LaunchLeft

• EP164 | JODY STEPHENS OF BIG STAR launches Luther Russell

  Ever wonder what it's like to be part of rock history? Our latest LaunchLeft episode pulls back the curtain on Big Star's legacy. Rain Phoenix hosts an illuminating conversation with Jody Stephens, drummer of the legendary band Big Star. The discussion delves into Jody's early musical influences in Memphis, his experiences with Big Star, and the band's enduring legacy. Jody shares insights about recording at Ardent Studios and working with John Fry, offering a glimpse into the creation of Big Star's iconic sound. Jody then launches Luther Russell. They discuss their collaboration in their band Those Pretty Wrongs, exploring their songwriting process and creative dynamic. Luther provides additional perspective on their partnership and his own musical journey. The episode also touches on Jody's recent induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and Luther's latest solo album. Throughout, the conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a joyful, pressure-free approach to creativity in music. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Introducing Jody Stevens of Big Star (05:21) Jody’s early musical influences in Memphis (09:06) Rain on discovering Big Star in Costa Rica (15:22) John Fry's influence on Big Star's iconic sound (24:17) Working at Ardent Studios after Big Star (31:49) Changes in the music industry over time (47:50) Luther Russell is launched (49:17) Collaborative songwriting process for the band (56:32) Recording at Abbey Road with John Leckie (59:52) Luther Russell's new solo album Happiness for Beginners (1:02:39) Upcoming shows and future recording plans KEY TAKEAWAYS: Music creation should be a joyful, pressure-free process. By focusing on having fun and avoiding self-imposed stress, artists can collaborate effectively long-distance and produce multiple albums together. This approach has allowed creativity to flow naturally. The music industry has changed dramatically, but there are still "gatekeepers" in new forms. While technology has democratized distribution, the sheer volume of content makes it challenging to break through. Having a passionate fanbase who will share your music remains crucial. Revisiting and performing older material can lead to unexpected new creative partnerships. What started as playing some shows together to support a documentary evolved into a fruitful songwriting collaboration and multiple albums. Being open to these opportunities can take your career in exciting new directions. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link JODY STEPHENS BIO: Jody Stephens (born October 4, 1952, in Memphis, Tennessee) is an American drummer best known as a founding member of the influential power pop band Big Star. Formed in 1971, Big Star’s original lineup included Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Andy Hummel, and Stephens. The band released three albums—#1 Record (1972), Radio City (1974), and Third/Sister Lovers (recorded in 1974, released in 1978)—which, despite initial commercial struggles, later garnered critical acclaim and influenced numerous artists . In 1993, he participated in a reformation of the band alongside Chilton and members of The Posies, resulting in the 2005 album In Space. Beyond Big Star, Stephens has collaborated with various groups. He joined the alt-country supergroup Golden Smog (with Jeff Tweedy of Wilco), contributing to albums like Weird Tales (1998) and Another Fine Day (2006) . In 2015, he formed Those Pretty Wrongs with Luther Russell, releasing their self-titled debut in 2016, followed by Zed for Zulu (2019) and Holiday Camp (2023) . Stephens has also been a longtime fixture at Ardent Studios in Memphis, where Big Star recorded their albums. He joined the Ardent staff in 1987 and has served as Vice President of Production am— and other titles, working under founder John Fry (who died in 2014 at age 69). Under his tenure, Ardent has continued to be a vital recording venue for artists across genres. Today, Jody Stephens remains active in music, performing, recording, and contributing to the legacy of Big Star and Ardent Studios (he still works at Ardent). He is the last surviving member of Big Star’s original lineup, but still plays the music with the Big Star Quartet at shows across the world.

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• KRISTIN HERSH of THROWING MUSES launches Wallace False

  Kristin Hersh of THROWING MUSES joins Rain Phoenix on LaunchLeft for a raw, unfiltered conversation about artistic integrity and the music industry's dark underbelly. Kristin reflects on her journey in the music industry, discussing her experiences with major labels and her commitment to making music that feels true to her. She shares insights into her creative process, including her approach to songwriting and production. The conversation touches on themes of authenticity, the spiritual aspects of music, and the challenges of maintaining artistic vision in a commercial industry. Kristin Hersh then launches Wallace False, who offers his unique perspective on creating original music and art. The episode provides a fascinating look into two generations of musicians who prioritize creative expression over commercial success, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of independent and experimental music-making. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Intro: Kristin Hersh joins LaunchLeft podcast (05:58) The music industry's focus on image over art (13:18) Spirituality and channeling in music creation (19:39) Exploring unconventional sounds and instruments (25:49) Leaving major labels to pursue artistic vision (32:28) Kristin on producing her own music and incorporating nature sounds (38:32) Streaming's impact on musical exploration (48:50) Wallace False is launched (53:54) Creating original sounds from basic waveforms (59:18) Finding inspiration beyond audience expectations (60:00) Wallace False's new industrial soundscape album: Signal KEY TAKEAWAYS: Kristin has always prioritized authenticity in her music, choosing to leave major labels to maintain artistic integrity and her creative process. She believes that music is about capturing a visceral truth, not conforming to industry standards of prettiness or marketability. It's about nurturing the energetic essence of a song and letting it resonate with listeners who appreciate its rawness. Kristin strives for originality and control through her creative process. By manipulating raw sounds to craft unique compositions and avoiding conventional influences, she aims to create something entirely its own. It's important not to become complacent in any artistic lane, but to explore and experiment, allowing inspiration to guide the way. Music has a spiritual component that goes beyond just sound. It's about being a vessel for inspiration, channeling something greater than oneself. Kristin and Wyatt create music that resonates with truth, rejecting superficial standards and focusing on the deeper connection it can foster with those who truly listen. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link KRISTIN HERSH LINKS: https://www.kristinhersh.com/ WALLACE FALSE LINKS: https://dondekko.bandcamp.com/album/signal https://medium.com/@wyatt.true.oconnell/the-fortune-letters-bc68e47777ea BIOGRAPHIES: KRISTIN HERSH: "One of indie rock's most fascinating figures" - The Guardian The inimitable Kristin Hersh is a musician's musician, a songwriter's songwriter, and an innovator's innovator. The Queen of Grunge's first band, Throwing Muses, began recording and playing out when they were just 14 years old and they're still going. 2020's critically acclaimed Sun Racket was hailed as a "perfect record." Hersh's refusal to participate in a corporate industry saw her leave a Warner Brothers recording contract at the top of her success in order to become listener-supported. "Music is humanist and so are we," as she puts it. Wildly prolific, she has released more than 20 albums - solo, with Throwing Muses, and her noise rock band 50 Foot Wave ("A group that runs laps around most rock bands" said Pitchfork, on 2022's Black Pearl). She's also a celebrated author: Rolling Stone named her first book, Rat Girl (Penguin) one of the ten best rock memoirs of all time. NPR said of her second book, Don't Suck, Don't Die, "Not only one of the best books of the year, but one of the most beautiful rock memoirs ever written." Her third book, the game-changing Seeing Sideways, pushes the envelope of creative non-fiction while telling the story of raising her 4 sons on a tour bus. Hersh lives in New Orleans and New England. WALLACE FALSE: Wyatt True, sometimes known as Wallace False, is a writer, animator, and musician. True was born in Rhode Island and raised just about everywhere else. He now resides in the Deep South. The common thread in True's work is a grotesque dismantling of any and all familiar structures. Guitars twang sour, sorrowful sonatas, protagonists are lost amongst melting walls and rooms that time forgot. He is mostly docile and will only bite if cornered. LaunchLeft, Music, Live Music, Music Inspiration, Musician Stories, Kristin Hersh, THROWING MUSES, Wallace False, music industry critique, artistic integrity, independent music, creative process, songwriting, music production, alternative rock, female musicians, Warner Brothers, music marketing, artistic authenticity, music streaming, musical literacy, studio recording techniques, sound experimentation, music collaboration, music touring, European music scene, music inspiration, music and spirituality, artistic personality, experimental music, DIY music production, music ownership

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• CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY YEAH launch Knifeplay

  Indie rock pioneers Clap Your Hands Say Yeah are celebrating 20 years with a special reissue. But what's the real story behind their unconventional rise to fame? In this episode of LaunchLeft, host Rain Phoenix and CYHSY frontman Alec Ounsworth, meet at Licorice Pizza in Studio City to unpack the band's journey from DIY darlings to indie rock icons. They touch on CYHSY's decision to remain unsigned. It wasn't just about rebellion, it was a commitment to artistic integrity that shaped their entire career. Ounsworth candidly discusses how his stubborn streak both helped and hindered the band's trajectory. Twenty years on, Alec reflects on how his views on collaboration and the music industry have matured. Alec then launches the up-and-coming Philly band Knifeplay, who'll be supporting CYHSY on tour. The generational exchange offers a fascinating glimpse into how the indie landscape has shifted. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of indie music and the challenges of maintaining artistic authenticity in a changing industry. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Intro: LaunchLeft podcast with Rain Phoenix (05:03) Early 2000s indie music scene and industry changes (10:27) Alec's approach to independence and a discussion about self-sabotage (15:00) CHYSY’s approach to music videos (20:55) Alec's songwriting process and lyrical influences (31:40) Knifeplay is launched and TJ joins the conversation (34:58) TJ's musical influences and background (37:37) Using social media as musicians in a digital landscape (43:24) TJ's balanced approach to using social media (48:40) Authenticity and sustainability in music careers KEY TAKEAWAYS: Maintaining artistic integrity can be challenging but is crucial for genuine connection with audiences. The music industry has seen significant changes, making it harder for new artists to break through. Collaboration can be a way for artists to promote each other and expand their audience. Social media presents both opportunities and challenges for musicians striving to balance authenticity with promotion. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link CYHSY LINKS: https://www.cyhsy.com/ https://www.facebook.com/clapyourhandssayyeah https://www.instagram.com/clapyourhandssayyeah/ https://www.youtube.com/clapyourhandssayyeah Knifeplay Links: http://instagram.com/knifeplay_music/ BIOGRAPHIES: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah celebrate the 20th anniversary of their landmark self-titled debut album throughout 2025 with a worldwide tour performing the album in its entirety alongside other surprises, and an exclusive new reissue. A heady blend of leftfield pop and melodic, exuberant indie rock, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah is unquestionably among the finest and most influential independent releases of the 2000s. The celebration officially gets underway with the premiere of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s original 2004 version of the fan favorite, “Heavy Metal”. The newly remixed and mastered track was recently discovered among the original project files and captures what Clap Your Hands Say Yeah founder and frontman Alec Ounsworth calls “a special moment in time – a young group of guys all piling into one hotel room to wake up and go to a real studio (!) to try to come up with something special just for the fun of it.” In addition to the digital anniversary release featuring the original version of “Heavy Metal,” a special deluxe reissue will arrive on limited edition vinyl LP in early 2025, released on CYHSY’s own label via Secretly Distribution, the defiantly independent home to over two decades of Alec Ounsworth’s music. Knifeplay is a band that eludes definition, existing somewhere between the nihilistic detachment of shoegaze and the emotional honesty of folk songwriting. Originally a solo bedroom recording project of Tj Strohmer’s, they’ve made a slow and careful shift into a collaborative, production focused, studio recorded band. Through their ever-expanding genre palette, range of fidelities, and long list of collaborators runs a unique current that ties everything together. Informed by his experiences living in Philadelphia and their contrast with his rural southern Maryland upbringing, Strohmer’s sometimes straightforward, sometimes dreamlike, but always philosophical lyrics feature scenes of darkness from many different aspects of life. He deals with themes of death, drugs, heartbreak, abuse, and self-destruction, all expressed through a delicate vocal style, which, combined with the band’s lush orchestral instrumentation gives a beautiful lightness to the heavy subject matter. Since their 2017 debut of home-recorded EPs, Knifeplay have earned a dedicated cult following through acclaimed debut album Pearlty (2019) and a lengthy B-Sides Compilation (2020), all either self-released or through small run tape labels. In 2021 they entered the studio with producer Jeff Zeigler, known for his work with Kurt Vile, Nothing, The War on Drugs, and more, first producing the Hurt Someone EP (Born Losers Records) before recording their upcoming sophomore full-length, Animal Drowning, to be released via Topshelf Records on October 19, 2022.

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• DON WAS launches Maya Delilah

  Today on LaunchLeft, Rain Phoenix hosts an insightful conversation with acclaimed music producer Don Was, who shares his journey through the music industry and his philosophy on creativity. Don reflects on his diverse career, emphasizing the importance of avoiding being pigeonholed and the value of one’s emotional connection in music. Don recounts his experiences working with iconic artists like Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, and the Rolling Stones, highlighting the timeless nature of genuine artistry. The discussion also touches on Don's roots in Detroit's vibrant music scene and his latest project, the Pan Detroit Ensemble, which celebrates the city's rich musical heritage. Later, Don launches Maya Delilah, whose debut album, "The Long Way Round," is set to release with Blue Note Records. Maya shares her journey from social media sensation to recording artist, expressing gratitude for the creative freedom and support she received from the label. The episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of legacy and emerging talent, underscoring the enduring power of authenticity in music. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:16) Don Was's Career and Production Philosophy: Discover Don's approach to music production, emphasizing authenticity and emotional connection (25:00) The Influence of Detroit's Music Scene: Learn how Detroit's unique cultural mix shaped Don's musical perspective (35:00) Blue Note Records and Artist Development: Explore Blue Note's nurturing approach to artist development (45:00) Maya Delilah's Debut Album Creation: Maya shares her transformative recording experience (50:10) Collaborative Effort in Artist Development: Don and Maya discuss the supportive environment at Blue Note Records KEY TAKEAWAYS: Authenticity in music production is crucial for creating timeless music that resonates emotionally. Detroit's raw, honest sound has significantly influenced Don's production style and creative process. Blue Note Records prioritizes nurturing an artist's unique voice over conforming to trends. Maya Delilah's debut album “The Long Way Round,” aims to evoke nostalgia and comfort, reflecting her artistic vision. Collaboration and creative freedom are vital in developing successful artists. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link DON WAS LINKS: https://donwas.com/ https://www.instagram.com/donwas/ MAYA DELILAH LINKS: https://www.mayadelilah.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mayadelilahh/ https://www.facebook.com/mayadelilahh/ https://www.tiktok.com/@mayadelilahh https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHZBLbph9tL9e7LAfZm_pjg BIOGRAPHIES: Don Was is one of music’s most significant artists and executives, excelling in multiple roles and serving as one of the industry’s beacons for integrity and forward-thinking. As an in-demand, highly acclaimed and commercially successful producer since the late 1980s, Was has been honored with Grammy Awards for his production work in each of the past four decades: In 1989 for producing Bonnie Raitt’s breakthrough classic Nick Of Time, in 1994 as Producer Of The Year for his work with artists ranging from The Rolling Stones to Willie Nelson to Roy Orbison, in 2009 for his production work on Ziggy Marley’s Best Musical Album For Children, Family Time, in 2018 for helming The Rolling Stones’ Best Traditional Blues Album. Blue & Lonesome a, and in 2019 for producing Intocable’s Latin Grammy-winning Best Norteño Album, percepción. The artists Was has produced in this decade alone are a testament to his talents as a producer spanning a broad array of music genres: The Rolling Stones’ aforementioned worldwide hit album (Blue & Lonesome) Gregg Allman’s final album (Southern Blood), John Mayer (two of his most recent albums, Born And Raised and Paradise Valley), Aaron Neville (My True Story, co-produced with Keith Richards), French superstar Johnny Hallyday (Rester Vivant) and Neil Diamond’s Melody Road. Albums produced by Was have achieved dozens of multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications and have sold more than 90 million copies worldwide. As the President of Blue Note Records since 2011, Was is both the company’s leader and an ambassador for its music, charged with bringing the label’s 21st Century jazz artists and its expanding pallet of contemporary musicians to larger audiences. Maya Delilah is an English singer-songwriter and guitarist. Maya Delilah has been signed to jazz record label Blue Note Records since 2022.

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• DIANE WARREN launches Mergui

  For episode 160 of the podcast, join Rain Phoenix at Licorice Pizza as she hosts an engaging conversation with legendary songwriter Diane Warren and rising musician Mergui. This episode offers a deep dive into Diane's illustrious career, her creative process, and her collaboration with Mergui on the song "Criminal." The discussion provides unique perspectives on the music industry, including insights from one of modern music’s most celebrated songwriters. IN THIS EPISODE: [5:05] Diane Warren's early musical influences [11:10] Writing I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing and OSCAR nominations [13:00] Diane launches Mergui [15:28] Diane's versatility across musical genres [20:00] Mergui’s insights on sampling Elton John’s song KEY TAKEAWAYS: Diane Warren's journey into songwriting began at a young age, sparked by her fascination with record credits. She would study the names of songwriters on albums, dreaming of seeing her own name there one day. This early passion and determination set her on a path to becoming one of the most successful songwriters in the industry. Despite the challenges faced by women in the music industry, Diane never let her gender define her capabilities. Inspired by trailblazers like Carole King, she pursued her career with confidence, never doubting her potential to succeed as a songwriter. Collaboration with artists like Mergui showcases Diane and Mergui's ability to adapt and thrive in different musical genres. Diane’s intuitive sense for matching songs with the right artists has led to successful partnerships, allowing her to continue creating timeless music across various styles. It’s important for songwriters to find the right artist to sing and produce their songs, someone who will honor and preserve the meaning and the music. That’s when the magic happens. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link DIANE LINKS: https://www.realsongs.com/ https://x.com/Diane_Warren https://www.instagram.com/dianewarren/ https://www.facebook.com/DianeWarrenMusic https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGZlUzfjZd10wW5yDYUKJ0g Mergui LINKS: https://www.Mergui.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@Mergui https://www.instagram.com/Mergui https://www.facebook.com/Merguiofficial/ https://x.com/Mergui https://www.youtube.com/@Mergui_ BIOS: Diane Warren is one of modern music’s most celebrated songwriters. She has penned nine #1 and thirty-three top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and is tied for having written the most #1 songs as a sole writer in Billboard history. She was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2001 and received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award from the organization in June 2024. She has received 16 Academy Award nominations, is a GRAMMY winner with 15 nominations, an EMMY winner, and is a two-time Golden Globe winner whose songs have been featured in more than 150 films. In November 2022, Warren became the first songwriter in history to receive an Honorary Oscar, as voted on by the Academy's Board of Governors. She recently wrote the original song "The Fire Inside," performed by Becky G for the film Flamin' Hot, directed by Eva Longoria, which marked her 15th Oscar nomination. She most recently wrote the original song “The Journey” performed by H.E.R. for the feature film The Six Triple Eight directed by Tyler Perry which marked her 16th Oscar nomination. She is the sole owner of her publishing company Realsongs, the most successful female-owned and operated business in the music industry. Warren is a recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a nod to her legendary career, having worked with many of today's most popular artists, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, H.E.R., Snoop Dogg, Paloma Faith, Jon Batiste, Maren Morris, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Andra Day, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Hudson and Janelle Monáe, in addition to having written songs for iconic artists such as Whitney Houston, Cher, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and many more. Mergui has made it his mission to push the limits of modern pop music. He’s accomplished some incredible feats such as opening for Bruno Mars and Maroon 5. His talent has been recognized by publications such as Rolling Stone, Billboard, Wonderland Magazine, and Notion. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of early 20th-century Italian opera and the nostalgic allure of ‘70s AM pop, Mergui’s sophomore EP Shadows of Blue was a remarkable fusion of influences. Notable tracks from the EP include the Elton John-approved “Cry,” and “Happy Now?”, which he performed on The Kelly Clarkson Show and NBC’s The TODAY Show, resulting in the track skyrocketing to the Top 10 on the U.S. iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts. Mergui’s music has been featured in top-notch editorial playlists across digital service platforms including Spotify’s New Music Friday (US & Global), Chill Pop, New Pop Picks, and Just Good Music. Mergui’s unguarded sense of vulnerability shines through in his art, landing him a coveted spot on People Magazine’s Emerging Artists of 2024 list. Following a successful tour with Forest Blakk and a collaboration with Sam Feldt in the latter half of 2024, Mergui is ready to take 2025 by storm with the release of his latest EP Nobody Really Knows.

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