Backstage Pass Radio

• S9: E6: Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns & Roses, Sons of Apollo, Art of Anarchy) - Guitar Wizardry Unleashed

  Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!Date: September 17, 2025Name of podcast: Backstage Pass RadioS9: E6: Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns & Roses, Asia, Sons of Apollo, Art of Anarchy) -  Guitar Wizardry UnleashedSHOW SUMMARY:Guitar virtuoso Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal takes us behind the curtain of his creative process, sharing the fascinating story of his latest instrumental album "Bumblefoot Returns" and the innovative techniques that have defined his distinctive sound. Released in January 2024, this album marks his first fully instrumental release since his 1995 debut and features collaborations with legendary musicians including Brian May of Queen, Steve Vai, and Guthrie Govan.  The conversation delves deep into Bumblefoot's journey with the fretless guitar – an instrument he describes as "learning a different language" that transformed his approach to melody and expression. He reveals the origin of his signature metal thimble technique, which allows him to access notes beyond the traditional fretboard limitations. These innovations began when a 12-year-old Ron first heard Eddie Van Halen and realized "there are no limits to how you could make a string vibrate and make it speak."  Beyond his musical innovations, Bumblefoot shares insights into the challenges facing touring musicians today, where merch sales and direct fan support have become essential for survival. He's found creative ways to make his album release an event rather than just another digital drop – offering vinyl with special artwork, CDs with fold-out posters, cassettes, transcription books with backing tracks, and even a free retro video game based on the album's artwork.  The conversation takes unexpected turns as Bumblefoot discusses his award-winning hot sauce line, including the infamous "Bumblefucked" – once ranked the third hottest sauce in the world at 4-6 million Scoville units. He hints at plans for new hot sauce flavors named after songs from his album and a forthcoming comic book project that will bring the album's artwork to life in new ways.  For aspiring musicians and longtime fans alike, Bumblefoot's passion for experimentation and artistic growth shines through every story. Whether he's discussing his upcoming performance at a festival in Jakarta or his role as a counselor at Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp, his enthusiasm for connecting with other musicians and fans remains as vibrant as his innovative playing style. Tune in for a master class in creative thinking from one of guitar's most original voices.Sponsor Link:WWW.ECOTRIC.COMWWW.SIGNAD.COMWWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COMBackstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusicInstagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusicTwitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusicWebsite - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.comArtist(s) Web PageWeb - www.bumblefoot.comCall to actionWe ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.  Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio Your Host,Randy Hulsey 

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• S9: E5: Little Bihlman (John Fogerty, Jelly Roll, GrinderBlues) - Sonic Evolution

  Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!Date: September 3, 2025Name of podcast: Backstage Pass RadioS9: E5: Little Bihlman (John Fogerty, Jelly Roll, Grinder Blues) - Sonic EvolutionSHOW SUMMARY:Ever wonder what happens when a multi-instrumentalist with four Emmy Awards decides to channel Pink Floyd through a modern rock lens? Little Bihlman's upcoming album "Heavy Head" answers that question with authority.  Returning to Backstage Pass Radio, Little Bihlman shares the creative journey behind his darkest, most ambitious record to date. Having toured and recorded with legends spanning from BB King to Ted Nugent, Hank Williams Jr. to Jelly Roll, and even Pink, Little Bihlman brings decades of musical expertise to this Floyd-influenced collection. "I'm a rocker," he admits, despite his versatility across blues, country, and other genres.  The conversation takes us deep into the making of "Heavy Head," set for release through V13 Music with its first single dropping August 8th. Little Bihlman previews "Fade Away," a straight-ahead rocker featuring guitar work from Shrapnel Records founder Mike Varney, while explaining why his favorite track remains the Floyd-esque title song. For an artist who's played countless sessions and toured extensively, this record represents a personal milestone—one where he follows his "goosebumps" rather than chasing trends.  Beyond music, Little Bihlman reveals his recent role as a mobster in the upcoming Nicolas Cage film "Spider-Man Noir" and discusses his forthcoming memoir. He offers candid insights about the modern music industry, advocating for independent approaches over traditional record deals unless "they're gonna blow you out." It's a masterclass in artistic sustainability from someone who's survived and thrived across decades of industry changes.  Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, Little Bihlman's blend of technical prowess, storytelling, and authentic rock energy promises something special with "Heavy Head." Follow him on Instagram and Facebook, or visit scottbihlman.com to stay updated on release dates, tour information, and merchandise availability. Ready to hear what happens when classic influences meet modern production? This is your invitation.Sponsor Link:WWW.ECOTRIC.COMWWW.SIGNAD.COMWWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COMBackstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusicInstagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusicTwitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusicWebsite - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.comArtist(s) Web PageWeb - www.scotbihlman.comCall to actionWe ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.  Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio Your Host,Randy Hulsey 

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• S9: E4: Lee Newton - Standing in the Circle

  Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!Date: August 20, 2025Name of podcast: Backstage Pass RadioS9: E4: Lee Newton- Standing in the CircleSHOW SUMMARY:When Lee Newton's father told his young daughter she would one day stand on the Grand Ole Opry stage while he watched from the front row, neither could have imagined how prophetically those words would manifest. Fast forward decades later to Lee performing her song "Carolina" at the Opry House with her father's cab driver hat placed on the microphone stand and an empty seat in the front row – a powerful full-circle moment that exemplifies her extraordinary journey.  The North Carolina native's path to musical success has been anything but conventional. Growing up in "Paper Town, USA" with limited resources, Lee found early musical inspiration riding in her father's taxi cab where he'd play guitar between fares. Despite facing poverty, family struggles, and eventually escaping domestic violence with her young son on her hip, Lee's resilience never wavered. Just four and a half years ago, she restarted her musical career from nothing – no money, no connections, just raw talent and unwavering determination.  What she's accomplished in that short time defies typical industry trajectories. Lee has opened for country legends like Randy Travis, Ronnie Millsap, and Gene Watson. Her albums feature collaborations with Pam Tillis, Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys, T. Graham Brown, and Rhonda Vincent – established artists who embraced her as a peer rather than a newcomer. As an independent artist handling her own management and promotion, she's earned multiple prestigious awards, including Traditional Country Artist of the Year at the Josie Awards and Entertainer of the Year from the International Singer-Songwriting Association.  Beyond her musical achievements, Lee's story resonates because of her authenticity and heart. Her song "Strength of a Woman" has inspired nearly 60,000 TikTok videos from people sharing their own stories of overcoming adversity. Between recording sessions for her upcoming album featuring Georgette Jones, she prioritizes being "that mom" who attends school lunches and field trips with her nine-year-old son, and dedicates time to benefit concerts for causes close to her heart.  Discover more about this remarkable artist's journey and music at leenewtonofficial.com and follow her on all social media platforms to stay updated on upcoming performances and releases.Sponsor Link:WWW.ECOTRIC.COMWWW.SIGNAD.COMWWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COMBackstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusicInstagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusicTwitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusicWebsite - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.comArtist(s) Web PageWeb - www.leenewtonmusic.comCall to actionWe ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.  Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio Your Host,Randy Hulsey 

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• S9: E3: Rod Roddy (LeRoux)- The Cajun Swampers

  Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!Date: August 6, 2025Name of podcast: Backstage Pass RadioS9: E3: Rod Roddy (LeRoux)- The Cajun SwampersSHOW SUMMARY:Pull up a chair on the bayou as Rod Roddy, founding member and keyboard master of Louisiana rock legends LeRoux, opens his home and memory vault for an intimate conversation about a musical journey spanning five decades.The humble piano player whose band earned the nickname "The Steely Dan of the South" takes us from his earliest days learning to play by ear to touring alongside rock royalty like Journey and Kansas. With characteristic Cajun warmth, Roddy reveals how LeRoux evolved from local favorites playing cover tunes to acclaimed recording artists and the house band at the legendary Studio in the Country in Bogalusa.In a poignant reflection on bandmates and friends, Roddy shares the spiritual awakening that led vocalist Jeff Pollard to walk away at the height of the band's success, and honors the recent losses of founding members Leon Medica and Tony Haselden. Through tales of their commercial breakthrough with "So Fired Up" and their 2020 return to their funkier roots on "One of Those Days," Roddy paints a vivid portrait of a band whose sound embodied Louisiana's rich musical gumbo.Perhaps most moving is Roddy's vulnerability when discussing the hearing issues that have changed his relationship with music, and his philosophical approach to LeRoux's uncertain future. "When we get together on stage, it's magic," he muses, "and we miss that part of it." For fans of regional rock history, studio musicianship, or anyone who's ever been moved by "New Orleans Ladies," this conversation offers rare insights into the creative spirit that kept LeRoux's musical flame burning for over four decades.Check out LeRoux's music and follow their journey at www.larueband.com as they determine what the next chapter holds for this beloved Southern rock institution.Sponsor Link:WWW.ECOTRIC.COMWWW.SIGNAD.COMWWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COMBackstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusicInstagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusicTwitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusicWebsite - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.comArtist(s) Web PageWeb - www.leroux.bandFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/louisianaslerouxCall to actionWe ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.  Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio Your Host,Randy Hulsey 

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• S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville

  Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!Date: July 23, 2025Name of podcast: Backstage Pass RadioS9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to NashvilleSHOW SUMMARY:What does it take to stand out in the crowded Nashville music scene? For Mary Kutter, it's about being the splash of red paint on a wall of white—creating music that cuts through the noise with authenticity and purpose.  Born and raised just outside the Bourbon Capital of the World in Springfield, Kentucky, Mary's journey to Nashville began with an unexpected opportunity hosting a radio variety show. This serendipitous break led to a life-changing connection with legendary songwriter Kim Williams, who recognized something special in the young artist and opened doors that would transform her career. As Mary shares, "That job offer changed my life."  When the pandemic shut down the music industry in 2020, Mary faced a pivotal moment. Rather than stepping back, she doubled down on her craft, writing seven days a week, two to three sessions daily, for nearly two years straight. This relentless work ethic yielded her first gold record and substantial placements in movies and commercials—all created through Zoom sessions with collaborators she couldn't meet in person.  What truly distinguishes Mary's artistry is her willingness to explore complex, personal narratives. Her viral hit "Devil Wore a Lab Coat" confronts the pharmaceutical industry's role in the opioid epidemic that devastated her Kentucky hometown. "Devil's Money" tells the remarkable true story of her bootlegger great-grandfather who used his illicit earnings to build a church. These songs resonate deeply because they speak truth, regardless of commercial appeal.  From unexpected collaborations with rapper Project Pat to her disciplined creative routine beginning at 5 AM daily, Mary embodies the modern artist who forges her own path. Her approach to songwriting combines raw authenticity with strategic savvy, sharing snippets on social media that connect so deeply with fans they're singing unreleased verses at her shows.  As Mary prepares for headline performances, festival appearances, and new music releases, her advice to aspiring artists remains straightforward: "Put your blinders on and keep the pedal down." Through every challenge and triumph, she's remained true to herself—creating music that matters and leaving an indelible mark on the Nashville landscape, one honest song at a time.  Subscribe now to hear more compelling stories from artists who are redefining the boundaries of their craft and building careers on their own terms.Sponsor Link:WWW.ECOTRIC.COMWWW.SIGNAD.COMWWW.RUNWAYAUDIO.COMBackstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusicInstagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusicTwitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusicWebsite - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.comArtist(s) Web PageInstagram - @marykutterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/mary.kutterWeb - www.marykutter.comCall to actionWe ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.  Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio Your Host,Randy Hulsey 

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