http://www.michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/multiblogs.php en The songs and stories of Michael Gaither The Not-For-Musicians-Only Music Podcast Michael Gaither - Songs and Stories is a podcast about my trek through music, but without all the naval gazing that usually accompanies that sort of thing. I'll discuss what led me to write certain songs, interview other musicians, and occasionally take you on an audio tour behind the scenes of a gig. Visit www.michaelgaither.com for show notes and links to go with this podcast. michael@michaelgaither.com Michael Gaither Michael Gaither no http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In another "Songs and Stories" look at local songwriters, Santa Cruz's Mary McCaslin talks about her folk and western influences, her fondness for alternate tunings (many of which are documented on her web site), and why she plays "Pinball Wizard" on a banjo. Podcasts Sat, 30 Aug 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories40.mp3 Michael Gaither no Santa Cruz's Mary McCaslin talks about her folk and western influences, her fondness for alternate tunings (many of which are documented on her web site), and why she plays "Pinball Wizard" on a banjo. In another "Songs and Stories" look at local songwriters, Santa Cruz's Mary McCaslin talks about her folk and western influences, her fondness for alternate tunings (many of which are documented on her web site), and why she plays "Pinball Wizard" on a banjo. Contest Note: This month's contest is a chance to win a Grateful Dread Radio cloth shopping bag. Listen to this interview for details. 18:53:00 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, interview, folk, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php A question many artists often ask themselves is "When do I leave my day job?" (Not that I have *ever* thought that. No, never. Ever. Well...maybe that's a topic for a future podcast.) Anyway, in Songs and Stories #39, I talk with songwriter Vienna Teng. Vienna and I worked at the same company several years ago, and I still remember the day she left, record deal in hand, to give up the corporate life and go after music full time. Podcasts Wed, 06 Aug 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories39.mp3 Michael Gaither no A a chat with songwriter Vienna Teng. Vienna and I worked at the same company several years ago, and I still remember the day she left, record deal in hand, to give up the corporate life and go after music full time. A question many artists often ask themselves is "When do I leave my day job?" (Not that I have *ever* thought that. No, never. Ever. Well...maybe that's a topic for a future podcast.) Anyway, in Songs and Stories #39, I talk with songwriter Vienna Teng. Vienna and I worked at the same company several years ago, and I still remember the day she left, record deal in hand, to give up the corporate life and go after music full time. 30:56:00 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Chuck McCabe plays the title track and "I'd Rather Be in Redding", from his new release "Creatures of Habit In World of Change". This episode of "Songs and Stores" concludes with the CD version of McCabe's "My Prayer for You", also from the new CD. Podcasts Sun, 20 Jul 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories38.mp3 Michael Gaither no Chuck McCabe plays the title track and "I'd Rather Be in Redding", from his new release "Creatures of Habit In World of Change". This episode of "Songs and Stores" concludes with the CD version of McCabe's "My Prayer for You", also from the new CD. Chuck McCabe plays the title track and "I'd Rather Be in Redding", from his new release "Creatures of Habit In World of Change". This episode of "Songs and Stores" concludes with the CD version of McCabe's "My Prayer for You", also from the new CD. 28:50:00 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Bay area staple Chuck McCabe is one of those "songwriter's songwriter" type of folks. He's well known for writing funny songs that seem to come off easy ("I Miss My Mustache"), while his serious side packs an equal punch. (His song "Mimimum Wager" won the 2002 Woody Guthrie Songwriting Competition.) Chuck also has a great dog song - "Fred"- and you probably know that anyone who sings about dogs automatically gets high marks in my book. Podcasts Sun, 20 Jul 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories37.mp3 Michael Gaither no Chuck McCabe discusses "Creatures of Habit In World of Change", his fifth record. We sat down this afternoon to discuss how the theme of family and roots from his last album, "Sweet Reunion", evolved into the topic of change in the new record. Chuck McCabe discusses "Creatures of Habit In a World of Change", his fifth record. We sat down this afternoon to discuss how the theme of family and roots from his last album, "Sweet Reunion", evolved into the topic of change in "Creatures of Habit. In episode #37 we talk about the new record and some of the stories that led to it. 34:34:00 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php "There's a million ways to live a life" is how award-winning singer/songwriter Alisa Fineman describes that path she's taken that led her from environmental studies, to being a fire lookout in the Rockies, and to eventually becoming a songwriter. These days she collaborates with Kimball Hurd, who many know from his work with the Santa Cruz folk trio City Folk (which consisted of Kimball, Keith Greeninger, and Roger Feuer. In the first of this two-part interview, Alisa and Kimball discuss their musical similarities and differences and tell about the plans for their first CD together. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. Podcasts Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories36.mp3 Michael Gaither no Part two of the interview with Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd. They perform "Corridor" and "Stepping Stones". Part two of a two-part chat with singer/songwriters Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd. They perform "Corridor" and "Stepping Stones". Check the web site at www.michaelgaither.com for notes that go with this interview. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:14:30 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php "There's a million ways to live a life" is how award-winning singer/songwriter Alisa Fineman describes that path she's taken that led her from environmental studies, to being a fire lookout in the Rockies, and to eventually becoming a songwriter. These days she collaborates with Kimball Hurd, who many know from his work with the Santa Cruz folk trio City Folk (which consisted of Kimball, Keith Greeninger, and Roger Feuer. In the first of this two-part interview, Alisa and Kimball discuss their musical similarities and differences and tell about the plans for their first CD together. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. Podcasts Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories35.mp3 Michael Gaither no Part one of a two-part chat with singer/songwriters Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd. Part one of a two-part chat with singer/songwriters Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd. Check the web site at www.michaelgaither.com for notes that go with this interview. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:44:28 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php "Dark, Appalachian dance music". That's how I've always described The Crooked Jades, a bay area-based collective of musicians dedicated to keeping old-tyme string-band music alive and quite well. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. Podcasts Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories34.mp3 Michael Gaither no "Dark, Appalachian dance music". That's how I've always described The Crooked Jades, a bay area-based collective of musicians dedicated to keeping old-tyme string-band music alive and quite well. Check the web site at www.michaelgaither.com for notes that go with this interview. Want to win a "Grateful Dread Radio" T-shirt? Listen to this podcast for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:29:38 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Highlights from the Spring Strawberry Breakfast Club 2008 featuring Michael Gaither and Friends and Jim Dyar and Friends. And if you want to hear more of this, head up to the Post Office Saloon and Grille on Friday 6/27. Jim and I are splitting the night there. More info is on my web site at www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories33.mp3 Michael Gaither no Highlights from the Spring Strawberry Breakfast Club 2008: Michael Gaither and Friends and Jim Dyar and Friends. And a chance to win a Tshirt from Grateful Dread Radio. Listen to this episode for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:22:59 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In the second half of this interview with Chris Kee and Travis Jones, they play the title cut off Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart" and "If Not For the Darkness", a song for their upcoming gospel record. Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details. Podcasts Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories32.mp3 Michael Gaither no Chris Kee and Houston Jones perform "Calico Heart" and "If Not for the Darkness". Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:18:00 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Another kitchen-table talk, this time a two-part interview with Chris Kee and Travis Jones of the bay area Americana band Houston Jones. Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. Podcasts Sun, 11 May 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories31.mp3 Michael Gaither no Another kitchen-table talk, this time a two-part interview with Chris Kee and Travis Jones of the bay area Americana band Houston Jones. Want to win a copy of Houston Jones' latest release, "Calico Heart?" Listen to this interview for details. I'll randomly pull a name at the end of the month and notify the lucky winner. 00:36:43 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Since this is my 30th "Songs and Stories" podcast, I thought I'd flip things around and have *me* interviewed for a change. This episode is a replay of a recent appearance on KVMR radio in Nevada City, CA. I was a guest on Wesley Robert's "Rockin' and Stompin'" show and played solo versions of "Broke", "Spotted Mule", "Jack of All Trades" from my "Spotted Mule and Other Tales" CD. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing. Podcasts Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories30.mp3 Michael Gaither no Since this is my 30th "Songs and Stories" podcast, I thought I'd flip things around and have *me* interviewed for a change. This episode is a replay of a recent appearance on KVMR radio in Nevada City, CA. I was a guest on Wesley Robert's "Rockin' and Stompin'" show and played solo versions of "Broke", "Spotted Mule", "Jack of All Trades" from my "Spotted Mule and Other Tales" CD. Wesley has been listening to "Songs and Stories", so we also talked a lot about this little show, the recent interviews, and how's it's grown into a big part of the web site. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing. 00:35:36 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php "I don't want to paint with just one color". That's how Cillette Swann describes the Americana genre's ability to let artists mix Celtic, folk, and even country influences on the same album. Cilette, along with husband Roman Morykit, are better known as "Gypsy Soul", a duo who call southern Oregon their home, have been recording together since 1995. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing. Podcasts Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories29.mp3 Michael Gaither no "I don't want to paint with just one color". That's how Cillette Swann describes the Americana genre's ability to let artists mix Celtic, folk, and even country influences on the same album. Cilette, along with husband Roman Morykit, are better known as "Gypsy Soul", a duo who call southern Oregon their home, have been recording together since 1995. Listen to this podcast for info on how to enter this month's drawing. 00:37:55 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In part two of ths interview Keith plays two personal favorites of mine, "Ruby and Rosie" and "Arsenal of Doves" and explains the stories behind those songs. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. Podcasts Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories28.mp3 Michael Gaither no In the second half of this interview, Keith plays two personal favorites of mine, "Ruby and Rosie" and "Arsenal of Doves" and explains the stories behind those songs. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. 00:31:27 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php From the award-winning City Folk to his solo work, Santa Cruz songwriter Keith Greeninger continues to grow his appreciative audience and spread his enthusiasm to "get music into your life". In part one, Keith talks about how he gravited towards music in a family where no one else played and about his collaborative efforts with other musicians such as Dayan Kai. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. Podcasts Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories27.mp3 Michael Gaither no In the first half of this chat with Santa Cruz songwriter Keith Greeninger, he how he gravited towards music in a family where no one else played and about his collaborative efforts with other musicians such as Dayan Kai. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. 00:31:44 michael, gaither, podcasting, blues, slide, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In this second half of my chat with Dayan Kai and Steve Uccello, we talk about the pros and cons of being an independent artist in the age of web sites and Myspace. You'll also hear a little more of Dayan's new gospel CD, "Treat a Sranger Right". Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. Podcasts Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories26.mp3 Michael Gaither no The rest of my talk with Dayan Kai and Steve Uccello. This time we dicuss the pros and cons of independent music in the age of Myspace and the world wide web. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. 00:23:32 michael, gaither, podcasting, blues, slide, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Another "kitchen table" interview, this time with singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist Dayan Kai, along with bass player Steve Uccello. Dayan and Steve talk about how they met and started playing together in high school, their musical influences, and how they ended up becoming frequent collaborators with Keith Greeninger, another local Santa Cruz singer/songwriter. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. Podcasts Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories25.mp3 Michael Gaither no Another "kitchen table" interview, this time with singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist Dayan Kai, along with bass player Steve Uccello. Want to win an authographed copy of Keith Greeninger's latest CD, "Glorious Peasant"? Listen to this show for details. 00:28:48 michael, gaither, podcasting, blues, slide, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php On Saturday 2/23, I'll be at The Acoustic Barn in Newcastle, CA opening for Rick Di Dia and Aireene Espiritu. Rick and Aireene play a mix of original folk, blues, bluegrass, and "swampy jams", backed up Rick on lap-steel guitar and Airene on ukelele. Not the least bit coincidentally, Rick and Aireene are the guests on this episode of "Songs and Stories". Want to win a DVD and autographed CD from Rick and Aireene? Listen to this show or go to www.michaelgaither.com for details... Podcasts Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories24.mp3 Michael Gaither no A chat about the balancing act between the "art" and "business" halves of music with Americana duo Rick Di Dia and Aireene Espiritu. Want to win a DVD and autographed CD from Rick and Aireene? Listen to this show or go to www.michaelgaither.com for details... 00:48:58 michael, gaither, podcasting, blues, slide, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In the second half of this interview, Lacy J. Dalton talks about the efforts of the Let 'em Run foundation to save Nevada's wild horses and tells a little of the story behind the song "She Could Run". Podcasts Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories23.mp3 Michael Gaither no In part two of my interview with Lacy J. Dalton, she talks about the epiphany of discovering Nevada's wild horses, the formation of Let 'em Run, and the story behind the song "She Could Run" (which you'll hear in this episode). Read the show notes and listen to more episodes like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:21:15 michael, gaither, podcasting, horses, nevada, lacy, nashville, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In this first of a two-part interview, Lacy J. Dalton describes her move from Santa Cruz to Nashville, her Nashville successes, and what she did when she felt "homesick for the west". Podcasts Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories22.mp3 Michael Gaither no Lacy J. Dalton was a huge part of the Santa Cruz music scene in through the '60s and '70s. She moved to Nashville in the late '70s, and after a string of charting hits - including "Takin' It Easy", "Crazy Blue Eyes", and "Sixteenth Avenue" - she gave into being "homesick for the west" and headed back this way. In this first of a two-part interview, Lacy J. Dalton describes her moves east and west and talks about the plans for her next two CDs. Read the show notes and listen to more episodes like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:30:05 michael, gaither, podcasting, horses, nevada, lacy, nashville, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Harmony is a big part of The Wailin' Jennies, but it doesn't stop there. The (mostly) Canadian folk trio is made up of three equally talented songwriters and multi-instrumentalists: Ruth Moody (guitar, banjo, accordion, bodhran) and Nicky Mehta (guitar, harmonica, ukulele, percussion) are the founding members of the group. The newest "Jennie", U.S.-born Heather Masse, joined them last year for the tour of "Firecracker", their latest release. I chatted with them by the hiss and pale light of a lantern at Camp Mather during last Fall's Strawberry Music Festival in Yosemite... Podcasts Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories21.mp3 Michael Gaither no A lantern-side chat (you'll have to listen to understand that) with Canadian folk trio The Wailin' Jennies. Harmony is a big part of The Wailin' Jennies, but it doesn't stop there. The (mostly) Canadian folk trio is made up of three equally talented songwriters and multi-instrumentalists: Ruth Moody (guitar, banjo, accordion, bodhran) and Nicky Mehta (guitar, harmonica, ukulele, percussion) are the founding members of the group. The newest "Jennie", U.S.-born Heather Masse, joined them last year for the tour of "Firecracker", their latest release. I chatted with them by the hiss and pale light of a lantern at Camp Mather during last Fall's Strawberry Music Festival in Yosemite. Read the show notes and listen to more episodes like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:25:39 michael, gaither, podcasting, canada, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Last Fall, we got to play a few benefits for some notable local charities and events. It was great being able to bring music to a cause, and it also gave us the opportunity to play for new people. In this show, you'll hear a KSCO radio interview with me and Peter Goodman of the band Cooper Street the morning before our show at Don Quixote's Music Hall. (Our bands did a co-bill to help Felton Library Friends). Paul Machlis talks about the effort to fund a new library. And you'll also hear live versions of both of my car songs: A solo version of "Highway 17" from the KSCO interview, as well as a band version of "Good God Man How Big a Car Do You Need"... Podcasts Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories20.mp3 Michael Gaither no A chat about the benefits of bringing music to a benefit, as well as live versions of my songs "Highway 17" and "Good God Man How Big a Car Do You Need?" Last Fall, we played a few benefits for some notable local charities and events. It was great being able to bring music to a cause, and it also gave us the opportunity to play for new people. In this show, you'll hear a KSCO radio interview with me and Peter Goodman of the band Cooper Street. (Our bands did a co-bill to help Felton Library Friends). Paul Machlis talks about the effort to fund a new library. And you'll also hear live versions of both of my car songs: A solo version of "Highway 17" from the KSCO interview, as well as a band version of "Good God Man How Big a Car Do You NeedRead the show notes and listen to more episodes like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:31:17 michael, gaither, podcasting, benefits, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Second-generation Texas songwriter Colin Gilmore Colin discusses booking your own shows, the differences between playing solo and with a band, and why he hopes to play the west coast on a regular basis... Podcasts Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories19.mp3 Michael Gaither no Second-generation Texas songwriter Colin Gilmore Colin discusses booking your own shows, the differences between playing solo and with a band, and why he hopes to play the west coast on a regular basis. This third in a series of talks with Texas singer-songwriters is a visit with second-generation artist Colin Gilmore. Besides obvious influences (his dad Jimmy Dale Gilmore and folks like Joe Ely), Colin talks about how choir, classical guitar, The Clash, and even Michael Jackson's "Thriller" album shaped his musical tastes. Read the show notes and listen to more episodes like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:28:16 michael, gaither, podcasting, texas, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php She quit the University of Texas (while attending on a scholarship), formed the band Little Sister (which evolved into Sister Seven), and has been writing, playing, and touring ever since. This second of three "Songs and Stories" episodes with Texas songwriters features a conversation with Dallas native Patrice Pike... Podcasts Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories18.mp3 Michael Gaither no Patrice Pike discusses her songwriting influences, the pros and cons of being on a label vs being independent, and how she's looking forward to downtime after her 2007 tour. She quit the University of Texas (while attending on a scholarship), formed the band Little Sister (which evolved into Sister Seven), and has been writing, playing, and touring ever since. This second of three "Songs and Stories" episodes with Texas songwriters features a conversation with Dallas native Patrice Pike. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:27:36 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php The next two episodes of "Songs and Stories" will be interviews with two very different Texas songwriters. In a couple of weeks, we'll be talking with Patrice Pike. In this edition, we chat with Darden Smith... Podcasts Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories17.mp3 Michael Gaither no The next two episodes of "Songs and Stories" will be interviews with two very different Texas songwriters. In a couple of weeks, we'll be talking with Patrice Pike. In this edition, we chat with Darden Smith.. An interview with Texas singer/songwriter Darden Smith, in which he chats about "discovering what a songwriter" is, the differences between narrative Texan and English pop music, and the craft of songwriting itself. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:20:29 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php I run a songwriter's open mic night on the first Thursday of every month at the Wooden Nickel Bar and Grille in Watsonville CA. I haven't done a show about it since way back in Songs and Stories #4, so I thought I'd put together a few recent highlights... Podcasts Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories16.mp3 Michael Gaither no Penelope Shibley covers "Spotted Mule", I play a solo version of "Not Stubborn Not My Mule", and Dayan Kai does "The San Juan Song". Highlights from the monthly open mic at The Wooden Nickel Bar and Grille in Watsonville CA featuring me, Penelope Shibley, and Dayan Kai. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:26:29 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Canadian songwriter Tia McGraff is originally from Port Dover, Ontario. She spent a number of years in Nashville, but these days, when she's not on the road, she's back home in Canada with husband (and fellow songwriter) Tommy Parham. I caught up with both of them during a busy weekend at the end of a busy summer... Podcasts Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories15.mp3 Michael Gaither no A visit with Canadian (by way of Nashville and back) songwriter Tia McGraff and her husband Tommy Parham. A visit with Canadian (by way of Nashville and back) songwriter Tia McGraff and her husband Tommy Parham. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:31:11 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Fingerstyle guitarist and songwriter Stevie Coyle has a background that puts my own song "Jack of All Trades" to shame. He's toured with The Royal Lichtenstein Circus and has hosted killer whale shows. He's been a member of The Frontmen and The Foremen. Steve is also a proud survivor of the Great Standup Comedy Scare of the 1980s. Podcasts Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories14.mp3 Michael Gaither no A chat with singer/songwriter Stevie Coyle A chat with singer/songwriter Stevie Coyle of The Waybacks. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:32:12 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php This time out, I'll pick apart "Still Walkin'", the opening track on "Spotted Mule and Other Tales". I'll explain how this came about and describe how structurally, it's a bit different than my usual verse, chorus, verse, repeat chorus, etc...songs. I'll talk you on an audio tour of a "walk" up to Half Dome... Podcasts Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories13.mp3 Michael Gaither no A look at my song "Still Walkin" and an audio tour up to Half Dome in Yosemite Valley. This time out, I'll pick apart "Still Walkin'", the opening track on my CD "Spotted Mule and Other Tales". I'll explain how this came about and describe how structurally, it's a bit different than my usual verse, chorus, verse, repeat chorus, etc...songs. I'll talk you on an audio tour of a "walk" up to Half Dome. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:29:44 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, metaphor, yosemite, half, dome, hike, hiking, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Singer/songwriter Paul Thorn was raised the son of a Pentecostal preacher, spent years working in a chair factory, and was even a professional boxer - at one point he was ranked the 29th best middleweight in the world. Let's just say he has a lot of backstory to draw from as a writer... Podcasts Thu, 16 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories12.mp3 Michael Gaither no Find out why ex-boxer turned singer/songwriter Paul Thorn cites both Kris Kristofferson and Dean Martin as influences. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Singer/songwriter Paul Thorn was raised the son of a Pentecostal preacher, spent years working in a chair factory, and was even a professional boxer - at one point he was ranked the 29th best middleweight in the world. Let's just say he has a lot of backstory to draw from as a writer. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:25:07 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, paul, thorn, tupelo, boxer, blues, kristofferson, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php This week, I had the rare opportunity of talking with violinst-composer Mark O'Connor. A classically-trained musician, he's been at the front of contemporary acoustic music for many years... Podcasts Sat, 04 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories11.mp3 Michael Gaither no A chat backstage at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium with musician/composer Mark O'Connor. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. He's recorded with everyone from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Steve Earle to Yo-Yo Ma and Bela Fleck. Last week, I had the rare opportunity to talk with composer/musician Mark O'Connor on the eve of the debut of his first complete symphony. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:25:02 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, mark, o'connor, yo-y- ma, appalachian, waltz, symphony, songwriter, music http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Here the last of of my podcasts from material collected at last May's Strawberry Music Festival. This one's an experiment, a little audio tour of the late-night playing that goes on in several camps close to ours. Podcasts Sat, 21 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories10.mp3 Michael Gaither no Take a stroll around late-night Camp Mather and have a listen. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Pretend you've been up all day cavorting (yes, "cavorting") in the sun, listening to music, and hanging out with friends. Then, with only the light of one stubborn latern remaining, take a walk around Camp Mather and have a listen. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:30:07 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, singer, songwriter, music, guitar, strawberry, festival http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In this second of two podcasts from The Strawberry Breakfast Club, you'll hear my pal Jim Dyar, along with me and Steve Bachman, playing the earlier morning set at The Strawberry Breakfast Club. Podcasts Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories9a.mp3 Michael Gaither no More from the Strawberry Breakfast Club. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. In this second of two podcasts from The Strawberry Breakfast Club, you'll hear my pal Jim Dyar, along with me and Steve Bachman, playing the earlier morning set at The Strawberry Breakfast Club. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:12:13 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, singer, songwriter, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php In this first of two podcasts from The Strawberry Breakfast Club, you'll hear me, Steve Bachman, and Greg Scott do a Friday slot at The Breakfast Club, followed by a couple of tunes from my buddy Greg Kitchel on Saturday. Podcasts Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories9.mp3 Michael Gaither no The first of two podcasts featuring material recorded at the Strawberry Breakfast Club, May 2007. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Here are two more podcasts from material collected at last May's Strawberry Music Festival. This time, we do a big "thank you" to the Breakfast Club crew. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:29:48 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, singer, songwriter, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php An interview with Joziah Longo, lead singer and songwriter for Gandalf Murphy and the Salmbovian Circus of Dreams. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Mon, 25 Jun 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories8.mp3 Michael Gaither no An interview with Joziah Longo, lead singer and songwriter for Gandalf Murphy and the Salmbovian Circus of Dreams. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. In this podcast, I talk with Joziah Longo, lead singer and songwriter for Gandalf Murphy and the Salmbovian Circus of Dreams. He explains the intention behind the band's name (there is no Gandalf Murphy), how starting on the folk circuit gave them freedom with their lyrics, and their multiple-genre approach that allows them to play any style of music they wish. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:23:38 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, singer, songwriter, winery, gandalf, murphy, philadelpha, rock, electic, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php We just finished a very fun (and full) weekend of music at Roudon-Smith Winery in Scotts Valley. After Saturday's show, and after we tore down all the soundgear, I sat down and chatted with Bev Barnett and Greg Newlon abou their new CD, "Any Doorway Will Do". Podcasts Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories7.mp3 Michael Gaither no A chat with Bev Barnett and Greg Newlon about their new CD, "Any Doorway Will Do". Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. We just finished a very fun (and full) weekend of music at Roudon-Smith Winery in Scotts Valley. After Saturday's show, and after we tore down all the soundgear, I sat down and chatted with Bev Barnett and Greg Newlon abou their new CD, "Any Doorway Will Do". Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:25:15 michael, gaither, podcasting, podcaster, singer, songwriter, winery, winefolk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php So what's the story behind that mule song anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories6.mp3 Michael Gaither no So what's the story behind that mule song anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. It's amazing what one little bluegrass song about a mule can do for you. "Spotted Mule" pretty much wrote itself, became the title track to my CD, a video on YouTube, and people are still discovering it. Well folks, Icing, the spotted mule herself, is now up for sale. In this podcast, you'll hear some background on the song *and* an interview with Krista Koenig, Icing's owner/trainer. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:26:16 michael, gaither, high, mule, horse, trainer, bluegrass, , podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php What comes first? The music or the lyrics? The answer is simply, "yes". (As in, "Yes, the music or the lyrics definitely come first".) Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Tue, 08 May 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories5.mp4 Michael Gaither no What comes first? The music or the lyrics? The answer is simply, "yes". (As in, "Yes, the music or the lyrics definitely come first".) Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. What comes first? The music or the lyrics? That's probably the most-asked question about songwriting, and the answer is simply, "yes". (As in, "Yes, the music or the lyrics definitely come first".) Every song is different, and every one has a different starting point. Some songs - most of mine, actually - start with a title. In this podcast, I talk about how the song "High and Lonesome" came about. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:17:47 michael, gaither, high, lonesome, bluegrass, festival, podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php So what *does* a marriage proposal at an open mic sound like, anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories3.mp4 Michael Gaither no So what *does* a marriage proposal at an open mic sound like, anyway? Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. I run a monthly open mic night at the Wooden Nickel Bar and Grill in Freedom, California. In this podcast, I'll talk about how I ended up doing that and play a recording of something very very cool that happened there a few months ago. (You'll have to listen to the podcast to hear the story.) Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:11:14 michael, gaither, open, mic, wooden, nickel, marriage, proosal, podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Yes, I really "wrote for Jay Leno one time", as I claim in my song "Jack of All Trades". Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories3.mp3 Michael Gaither no Yes, I really "wrote for Jay Leno one time", as I claim in my song "Jack of All Trades". Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. This episode looks at my song "Jack of All Trades" and walks through how a tune can change between the original draft and the demo - which is included in the podcast - and even in the final recording session. I also explain the story behind the lyric, "I even wrote for Jay Leno one time". You can hear more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. 00:17:33 michael, gaither, jay, leno, comedy, standup, recording, demo, tonight, show, jokes, podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Here's a look (listen, actually) at how the band came together, as well as some audio from our recent appearance on KPIG radio. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Mon, 05 Mar 2007 00:00:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories2.mp3 Michael Gaither no Here's a look (listen, actually) at how the band came together, as well as some audio from our recent appearance on KPIG radio. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. In Songs and Stories episode #2, I talk about our band and how we sort of formed by accident (a happy accident). You'll also hear what folk musicians sound like at 10:00 am on a Sunday morning as I play highlights from our recent appearance on "Please Stand By", a live weekly show on KPIG radio out of Freedom, California. Please visit this podcast at http://www.michaelgaither.com/ 00:15:48 michael, gaither, kpig, kfat, radio, podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar http://michaelgaither.com/b2/blogs/index.php Here's a look behind the song "Highway 17" and a little audio tour of the dreaded drive itself. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. Podcasts Sat, 17 Feb 2007 00:10:00 PDT http://michaelgaither.com/podcasts/songs_and_stories1.mp3 Michael Gaither no Here's a look behind the song "Highway 17" and a little audio tour of the dreaded drive itself. Read the show notes and listen to more podcasts like this one at http://www.michaelgaither.com. In this premiere episode, I pick apart my song Highway 17, give you a little history of the windy mountain highway that connects Santa Cruz and San Jose, California, and take you on an audio tour of the morning commute. Please visit this podcast at http://www.michaelgaither.com/ 00:19:30 michael, gaither, highway, 17, podcast, podcasting, podcaster, folk, music, guitar