Neal Bond - The MN Music History Channel - The Hits and Hitmakers You Love
Welcome back to Count It Off, where the stories behind the music matter just as much as the songs themselves.
This is Episode 57 and today we’re diving deep into the rich, often surprising soundscape of the American Midwest told by a man who’s made it his life’s mission to document it all—Neal Bond.
Through his MN Music History Channel, Neal has incredible stories spanning generations—from early rock ’n’ roll icons to funk pioneers, folk legends to garage band heroes. We’re talking about the artists and moments that shaped the soundtrack of the region: from Bobby Vee’s 50s chart-topping hits to Prince’s genre-defying brilliance, from native son Bob Dylan’s poetic roots to the infectious groove of Funkytown. And that’s just the beginning.
Neal’s passion goes even deeper, shining a light on names you might not hear every day but absolutely should—like Texas Bill Strength, the wild energy behind Liar Liar, and the unforgettable sounds of Papa Oom Mau Mau. Country plays a major part as well, with Dave "Six Days On The Road" Dudley to John Volinkaty who penned "Satin Sheets." Together, these stories weave a vibrant tapestry of a region that helped give birth to The Suburbs, Suicide Commandos, Hüsker Dü, the Jayhawks, Kevin Bowe, new blues phenomenon Dylan Salter and so many more—all from right in the heartland.
We chat with Neal to talk about his journey, his love of preserving musical history, and his ongoing quest to make sure no artist or band is forgotten until every story is told.
If you love music history, this is especially for you. So turn it up and count it off—this is Episode 57 with Neal Bond.