Backstage Unplugged

Episode 4: Keeping Hard Rock Alive with Hannes Kett from the band Shiraz Lane

In Episode 4 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Hannes Kett from Shiraz Lane, the energetic Finnish hard rock band from Finland. Known for revitalizing the classic ’80s hair metal and sleaze rock sound, Shiraz Lane blends the swagger of bands like Guns N’ Roses and Skid Row with modern melodic rock and pop-metal energy, creating a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly current. With explosive live performances, infectious hooks, and a growing international fanbase, Shiraz Lane has become one of the standout names in today’s modern rock scene. Their passion for the genre and fearless approach to songwriting continue to push the boundaries of contemporary hard rock while staying true to its roots. In this episode, Hannes talks about the band's album, In Vertigo, which came out October, 2025. Get it here: https://ffm.bio/invertigoalbum Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen. 🎸🔥

Episode 3: All Things Music with Phil X

In Episode 3 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Phil X, the electrifying guitarist known for his high-energy playing and unmistakable tone as a member of Bon Jovi. A prolific session musician, Phil has lent his talents to an incredible range of artists, including Chris Cornell, Tommy Lee, Methods of Mayhem, Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, Orianthi, Rob Zombie, Chris Daughtry, Alice Cooper, and Thousand Foot Krutch, among many others. From the studio to the stage, his versatility and passion have made him one of rock’s most in-demand players. In this episode, Phil talks all things music with Cassidy. Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen.

Episode 2: In Conversation With Michael Sweet of Stryper

In Episode 2 of Backstage Unplugged, we sit down with Michael Sweet, the legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman of Stryper. A pioneering voice in Christian metal, Michael has spent decades shaping the sound of hard rock with his powerful vocals, melodic songwriting, and unmistakable guitar work. In this episode, Michael talks all things music with Cassidy. Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen.

Episode 1: Inside the Music of Jared James Nichols

In our first episode of Backstage Unplugged, we kick things off with Nashville-based blues-rock powerhouse Jared James Nichols — a guitarist and singer known for his high-energy sound and unmistakable style. A Gibson Global Brand Ambassador and the man behind the iconic “Old Glory” Les Paul, Jared blends traditional blues roots with the thunderous edge of 1970s hard rock. In this debut episode, Jared talks all things music with Cassidy.