Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley

On air since 1982 — long before podcasts existed.
In this radio archive from 2003, Joe Kelley talks with percussionist, vocalist, bandleader, and former Prince collaborator Estaire Godinez about her album Live From The Dakota and the vibrant Minneapolis music scene.
Estaire reflects on performing with George Benson, recording live at The Dakota, building a Latin-funk sound, and working alongside acclaimed musicians including Mike Scott, Eric Leeds, and John Blackwell.
She also shares memorable stories about Prince, unexpected guest appearances, and the collaborative spirit that made Minneapolis one of the most influential music communities in the world.
This conversation captures a unique moment in time and offers a fascinating look inside the musicians, friendships, and performances that helped shape the Minneapolis Sound.
Originally recorded in 2003.
Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley has been bringing listeners real conversations with artists since 1982.

What does it take to stay in one of the most successful touring bands in music history for more than four decades?
In this episode of Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley, legendary bassist Stephen Jay shares stories from his remarkable career with Weird Al Yankovic, discusses the creative process behind parody music, reflects on the explosive impact of MTV, and explains why music remains the ultimate medicine.
Stephen also discusses:
Joining Weird Al in the early 1980s
The overnight success of "Eat It"
Life on the Bigger & Weirder Tour
Recreating famous bass lines and musical styles
The challenge of performing parodies authentically
Working with PBS as a composer
His solo albums and creative projects
The fascinating connection between rhythm and harmony
Why great bass playing is often about the spaces between the notes

Stephen has been a cornerstone of the Weird Al band since its earliest days and continues to tour internationally while also releasing acclaimed solo music.
Visit Stephen's music at StephenJayMusic.com
Subscribe to Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley for conversations with legendary musicians, producers, engineers, and artists from across the music world.

In this rare 2004 archive interview, legendary drummer John Blackwell discusses the loss of his daughter Jia, the creation of the Jia Kennie Blackwell Memorial Scholarship, and the support he received from Prince, Larry Graham, family and friends during one of the most difficult periods of his life.
Blackwell also reflects on:
Prince and the Musicology Tour
The New Power Generation
The Rainbow Children
Berklee College of Music
Live music vs technology
Performing with purpose
Creating "A Song For Jia"

A deeply personal conversation with one of the most beloved drummers of his generation.
Originally broadcast in December 2004.
Hosted by Joe Kelley.

For more than four decades, Joe Kelley has interviewed the musicians behind some of the most influential music ever created. In this special roundtable edition of Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley, six legendary members of the Minneapolis music community come together to celebrate the legacy, history, and future of the Minneapolis Sound.
Joining Joe are St. Paul Peterson, Jerome Benton, Dr. Fink, Elisa Fiorillo, Kirk Johnson, and Jason Peterson DeLaire.
Together, they share stories from the road, memories of performing with Prince, reflections on the Minneapolis music scene, favorite cities to play, the enduring influence of the Twin Cities sound, and the mission of the Minneapolis Funk All-Stars to keep that legacy alive for future generations. The group represents artists who helped shape the Minneapolis Sound through their work with Prince, The Time, The Family, the New Power Generation, and countless legendary recordings and tours.
In This Episode
• The origins and mission of the Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Life on the road with Prince and related projects
• Favorite cities and audiences around the world
• Memories of Jellybean Johnson and the Minneapolis music family
• Stories from Paisley Park and Purple Rain-era musicians
• The lasting impact of the Minneapolis Sound
• Keeping funk, soul, and live musicianship alive
Whether you're a Prince fan, a student of music history, or simply love hearing great stories from legendary musicians, this conversation offers a rare gathering of artists who lived and helped create one of music's most influential scenes.
Featured Guests
• St. Paul Peterson – The Time, The Family, Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Dr. Fink – Prince & The Revolution, Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Kirk Johnson – Prince & The New Power Generation, Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Elisa Fiorillo – Prince & The New Power Generation, Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Jerome Benton – The Time, The Family, Minneapolis Funk All-Stars
• Jason Peterson DeLaire – Minneapolis Funk All-Stars

Author, roller skating legend, community leader, and creator of the Rollo Shuffle, Kenny "Rollo" Davis joins Joe Kelley to discuss growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the influence of Challenger astronaut Ronald McNair, overcoming addiction, recovery, family, faith, and the inspiring journey detailed in his book Life At The End Of The Tunnel.