Fitz and the Trantrums

Rae Boyd

On this episode of Ronversations, Ron Ross sits down with Frederick native and American Idol Top 20 contestant Rae Boyd for a fun, high-energy conversation you don't want to miss. Rae shares her incredible journey from singing in an empty bar in Las Vegas to being discovered by an American Idol producer and performing in front of music legends like Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan. She opens up about the whirlwind experience of the competition, the friendships formed along the way, and what it's really like behind the scenes. Plus, Ron puts Rae in the hot seat with some rapid-fire questions, covering everything from her favorite Frederick hangouts to her go-to comfort food and even a hidden artistic talent you might not expect. It's a hometown success story filled with laughs, inspiration, and plenty of Frederick pride. Don't forget to tune in, support Rae, and be part of the excitement as her American Idol journey continues.

Fitz and the Trantrums

In this episode of Ronversations, Ron Ross sits down with multi-platinum artist Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick of Fitz and the Tantrums ahead of their upcoming show at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. Fitz talks about life on the road, the powerful connection between music and fans, and the unforgettable moment he first heard a crowd singing his songs back to him. He also shares the story behind how Fitz and the Tantrums came together, the creative freedom that shaped their latest album Man on the Moon, and how today's music landscape, from streaming to social media, has changed the way artists create hits. Plus, stick around for Ron's "Five Fast Facts" segment, where Fitz reveals his favorite road food, a surprising hidden talent, what he's listening to right now, and the very first song he ever performed in public.

Theory of a Deadman

Tyler Connolly, frontman of the multi-platinum rock powerhouse Theory of a Deadman, joins Ron Ross for an in-depth Ronversations that blends music, stories, and laughs. Tyler opens up about the band's songwriting process, their acoustic tours, and why keeping songs raw and simple can be the most powerful choice. From their Canadian roots to upcoming new music, he shares what keeps the band energized after two decades of hits. Plus, we run through Five Fast Facts for a few surprising sides of Tyler you've never heard before. And the timing couldn't be better — because Theory of a Deadman is hitting the stage this Saturday at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in West Virginia. Expect a night packed with fan favorites, new energy, and the undeniable force that has made them one of hard rock's most enduring bands. 🎸🔥 🎟️ Tickets are going fast — grab yours now before they sell out: Get Tickets [https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/150062BD952A2D3D?_ga=2.210725206.2120936179.1758740689-535708290.1757102445]

Stix From Steel Panther

Ron sits down with Steel Panther's thunderous timekeeper Stix for a high-voltage pre-show chat. He shares morning writing rituals, why serving the melody matters, the band's Viper Room origins and on/off-stage chemistry, plus first drum crushes ("When the Levee Breaks"), a little guy-liner talk, what he's spinning now (Big Wreck/Ian Thornley, Royal Blood, BRKN LOVE, Low Lives), and three-part advice for working musicians, be relentlessly persistent, create because you have to, and don't chase trends. 🎙️ Ronversations w/ Ron Ross Don't miss Steel Panther live—Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races (Charles Town, WV), Friday, September 12. Tickets on sale now: https://www.hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com/entertainment [https://www.hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com/entertainment?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

Ben Bridwell of Band of Horses

In this episode of Ronversations, Ron Ross chats with the legendary Ben Bridwell, frontman of the Grammy-nominated indie rock group Band of Horses. With over 20 years of music under their belt, Ben reflects on the band's origins, his journey as a singer-songwriter, their acoustic album Live at the Ryman Vol. 2, and the unexpected joys of fatherhood and performing with newfound confidence. Plus, don't miss Band of Horses live in concert at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in Charlestown, West Virginia on Saturday, June 14th! Get your tickets now at hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com [https://www.hollywoodcasinocharlestown.com] This episode is part of the Listen Frederick Podcast Network — learn more at ListenFrederick.com [https://listenfrederick.com]