin, so he borrowed a friend¹scar, drove to Bill¹s house and delivered a cassette tape that contained some of his music.  This was the start of Peter’s “LA Project” - his first album project that was eventually distributed all over Europe and garnered the attention of his peers and fans worldwide.  It also catapulted Peter to various projects over the past two decades - his latest being the recently released CWF album that features Champlin and Toto vocalist, Joseph Williams.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome both Peter Friestedt and Bill Champlin.

Tom Canning. You know him best for his excellent writing, arranging and for his amazing keyboard touches on most of Al Jarreau’s music. But the native New Yorker’s music career started well before Al, when he performed and recorded with John Klemmer, Freddie King, T-Bone Burnett and others. But as we all know, it was an unsigned Al Jarreau who hired Canning as his music director in 1974 and the rest is history. You know the tracks, Roof Garden, Breakin’ Away, Never Givin’ Up - all containing Canning’s masterful arranging and performing. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tom Canning

Sometimes being an incredibly talented musician is only half the battle when you want to make it into the music industry.  Drummer Tom Brechtlein’s rise to success is the classic tale of hard work, perseverance and self-promotion.  From his  big break of landing a steady gig with Chick Corea in 1978, he has gone on to perform with some heavyweights, such as Wayne Shorter, Al Dimeola, Jean Luc Ponty, Robben Ford, Eric Johnson, Christopher Cross and many others.  Over the past eight years, Brechtlein has toured extensively with Kenny Loggins and has also found a new niche with teaching drums and percussion. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tom Brechtlein.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back Steve Porcaro. When we first interviewed Steve in 2009, he broke the news to us that he was working on his first solo album project. If you heard the interview, you were also treated to two demos that Steve allowed us to share. After a busy six years with touring with Toto, his ongoing scoring project for the TV show “Justified”, along with his involvement in the production of Toto’s latest studio album, Steve is more determined than ever to finish the solo album that has taken a back seat these other projects. Inside MusiCast is once again pleased to welcome Steve Porcaro.

Bill Maxwell’s talents stretch far beyond his drumming skills. Over the years, the Oklahoma native has become a first call LA session drummer, arranger, composer, and producer whose career began in a blues band and continued to a producer/drummer role with Andraé Crouch and The Disciples. His career blossomed as he collaborated with artists such as Luther Vandross, Kirk Whalum, the Crusaders, Freddie Hubbard and The Winans. Bill has recently played the role as music director for performances at the White House by playing for President Obama and the First Lady. His abilities and discography are vast and we welcome Bill Maxwell to Inside MusiCast.

Jimmy Haslip is a renaissance man who hasn’t let boundaries define him. As an original band member of the Yellowjackets, his pronounced influence over the past 3 decades is seen in musicians today. He has demonstrated an uncanny ability to deliver a groove in not only fusion, but also Latin, pop and international genres. Haslip today has evolved from musician-composer to an in-demand, producer extraordinaire. Inside MusiCast welcomes back Jimmy Haslip.

Since the release of their debut album ‘Full Power’ in early 2014, Tristan is enjoying an ever-increasing fan base. The Netherlands-based soul, R&B, and jazz fusion band definitely has a sound that even Steve Lukather describes as “The best of the ‘70’s brought to 2015!” In fact, before vocalist Evelyn Kallansee joined the band, Tristan had already been creating great fusion and jazz with stellar musicianship. With the release of their latest album titled “2nd Phase”, we find Tristan’s sound evolving and maturing, delivering some of the freshest blend of pop, soul and jazz that we’ve heard in quite a while. Here to talk to us about Tristan and their brand new record, Inside MusiCast welcomes band members Evelyn Kallansee and Sebastiaan Cornelissen.

When it comes to West Coast music, Tommy Funderburk has been an icon for decades. If you’re familiar with Airplay, The Front, What If, Richard Marx, Steve Lukather, REO Speedwagon, Starship and Yes, then you’ve heard either his voice or his compositions over the years. He and past Inside MusiCast guest Bruce Gaitsch collaborated to form a songwriting partnership called King of Hearts in the late 80’s with their debut album loaded with West Coast gems. After several delays, it was finally was released in Japan. It was a hit and launched them on a successful Japanese tour. Today they are collaborating again as King of Hearts and will soon be touring Japan, bringing the duos musicianship to the stage once more. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tommy Funderburk.

A new Toto album doesn’t come along too often, so when one does it’s a pretty exciting topic for all of us at Inside MusiCast. In fact, Inside MusiCast began in 2006 – a few months after the release of the band’s last album “Falling In Between.” So yes, we’re as stoked about Toto XIV as Toto fans are from around the world and we’re not going to miss this opportunity to discuss it. The album was released this past Friday in Europe and is being released this week in the USA and a few other parts of the world. To gather even more insight on what has shaped-up to be arguably one of the band’s finest albums, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome a cat who was the foundation behind Toto XIV – CJ Vanston.

It’s been nine years since Toto last released a new studio album and many fans thought that Falling In Between might have been the band’s final chapter. Now, the story continues. Toto XIV is set to launch in Europe on March 20, the UK and Oceana on March 23 and North America on March 24. The album features eleven tracks and a line-up that is as close to the original band as we’ve seen in many years, including David Paich, Steve Porcaro, Joseph Williams, David Hungate and here to talk about this fantastic new album, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back Steve Lukather.

Until they had won their first Grammy for Best R&B Performance last year, Snarky Puppy was flying under the musical radar. Not anymore. The Grammy for their “Family Dinner” performance with Lalah Hathaway singing the track “Something” changed things for the band that formed a decade ago at the University of North Texas. Today, the highly acclaimed jazz/fusion/funk/pop ensemble has exploded onto the global touring scene and they’re taking no prisoners. Bassist Mike League is Snarky Puppy’s leader, heading-up a cast of amazing musicians who are seemingly on tour and making music non-stop. The past tens years have been an amazing ride for Mike and the band, but this is only the beginning. Inside MusiCast welcomes Snarky Puppy’s Mike League.

In the world of recording and session musicians, there are names that are staples on hundreds of major recordings – names like Purdie, Lukather, Mathieson, Phillinganes, Porcaro, Kunkel, Sklar, Kortchmar, Raine, to name a few.  One name that stands large amongst these session giants is today’s guest, Jerry Hey.  Having played since the age of three, Jerry followed his passion for music to Indiana University, then on to Hawaii to form Seawind, and eventually landed in L.A. where his trumpet skills have graced some of the biggest selling albums of all-time for artists such as Quincy Jones, Earth Wind and Fire, Al Jarreau, Toto, Michael Jackson, The Tubes, George Benson, The Manhattan Transfer and so many others.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to kick off 2015 with Jerry Hey. 

Tris Imboden not only knows the meaning of gratitude, but he lives with it every day. As a self-taught musician, Tris worked his way into the world of music at a young age and never looked back. From high school surf bands, to his band Honk, to his studio and touring connections with Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Steve Vai, Neil Diamond, Roger Daltry, Richard Marx, Al Jarreau, Firefall and Crosby, Stills and Nash, along with his long-standing gig as the drummer for Chicago, Tris has rarely had any down time throughout a career that has spanned more than four decades. But gratitude comes not only from this success with music. Tris is a cancer survivor and has developed a heightened sense of gratitude for all that encompasses him – from surfing, to music, to life. Inside MusiCast welcomes Tris Imboden.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we take you back to Norway for a chat with past guest Ole Børud. We last spoke to Ole back in 2011 when he released his second solo album, “Keep Movin.” Since that time, he has been involved in other projects, including reuniting with his band Extol and released their fifth studio album titled “Extol”. He also had the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas to perform with Santa Fe and the Fast City Horns. His latest efforts have focused on the conception and release of his new solo project “Stepping Up”, a brand new collection of West Coast oriented songs that is arguably some of his best work to date. Inside MusiCast welcomes back Ole Børud.

From blue-eyed soul to pop, R&B and standards singer/songwriter, Bobby Caldwell is still at the top of his game. The center of his musical world is the huge 1978 R&B hit “What You Won’t Do For Love”. You know the song well - the hooks, the horns and the groove. The track has become one of the most beloved R&B hits in the world and is constantly on global playlists. From Japan to Australia to Denmark, Bobby Caldwell’s ability to tour continuously is proof that there is still demand for his smooth, sultry and addictive vocals. The multi-instrumentalist has worked with the best of the best, from TOTO to Chicago to Boz Scaggs, Peter Cetera and Al Jarreau to create compositions that end up as hits. Whether singing big-band classics or R&B grooves, Bobby Caldwell continues to be the real deal. Inside MusiCast welcomes Bobby Caldwell.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re focusing our attention on a Swedish band whose music lives and breathes West Coast/AOR – Work Of Art. Keybord and vocalist Lars Säfsund, guitarist Robert Säll and drummer Herman Furin are a trio of best friends and dynamic musicians whose music epitomizes the melodic rock genre that has heavily influenced them for several decades. On September 19, Work Of Art will release their third studio album in Europe, followed by the US release on September 22. The album is titled “Framework” and it’s quite possibly their most sophisticated collection of songs since their debut album “Artwork” in 2008. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome all three members of Work of Art.

Bill LaBounty keeps creating great albums. It’s proof that his musical mind is constantly active and sharp as ever. With his new release, ‘Into Something Blue’, LaBounty delivers a collection of work that includes original tunes, but he also finds inspiration in songs by The Drifters, Ray Charles and even Bob Dylan. Think of these songs as wet clay in the hands of a master potter. And, with a little help from guitarist Larry Carlton, that’s what Bill LaBounty does with music - he makes it his own with his own touch. As always, Bill never disappoints. He delivers. Inside MusiCast welcomes our good friend, Bill LaBounty.

Inside MusiCast guests are like a who’s who in the world of music. Names like Lukather, Sklar, Loggins, McDonald, Wooten, Purdie, Page, Parsons – and the list goes on. But the world of music is always evolving with new, amazing talent coming onto the scene with regularity, such as today’s guest Jarrod Lawson. Jarrod has been honing his keyboard and vocal chops since he was a kid and is a prominent player in the jazz scene in Portland, Oregon. He recently released his debut, self-titled solo album and it’s burning up the soul chart in the UK, as well as ranking very high on various charts on Amazon. Like Terramara, Gabe Dixon, Samuel Purdey, Ole Borud and Kere Buchanan – to name a few - Jarrod Lawson is an emerging talent that we’re fortunate to include on our guest list. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jarrod Lawson.

It’s Father’s Day here in the States and in many other countries around the world and Inside MusiCast is celebrating the day with Kiki Ebsen and her brand new album project titled “Scarecrow Sessions”.  The album is a tribute to her late father, Buddy Ebsen, who was a well known actor for his roles in many film and television projects, including his role as the lovable Jed Clampett on “The Beverly Hillbillies.”  “Scarecrow Sessions” is Kiki’s foray into jazz and standards and is a labor of love in memory of her father.  Joining us to chat more about the album is our good friend and past Inside MusiCast guest, Kiki Ebsen.

Brent Bourgeois is back - at least in the recording sense. As half of the ’80s West coast band Bourgeois Tagg, the keyboardist-writer had connected with Todd Rundgren to produce some great records. Then, after a move to Nashville, he released his CCM record Come Join The Living World - his last recording since 1994. It spawned hits songs that caught the ears of many in the Nashville scene. Twenty years later, Brent Bourgeois returns with a new album “Don’t Look Back and it seems as if he never missed a beat. Inside MusiCast welcomes Brent Bourgeois.

Growing up in Van Nuys, California, Marty Walsh hit his stride in music just as his dad, and brothers did - they were all naturals. With that said, it’s no surprise that Jay Graydon was the bass player in his brother Dan’s band.  As it pans out, Jay soon encouraged Marty to study music in college and he took the advice. This led to a series of events that would have Walsh playing sessions with Graydon, Seals and Crofts and Yvonne Elliman.  In the early ’80s, he found himself on the hits “9 to5” by Dolly Parton, “She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer  and “Heartlight” by Neil Diamond. In ‘85, he played guitar on Supertramps’ “Brother Where You Bound” and then toured with the band until1988, when they released “Free As A Bird.” He’s a veteran musician who still continues to gig and is faculty member at The Berklee College of Music in Boston – an impressive way to give back to new, emerging talent. And he recently released his debut solo CD titled “The Total Plan.”  Inside MusiCast welcomes Marty Walsh.

Having spent the past four decades immersed in the music business, John Oates’ passion for music has never wavered. Since the heyday of Hall And Oates, he has continually discovered new musical avenues to explore, including his latest solo release “Good Road To Follow”, which was assembled as a collection of three EP’s and features collaborations with Vince Gill, Hot Chelle Rae, Ryan Tedder of One Republic and the legendary Jerry Douglas. And if that’s not enough, he and Daryl Hall have recently been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. Inside MusiCast welcomes back John Oates.

After two decades of steady work as a solo artist, as well as a session and touring guitarist and vocalist, Tony Spinner continues to quietly leave his impressionable mark on everything he touches. You might have become acquainted with him for his touring role with Toto that lasted nearly a decade. During those years, he proved to be a consistent presence as he toured with them to all parts of the globe. He’s also worked extensively with artists such as Mr. Big and Pat Travers. But Tony’s musical heart is much more complex. This bluesy guitarist explores a fresh musical direction for he and his band with his latest solo release, Earth Music For Aliens. Inside MusiCast welcomes one of the best guys in the business, Tony Spinner.

Nathan East is arguably the busiest bassist on the planet. With over 40 years of performing at the highest level, Nathan continues his musical journey with touring and sessions for artists such Eric Clapton, Daft Punk, Fourplay, and Toto. He has also touched the music of so many incredible artists, such as Barry White, Phil Collins, Kenny Loggins, Michael Jackson, Sting, Babyface, BB King, Patrice Rushen, Al Jarreau and the list goes on. Having spent his entire career as an A-list bassist, he never took the time to create his own solo album – until now.  Nathan’s self-titled, debut solo project will be released tomorrow, March 25 by the Yamaha Entertainment Group. The album brings together just what you would expect – a stellar line-up of musicians and guests, impeccable production quality, and well-crafted arrangements and musicianship on fourteen tracks. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Nathan East.

Over the past decade, Keith Carlock has gained worldwide notoriety through his steady gig with Steely Dan. In uncharacteristic fashion, Keith has held the reigns behind Steely’s drum set since joining the band for the recording of their 2003 album “Everything Must Go.” Since then, Keith has been a hot prospect and has performed with high profiles artists, such as Sting, John Mayer, James Taylor, Chris Botti, Oz Noy, Wayne Krantz, Diana Ross, Faith Hill and many others. And soon, Keith will be taking over drumming duties for Toto this year for both the upcoming world tour, as well as performing on the band’s long awaited album project. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Keith Carlock.

For the first time on Inside MusiCast we turn our focus to the land down under and one of its extremely talented artists, Kere Buchanan. Having been heavily influenced by his father, Kere began playing piano at the age of three, picked-up the drums at 10 and by the age of 12 he was already diving into sessions. He has worked with some of the finest artists in Australia, including Tina Arena, Marcia Hines, Kasey Chambers, Bella, Rick Price and Delta Goodrem, to name a few. Kere was the founding member of The Bodacious Cowboys, a Steely Dan tribute band, as well as duo Kerosene with his writing partner Glenn Bidmead. In 2009 Kere released his first solo album titled ‘Starting Over’ and has recently released his second solo project, ‘Goodbye Yesterday.’ Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Kere Buchanan.

SEAWIND. The name in the LA music scene is legendary. Maybe it was the smooth jazz sound in the 70’s that captivated people. Maybe it was the monster musicians who were playing in the band. Maybe it was the lead singer’s sultry and sexy vocals. And maybe it was all about timing. But SEAWIND made it’s presence known starting with a gig at the famous Baked Potato in LA in front of some of the most heavy-hitting people in the music biz. And that was the beginning of the SEAWIND sound that eventually took the LA music scene by storm. When Bob Wilson connected with Larry Williams, Jerry Hey and Kim Hutchcroft, and a few others musicians, he never realized that today the SEAWIND sound would be alive and well. But it is. On this episode of Inside MusiCast we chat with Bob Wilson, founder of the group that today needs no introduction to music aficionados.

Like his brilliant ability to scat his way through a tune, Al Jarreau’s musical career has been a colorful journey of constant creation, discovery and rediscovery. His vocal style is a unique artistry that is unmistakable. From his early beginnings in the 60’s performing in a small jazz trio in San Francisco that included the late George Duke, Jarreau’s career has delivered 15 studio albums, as well as several live albums, compilations and collaborations. Inside MusiCast kicks off 2014 in style, as we’re pleased to welcome Al Jarreau.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast we’ll explore an album that was recorded and produced in 1995, but failed to get support from its label and fell flat in terms of its overall sales.  Aside from the record label snub, this album was a diamond in the rough – a true blue-eyed, late 70’s soul album that was the right album at the wrong time. The album is “Musically Adrift” by band mates Barney Hurley and Gavin Dodds, otherwise knows as Samuel Purdey. Influenced by the likes of Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, and Earth Wind and Fire, “Musically Adrift” revisits this great genre of music and the ten original tracks stacks-up with the likes of these iconic predecessors. Today on Inside MusiCast we welcome Barney Hurley from Samuel Purdey to go inside the magic of “Musically Adrift”. 

Dominic Miller is riding his own wave of success. Although he’s Sting’s primary guitarist since 1990, Miller is clearly a musician who has made his mark on delivering his own sound while bringing a wide breadth of cultural experiences to the collaboration table.  He was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, spending his first ten years there. Soon, he and his family relocated to Racine, Wisconsin, where he took interest in the guitar with a little encouragement from one of his older sisters. He had found his passion. He went on to study music formally in the US and also in England, where he met other musicians who would become lifelong collaborators, such as Mike Lindup of Level 42. After playing in various groups during his teens and beyond, his first real break came when he worked on Phil Collins’ ‘But Seriously’ album. That was all it took for Sting to take notice of his extraordinary guitar playing and sound. Before long, Sting’s ‘Soul Cages’ album was released and Miller was launched into the global spotlight as a serious player. As one who has a passion for Brazilian, Spanish, and classical music, Miller still finds time for self-expression with his own solo work that is expressive, yet technical. Inside MusiCast welcomes Dominic Miller.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back two of our past guests – Jeff Lorber and Jimmy Haslip – to discuss their new Jeff Lorber Fusion collaboration “Hacienda.” Jeff will also announce the winners of the “Hacienda” CD contest. We’re pleased to welcome back Jeff and Jimmy to Inside MusiCast!

Marc Jordan considers his life as a conduit of the arts. It includes sound, sight, and form. But as a musician, song writer and producer, he has worked with the best. It all started when as a young musician, he landed in LA where his musical road would cross with Steely Dan Producer Gary Katz at Warner Brothers. That was the beginning of a solo career what has honed Jordan’s career as a singer, songwriter, and producer. But his creativity didn’t stop there. He has honed his skills as an actor and painter too. Inside MusiCast welcomes the complete artistry of Marc Jordan.

The name Gary Katz is legendary in the music world. It’s synonymous with the music of Steely Dan, as you well know. He admits that his longevity as a sought-after producer has nothing really to do with his musical abilities…but his “ears”. He’s a pro in knowing how to help good artists become great artists and also how to make every record a great album. That’s what has made Katz one of the best producers in the biz for years. Case in point: Steely Dan. Need we say more? As an A&R guy in his early career, he helped sign Jim Croce, Dire Straits, Prince, Rickie Lee Jones, and Christopher Cross. IMC welcomes an ever-present force in music, Gary Katz.

You may not be familiar with his name, but Phil Kenzie’s contributions to the world of music are many and in some cases iconic. Phil has performed and recorded with some of the most well known artists in the history of rock, such as Al Stewart, Rod Stewart, Kenny Loggins, David Bowie, the Eagles, Stevie Nicks, Karla Bonoff, Jackson Browne, the Rocky Horror Picture Show and even the Beatles. On today’s episode of Inside MusiCast, we chat with Phil about his start in the business and his rise to become a first call sax player.  We also discuss his connection to George Harrison and the Beatles, his incredible story about a 1937 Selmer alto sax he used on his iconic solo on Al Stewarts’s “Year Of The Cat” and how Rod Stewart stole him away from Al Stewart. Inside MusiCast welcomes the incredibly talented Phil Kenzie.

On this episode, we bring you the West Coast sounds of the State Cows. The band, created by the Europe-based musical team of Daniel Anderson and Stefan Olofsson, doesn’t hide behind the fact that State Cows has been influenced by the many West Coast sounds that emerged in the 70s and 80s. In fact, they flaunt it on their new release called The Second One. After crossing paths with West Coast greats such as David Foster, Jay Graydon and others a few years back, the duo began to compose music that was always close to their hearts. The music has become an extension of their upbringing and influences throughout their lives. The simple truth is that there is a fresh purity of how they interpret West Coast music…and they keep it alive with the release of The Second One. Andersson and Olofsson have delivered a true AOR record that will find you listening to the whole album at one sitting. We should know, we’ve listened to it and it’s worth the investment. IMC is glad to welcome the dynamic team of the State Cows! Welcome Daniel and Stefan!

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we’ll take you inside the world of musician, composer, arranger, author and founding member of Chicago and the California Transit Authority, Danny Seraphine. Danny’s career has spanned nearly five decades and he’s considered one of the greatest drummers in the rock and pop era. His jazz-rock drumming style was a prominent piece of the Chicago sound for 23 years until his departure in 1990. Danny left music behind him for a 15-year period until he was pulled out of seclusion in 2005 to play a benefit gig. That was the spark that led him back into the music scene and to the creation of his new band, CTA – California Transit Authority – whose new album “Sacred Ground” was released in April 2013. Danny was also inspired to release a book, “Street Player – My Chicago Story”, which helped him make peace with his past and reflect on his tenure with Chicago. Inside MusiCast welcomes Danny Seraphine.

Tom Saviano is a multi-talented musician, songwriter, arranger and producer who has enjoyed a long, distinguished career as part of the L.A. music scene. Hailing from Chicago, Tom’s father was a gifted trombone player who started him on woodwinds at a very young age and groomed him specifically to be a great studio musician. His early session work as an arranger and musician includes credits for diverse acts such as Melissa Manchester, Peter Criss, Paul Anka, Shirley Bassey, Leo Sayer, Ringo Starr, Brenda Russell and many others. In 1980, Saviano stepped to the forefront as an artist, creating the first of two fantastic albums of sophisticated R&B with his band HEAT. Those releases featured musicians such as David Foster, Steve Porcaro, Harvey Mason, Lenny Castro, Chuck Findley, Jerry Hey and many more. Saviano has also released two smooth jazz solo albums and has enjoyed writing and producing projects for up and coming artists. His resume includes decades of credits, literally hundreds of sessions and occasional tours with collaborators such as Bill Champlin, Earth Wind & Fire, Ziggy Marley, Chicago, Max Weinberg, Maroon 5, Muse and countless others. Inside Musicast is pleased to welcome Tom Saviano.

Joe Sample is all that a keyboardist should be. Growing up with a musical influence of Creole, Jazz, R&B, Gospel and Soul, it was inevitable that his musical style would be a creative concoction of this musical diversity. He had made his mark in jazz and contemporary jazz with his band The Crusaders until his solo career took off. His keyboard abilities can take him virtually down any musical road, which is the mark of a great artist, but at the same time he frowns on the labeling of musical genres. He intentionally has erased any genre categories by blending his love of all music - from classical to Creole. To Joe, good music is good music. For decades, Sample has been a first-call session player in the LA scene and has played with the best of the best. From Steely Dan to the Crusaders, Sample has left his musical stamp on hundreds of influential projects. His discography is massive and discussion of it alone would take up an entire Inside MusiCast episode. At the young age of seventy-four, Joe Sample is still creating great music and performing live gigs. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome a true musical icon, Joe Sample.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back Toto founding member David Paich, as we break down the band’s classic album, Toto IV – track-by-track. Toto IV was a pinnacle album in the band’s history. Not only did it garner critical acclaim, a collection of Grammy Awards, and made Toto a household name, but its success came at a critical time, as their previous two albums saw shrinking sales and only one minor hit single. Toto IV not only catapulted the band to a realm of giant success, with hit singles like “Rosanna”, “Make Believe”, “I Won’t Hold You Back” and “Africa”, but it was a breakthrough for the band in terms of their overall sound, from new synth technology, to the incorporation of incredible horn arrangements, to the implementation of full orchestration – not to mention the involvement of some the best recording and mastering engineers and guest musicians. Breaking this masterpiece down track-by-track, Inside MusiCast welcomes David Paich.

Although the name Phil Gould is associated primarily with Level 42, his career as a musician goes much deeper. He started out playing in bands, along with his brother, while living on the Isle of Wight when he was a teen. Having studied percussion at the Royal Academy of Music, he later found his way onto the charts with the band M and their worldwide hit ‘Pop Muzik’, as well as a stint with the band Roxy Music. He departed Level 42 in 1987 and took a lengthy hiatus from music in the mid 90’s and 2000’s. He finally returned in 2009 to deliver his solo debut titled “Watertight”, a collection of eleven songs and features ex-Level 42 band mate Mike Lindup and Berenice Scott on lead vocals. And there’s more on the way, as Phil is working on even more new music that could be released later this year. Inside MusiCast welcomes Phil Gould.

When Marilyn Scott performed her first gig at the age of 15, little did she know that along the road of her career she’d be collaborating with some of the great jazz powerhouses. But it wasn’t until years later in the Bay Area when Tower of Power’s Emilio Castillo noticed her rich, sultry voice and decided to hire her to do backing vocals for the group. She never looked back. Since then, and several solo albums later, she is still in demand as a writer who has worked with the best - Spyro Gyra, The Yellowjackets, George Duke, Bob James, Jimmy Haslip and Russell Ferrante. Her most recent release, 2008s “Every Time We Say Goodbye”, is a testament to her love of classic jazz. Recorded in New York City, the project has an intimate flair recorded with top NY jazzers. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome a perennial LA talent, Marilyn Scott.

Tom Snow has made an indelible impact as one of the most successful composers in modern popular music. He is a Grammy, Oscar, Golden Globe and Tony nominated writer whose music has been recorded by diverse artists such as Barbra Streisand, Linda Ronstadt, Ray Charles, Dolly Parton, Sergio Mendes, Bonnie Raitt, Peabo Bryson and many, many more. In addition to three albums he recorded as an artist, Tom Snow has mainly concentrated on his collaborations with many of the most respected songwriters and artists throughout the past several decades and his track record clearly speaks for itself. But before most of his songs could become hits, Tom had worked with extremely talented session singers in order to achieve the best quality demos to circulate. His latest project is one that is very near and dear to his heart. On the recently released, limited edition CD titled “Original Demos”, Tom has assembled twelve tracks from his archives featuring his recordings with the extraordinary session vocalist, the late, great Warren Wiebe.  Inside Musicast is pleased to welcome Tom Snow.

How is it that a drummer for one of the most influential rock bands in history finds himself largely rejecting his pop music past to pursue a career as composer, authoring a prolific series of film scores, operas, and ballets? That’s what happened with Stewart Copeland.  From his founding of the Police with Sting and Henri Padovani, who was later replaced by Andy Summers, Copeland has enjoyed a career that has been injected with creativity, unpredictability and surprising opportunity. Along with his collaborations with artists such as Peter Gabriel, Roger Daltry, Mike Rutherford, Tom Waits, and Stanley Clarke and Deborah Holland of Animal Logic, today Copeland’s open-minded approach keeps him constantly connected with new creative opportunities. His credits are too long to mention, and his position as one of the best musicians in the modern music era lives on. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Stewart Copeland.

What do get when you place three incredibly experienced singer-songwriters who each have left huge marks on the music scene winning Grammys, are members of music halls of fame, have countless number one hits and are still hungry to create fresh, new music in a studio? You get Blue Sky Riders, a new crossover country-rock-pop vocal band that has exploded onto the music scene with a new album titled “Finally Home.” Singer-songwriters Georgia Middleman and Gary Burr have joined former Inside MusiCast guest Kenny Loggins to deliver a collection of well-crafted songs that will resemble a freshly repackaged vibe from the 70’s and 80’s. But don’t second-guess Blue Sky Riders. Their songwriting prowess is an impressive collaboration. They all share lead and harmonic vocals and will leave you wanting more. Inside MusiCast welcomes Georgia Middleman, Gary Burr and Kenny Loggins – Blue Sky Riders.

As an assistant engineer at Abbey Road Studios in the late 60’s, a young Alan Parsons was just beginning his journey into a successful career in music that has spanned several decades as an engineer, producer, musician, educator and actor.  His story and his work have been heralded by industry peers, as well as his fans.  From lending his engineering talents to projects with the Beatles, the Hollies, Paul McCartney, not to mention his contributions to Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side Of The Moon”, to his role as a producer with acts such as Pilot, Al Stewart and Ambrosia, to his work with Eric Woolfson in the Alan Parsons Project, Alan Parsons has undoubtedly delivered a legendary career in the music industry.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Alan Parsons.

Steve Lukather is not only one of the world’s best guitarists; he’s a man in transition.  Gone are the days of the partying rock star, the booze and cigarettes – although his sense of humor is still very much intact.  Luke has a new outlook on life that is being reflected through his music, which has been very apparent on his previous two solo albums, “Ever Changing Time” and “All’s Well That Ends Well.”  His latest album, “Transition”, completes another chapter for the musician who pours his heart, soul and his personal reflections into every track on this new collection of nine songs.  Joining us for a fourth time is our good friend and Inside MusiCast favorite, Steve Lukather.

Sometimes in life, all it takes is one connection to set things in motion. For Jeff Pevar, it was a connection to Rickie Lee Jones by his good friend, Michael Ruff that was a turning point in his career as a musician. Jeff toured extensively with Rickie, but this exposure helped open the doors to other connections. Since that time, Jeff has gone on to perform and record with an amazing array of artists, such as Ray Charles, Crosby, Stills and Nash, James Taylor, Marc Cohn, Kenny Loggins, Carly Simon, Phil Collins and Dr. John, to name a few. Fast forward through his busy career and you might find it surprising that this incredibly talented multi-instrumentalist never released a solo album – until now. The recently released, debut solo album “From The Core” is a unique project that was originally not intended to be a solo release, rather music to support a PBS documentary called “The Marble Halls of Oregon.” Jeff recorded his tracks inside the Oregon Caves National Monument, and when the National Park Service heard his compositions, they encouraged Jeff to release it as a solo album. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jeff Pevar.

Let’s start with the facts. Our guest today was a member of one of the most influential rock groups of our time. Their “GREATEST HITS” compilation sold over 29 million copies in the US alone. But, when Don Felder joined the EAGLES in 1974, he added that special “something” with his vocals and guitar playing that would help create the unmistakable EAGLES’ sound. He co-wrote the mesmerizing “Hotel California” and several other classic hits that continue to be played daily throughout the world. He’s a guitarist who knows his craft and has also played with other legendary artists such as The Bee Gees, Bob Seger, Michael Jackson, Boz, Stevie Nicks, Elton John and…well, you know what we mean. Life after the Eagles has not stopped Felder from continuing to create and deliver the music that is within him. His new solo album, ROAD TO FOREVER, is a musical product that began with his best-selling book about his life with the EAGLES ten years ago. His journey has culminated with a wonderful collection of richly composed and arranged tracks that only solidify his position in music today. He hasn’t lost his touch, as ROAD TO FOREVER has proven. IMC welcomes, Don Felder.

Growing-up in New York City in a musical environment that included a father that was a professional bassist, along with a mother and sister who made careers as vocalists, Michael Leonhart seemed destined to find his own path into the world music.  Having studied a variety of instruments as a young child, Michael turned his attention to the trumpet when he was ten years old – and never looked back.  At only 38 years old, Michael has already established himself a first call studio and touring musician, producer and solo artist.  Having performed with countless artists, including Michael McDonald, Boz Scaggs, Yoko Ono, David Byrne, James Brown, Ringo Starr, Eric Claption, Levon Helm, Phish, Steve Winwood, and so many others, not to mention what has turned out to be a sixteen year career with Steely Dan and Donald Fagen, it’s a wonder how he’s managed to produce seven stellar solo projects.  And top it off, he recently co-produced Donald Fagen’s “Sunken Condos.”  Inside MusiCast is please to welcome Michael Leonhart.

If you’ve seen Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald and even Steely Dan in concert at some point over the past twenty years, chances are you’ve witnessed guitarist Drew Zingg. Born and raised in New York City, Zingg earned his reputation as a guitarist that knows no boundaries when it comes to musical styles. Having spent nearly ten years in the New York club scene, backing artists such as Shawn Colvin and Lucy Kaplansky, as well as lending his talents to jingles, Broadway productions and session work, Drew found himself along side Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, touring with the New York Rock and Soul Revue. This opened the door for Drew, who eventually spent two years as Steely Dan’s guitarist and music director and has toured with Boz Scaggs since 1996. On November 1, Drew is set to release his debut, self-titled solo album that contains original material, as well as a few covers with unique arrangements and were recorded and produced by Drew’s long-time friend, George Petit. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome, Drew Zingg.

When you’re a trumpet player for a drum and bugle corp, it can only mean one thing…that you’re one serious horn player. That’s where Jimmy Haslip’s musical journey begins. But it doesn’t end there. You see, his musical world was turned upside down at a live performance at a school dance where he witnessed the playing of an electric bass guitar for the very first time.  Fast forward to LA where a young Jimmy Haslip is studying with his new teacher, Jaco Pastorius. As you might guess, success feeds success, as Jimmy’s talents are honed and perfected. His career is elevated when he crosses paths with Russ Ferrante and Ricky Lawson to record on Robben Ford’s first solo project in 1978. It is this collaboration that would lead to the creation of the legendary Yellowjackets. With a career spanning more than 30 years, Haslip’s discography and production credits are deep with amazing collaborations. Inside MusiCast welcomes a transplanted New Yorker and Long island native, Jimmy Haslip.

For over 44 years, Tower of Power has been creating and performing music that continues to excite fans all over the world. With a first-call, legendary horn section that has graced some of the biggest hits for some of the most well known artists in the music business, Tower of Power’s soulful, funky, bumpin’ sound has carved a musical niche with a style all their own. Since the band originated on August 13, 1968, Tower of Power has never stopped touring and recording. In fact, they recently released a 40th anniversary CD and DVD that includes several special guests, as well as past band members from the band’s storied career. Today, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome three of the band’s founding members: Emilio Castillo, Doc Kupka and David Garibaldi for this special edition of Inside MusiCast.

Fergie Frederiksen’s tenure in the band Toto was unquestionably a highlight on his singing resume, but this singer/songwriter has had an extensive career as a solo artist, as well as the lead vocalist for MS Funk, Trillion and LeRoux. Fergie is also a member of Legends: Voices Of Rock, which is a collaboration of incredible rock vocalists that tours throughout Europe and includes Bobby Kimball, Bill Champlin, Steve Augeri and Joe Lynn Turner. In 2010, Fergie was diagnosed with inoperable liver cancer, but through his faith, support from great friends and with the strength to continue making music, Fergie has battled his way through his fight with cancer and is winning. In fact, he released his second solo album in late 2011 titled “Happiness Is The Road” and is in the early stages of working on yet another. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Fergie Frederiksen.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we proudly welcome back guitarist Jon Herington to talk about his upcoming solo release “Time On My Hands”, containing ten new tracks that showcase Jon’s incredible feel for the guitar, as he stretches his way through more expansive guitar solos than ever before. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jon Herington.

At the age of five you might say that Richard Marx began a career that so far has lasted a lifetime. At this very young age he was already singing lyrics for the jingles his father would compose and produce for top advertising clients in Chicago. That was the beginning of a Grammy Award-winning career that has allowed Marx to write and produce for some of the greatest artists in the music business, beginning with the one star that noticed him and brought him into his world of hit creation - Lionel Richie. As a mentor, Richie helped pave a road of success for Marx, bringing him in as a background singer for several of his hit albums. Marx has enjoyed a career that many would envy, but it all began with his musical hero, his father, who taught him as a young boy how a hard-work ethic will always pay off. Richard is proof of that, as he continues to embody the musical spirit of his father. Inside MusiCast welcomes Richard Marx.

John Waite’s music and artistry is alive and well. Although his legacy as lead vocalist for The Babys and Bad English precedes him, he’s best known for his solo work, most notably the smash hits “Change” and “Missing You”. This path has led him to recreating “Missing You” with Alison Krauss, and in 2003 he toured as a member of Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band. Today his voice has defied the test of time and is even better and stronger, as proven by his recent solo release “Rough and Tumble.” Recorded in Nashville and L.A., Waite considers this effort a new beginning on his solo music journey, delivering a more organic, rock-oriented sound than many of his past solo projects. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome John Waite.

Music had already been in his blood for more than a decade, having studied piano and music theory at the Manhattan School of Music in New York since he was eight years old. But when Howard Levy first picked-up a diatonic harmonica as an 18 year-old college student at Northwestern, little did he know that he would soon reinvent the instrument, essentially pioneering the over-blow/over-draw methods for bending and creating notes that were previously thought ‘missing’ from the instrument. He has since mastered the harmonica and has created a career in music that has led him to many unique opportunities, including his tenure as an original Flecktone. But Howard is not defined solely by this role. In fact, he only spent a few years with the Flecktones until he decided to part ways to pursue an open door of opportunities that continue to reinvent the role of the harmonica and challenge his own musical interests. Inside MusiCast welcomes Howard Levy.

Through his ever-present sunglasses, Bluey Maunick sees the world in different shades of soul, funk, acid-jazz, and r&b. And it’s his unique global perspective that feeds his musical creativity. As founder, mastermind, guitarist, and producer of the always-evolving band Incognito, Bluey has consistently delivered a deep-grooved, soulful sound on every record since 1981. Incognito’s sound is thick, richly produced and quite addicting, both vocally and instrumentally. Over the years he has introduced some of the best vocal talent to execute his musical vision. Let’s just call it “Bluey’s” touch, because without him, Incognito wouldn’t have been around for more than three decades. His newly released recording, “Surreal”, will only confirm his position as a truly international musical icon.  Inside MusiCast welcomes Incognito’s Bluey Maunick. 

Andres Aleman is clearly on a journey, as the title of his latest solo release states. The Swedish-born singer-songwriter’s second solo album has given him momentum that appears to have captured the ears of a widening audience, extending his musical reach throughout Europe and now to the States. His blend of Soul, Gospel, funk, blues and good pop music developed his ability to create a groove the is reminiscent of Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton and Aretha Franklin. Sink your teeth into his new album project “Its The Journey” and you’ll get a taste of a genre that is alive and well, enjoying a surprising resurgence that is holding on to groove music. As a seasoned keyboardist and vocalist, Andreas Aleman brings a comfortable maturity to the table and his thick, soulful baritone voice being the center of his sound, along with smooth horn arrangements. We’re glad to welcome a musician who you’ll be hearing much more of in the future. Inside MusiCast welcomes Andreas Aleman.

Dylan McDonald could have taken the musical easy road, being that he happens to be the son of one of the most famous pop/rock artists in the business, Michael McDonald, but he didn’t. As a proficient singer-songwriter, Dylan has paved his own road - one very distinct from that of his father’s. You’ll hear it in his music right from the start. He paints his music with his airy Lennon-esque voice, as well as rich orchestrations that seem to bleed through the talents of his band, The Avians. It’s clear to see that Dylan McDonald understands the music creation process, but as you’ll soon hear, it’s not all due to his dad’s influence. His music is his own and it’s very fresh. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome the very talented Dylan McDonald.

Having been a founding member of King Crimson and Emerson, Lake and Palmer, arguably two of the most influential progressive rock bands from the ‘60’s and ‘70’s, Greg Lake’s name is synonymous with a genre of rock music that incorporated an influence of European classical elements.  Having picked-up the guitar as a 12 year old, Greg Lake has played and performed for over 50 years and he is as passionate about music now as he has ever been.  In fact, 2012 will be a busy year, as he is about to embark on his “Songs Of A Lifetime” North American tour.  With the concerts being performed in intimate settings, Greg will open-up the floor to his fans and will allow them to share thoughts and ask questions about his music and his career.  2012 will also bring Greg’s autobiography in both audio and written formats, which will give a behind-the-scenes peek into his storied career.  Inside MusiCast is proud to welcome Greg Lake.

On our 100th episode, we’re glad to welcome a guest whose music we all know well. Over the past three decades, Gino Vannelli has delivered albums such as Powerful People, Brother To Brother, Nightwalker, and Black Cars, not to mention a couple of international chart topping hits like “I Just Wanna Stop” and “Living Inside Myself.” The Montreal native continues to sellout venues worldwide and is writing new music in every spare moment – including a recent effort to produce a blues-based collection of songs. We’re honored to welcome Gino Vannelli to Inside MusiCast to help us celebrate our 100th podcast episode.

Toronto native Don Breithaupt has molded his multi-dimensional career into much more than just a “day job”. To start, the Berklee graduate has owned and operated a top-rated recording studio in Toronto for several years; he’s involved in James Taylor and Chicago tribute bands that amazingly replicate the sounds of both artists; he’s a Grammy winning composer for film and television; and finally, he’s the leader of the band Monkey House, who has recently released their new album called “Headquarters.” With stellar musicianship and top-notch production qualities, this new effort by Monkey House is sure to impress. Monkey House hooked us the first time we heard them and we’re sure it will hook you, too. Inside MusiCast welcomes one of Toronto’s best, Don Breithaupt.

In a time when TV musical themes were just as important as the scripts themselves, musician and arranger Mike Post found himself at the epicenter of the custom scoring world for television and film. But this didn’t happen overnight. Post had paid his dues as a session player, musical director and tour musician for such artists as Sonny &Cher, Kenny Rogers and Andy Williams over the years. It was this deep experience along with compositional talent that guided one of the most celebrated careers in the music business, allowing him to deliver internationally recognized TV themes such as Hill Street Blues, The Rockford Files, CHiPS, The A-Team, Magnum PI, LA Law and so many others. We’re pleased to welcome Mike Post to Inside MusiCast.

He doesn’t claim to be a singer or a true musician, but Al Stewart has been crafting intelligent folk and pop laced songs for over 45 years. From his early roots in England to his migration to the States in the mid 70’s, his distinct voice and timeless sound has graced the airwaves and has sold millions of albums worldwide. Today, Inside MusiCast is proud to welcome this legendary songwriter to our show. This is Al Stewart.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we catch-up with one half of the most successful duo in the history of rock and pop. Over the past decade, he still tours on a limited basis with Daryl Hall, which has left him plenty of time to concentrate on solo projects and the opportunity to explore his musical roots – his love for folk R&B and Southern roots. In 2011, John released his album Mississippi mile, which explored these roots and delivered a fresh and unexpected sound compared to the classic, blue-eyed soul we’ve come to know from Hall and Oates. Inside MusiCast kicks off 2012 with a very special guest, John Oates.

Our Holiday Special is a gift to you from the IMC Team! This year we welcome back four past IMC guests who’ll give you a wrap-up on their year, what’s new for 2012 and a Holiday Greeting. So help us welcome back Lee Sklar, Jeff Lorber, Randy Goodrum, and Steve Lukather to Inside MusiCast! As very special thanks to our IMC Team, Kim Reilly, Max Zape, Scott Gross, and Brian Pearson along with former IMC correspondents Uwe Reith and Mikael Engstrom. They’ve ALL done one heck of a job for us this past year.

On today’s episode of Inside MusiCast, we’re bringing you a very special guest who’s producing a documentary about her father, Terry Kath – the amazing guitarist and vocalist who spent a little over ten years with the band Chicago, until his accidental death in January, 1978.  What’s unique about this documentary is that it’s a journey inside the mind of Michelle Kath Sinclair, who was only three years old at the time of her father’s passing.  Scouring through boxes of memorabilia, Michelle discovered several reels of Super 8 film that her father shot throughout his touring days with the band.  This, along with interviews, correspondence, and other memorabilia helped piece together a glimpse into her father’s fast, musical and ultimately the tragic end to his life. What did she learn about her father that family and friends hadn’t been able to describe throughout her life?  And after so many years after her father’s passing, did these pieces help to answer the questions she has always had about this man; a father; a husband; and a musical legend.  Inside MusiCast welcomes Michelle Kath Sinclair.

Sheila Escovedo, you might know of her as Sheila E., is a force to be reckoned with in the world of music and percussion. In fact, most of her family is, too! For starters, her father, the legendary percussionist Pete Escovedo, is to blame. It was Pete who trained his daughter Sheila, and sons Juan and Peter Michael to follow his footsteps into the world of music. Today, they’re accomplished composers, producers, and of course percussionists. We all know of Sheila’s days touring and recording with Prince; that’s when she changed her name to Sheila E. But, after a long career playing with the best of the best, including Prince, Natalie Cole, George Duke, Ringo Starr, Gloria Estefan, Marvin Gaye and so many more, Sheila E. has returned to joined her father and her brothers for the first time to record their first-ever family project, “Now And Forever.” It’s an impressive project from a family that continues to leave its mark on the music world. Inside MusiCast welcomes the beautiful and talented Sheila E.

If music had a DNA, one of the strands would be dedicated to the Lennon family, beginning when Bill and Ted Lennon sang in a 40’s swing band and the Lennon Sisters sang for Lawrence Welk in the 60’s. Today, Michael Lennon, brother Mark and cousins Kipp and Pat continue the musical legacy with their band Venice. Michael leads this critically acclaimed LA quartet as they buck trendiness of pop music to deliver harmonic sounds that have been compared to Crosby Stills and Nash, the Eagles, Poco, and Little Rive Band. Venice, as a band, has recorded with Jackson Browne, Stevie Nicks, Warren Zevon, David Crosby, Brian Wilson, and Phil Collins. To top it off, the groups headline performances and popular websites draw thousands of devoted fans of their own worldwide. IMC welcomes Michael Lennon.

Kiki Ebsen’s career has taken her full circle. From the beginning as a young pianist, she has had the pleasure of having many musical influences, including her mother, aunt, and her cousin – keyboardist Jim Pugh- who is a member of the Robert Cray Band. But it was during her successful college career at the California Institute of the Arts, where she won the Collegiate Entertainer of the Year award and embarked on a touring career with the legendary band, Chicago, as a keyboardist and MIDI technician. Two tours and one record later, she moved on to a musically challenging tour with Al Jarreau. This put her on the map as an ‘A-List’ player, and she has since had the opportunity to play with artists such as Boney James, Belinda Carlisle, Tracy Chapman, Michael McDonald, Colin Hay, Christopher Cross, Stephen Bishop and many more. Today we welcome her as she launches her latest solo release, “The Beauty Inside.” Inside MusiCast welcomes the lovely and talented Kiki Ebsen.

Since 1998 keyboardist and vocalist Gabe Dixon has been busy fronting the Gabe Dixon Band. Their 2008 self-titled release earned accolades from Paste Magazine, The Village Voice, American Songwriter, Rolling Stone and many others. Amazingly, virtually the entire album has been licensed at one time or another for use on primetime television or for movie soundtracks. This is confirmation of Dixon’s talent as a masterful keyboardist and vocalist. Even Paul McCartney admired his gifts enough to offer him a position in his band, in which he declined to focus on his songwriting and new album. One thing we know is that Dixon knows how to take you by the hand lead you through a well-crafted musical maze that ends with a new found addiction to his music. His soon to be released solo project, ONE SPARK, is sure to capture the listener’s ears, and that’s no surprise to us. Inside MusiCast welcomes an artist who will not be under the radar too much longer, Gabe Dixon.

On this edition of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back a painter – a musical and lyrical painter who you know well. He’s recorded twelve solo projects since his legendary self-titled 1979 release. But over the years, while recording, living life and touring, Christopher Cross has continued moving forward. With the delivery of his new release, Doctor Faith, we clearly see that the singer/songwriter and his longtime writing partner, Rob Meurer, have risen to a fresh, new level of musical excellence. With the assistance of his good friends Michael McDonald, Dave Beyer, Mark Browne, Eric Johnson and John Thomas, Cross’ new offering of 13 tracks flows from the heart, and is natural, honest, and transparent. His signature voice has only gotten better and is still soothing as ever. The orchestrations and horn parts, not to mention his guitar work, are second to none. So, please welcome once again to Inside MusiCast, an artist who continues to leave a mark in music…Christopher Cross.

It’s been five years since Michael Franks delivered his last solo effort, ‘Rendezvous in Rio,’ but it has not been in vain. During this time, he’s been busy touring and collecting material for his most recent release, ‘Time Together.’ You know his albums…’The Art of Tea’, ‘Passion Fruit’, ‘Skin Dive’, ‘Burchfield Nines’, ‘Blue Pacific’ and ‘Dragonfly Summer.’ Along the path of his nearly 20-album career, he’s collaborated with artists such as Larry Carlton, Joe Sample, Wilton Felder, David Sanborn and so many more first-call musicians. ‘Time Together’ doesn’t fail in delivering the same high quality work that Michael always gives us. Inside MusiCast welcomes one of the most proficient and enduring talents in jazz today…Michael Franks.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we celebrate our five-year anniversary by bringing you one of the most recognized vocalists on the planet, Michael McDonald. From his humble roots in Ferguson, Missouri, playing in several bands in the St. Louis area, to his venture West to Los Angeles and finding his way into his favorite band, Steely Dan he made a name for himself and became one of the premiere vocalists on the LA scene. From his stint with Steely and the Doobie Brothers, Michael created connections that eventually launched him into session work with some incredible names in the industry, such as James Ingram, Toto, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Aretha Franklin, Patti Labelle and so many others. Michael eventually found his way to Nashville, Tennessee, where he continues his music career along with his wife Amy and his son Dylan. Inside MusiCast is proud to welcome Michael McDonald to our fifth anniversary podcast episode.

Growing up as a kid in France, there wasn’t a chance that Philippe Saisse would end up doing anything other than creating music. Quite simply, this child prodigy was a jazz drummer at the age of five, playing in his father’s jazz band. After winning a scholarship at the Berklee School of Music in Boston, he studied under the great vibraphonist and percussionist, Gary Burton. The rest is history as Philippe followed Burton’s lead as a vibraphonist and marimba instrumentalist, but also as a keyboardist. As a multi-instrumentalist, he caught the ear of Al DiMeola and was invited to play on DiMeola’s ‘Splendido Hotel’ recording. Saisse provided vocals, playing keyboards and Moog Bass, and even provided outstanding marimba solos throughout the project. During his career as an arranger, session keyboardist, composer and producer, he’s worked with Chaka Khan, the Rolling Stones, Al Jarreau, David Sanborn, Brian Wilson, Bill Evans, and David Bowie. Recently, he has reconnected with drummer Simon Phillips and bassist Pino Palladino to form PSP. This jazz-fusion trio is truly an experimental collaboration that pushes the limits of improvisational composition. He has produced many solo projects over his career; his most recent being ‘At World’s Edge’, which led to the creation of PSP. Inside MusiCast welcomes Philippe Saisse.

Rob Mounsey is a self-proclaimed music nerd, having taught himself classical music composition at the very early age of 11.  With a natural passion for music, he earned his way into the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he migrated his energy into the world of jazz while studying with the likes of Gary Burton, among others.  Fresh out of school, Mounsey briefly hit the road with the Tommy Dorsey Band, but decided life on a bus wasn’t for him.  A wise decision, as his career as a studio musician and solo artist began to flourish.  Settling in New York City, Mounsey went on to perform with and produce some of the biggest names in music, such as Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Eric Clapton, Madonna, Diana Ross, Ashford and Simpson, James Taylor, Michael Franks, Rihanna and many more.  But Rob Mounsey ‘s career is expansive.  Not only has he performed with the biggest names in the industry, he’s also taken on projects for television and film, such as creating music elements for Sex and the City, and for films like “Working Girl” and “Bright Lights, Big City” with Donald Fagen.  He’s a six time Grammy nominee and has taken home two Emmy’s over the course of his career.  And the good news is that with all of his successes, he’s still as passionate as ever for his craft.  Inside MusiCast welcomes the multi-talented Rob Mounsey. 

On this episode of Inside MusiCast we’re taking you to Norway for a chat with a rising star making waves across his own country and gaining notoriety and respect in many areas around the world.  Ole Børud has just released his third solo album “Keep Movin’”, a soulful, funky and American West Coast laced collection of songs that captures the essence of a variety of musicians that have influenced his musical path, artists such as Pages, Seawind, Stevie Wonder, and Gino Vannelli, just to name a few.  Ole dove into the world of music at the early age of five; appearing on his first record by the time he was only six years old.  From the age of 16, he has been a full time musician and has toured the world with numerous bands, including the acclaimed death metal band, Extol.  Inside MusiCast is proud to welcome singer, guitarist and an amazing horn arranger, Ole Børud.

Randy Goodrum has a gift. And for over thirty years, he’s shared it with us all in the form of hit songs that are timeless. His compositions have been recorded by artists such as Anne Murray, England Dan and John Ford Coley, Toto, Chicago, Steve Perry, Al Jarreau, Johnny Lange, Steve Lukather and, well, this list goes on and on. Goodrum’s extensive work with Chet Atkins early on helped to open the door to opportunities that would blossom for the rest of his career. But his success has not been a consequence of luck. It took the classically trained pianist about ten years before a songwriting effort would be recorded. He’s achieved an elite status in the world of songwriters and his accomplishments are as heralded as such names as Burt Bacharach, Carole King, Paul Williams, Carol Bayer Sager, and Paul Simon. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome an icon in the music business, Randy Goodrum.

Keiko Matsui is a jazz, chillout, and soft jazz veteran for well over 20 years. And after 22 projects to her name, she hasn’t stopped exploring her musical boundaries. Formally trained in Japan when she was a young child, Keiko’s progressive and imaginative keyboard style not only reflects her own culture, but a global perspective. Her recent release, “The Road”, is surely an exit from her prior recordings. This new album is more transparent, which allows her keyboard prowess to come to the acoustic forefront. It’s a cleaner sound with less ethereal layers. The influences of Bob James, Dave Grusin, and others hint at her musical offerings, but Keiko’s unique approach shines through. Joining forces with her on this album are players such as Vinnie Colaiuta, Richard Bona, James Hara and former Inside MusiCast guest Kirk Whalum, and when you get guys like them, along with Keiko’s keyboard mastery, you just can’t fail. Inside MusiCast welcomes the very talented and beautiful Keiko Matsui.

Since being a guest on Inside MusiCast in 2008, Jon Herington has been running non-stop. Touring with Steely Dan, and most recently with the Dukes of September tour, which featured Michael McDonald, Boz Scaggs and Donald Fagen, the New York City singer/songwriter has focused on producing his latest solo effort, “Shine (Shine, Shine)”, the follow-up to his 2000 solo release “Like So.” But, “Shine” is different in many ways from its predecessor. This album has a heavier guitar influence, and at times, it has an edgier approach. The quality of Jon’s writing and musicianship remains second to none. Herington collaborates with some very talented players and long-time colleagues, including bassist Dennis Espantman, Frank Pagano on drums, and on keyboards Rob Morsberger and Jim Beard. Espantman and Pagano combine with Herington to form the Jon Herington Band, who performs regularly on the New York City scene. They’ve performed together for years, and their talent shines through on “Shine”. We’re honored to connect once more with one of the most proficient guitarists in the business. Inside MusiCast welcomes back Jon Herington.

London-born drummer Simon Phillips has had a destiny for success. From the very beginning of his career, his musical mode of operation has been methodical, technical, and well planned. But that doesn’t say that good fortune hasn’t come his way. After the unfortunate passing of Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro, he was the only drummer to receive the call in 1992 to fill the open slot. He took the job and the rest is history. But Toto hasn’t encompassed Simon’s career. His collaborations with Tears For Fears, The Who, Pete Townsend, Judas Priest, Jeff Beck, Mick Jagger, Stanley Clarke, Mike Oldfield and many others have garnered him a discography to envy. His touring life has not only allowed him to play with Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood, but it ultimately led him to enter the world of producing and engineering. In 2009, Phillips joined forces with keyboardist Philippe Saisse and bassist Pino Palladino to form the instrumental jazz/funk/rock trio PSP, who toured Europe through 2010, spotlighting the talents of each musician. Phillips’ trademark has always been his precise and creative style of drumming, and it is his passion for quality and perfection that has paved a road of success for him. Inside MusiCast is proud to kick off the New Year with our first guest of 2011, Simon Phillips.

The music of Level 42 is addicting, and if that’s the case, fans of their music have been in rehab for 30 years. That’s when bassist Mark King and keyboardist Mike Lindup started injecting lyrics into their fusion, funk-based tracks at the suggestion of their label in 1980. It created a sound that has been labeled as jazz-funk , sophisti-pop, New Wave, pop rock, and funk-pop. Whatever you call it, there’s not a sound like that of Level 42. Over the years King’s sharp vocals and bass-slapping technique have merged with Lindup’s falsetto harmonies to deliver hits such as Something About You, Lessons Is Love, Children Say, Star Child and It’s Over. After heavy touring and several personnel evolutions over the years, Level 42 suffered a band split in the mid-90’s. But, we’re glad to say that King and the band have emerged once again. This past summer, they completed their first U.S. tour in over 22 years, which has made their American fans extremely happy. The good news is that there’s still an enormous appreciation for their music, and THAT makes us happy. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Level 42’s Mark King.

Bernie Chiaravalle has never been a musician that needed a spotlight to complete him as a singer-songwriter-musician. He’s always let his music do the talking during his career that has spanned nearly three decades. He’s worked with artists such as the Doobie Brothers, Larry Carlton and David Pack, who incidentally introduced him to Michael McDonald. Needless to say, his musical relationship with McDonald has flourished for nearly 25 years and has took Chiaravalle to new levels of creative writing, performance and collaboration. Once you listen to his latest solo release, THE WORLD AROUND ME, you’ll find that he understands the craft of songwriting very well. Musically, his capacity to take you through a labyrinth of unexpectedly fresh guitar chording progressions will keep you engaged. Lyrically, he will draw you into his each song in a calm, methodical way. Inside MusiCast is happy to welcome a very seasoned musician, Bernie Chiaravalle.

It’s no secret that Rob Meany is a top notch singer-songwriter. If you live in Minneapolis, you’ve known this fact for over fifteen years. But what if you haven’t heard of him nor his band Terramara? Well, this is your lucky day. Get ready to be amazed by music that is part Steely Dan, Joe Jackson, Sting, John Mayer and Ben Folds…all mixed together to create a progressive jazz concoction that’s mixed with lyrical and musical hooks that will draw you in. Rob is a musician’s musician - classically trained, yet he’s developed musical sense that is foundational for his writing. As band leader and lead vocalist of Terramara, he has collaborated with the best musicians in the Minneapolis area to create three Terramara albums. The newest release being Dust & Fiction. Thanks to Rob, Inside MusiCast is the first to debut his newly mixed track Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll love this track and all of Terramara’s music, for that matter. How do we know? We fell for it hook, line and sinker. Inside MusiCast welcomes, the talented Rob Meany.

Consider it Deja Vu, if you wish. But for Lee Sklar, hitting the road with Carole King and James Taylor for the 2010 Troubadour Reunion Tour was a dream-turned-reality. It all began in 1969, when Taylor and King played the infamous 3-day gig at the Troubadour Club in LA. Backing them were Lee Sklar, Danny Kortchmar and Russ Kunkel. They would soon become known as ‘The Section’ and their discographies as the most sought after session guys of the time were deep. Lee Sklar’s career was rocketing as he was in demand by major artists and producers. Fast forward to September 2010. The 51-city Troubadour Reunion Tour has played to over 700,000 fans around the world. The secret to the success was simple - Sklar, Kunkel, and Kootch were along for the ride with James and Carole - and the chemistry helped reproduce the intimate vibe of the original Troubadour Shows. We’ve invited Lee back to debrief us on the rest of the Troubadour Reunion Tour. He’s no stranger to us. Lee, welcome back to Inside MusiCast.

Born in Chicago, Bruce Gaitsch was baptized into music at an early age. His dad was a musician and also owned a music store where it was common to see up-and-coming stars of the Midwest music scene, such as Ted Nugent, Chicago, and the Buckinghams. As a musician, Bruce paid his dues in the Windy City and racked up more than 3000 session gigs over the course of 9 years. That’s when he moved to LA. His career as a guitarist, producer, and writer exploded when his good friend from Chicago, Richard Marx , began to connect him to others. He then met Patrick Leonard, and together they wrote a track called ‘La Isla Bonita’ for Madonna. He’s fresh off a world tour with Peter Cetera and has worked with Chicago, Kansas, The Fixx, Phillip Bailey, and Tom Scott, just to name a few. He has several solo albums to his credit, including his most recent 2006 release – Sincerely. As his successes are too many to mention, so we’ll just let Bruce tell you. Inside MusiCast welcomes Bruce Gaitsch.

Michael Ruff has found balance and order in his life. And why wouldn’t he? Living on the beautiful Hawaiian island of Kauai for over twenty years, the talented songwriter, producer and keyboardist has remained connected to the music world. Throughout his career migration from the East Coast, the West and finally to Hawaii, Michael has left a trail of amazing musical success that has allowed him to work with the best in the industry. He’s written for India Arie, Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Loggins, Natalie Cole, BeBe Winans, The Doobie Bros. He has had the good fortune of also being musical director and keyboardist for Ricky Lee Jones, Chaka, David Sanborn, Jose Feliciano and many others. As a producer and engineer, Michael has always focused on what matters - the integrity of song and artist. As a songwriter and producer, he has been associated with numerous Grammy Nominations and has won multiple Na Hoku Hanohano awards – known otherwise as the Hawaiian Grammy. But Michael is a diverse musician…his new solo album, ACOUSTIC TRIOS reveals his love for Jazz and allows him to show us all his brilliant keyboard chops. Inside MusiCast welcomes the very talented and tanned Michael Ruff.

Since Richard Page’s last chat with Eddy and Rick, he has discovered a new-found inspiration to record a new album - PECULIAR LIFE. It’s his latest release since his 1996 album Shelter Me and last years Christmas single, I Always Cry At Christmas. As you might expect, Richard hasn’t lost his touch. This long-awaited body of work delivers on all levels and is pure Richard Page. He’s back. Inside MusiCast is proud to welcome once again… Richard Page.

As far back as the late 70’s, Gary Wright has been challenging his audiences with pioneering instrumentation and cutting-edge technology. As a visionary songwriter, performer and all-around musician, he has spent more than thirty years shattering conventional musical ideas and creating chart-topping hits, such as Dreamweaver, My Love Is Alive and Really Wanna’ Know You. These timeless hits reflect his endless genius as they are played globally on a daily basis. He’s collaborated with George Harrison, Steve Winwood, Mick Jones and Joe Cocker. Today, you’ll even find him working with rap artists such as Third Base, Ton Loc, and Busta Rhymes, as well as Eminem, Salt-N-Pepa, Joan Osborne and Mya. He’s currently starting his second tour with Ringo Starr’s All-Star band while promoting his newest musical creation, Connected, his first pop album in over twenty years. Inside MusiCast welcomes the talented Gary Wright.

It a was combination of fate and irony that a young man born in Kansas would eventually play in a band called Kansas. It happened to Phil Ehart, founding member and drummer of a band that would leave a lasting impression in the world of Classic Rock. Legendary Rock promoter Don Kirshner clearly made the right decision when he signed Kansas to their first deal…placing the band on a road to rock success. For decades, Ehart’s steady backing rhythms have been the foundation of the band’s hits, such as Carry On Wayward Son and Dust In The Wind. These classic hits have become timeless gifts to the world that will carry on forever. Follow the evolution of Kansas as Inside MusiCast welcomes the timeless Phil Ehart.

An L.A. kid transplanted in New York City, Steve Khan is considered one of the prolific jazz guitarists on the planet. For nearly forty years, Khan has recorded more than twenty albums and has shared his talent with artists such as Steely Dan, Larry Coryell and the Brecker Brothers Band. Inspired by legends such as Wes Montgomery and Pat Martino, Khan’s expansive body of work envelopes the world of jazz that has surrounded him since he picked-up the instrument. Not only has Khan delivered amazing music over the course of his career, he has also authored several books. Steely Dan’s Donald Fagen once wrote about Steve saying, “The kid from Westwood, after years of study and sacrifice, can now do just about everything he wants with an electric guitar. Some people think they know all there is to know about Steve Khan, but don’t let anyone tell you he’s just another guitar player.” Inside MusiCast welcomes Steve Khan.

Larry Williams has been at the top of his game for over 30 years. After honing his skills as a student at the Indiana University School Of Music, Larry transplanted himself to the tropics in Hawaii and became one of the founding members of Seawind. As a Grammy-nominated producer, composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist, Larry is a non-stop music machine that doesn’t seem to be slowing. Although he doesn’t subscribe to segmenting music by genres, listening to his music will show you how versatile he really is. He’s a top keyboard, sax, flute and clarinet player who does multi-duty when called upon. From his work with Dave Grusin, George Benson, Al Jarreau, Herbie Hancock, Patrice Rushen, Marcus Miller, Vinnie Colaiuta , Patti Austin and Paul McCartney, Williams has nothing left to prove. Inside MusiCast welcomes Larry Williams.

If you were to look-up the definition of the word “rhythm” in the dictionary, it would say “jazz-fusion, pop, and session percussionist, Alex Neciosup Acuña”. From a young man playing in local bands in Lima, Peru to playing with bandmates Joe Zawinul, Wayne Shorter and Jaco Pastorius of the great jazz-fusion band Weather Report, Alex Acuña has lived a life of rhythmic passion that continues today. As an A-list session percussionist and drummer, he has contributed to international projects for decades, and has clearly influenced percussion around the world. He is a perennial teacher, traveling the world to train and educate rhythm makers. At the same time, he continues to be a student….always learning and absorbing new sounds, techniques, and approaches to become better. From Koinonia to Jarreau; Herbie Hancock to Ella; Jobim to U2.  Alex Acuña continues to be a relevant musical icon. Inside MusiCast welcomes Alex Acuña.

Jerry Lopez has been keeping a secret for a long time…at least from those who don’t live in Las Vegas. You see, since the mid seventies, Jerry has been the leader of Santa Fe and the Fat City Horns…one of the most proficient horn-based bands around. How good are they? Let’s just say they rank with horn sections such as CHICAGO, Earth Wind & Fire, Tower of Power and Seawind Horns. As lead vocalist and guitarist of the band, Lopez’ Fat City Horns play to a packed house every Monday, where half of the audience is typically comprised of musicians who play the many live shows in Las Vegas. In fact, all of the Santa Fe and the Fat City Horns band members are full-time Vegas show musicians themselves. With the release of their new album, WHEN THE CURTAIN GOES UP, Lopez and his Fat City Horns are ready to let one of the best-kept secrets out…and we’re here to help. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jerry Lopez.

If you’ve listened to Don Henley’s End of the Innocence, Carole King’s Tapestry, Jackson Browne’s Running on Empty, Billy Joe’s River of Dreams, and most of James Taylors recordings, then you’re familiar with the musical influence of guitarist, composer, and producer Danny Kortchmer…or Kootch…as most in the business know him. From his collaborations with Peter Asher, of Peter and Gordon, to touring and playing sessions with Lee Sklar, Russ Kunkel, and Craig Doerge, of the infamous “Section”, Danny has had a career that most would envy. As an accomplished singer-songwriter, he’s worked with people like David Foster, Jay Graydon, Ringo Starr, Bruce Hornsby, Steve Jordan, Pino Palladino, and Tamio Okuda, while producing for others or for his own solo projects. He’s also ready to embark on the 2010 Carole King / James Taylor World Tour called the TROUBADOUR TOUR…connecting once again to tour with his longtime friends of the Section. Inside MusiCast welcomes Danny Kortchmar.

“Versatile” is the best descriptor for drummer Gregg Bissonette. A Detroit native, who now resides in L.A., Bissonette’s musical collaborations are nothing less than premier… from Maynard Ferguson to David Lee Roth; Gino Vanelli to Ringo Starr; Brandon Fields to Jeff Lynne. Growing up, he and his brother, Matt, played in his father’s band in Detroit…how’s that for push start to a musical career? This eventually pointed him to college where he refined his talent while studying at the prestigious North Texas State Music School. Soon after, he was chosen by Maynard to play in his infamous Big Band. That in itself is an amazing accomplishment for a young musician. After moving from Dallas to LA, he naturally landed on the “A” list by delivering both quality and consistency in his performing. He’s equally comfortable on the stage as in the studio, and thrives in either environment. You’ll hear his drumming on NBC’s FRIENDS, as well as several motion pictures and other TV shows. Inside MusiCast welcomes a truly great musician, composer and human being, Gregg Bissonette.

Every so often, you discover a musician whose instrumental performance literally boggles your mind and leaves you overjoyed, amazed and virtually speechless. Bassist Victor Wooten is, without a doubt, one of the finest bassists on the planet, having been honored as Bass Player Magazine’s ‘Bass player of the year’ – not once, but a staggering three times. Victor has been learning, playing and performing since he was three years old and was raised in a home where music was a part of his family’s every day life. Having been a member of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones since the late ‘80’s, Victor has toured the world, performing for millions of fans and gaining vast notoriety as a bass virtuoso. He has also released several solo projects and has lent his talent to a variety of projects for other musicians. Having been described as a bassist who has reinvented how the bass guitar is played, Victor will tell you that this was never his intention; rather his goal is to just be truthful as a musician. Inside MusiCast welcomes Victor Wooten.

If you were 20 years-old, traveling in the Netherlands and your money, identity and your airplane ticket to get you back home was stolen, what would you do? If you were Eric Tagg, you’d borrow some money, use it to put an ad in the local paper and begin your career as a vocalist. It was this episode in Eric’s life that thrust him into becoming one of the quintessential voices in the West Coast genre. Traveling back to the States to record his first album “Smilin’ Memories” in 1975 is when Eric first met guitarist Lee Ritenour, which blossomed into a long-lasting musical relationship. Eric was Ritenour’s feature vocalist and writing partner on two of his biggest albums, “Rit” and “Rit 2”, including the song “Is It You”, which hit the top 15 on the pop chart and number 1 on the R&B chart in the USA. During this period, Eric released two additional solo albums, “Rendezvous” in 1977 and “Dreamwalkin’” in 1982. It wasn’t until 1997 that he released his fourth solo record “Through My Eyes.” He now spends his time in Greenville, Texas working and writing music for his ministry. Inside MusiCast welcomes Eric Tagg.

It’s a rarity these days to listen to a new album where most every track is so good that you end up playing it over and over again. But when it does happen, you definitely realize that a little magic was added during the writing and recording process. Veteran keyboardist, synthesist, and songwriter, Bill LaBounty, has delivered such a project with the release of Back To Your Star. For his seventh solo release, Bill brings together a star lineup of musicians who’ve helped create the solid foundation for success. Some of the contributors include David Hungate, Larry Carlton, Steve Wariner, Danny Parks, Robbie Dupree, and other star musicians. Produced by Danny Parks and Bill LaBounty, Back To Your Star is a sequence of stories that will let you to not only dig a musical groove, but also appreciate a lyrical flow that is almost poetry. It’s jazzy, smooth, and grooves nice and deep. Inside MusiCast welcomes a true classic musician Bill LaBounty.

Bill Champlin is back. And he’s creating music that proves it. After his recent disconnection from his Chicago gig, he talked to Eddy and Rick about his new album, No Place Left To Fall. It is a testament that Bill has landed on his own two feet and has created arguably his best solo work to date, but on his own terms. He’s teamed up with an amazing group of musicians: George Hawkins, Jr. on bass; Bruce Gaitsch on guitars; and Billy Ward on drums and percussion. To put the finishing touches on the album, he called on his talented family to contribute at every level of the project: His wife Tamara on lyrics and vocals, and his son Will on vocals, playing keyboards and writing. No Place Left To Fall delivers thirteen solid songs that are all well-built and designed to create a cohesive project. It was recorded the old fashion way - four great musicians collaborating in one room creating magic. In other words, Bill has written an album, not just songs. Inside MusiCast welcomes a reenergized classic, Bill Champlin.

If your last name is Porcaro, you live in Southern California, and you’re in the music industry, you’re name is golden. And if your name is Steve Porcaro, that gold has translated into 15 Grammy’s that you’ve held in your hands over the years. As an original member of the band Toto, keyboardist, composer and songwriter Steve Porcaro has had his share of success. He has written many significant songs over his career, such as Michael Jackson’s Human Nature, that was recently performed by guitarist John Mayer at Jackson’s Memorial in the Staples Center. He’s written and performed for artists such as Madonna, The Carpenters, Gary Wright, Diana Ross, Peabo Bryson, Yes, Jefferson Airplane, and others. His discography has included countless musical scores for video, film and television, and he remains consistently busy in these arenas. With credits on seven Toto albums and ten film scores, Steve doesn’t rest on his legacy nor his family’s. Instead he moves ahead – focused on his desire to confront new musical territory. From his work with James Newton Howard on the Friends album, to the soundtrack to Dune, to Toto, his resilience, along with his family name, makes him golden. Inside MusiCast welcomes Steve Porcaro.

Songwriters are very special people. They’re the ones who battle with themselves and suffer through an amazingly creative process that most take for granted. When you listen to the songs that Stephen Bishop has written over his career, you find an honesty and transparency that has allowed him to deliver hits such as On And On and Save It For A Rainy Day. His career actually began as a songwriter long before he wrote songs for himself. In fact, one of his first collaborations was with Art Garfunkel, who discovered his songwriting and vocal talent and invited him to sing and also contribute two tracks to his legendary Breakaway project. He has penned songs for Diana Ross, Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Steve Perry, Kenny Loggins, The Four Tops and also Pavarotti. Widening the body of his work, he sang the hit the meIt Might Be You from the movie Tootsie and also has written and sung on 13 other films, including Animal House and White Knights, from which he was nominated for two Grammy’s and an Oscar for his song, Separate Lives. Inside MusiCast welcomes a gifted songwriter, Stephen Bishop.

To call Brandon Fields a talented sax player is a huge understatement. Ask anyone who he has collaborated with throughout his amazing career…Quincy, Babyface, Los Lobotomys, Elton John, Earth Wind & Fire, Al Jarreau…just to name a few. He has created a reputation that is second to none on the LA session and jazz scene. Brandon’s amazing sound has carried him beyond sessions to touring with Tower of Power, The Rippingtons, Dave Weckl Band, and even the chance to play in the Barry Manilow’s infamous Las Vegas band. Fresh off his latest solo jazz release, One People, he is finding that demand for the best keeps him very busy. Inside MusiCast welcomes Brandon Fields.

Once upon a time, a young seventeen year-old guitarist from Philadelphia auditioned for a musical legend - Stevie Wonder. As the story goes, Stevie hired him on the spot and the young man toured with him as his main guitarist and featured vocalist for the next seven years, working and writing with him on numerous projects including Wonder’s most ambitious album, Songs In The Key Of Life. Since then, Michael Sembello’s musical opportunities have been more than golden…they’ve been platinum. Who can forget his chart-busting single Maniac, written and performed for the movie Flashdance that went platinum multiple times. He’s worked with huge names - David Sanborn, Stevie Wonder, George Benson, Barbara Streisand, the Temptations, Sergio Mendez, George Duke, The Jackson 5, and Michael Jackson. His upcoming Japan-only release, Bossa Nova Hotel, will fuse Brazilian, Bossa and Samba with R&B sounds. Inside MusiCast welcomes a truly global musician, Michael Sembello.

Crosby Loggins is no stranger to Inside MusiCast. Since our ‘07 interview, his world has changed – for the better. After winning MTV’s Rock The Cradle competition and a national record deal with Jive Records, Crosby wasted no time in working on his new album, Time To Move, scheduled to release on July 14th. And although the 28-year-old Loggins reveals plenty of modern tastes, ranging from the grunge-era rock of his formative years to present-day indie faves Feist and Wilco, TIME TO MOVE was designed with a nod to an earlier era, using vintage and organic tones. Join Eddy and Rick as they catch up with Crosby Loggins.

Robin Trower is one of the great British rock guitarists. For over forty years, Robin has assembled a critically acclaimed, commercially successful and massively influential body of work that is still expanding today. To list his many achievements would take more space than we have at our disposal, but suffice to say that, in the space of a four-decade long career, he has sold millions of records, has worked with artists as varied as Procol Harum, Jack Bruce and Bryan Ferry, and yet has remained a modest, unassuming and thoroughly “real-deal” artist. Inside MusiCast welcomes Robin Trower.

Eric Valentine is a busy drummer. Since moving to Los Angeles four years ago, he has been going non-stop. It all started with his first tour baptism with legendary singer Patti LaBelle. Today he has racked up a solid resume of collaborations with artists such as Jeff Lorber, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Erikah Badu, Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler and of course, Steve Lukather. To say that he’s just a drummer is selling him short. He’s a multi-dimensional musician. Take his 2003 solo jazz project, Eric Valentine’s Jazz Impressions. He plays bass guitar, keyboards, drums and also produces. For those who have seen him play live, they’ll tell you that Valentine is a drummer who adds his vibe to everything he hears. Take it from us, we’ve seen him play and he can steal a show. Inside MusiCast welcomes an artist that has only begun a huge career, Eric Valentine.

As a five-time Grammy and Oscar Award winner, Christopher Cross has definitely left his mark on popular music. Since his self-titled debut Warner Brothers release in 1979, his name elicits memories of when one may have heard Sailing or Ride Like The Wind. For those who have looked beyond Cross’s early pop successes, they have found a body of work that launched eight albums of intelligent, melodic, sophisticated and mature music. Although Christopher’s entry into the public eye was meteoric, don’t call him your typical overnight success. His albums Another Page and Walking in Avalon are arguably classics that remain relevant recordings to date. His recent Café Carlyle Sessions reintroduce some of his well known classics in a format and style that is truly all Christopher Cross. Inside MusiCast welcomes the perennial Christopher Cross.

One thing we know about West Coast Music is that its following is much, much bigger than the name implies. It’s more like Global-Coast Music, due to the fact that diehard fans are found at every corner of the globe. At the heart of it all you find a man who continues to stoke the fires of a sound that is a sophisticated mixture of R&B, Rock, Pop and Jazz – Grammy-winning Jay Graydon. His name is found in the credits of tracks and albums that have gone gold, platinum and even multi-platinum. With long-time collaborations with friends like David Foster, George Benson, Al Jarreau, and Steely Dan, Graydon has positioned himself as one of the most creative songwriters, producers, and session guitarists on the LA scene, while continuing to pave his own road with Nashville resident and writing partner, Randy Goodrum. They’re the brains behind JaR, a collaboration of two of the best musical heads in the industry who have released ‘Scene 29’, an album that any West Coast Music fan most certainly has in their audio collection. From Airplay For The Planet to Earth, Wind & Fire’s After The Love Has Gone, Graydon has delivered just what West Coast fans have asked for over the years. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jay Graydon.

Since his arrival in the States from Cuba just a few years ago, 30-year-old acoustic bass prodigy Carlitos del Puerto has quickly become one of the most recognized and highly sought-after session players in Los Angeles. Having performed or recorded with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Ricky Martin, Steve Lukather, Herbie Hancock, Kevin Eubanks and many others, del Puerto is a highly adept player capable of finding and delivering the perfect low-end groove for practically any musical style. His formal musical roots are founded on straight up Cuban music, classical and jazz. His father, Carlos del Puerto, was a most accomplished bassist himself, being his most impacting musical influence. Not surprising, Carlitos won some of the world’s most prestigious international jazz awards as an up-and-coming musician in Havana. We welcome a true international artist who is still spreading his wings in L.A., Carlitos del Puerto.

When you listen to tracks that Clarence McDonald has played on, one begins to appreciate the subtle elegance of what a master arranger and keyboardist brings to the musical table. James Taylor’s Shower The People wouldn’t be what it is without our guest’s silky Rhodes playing. Bill Wither’s Lovely Day wouldn’t be the legendary classic without his elegantly executed parts. The Emotions’ Platinum Best Of My Love needed his touch. Clarence McDonald delivered every time. As a seasoned composer, producer, arranger and keyboardist, Clarence seems to bring his sophisticated feel to every project. He has toured and performed with some of the best…James Taylor, Ray Charles, Carole King, Ella Fitzgerald, Linda Ronstadt, Boz Scaggs, Justin Timberlake, and many more. Inside MusiCast welcomes a true classic, Clarence McDonald.

You may know Chuck Rainey as the legendary Steely Dan bassist that has played on some of the most significant recording projects in history. What you may not know is that Chuck was a bassist in the making from the very beginning. You see, as a young musician he started out as a brass and woodwind guy, playing trumpet and eventually baritone. In the end, the low notes he began playing on his trumpet won out, as he migrated to the four stringed instrument that today has defined his musical career and persona. Also, you might not know that he actually toured with the Beatles on their second U.S. tour while playing in King Curtis’ band. In short, our guest has played with the best of them, including Quincy Jones, Donny Hathaway, Sergio Mendez, Aretha, Donald Fagan, Walter Becker, and Bernard Purdie. And he’s still going strong. We welcome the legendary Chuck Rainey to Inside MusiCast.

For a young Steve Weingart growing up in Dayton, Ohio, the music of fusionists Chick Corea, Joe Zawinul, and Herbie Hancock wooed him as an aspiring young pianist. You might say that it derailed the classical music prodigy, who studied at the College Conservancy of Music in Cincinnati, and placed him on a track that would lead him to becoming a sought after touring and performing keyboardist for top fusion and rock bands such as the Dave Weckl Band, the infamous El Grupo, Steve Lukather, Chaka Khan, Simon Phillips, Marco Mendoza, and many others. Although his career is on a fast track, somehow he’s been able to keep a level head by not forgetting his roots and approaching his musical career with appreciation and humility. But, don’t let his under-spoken personality deceive you; this man can play. He is most capable in almost any musical genre, but fusion is where his heart lies. His latest solo fusion release Dark Blue Dream is a collection of progressive fusion compositions that will captivate you. In short, he makes it all sound too easy. Inside MusiCast welcomes a most talented and gracious Steve Weingart.

Richard Page is back. For proof, go to iTunes or Richard’s web site and you’ll find his most recent solo release since his 1996 solo album, Shelter Me. What’s most unusual is that he chose this holiday season to release a most wonderfully crafted Christmas single entitled, I Always Cry At Christmas. But, this isn’t your typical Christmas track, this is a Richard Page song that delivers what you’d expect - something special from the soul. As the former lead vocalist for Pages, Third Matinee, and Mr. Mister, he has delivered hits such as Broken Wings and Kyrie. But over the past several years he has taken a hiatus from his personal solo career to craft songs and produce artists such as Leona Lewis, Bill Champlin, Al Jarreau, Celine Dion, as well as many others. Today, Richard is once again ready to let us all come into his world, by sharing his music and his personal story with us all. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Richard Page as our first guest of 2009.

It seems that we at Inside MusiCast have recently been delivering musical legacy stories. Our next guest is also a legacy artist. His dad was a big band leader for Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra; his Mom, a talentetd vibes player; his brother Michael is a sought-after keyboardist and session player. But, if you’re a fan of the rock band YES, then you’re probably familiar with our guest, Billy Sherwood. A seasoned multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and producer, Billy earned a Grammy nomination as producer for Paul Rodgers’ ‘Muddy Water Blues’ for Best Contemporary Blues Album. While still with YES, he simultaneously worked on his own solo efforts and took on new producing projects that have included work with YES bassist Chris Squire. Most recently, he has joined a new band - CIRCA, featuring YES alumni Tony Kay and Alan White, along with guitarist Jimmy Haun, and released their debut album in 2004. Inside MusiCast welcomes Billy Sherwood.

For many artists who follow their heart’s desire, the roads that lead to the promised land of musical success can be long and winding. Looking back on the road that Robbie Dupree has traveled, he’s found that he’s been one of the “lucky ones”. From his tough beginnings in Brooklyn, to his Top Ten hits, ‘Hot Rod Hearts’ and ‘Steal Away’, which earned him a Grammy nomination in the early 80’s for Best New Artist, you’ll find that Robbie’s career has been a wonderful journey that has crossed paths with timely opportunities. His newly released CD entitled ‘Time And Tide’ is a product of his high standards in writing, engineering and musicianship. He also has surrounded himself with musicians who he’s worked with over the past years - David Sancious, Larry Hoppen, Leslie Smith, Rick Chudacoff, and Peter Bunetta – all excellent musicians in their own right. Robbie Dupree has definitely reached his promised land, creating music on his terms. Inside MusiCast welcomes Robbie Dupree.

In the music scene there are only a few names that command immediate respect. Sinatra. Foster. Hubbard, Q. Laboriel, Jaco. Goodman. Getz. Corea. Bellson. Armstrong. And then there’s Porcaro…a legacy surname that is renowned in jazz, rock, pop, and classical genres. As owner of this respected surname, Joe Porcaro, a most respected percussionist and drummer, has lived a fortunate life that has involved music at every turn. From marching with his dad in his early days, to performing with his sons on the Grammy Award winning album TOTO IV, to playing on countless film scores and TV shows over the years, Joe Porcaro is a living legend who lives by the philosophy of “passing the music on”. He is constantly working to expand his legacy by sharing his musical knowledge, talent, and passion to students who study at the Los Angeles Music Academy (LAMA), which he helped start in 1996. Here, students (who are so lucky), work face-a-face with one of music’s most respected instructors. His sons, Steve, Mike, and Jeff (we all miss him) remain the pride of his heart, as they were sole beneficiaries of their father’s passion and love of music. And that’s an understatement. Inside MusiCast is honored to welcome a living legend who is still in his prime, Joe Porcaro.

Don’t call Grant Geissman’s music smooth jazz. It’s almost a misnomer to him and doesn’t really capture what his music is all about. Quite simply, the formally trained jazz guitarist is a hybrid musician, having trained on classic jazz standards and improvisation with some serious jazz-cats in the San Jose, California area over the years. As a guitarist with a diverse appetite for new musical experiences, he has also found a successful niche playing on several TV show scores and themes such as Monk, Dawson’s Creek, Boy Meets World, Touched by an Angel, Lizzy McGuire and other TV shows. Most recently he collaborated to compose the theme (and incidental music) for the CBS-TV sitcom Two And A Half Men, for which he was nominated for a Prime Time Emmy Award. As a session player, you’ll find his guitar work on projects for Quincy Jones, Keiko Matsui, David Benoit, and Dianne Schur. But Geissman’s window of opportunity opened in 1976, when flugelhornist Chuck Mangione added him to a short tour in California and the Pacific Northwest. The rest is history, as Geissman became part of Mangione’s band and became famous for his sizzling solo on the song Feels So Good. Finally, as a solo artist with eleven projects under his belt, you’ll find his new jazz project “Say That!” addicting. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Grant Geissman.

When Take 6 came on to the music scene in 1988 with their self-titled debut album, they started breaking the rules of how music was being created, and as a founding member of the band, Mark Kibble was a key perpetrator. The band calls Kibble the “architect”, due to the fact that he was key in designing and molding the Take 6 sound, and no one else sounds like Take 6…nobody. Together they proceeded to design a fresh, vocally-driven sound consisting of gospel, jazz, doo-wop, R&B, pop, 60’s soul and a hip-hop approach that has been working for twenty years. By the way, Kibble, like several of the members of the group, isn’t only an amazing first tenor, he’s also a YAMAHA-endorsing guitarist and formidable producer. Although Kibble and his younger sibling, Joey, are part of the group, it’s evident that after twenty years all six band members treat each other like brothers…or this gig may have ended years ago. Take 6 has won countless awards, from Grammys to Doves to Soul Train, but along the way Kibble and Take 6 have kept their feet planted on the ground. Inside MusiCast welcomes Mark Kibble.

David Gamson has been messing around with sounds, songs, and arrangements for years. As keyboardist/writer/producer for the 80’s band Scritti Politti, he guided the brightly colored, synth-driven sound that was to create several hits in the UK and the U.S. For a band that started as a punk-based band, the migration to a soulful, yet groove-based sound was designed primarily by Gamson. Today, he works as an independent producer and songwriter working with artists such as Chaka Khan, Me’shell Ndegeocello, Green Gartside, Sheila E., George Benson, Miles Davis, Al Jarreau, and has garnered several Grammy nominations for his work. His musical heritage was a natural training ground for him….having worked in a recording studio out of college and even having a father who was Leonard Bernstein’s assistant. It was the making of a talented producer, writer, and arranger who has become the “scritti” behind many artists today. Inside MusiCast welcomes David Gamson.

As percussionist and member of the Grammy Award-winning jazz quartet Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, Roy “Futureman” Wooten, loves walking on the high wire of musical experimentation. And, if you’re familiar with the music of the Flecktones, you know exactly what we’re talking about. Futureman, Victor Wooten (Roy’s brother), Béla Fleck, and Jeff Coffin have been creating music from the inside out for twenty years, and the music they create is like nothing else out there. Much more than a musician and composer, Futureman also is an inventor. He plays a modified MIDI-based, SynthAxe dubbed a “Drumitar” that triggers digital percussion modules. The sounds, textures, time signatures, and overall rhythms of his musical creations border on genius. His amazing musical knowledge on theory, composition and rhythm, along with his vast knowledge of music history, will leave you speechless. Go get some java and settle back for our longest interview”! We didn’t cut anything, because we felt that it was all important. Inside MusiCast welcomes Futureman.

Russ Kunkel is a creative. Yes, he’s primarily known as a first-call drummer who made his mark helping artists such as James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Carly Simon, Carole King, and Linda Ronstadt create their personal sounds. But over the span of three decades, Russ has found that his real gift is not only playing drums, but also writing, producing and participating in the complete creative process of making music. When asked who the most significant people were in starting him on his musical journey, he is quick to mention a list of mentors and teachers that is longer than this introduction. You see, Russ Kunkel doesn’t take anything for granted. It is all about being at the right place at the right time. That’s all it took to connect Apple Records producer Peter Asher to him. After that meeting, Asher hired him to play on James Taylor’s debut album. The rest is history. He’s ready to release a new personal project this coming summer that is sure to pique the interest of music lovers everywhere. Inside MusiCast welcomes Russ Kunkel.

For a young boy growing up in Memphis,Tennessee, exposure to Gospel, soul, jazz, and R&B music was inevitable. The difference for Kirk Whalum was that his baptismal into this music happened at the church where his father pastored. Surrounded by a family that was comprised of several professional musicians, Kirk didn’t have to find music…music found him. But, it was the sparkle and shine that first attracted him to his first saxophone. It was jazz great Bob James that first discovered Kirk playing at a gig in Houston, Texas where shortly thereafter, hired him to play one of his solo albums entitled ‘12.’ Today, Whalum humbly tells how divine intervention had a definite hand in his past success and stands on a faith that is clearly contageous. He celebrated his 25 years in the business with the release of his 2007 album ‘Roundtrip’, and engaged producer Phillippe Saisse, who worked on his first solo album, along with an amazingly great lineup of musicians that included Earl Klugh and many guest musicians who are….ready for this? Family members! Inside MusiCast is happy to welcome a sax virtuoso, Kirk Whalum.

Bill Champlin is a man who has experienced musical success on his own terms. Over the years you’ve known him as a solo artist, session musician, vocalist, and longtime member of the band Chicago. From the very start of his career, you’ll find interesting detours that have taken him to places where other musicians only wish they could experience. From the early psychedelic era of The Sons of Champlin in San Francisco, to laying down smooth vocal tracks with David Foster, to his contributions in Chicago, Bill found his way to his own music by listening, learning, and absorbing from the very best. The fact is, if you step back to see the breadth of his talent, at the core you’ll find a man who has been gifted with one of the most soulful voices that has helped define what R&B is today. That’s why we’re eagerly awaiting his new album which will be released later this year. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Bill Champlin.

Over the years there have been a handful of drummers that have reached the ultimate plateau of first call rhythm makers who are called on to deliver the best grooves for the greatest producers and artists. If you’re thinking of a few, mostly likely John Robinson is on the list. From Michael Jackson’s ‘Off The Wall’ to Quincy Jones’ ‘The Dude’; from Smokey Robinson’s ‘One Heartbeat’ to Anita Baker’s ‘Rapture’; from Joe Sample’s ‘Spellbound’ to Ricky Lee Jone’s ‘Flying Cowboys’, you’ll find his uniquely experienced groove added to each hit. Because of his ability to deliver the right feel for the right project, he has been one of Quincy Jones’ go-to drummers since 1979, and also Barbra Streisand’s since 1993. He’s been pegged as one of the most recorded drummers in history, and a look at his discography will leave you convinced. As a global drummer, J.R. Robinson is leaving his mark not only in the U.S., but also internationally. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome John ‘JR’ Robinson.

Jon Herington is a guitarist at peace. But, at an arm’s length, anyone will tell you that he has one of the music industry’s most coveted gigs – a gig that has long been a magnet to critical criticism or critical acclaim for one of music’s most creative groups, Steely Dan. At a conversational distance, you’ll discover that not only has Jon executed the most complex guitar parts for Donald Fagan and Walter Becker over the past eight years, but has found creative balance as a musician, producer and writer that subscribes to the same standard of musicianship as the Dan. Listen closely to his personal work and you’ll be mildly surprised to find that Jon Herington approaches his music like that of a qualified artist, both lyrically and musically. So sit back, and listen to our guest expound on his musical roots as well as his musical theories and perspectives. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jon Herington.

This edition of Inside MusiCast takes us into the mind and music of a true native of Southern California, where at a very young age he was playing piano, and by High School he was learning harmony from one of Stan Kenton’s principal arrangers. Fast forward through a career that has spanned three decades and you’ll find a master arranger, producer, and session player who has left an impressive mark on many musical genres. You’ll find his musical genius injected into hits for Faith Hill and Randy Travis; Christina Aguilera and Tina Turner; Donna Summer and Barbara Streisand; Manhattan Transfer and Larry Carlton; and Helen Baylor and Andre Crouch. In the jazz scene, his highly acclaimed ‘Baked Potato Super Live’, recorded with Toto members Steve Lukather and Jeff Porcaro, along with ‘Pops’ Popwell from the Jazz Crusaders, shook up the music scene as one of the freshest live jazz recordings in history. It still remains as a ‘must have’ among music aficionados to this day. His jazz collaborations continue to this day. Whether performing live, in studio or even on television, our guest also continues to be in high demand internationally. Inside MusiCast welcomes the master of the West Coast Groove, Greg Mathieson.

Bernard Purdie is a rhythmic legend that has painted his mark on the American music landscape - from jazz, country, soul and rock, Bernard Purdie’s legendary drumming techniques are still revered and remain relevant today. He’s not only a legend, but he’s a man who is also a teacher, continuing to influence young musicians to this day. He’s considered the “most recorded drummer in the world” and has played with almost everyone in the business, names such as Aretha Franklin, Joe Cocker, BB King, Hall and Oates, Quincy Jones, Marvin Gaye, Cat Stevens, Steely Dan, Miles Davis….and the list goes on. Join Rick and Eddy as they talk with Bernard about his challenges of making it into the music business, his famous “Purdie shuffle”, his friendship with Jeff Porcaro, and other experiences from his years of session work that will leave you spellbound. Inside MusiCast welcomes a true music legend, Bernard Purdie.

Spend a little time with bassist Chris Kent and you’ll find that he’s so much more than a musician. He’s also a man who loves life. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee to become one of the busiest first-call bassists for Gospel, Country, R&B, Jazz and Rock artists. He has taken the stage at the Grand Ole Opry along side artists such as Lorrie Morgan, has toured with guitarists Steve Lukather and Larry Carlton, saxophonist Kirk Whalum, Take 6 and many more. From the Tonight Show to Jazz Central on BET to Live From the House of Blues, Chris Kent can be found wherever there’s a groove to lay down. Join us as he takes us from his first Montgomery Ward’s bass as a kid, to surviving cancer, and ultimately finding his way to a successful career and purpose in life. He’ll even play some of his bass grooves and discuss how he builds a bass line. Inside MusiCast welcomes Chris Kent.

In the music world, most musicians focus on one instrument….some two, some rarely play three, and others are unique…like Shem Von Schroeck…who, on his last solo album Son of Arthur, played bass, guitar, piano, drums, percussion, bodhran, and also sang lead and background vocals. Although capable of performing as a multi-instrumentalist, his career has focused on being a first call bassist and vocalist. This has allowed him to make his mark as a front man, singing and playing bass for the band Ambrosia, as sideman for Kenny Loggins and many other artists. He’s a singer’s singer…blessed with a vocal range and precision that any singer would covet, after all, this tenor has perfect pitch. His career has taken him full circle, from studying formally at the Manhattan School of Music, to classical, to an amazing career in rock and pop, and now, there’s a new twist with Shem’s career…and it involves rekindling his passion for opera. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome the multi-faceted Shem Von Schroeck.

IMC hosts, Rick and Eddy, have caught up with several Inside MusiCast guests to talk about fresh music coming in the form of new albums. Join us as they speak with Steve Lukather to recap the recent world tour with TOTO, his upcoming solo album release and tour, and also a couple of other surprises.

Crosby Loggins has just finished his new album, WE ALL GO HOME, with his band The Light. He’ll fill you in on release dates, tour dates, internet marketing of the new project, and singles to be released.

Jennie DeVoe is heading to England to work with producer John Parrish on her upcoming record. The second of DeVoe/Parrish projects is sure to build on the sound and feel of her latest album, FIREWORKS & KARATE SUPPLIES, but might have more of an edge. Rick and Eddy catch up with Jennie to talk about her writing and preparation for her new project.

When Brian Bromberg got his real break as a jazz bassist at the age of nineteen, he had already been playing professionally for six years. Yeah…that would make him thirteen when he started playing gigs at jazz clubs and events in Tuscon, AZ. But, it was Bill Evan’s bassist who connected him with the jazz legend Stan Getz, who was shopping for a touring bassist at the time. And with one phone call from Stan, he had the gig. Today, as a seasoned bassist, Brian Bromberg has been described as one of the best 100 bassists in the 20th century. This is due to his remarkable proficiency as a technician, player and composer. Brian is a true jazz bassist. He’s also a contemporary smooth jazz artist that has turned the ear of music lovers and audiophiles that see his true passion and dedication to his craft. On his latest solo release, he invited heavy-hitter friends such as Lee Ritenour, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Boney James, Rick Braun, George Duke, Paula Cole and Vinnie Collaiuta to contribute their talents to this truly hybrid jazz recording called DOWNRIGHT UPRIGHT. It’s a remarkable project. We recommend this album highly. Inside MusiCast welcomes Brian Bromberg.

If he were being accused of being too creative and trying too many new things, Jeff Lorber would have to plead guilty. You see, when it comes down to creating music that’s fresh and ground-breaking, Jeff Lorber feels right at home. Over thirty years after the R&B-Jazz-Fusion pioneer shook up the music world with his group The Jeff Lorber Fusion, the Philly-born keyboardist has managed to stay on the track of musical imagination to deliver over twenty jazz-fusion adventurous albums that have impacted the musical world around him. His stylish new album, HE HAD A HAT, includes a touch of Gospel, Fusion, and Smooth Jazz styles, while throwing in some Be-Bop and Swing on the side. Guest musicians on the album require no introduction…Abe Laboriel Jr, Kirk Whalum, Paul Jackson, Jr, Lenny Castro, Vinnie Colaiuta, Dave Weckl, Randy Brecker, Gerald Albright, Tom Scott, Brian Bromberg, Hubert Laws, and Chris Botti. We highly recommend this new project because, quite simply, it has Grammy written all over it. Jeff Lorber is at his absolute best at every turn. Inside MusiCast is honored to welcome an absolute legend in Jazz and Fusion…..Jeff Lorber.

As one of the most recognizable voices in music, singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins is a legend when it comes to producing hit singles not only as a solo artist, but also as part of the 70’s singing duo Loggins and Messina. You’ve heard his songwriting handiworks…Celebrate Me Home, This Is It, I’m Alright, Footloose, and Danger Zone. You’ve also heard his collaborations…What A Fool Believes, with Michael McDonald…and Whenever I Call You Friend with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks. He was honored to be a part of a select artist’s list who sang on one of the most famous singles ever recorded - the famine-relief fundraising single We Are The World (USA for Africa ) produced by Quincy Jones. He has collaborated with many renown singers and musicians throughout his career such as Bill Champlin, Donna Summer, Graham Nash, Wynonna Judd, George Duke, Quincy Jones, Pages, Jim Brickman, David Benoit, Russ Freeman and many more. With over twenty eight albums to his credit, Kenny has remained active by touring and writing. He recently released his new album entitled How About Now…offering twelve new original songs plus a new version of the Loggins & Messina classic, “A Love Song”. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Kenny Loggins. (photo Carl Studna)

As a two-time Grammy Award winning member of Bela Fleck & the Flecktones, saxophonist/composer Jeff Coffin has traveled the world leaving his mark as one of today’s most talented musicians. He has shared the stage with not only the Flecktones, but also with an amazingly diverse list of musicians, such as The Dave Matthews Band, Branford Marsalis, McCoy Tyner, Van Morrison, Lynyrd Skynard, The Wailers, Baaba Maal, J.D. Souther, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Indian guitarist Prasanna. Talk about diversity! On a personal level, Jeff is constantly reaching for the unique, both compositionally and also in playing technique. You see, Jeff is also well known for occasionally playing alto and tenor saxes simultaneously, creating double-impact performances that leave audiences breathless. His collaborations are just as interesting and unique. He’s a current member of the Mondo Trio with keyboardist Jeff Babko and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, and also plays in the Jeff Babko Trio. Both eclectic bands seem to reach new heights in musical composition and experimentation. In the midst of it all, Jeff even performs in his own band, the Jeff Coffin Mu’tet, which takes it’s name from the word “mutation”, a descriptor that Jeff often uses to describe the ever-changing nature of music. By the way, his much anticipated 2007 solo record is soon to be released. We’re glad to welcome Yamaha and Vandoren Performing Artist Jeff Coffin to Inside Musicast.

Robert Lamm’s voice is one of the most recognizable voices in the world of music. As an original member of the Grammy Award winning band Chicago, his lead vocal and keyboard skills remain key to the Chicago Sound that has endured 40 years, and is still going strong. They are one of the most successful touring bands, having toured last year with Earth, Wind, & Fire, and are currently on tour with America. This only means that the market for their sound has become not only younger, but also hungrier for their music. As a skilled song writer Robert has penned Chicago classics such as “Beginnings”, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is”, “25 or 6 to 4”, and “Saturday In The Park”. While still extremely committed to the band, Robert is still discovering new horizons as a solo artist when it comes to his music. From his highly acclaimed solo release “Subtlety & Passion” to “Leap of Faith”, he has something to say and isn’t about to let the music stop talking. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Robert Lamm…a true Classic in the music world.

Jeff Babko is one of the busiest and most sought after keyboard/piano players in the music business today. Although his name might not be a household word, it’s likely you’ve heard his music. Or, better yet, you’ve probably seen him playing in the band on JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE, every weeknight on ABC. Apart from his weeknight TV gig, Jeff is also one of the most talented jazz keyboardists on the scene, having toured with George Duke, James Taylor, Julio Iglesias, and has recorded with Larry Carlton, super drummer Simon Phillips, and most recently, Steve Lukather. He has three solo and collaboration albums to his credit and has currently released a new project with his new jazz band, MONDO TRIO, featuring Jeff Coffin and Vinnie Colaiuta, and himself. He’s definitely busy…creating great music. Inside MusiCast welcomes Jeff Babko.

You recognize the last name. And you’re right. Crosby Loggins is the son of singer/songwriter Kenny Loggins. Enough said, because apart from the obvious familial resemblance and a genetic gift for melody, this is not a simple story of a son following in his father’s footsteps. He’s paving his own road through the creation of his very own style of music. Interestingly, he didn’t see music as something he had to do. Let’s just say that music found him. He started writing his own songs by the age of eight and later honed his skills at Colorado University and the Los Angeles Music Academy. He then began searching for something that he already had. But, it took him a few years to realize it and is happily heading straight into the family business. He’s an amazingly fresh artist who has something to say. And, it clearly comes through in his music. Inside MusiCast is happy to welcome Crosby Loggins.

When you mention the name Chicago, people roll out the mental red carpet and pay homage to one of the most influential rock bands ever. And, after 40 years of delivering classic hits, their momentum and influence still remains strong with their recent 2006 release of Chicago XXX. If you’re familiar with the band’s music, then you’re familiar with Jason Scheff, one of Chicago’s lead vocalists and bass player for the past 21 years. Over the years, Jason’s talent has helped Chicago deliver some of the most played and loved music around the world. His writing skills have also contributed hits such as Will You Still Love Me, and What Kind of Man Would I Be. But don’t think that Jason is only Chicago deep. He comes from deep musical roots, as his father was Elvis’ perennial bassist for years. Amazing where a musical heritage can take you. Inside MusiCast welcomes one of Chicago’s best – Jason Scheff.

A perennial classic producer and session musician, our guest really needs no introduction…or at least one paragraph doesn’t do his career justice. We will say that he is the first producer in recording history to have number one records in three separate decades… the 70s, 80s, and 90s. In 1980, he was nominated for 10 Grammy Awards, three of which he won for his work on Christopher Cross’ debut album, Sailing. (Talk about a classic album.) In the 80s he was nominated twice for producer of the year. In 1991 he was nominated for album of the year for Amy Grant’s Heart in Motion and in ’94 he even produced the soundtrack album for the Summer Olympic Games. He’s still in demand as a producer, but is now spending more time discovering new talent. Over his lengthy and successful career, he’s worked with names such as: Bela Fleck, Rod Stewart, Michael Bolton, Whitney Houston, Willie Nelson, Reba, Roberta Flack, Alison Krauss, and a recent Inside MusiCast guest, David Pack. Inside MusiCast welcomes a true classic — Michael Omartian.

If you listen to Inside MusiCast on a regular basis, you know that we chat with some of the most talented people in the music industry. When it comes to the Grammy Award winning band TOTO, we’ll be the first to tell you that the musicianship of the band members is second to none. But, in case you haven’t heard, Mike Porcaro, bassist for TOTO, has sustained a hand injury that is going to leave him sidelined for the band’s upcoming tour of Europe, and possibly for more dates this summer in North America. Our prayers and well wishes go out to Mike for a speedy recovery. But as they say in the biz, the show must go on. So TOTO has turned to long-time friend and super musician Lee Sklar to take Mike’s place for the upcoming tour. Inside MusiCast is taking this opportunity to spend a few minutes with Lee to chat about his new role with the band and what to expect in the coming months when TOTO hits the road.

Steve Lukather is still under construction as a musician. Although he has chosen three distinct roads to follow during his career (as a solo performer, as a member of the Grammy Award winning band TOTO, and also as a top session player) he still is not intimidated by the process of collaborating with other musicians and writers to create fresh music. This is evident as he prepares to put the final touches on his latest solo album which is yet untitled. After a year of solid touring with TOTO, he was still able to write the solo album with fellow collaborator Randy Goodrum in only two weeks. With very little time to write, record, and produce finished tracks, Steve admits that working under pressure helps him work better and ultimately deliver a better record. In the midst of working on his solo album, he’s preparing to embark on a second phase of touring, which also includes a European leg with Toto. An intense schedule? Yeah. Madness? Maybe. But then again, you have to know Luke. He’s a pretty intense guy that needs to keep things moving along. Inside MusiCast shifts into overdrive and invites you into the world of Steve Lukather.

Making it in the music business requires lots of talent, perseverance, and luck. This is especially important if you are a young musician. For Chicago-born bassist Tommy Sims, it was sheer, soulful talent that unlocked the door of opportunity. His first big break came at the age of 23 when Bruce Springsteen, who had heard of Tommy’s talent, called and asked if he would come jam with the band. One day turned to three, and finally, he was asked to join the group. After his education with Springsteen, Sims gained the respect of the music industry as a premier songwriter. He co-penned the smash hit Change the World  for Eric Clapton and Babyface, which won the prestigious Song of the Year and Record of the Year Grammy’s in 1997. His writing, producing and skill as a musician have brought him to work with a variety of soul, country, Gospel, funk and rock artists. Here’s a short list: Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Loggins, Joan Osbourne, Newsboys, the Neville Brothers, Michael McDonald, Michael W. Smith, Trisha Yearwood, Amy Grant, and the list continues. Join us as we delve into the life and music of one of Nashville’s most talented artists. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tommy Sims.

The name Greg Phillinganes is about to get a little more popular in the music world. You see, this year, this most prolific keyboardist, arranger, composer and performer has been nominated for his first Grammy. He has been nominated for Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s) for Good Morning Heartache featuring Jill Scott on Chris Botti’s new album, To Love Again. As a perennial top session player, Greg has continued to expand his project repertoire by working with the best of the best. From his collaborations with Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, George Benson, Paul McCartney, and currently as a band member of the Grammy Award winning band TOTO, Greg shows that he’s not afraid of discovering new musical horizons and that’s what keeps him on the edge of music and music technology. Join us as we chat with Greg about his career, TOTO, and the future. Inside MusiCast welcomes Greg Phillinganes.