Kaitlin Cassady - Behind The Sound

USPOP - Behind The Sound

Most bands shy away from stepping into persona and parody simultaneously — USPOP turns that on its head with unapologetic British swagger plus a surprising Minnesota twist. They’ve crafted a Britpop experience filled with fake accents, real music, and a playful arrogance that screams confidence while keeping it polite. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Minnesotans embrace British culture with a dose of humor, this episode is your front-row seat. Discover how USPOP channels 90s Britpop icons like Oasis and Blur, all while staying rooted in Minnesota’s cultural quirks. They share the hilarious story of how a weather obsession inspired their mission to revive Britpop in America, refusing to let it stay a British secret. Learn about their creative process—crafting original songs that pay homage but stand out on their own, with layered guitar sounds and an arena-worthy wall of sound. Plus, get exclusive insights into their approach to live performances, mixing 10 guitars without sounding muddy, and turning venue volume into an art form.

Don Brewer - Behind The Sound

Uncover the secrets behind the iconic sound of Grand Funk Railroad with legendary drummer Don Brewer—an artist who's been redefining rhythm for over 57 years. Ever wonder what it takes to make a song like "We're an American Band" unforgettable? Or how a drummer manages playing complex beats while singing lead vocals? This episode goes deep into the mind of a rock legend, revealing how Don's unique approach to rhythm, his collaboration with producers like Todd Rundgren, and his adaptive songwriting kept the band at the top for decades. You'll discover how Don’s early days as a "singing drummer" shaped his ability to juggle rhythm and melody seamlessly—no matter if he's standing behind the kit or performing on stage. Get insider insights on crafting hit songs, the art of filling space as a three-piece band, and whether notable studio decisions—like the legendary cowbell—were fan-service or artistic necessity. Plus, hear how the band navigated changes in radio, evolving their songwriting to stay relevant, and how their fusion of R&B and rock turned them into a powerhouse on steroids.

Brian Leighton - Behind The Sound

Unlock the secret to a sustained, independent music career that defies the odds. Brian Lehighton—frontman of G.B. Lehighton—shares how he's sold over 100,000 albums without a label, performs 200 shows a year, and stays true to his own path. You won’t believe how he kept growing through countless personal struggles, including surviving cancer, and what it truly takes to connect with fans deeply in a digital age.In this episode, Brian reveals the mindset that fuels his relentless hustle, from playing over 200 shows annually to building a loyal following that spans the globe—from Minneapolis to Mexico and beyond. Discover how his unique approach to songwriting, live performance, and fan engagement has made him a beloved icon on his own terms. We dive into tales of hitting the road at 15, rewriting old songs with fresh energy, and the powerful stories behind hits like "You Better Not Run" and the animated video that symbolizes life's struggles and triumphs. You'll get concrete insights on how to thrive independently, including the importance of live performance, authentic storytelling, and building tangible relationships with your audience. Brian shares bold opinions on the future of music, social media struggles, and why live music remains the ultimate connection—no AI or automation can replace the human element. Perfect for artists, entrepreneurs, or anyone daring to forge their own path, this episode will energize your mindset and inspire you to keep pushing no matter what life throws at you. Whether you're an aspiring musician or a seasoned performer, Brian’s honest stories and practical advice will motivate you to reimagine your approach to artistry, resilience, and fan loyalty. Get ready to learn from a true Midwest icon who's built his career on authenticity, grit, and an unwavering love for music.

Andra Suchy - Behind The Sound

Unlock the raw, inspiring stories behind a Grammy-caliber artist who went from a farm in North Dakota to performing on Nashville’s legendary Ryman stage and beyond. If you've ever wondered what it’s like to stand in awe at a venue where legends have played, or how genuine humility and relentless dedication shape a music career, this episode is your front-row seat. Andra's journey is anything but typical. Raised on a wheat farm outside Mandan, she turned her childhood love of harmonizing with family into collaborations with Emmy Lou Harris, Brad Paisley, and performances at iconic venues like First Avenue! She shares the playful yet profound origins of her album "Battle Cat"—named after her spirited farm-cat—and how her upbringing instilled a work ethic that still drives her today. From recording demos on a DIY mobile studio in her basement to navigating the creative process with trusted producers, Andra reveals the evolution of her songwriting and the importance of trusting the talented people around her. In this conversation, you’ll discover the power of perspective in overcoming imposter syndrome, the surprising ways technology has transformed her workflow—as someone who still prefers handwritten lyrics—and how her Midwestern roots fostered resilience, spontaneity, and authenticity. She dives into specific songwriting challenges, like creating tracks that sound fresh yet honest, and how collaboration and trust became vital lessons in her growth. Plus, her humorous and heartfelt stories about chickens, childhood calls, and stage fright remind us that even the most accomplished artists are human, too. Why does all this matter? Because in a world obsessed with instant success, Andra's story proves that patience, humility, and genuine connection are the real stardust. Whether you're an aspiring musician, a lifelong fan of authentic storytelling, or simply someone seeking inspiration to stay true to your craft, this episode offers lessons on perseverance, artistry, and staying grounded. Ready to be inspired by a Midwest soul who’s transforming her roots into soulful melodies? Hit play to explore her journey, her creative process, and the lessons learned along the way—plus, a few surprises from her recent adventures that will keep you hooked.

Bryan Schumann - Behind The Sound

Unlock the unexpected journey from classical jazz roots to ambient and meditative soundscapes with award-winning multi-instrumentalist Bryan Schumann. Inside this episode, Bryan reveals how a shy kid from a small town transformed into an eclectic creator blending electric guitar, orchestral strings, and improvisation — all while balancing a busy career in music production and composition. Discover the deep stories behind his recent album Heart and Horizon, where each track is a reflection of personal milestones, love, and philosophical musings. We break down his unique process of song creation, from stumbling upon inspiring riffs to weaving in orchestral arrangements that push musical boundaries. Bryan shares how collaborations with artists from Brazil to Costa Rica shape his sound and his innovative approach.