Best Chris DeMakes & Sound Talent Media Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 250: Josh Goldman discusses The Raging Nathans “The Grudge” 1:12:47

2d ago1:12:47

1:12:47

This week, Josh Goldman of The Raging Nathans joins the pod to discuss the writing and recording of their 2025 single "The Grudge." Josh shares how the song evolved from a casual idea into a powerful track, shaped by thoughtful arrangement choices, layered harmonies, and even some intentional literary references. He also reflects on the recording p…

1
Ep. 249: Legends Amplified: Ric Ocasek 1:06:41

1h ago1:06:41

1:06:41

In the first episode of Legends Amplified, Chris DeMakes is joined by co-host and producer Chris Fafalios for an in-depth exploration of Ric Ocasek, the legendary frontman of The Cars. The duo explores Ocasek's early life, the formation of The Cars, and the band's meteoric rise to fame, fueled by their innovative sound and the massive impact of MTV…

1
Throwback Thursday: Dave King discusses Flogging Molly’s “Drunken Lullabies” 1:21:41

13d ago1:21:41

1:21:41

This week’s Throwback Thursday revisits Episode 146, originally aired on March 13th, 2023, with special guest Dave King of Flogging Molly. Renowned for their unique blend of punk rock energy and traditional Irish folk music, Flogging Molly captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their 2002 anthem “Drunken Lullabies.” In this episode, Dave shares…

1
Ep. 248: Brendan B. Brown discusses Wheatus "Lemonade" 1:25:07

16d ago1:25:07

1:25:07

This week, Brendan B. Brown of Wheatus sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band's 2003 single "Lemonade," a fan-favorite song that blends raw emotion with undeniable hooks. He and Chris explore the song’s evolution, from its themes of jealousy and heartbreak to the production choices that gave it its signature sound—including why Br…

1
Ep. 247: Danbert Nobacon discusses Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping” 1:11:49

23d ago1:11:49

1:11:49

This week, Danbert Nobacon of Chumbawamba sits in to break down the writing and recording of the band's massive 1997 hit, "Tubthumping." He and Chris explore the song’s punk-influenced origins, its anthemic structure, and how its themes of resilience and working-class pub culture resonated worldwide. Danbert shares insights into the band's approach…

1
Throwback Thursday: John Parr discusses his song "St. Elmo's Fire (Man In Motion)" 1:22:14

27d ago1:22:14

1:22:14

This Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast revisits Episode 143, originally released on February 20, 2023, featuring John Parr discussing the creation of his iconic 1985 hit, “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion).” While widely recognized from the St. Elmo’s Fire film soundtrack, the song was actually inspired by the remarkable journey o…

1
Ep. 246: Tahlena Chikami discusses Bite Me Bambi’s “Bad Boyfriend” 1:16:23

1M ago1:16:23

1:16:23

Tahlena Chikami of Bite Me Bambi sits in this week to break down the writing and recording of their 2024 single "Bad Boyfriend," a song inspired by friends' relationship woes and brought to life with the help of producer Cameron Webb. She and Chris discuss the evolution of ska, the challenge of keeping songs fresh in an era of short attention spans…

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Ep. 245: Angelo Moore discusses Fishbone's "Party At Ground Zero" 1:25:12

1M ago1:25:12

1:25:12

In this episode, Angelo Moore of Fishbone stops by to talk all about the writing, recording, release, and legacy of their iconic ska punk anthem “Party At Ground Zero.” Angelo shares how the song came together in a bedroom, blending the band’s wide range of influences—blues, rockabilly, ska, and jazz—to create something totally unique. He and Chris…

1
Throwback Thursday: Brian Fallon discusses The Gaslight Anthem’s “45” 1:16:44

1M ago1:16:44

1:16:44

For this week’s Throwback Thursday, and this week we’re revisiting Episode 91 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on February 21st, 2022, featuring Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem. Representing New Jersey with their signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and rock 'n' roll grit, the band reached new heights with their 2012 album H…

1
Ep. 244: Eric Cannata discusses Young the Giant's "Mind Over Matter" 1:20:57

1M ago1:20:57

1:20:57

In this episode, Eric Cannata of Young the Giant dives into the writing and recording of their 2014 hit single "Mind Over Matter," a pivotal track that showcased the band’s evolving sound and emotional depth. Eric reflects on the surreal experience of achieving success, the collaborative nature of the band's songwriting, and the challenges of creat…

1
Throwback Thursday: Jon Foreman discusses Switchfoot’s “Meant to Live” 1:07:27

2M ago1:07:27

1:07:27

For this Throwback Thursday episode, we revisit Episode 95 from March of 2022, when Jon Foreman of Switchfoot joined the podcast to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 breakout hit, “Meant to Live.” Exploring themes of existential longing and the search for meaning, the song became an anthem that resonated deeply with fans and prop…

1
Ep. 243: Stacey Dee discusses Bad Cop/Bad Cop's "Womanarchist" 1:05:40

2M ago1:05:40

1:05:40

In this episode, Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop shares the story behind their 2017 single "Womanarchist," exploring its empowering message of feminism, personal choice, and activism. Stacey discusses the historical influences behind the lyrics, including figures like Nancy Morgan Hart, and highlights the collaborative songwriting process with input …

1
Throwback Thursday: Dan Wilson discusses Semisonic’s “Closing Time” 1:30:52

2M ago1:30:52

1:30:52

In this Throwback Thursday episode, originally released in September 2022 as Episode 122, Dan Wilson of Semisonic shares the story behind the writing and recording of their iconic 1998 hit, "Closing Time." A two-time Grammy winner, Dan brings unmatched insight into the art of songwriting, having won Song of the Year in 2007 for co-writing The Chick…

1
Ep. 242: The 67th Grammy Awards Song of the Year Preview and Predictions 1:07:54

2M ago1:07:54

1:07:54

In this episode, Chris DeMakes and producer/co-host Chris Fafalios dive into the nominees for Song of the Year at the upcoming 67th Grammy Awards, set to take place on February 2, 2025. They share insights, predictions, and personal connections to each track, including Shaboozey's "A Bar Song (Tipsy)," Billie Eilish's “BIRDS OF A FEATHER,” Lady Gag…

1
Throwback Thursday: Brendan Kelly discusses The Lawrence Arms "The YMCA Down The Street From The Clinic" 1:20:30

2M ago1:20:30

1:20:30

Episode 61 of the podcast, first aired in July 2021, features Brendan Kelly of The Lawrence Arms sharing the story behind the writing and recording of their 2014 fan-favorite track, "The YMCA Down The Street From The Clinic." Known for his razor-sharp wit and knack for crafting unforgettable lyrics, Brendan dives into the inspiration for the song, …

1
Ep. 241: Blag Dahlia discusses Dwarves "Everybodies Girl" 1:18:25

2M ago1:18:25

1:18:25

In this episode, Blag Dahlia of the Dwarves joins Chris to discuss the writing and recording of their 1997 fan-favorite single, "Everybodies Girl." Blag reflects on the song's pivotal role in the evolution of the band, blending punk energy with pop elements, and how producer Eric Valentine helped shape its sound. They dive into Blag's diverse music…

1
Throwback Thursday: Max Rainer discusses Wilderado's "Surefire" 1:11:43

2M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

Episode 70 of the podcast, originally aired in September 2021, features Max Rainer of Wilderado diving into the writing and recording of their mesmerizing track, “Surefire.” At the time, the band was beginning to make waves, but their trajectory has only soared in the years since. With relentless touring and a growing fanbase, Wilderado has cemente…

1
Ep. 240: Matt Collyer discusses The Planet Smashers "Too Much Information" 1:08:03

2M ago1:08:03

1:08:03

In this episode, Chris is joined by Matt Collyer of The Planet Smashers to discuss the writing and recording of their 2019 fan-favorite single, "Too Much Information." Together, they explore the song's creation, from the collaborative songwriting process to the production choices that gave it a polished yet energetic sound. Matt reflects on the rol…

1
Throwback Thursday: Raine Maida discusses Our Lady Peace's "Clumsy" 1:13:20

3M ago1:13:20

1:13:20

On this Throwback Thursday episode (originally released on January 31, 2022), Raine Maida dives into the writing and recording of Our Lady Peace’s 1997 single “Clumsy.” Produced by Arnold Lanni, the song became a career-defining hit, spending three weeks at number one in Canada and reaching number five on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. Rai…

1
Ep. 239: Nick Diener discusses The Swellers "The Best I Ever Had" 1:27:50

3M ago1:27:50

1:27:50

In this episode, Nick Diener of The Swellers joins Chris to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2011 fan-favorite single, "The Best I Ever Had." Nick shares the unlikely inspirations behind the track, from the storytelling style of Meat Loaf to the influence of Lynyrd Skynyrd's use of slide guitar. The conversation dives into the song’s…

1
The 2024 Year-End Wrap 1:06:39

2M ago1:06:39

1:06:39

In this special year-end wrap episode, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios are joined by special guest Matt Kelly to reflect on all the songs featured on the show throughout 2024. Together, they dive into their monthly favorites, exploring the diverse genres, memorable stories, and personal connections behind each track. As they discuss the production…

1
Throwback Thursday: Eric Bazilian discusses The Hooters "And We Danced" 1:21:15

3M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

It’s Throwback Thursday, and this week we’re revisiting Eric Bazilian’s first appearance on the show from January 10, 2022. Eric sat in to break down The Hooters’ infectious 1985 hit “And We Danced,” sharing stories about its creation, recording process, and the unique blend of rock, folk, and new wave that made the song an enduring classic. Eric’s…

1
Ep. 238: A discussion on Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" 41:52

3M ago41:52

41:52

In this special holiday episode, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios discuss the classic 1958 single "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree." They explore the song’s history, from its creation by songwriter Johnny Marks to Brenda Lee’s remarkable recording at just 13 years old. They dive into the song's rockabilly influences, its nostalgi…

1
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) 51:53

3M ago51:53

51:53

Get into the holiday spirit with this special episode of The After Party! Originally released on December 13, 2021, Chris and Chris dive into John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s timeless anthem “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).” From its powerful anti-war message to its enduring place in holiday music history, they explore how this 1971 classic became both a prote…

1
Throwback Thursday: Dee Snider discusses Twisted Sister's "We're Not Gonna Take It" 1:53:21

3M ago1:53:21

1:53:21

On December 20th, 2021, Dee Snider sat in for Episode 82 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast to discuss the writing, recording, release, and legacy of Twisted Sister's classic 1984 anthem, "We're Not Gonna Take It." The fact that Dee is one of Chris's childhood idols makes this episode well worth the listen (or re-listen)! Tune in for a fun and hilarious wa…

1
Ep. 237: Jon Lewis discusses The Dopamines "Public Domain" 1:05:09

3M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

In this episode, Jon Lewis discusses the writing and recording of the fan-favorite 2010 single from The Dopamines, "Public Domain." He shares insights into the band’s unique blend of blue-collar pop punk, emphasizing their gritty, authentic sound. The conversation explores the collaborative recording process with Roger Lima and the songwriting tech…

1
Throwback Thursday: Shawn Harris discusses The Matches "December Is for Cynics" 1:21:01

3M ago1:21:01

1:21:01

This Throwback Thursday, Chris DeMakes A Podcast rewinds to December 13, 2021, when Shawn Harris of The Matches joined the show for Episode 81 to break down the making of the holiday punk anthem “December Is for Cynics.” Shawn shared stories about writing and recording the track, reflecting on its clever lyrics, high-energy vibe, and how it became …

1
Ep. 236: Nikola Šarčević discusses Millencolin's "No Cigar" 58:48

4M ago58:48

58:48

In this episode, Millencolin vocalist and bassist Nikola Šarčević discusses the writing and recording of the band's fan-favorite 2000 single "No Cigar." Nikola shares insights into the band's journey from their Swedish roots to their rise in the punk rock scene, propelled by their signing with Epitaph Records and the influence of skate culture. He …

1
Throwback Thursday: David Paich discusses Toto's "Africa" 1:18:42

4M ago1:18:42

1:18:42

This Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast revisits Episode 133, originally aired on December 12th, 2022, featuring the legendary David Paich of Toto. With the recent release of the HBO Original Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary, in which Paich is prominently featured, this conversation about Toto’s iconic hit "Africa" feels more relevant …

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Ep. 235: Exene Cervenka discusses X's "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts" 1:05:09

4M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

In this episode, Exene Cervenka sits in to discuss the writing and recording of X's 1983 fan-favorite single, "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts." She reflects on the eclectic influences that shaped the song, from Ray Manzarek’s unique production approach to the band's distinctive blend of punk rock with other genres. Exene shares how the song features…

1
Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Andrew Gold and his song "Thank You for Being a Friend" 1:07:32

4M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

In this special Thanksgiving edition of Throwback Thursday, join host Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios as they embark on a musical exploration of Andrew Gold's iconic 1978 single "Thank You for Being a Friend." While most listeners may recognize it as the beloved theme song from The Golden Girls, DeMakes and Fafalios dive into the …

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Ep. 234: Alan Day and Dan O'Connor discuss Four Year Strong's "uncooked" 1:11:37

4M ago1:11:37

1:11:37

In this episode, Alan Day and Dan O'Connor of Four Year Strong sit in to discuss the writing and recording of the single "uncooked" from their 2024 album Analysis Paralysis. Inspired by a bout of writer's block, the song explores their curiosity about whether certain substances might help them overcome it, despite both being straight edge since the…

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Throwback Thursday: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 2) 1:10:18

4M ago1:10:18

1:10:18

In this Throwback Thursday episode, Fat Mike returns for Part 2 of the deep dive into NOFX’s 18-minute punk rock epic, The Decline. Continuing where Part 1 left off, Mike shares more about the song’s intricate composition, its politically charged message, and the intense recording process that pushed the boundaries of punk music. Originally airing …

1
Ep. 233: Joe Queer discusses The Queers "Punk Rock Girls" 1:07:20

4M ago1:07:20

1:07:20

In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Joe Queer discusses the writing and recording of the fan-favorite 1996 single from The Queers, "Punk Rock Girls." Throughout this conversation, Joe reflects on the spontaneous and fun process behind writing the song, as well as the unique recording techniques that gave The Queers their signature sound. He tal…

1
Throwback Thursday: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 1) 1:03:51

4M ago1:03:51

1:03:51

In this special Throwback Thursday episode, Fat Mike opens up about the writing and recording of NOFX’s ambitious punk rock opus, "The Decline"—an 18-minute, single-track masterpiece that challenges political, social, and cultural norms with biting lyrics and intricate musicianship. Originally aired on June 12, 2023, this is Part 1 of a 2-part seri…

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Ep. 232: Matt Scannell discusses Vertical Horizon's "Everything You Want" 1:16:25

5M ago1:16:25

1:16:25

In this episode, Vertical Horizon vocalist and guitarist Matt Scannell discusses the writing and recording of their chart-topping hit "Everything You Want," which reached #1 on the US Hot 100 in July 2000. Matt shares the personal experiences and emotions that inspired the song’s introspective lyrics, focusing on themes of unrequited love and self-…

1
Throwback Thursday: Christian "MC Bat Commander" Jacobs discusses The Aquabats "Super Rad!" 1:26:54

5M ago1:26:54

1:26:54

For this week's Throwback Thursday episode, we're throwing it all the way back to November 1st, 2021, when Christian Jacobs (aka MC Bat Commander) sat in to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 1997 single from The Aquabats, "Super Rad!" From child actor to creating children's television himself, Christian's story is as fascinating…

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Ep. 231: Nick Thomas discusses The Spill Canvas "All Over You" 1:21:24

5M ago1:21:24

1:21:24

This week, Nick Thomas sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 2007 fan favorite single from The Spill Canvas, "All Over You." In this deep dive, Nick shares the emotions and experiences that shaped the song’s lyrics, exploring themes of infatuation, longing, and unrequited love. Together, he and Chris break down the track’s musical ele…

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THE THUNDRED: The Top 100 Albums of All Time (#100 - #81) 1:10:37

5M ago1:10:37

1:10:37

One Hit Thunder’s THE THUNDRED is here! This five-part series kicks off in this episode, where hosts Chris Fafalios and Matt Kelly begin the countdown of the top 100 albums of all time. Compiled from the input of over 100 music industry insiders and passionate listeners, the list spans a diverse range of genres and eras. In this first installment, …

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "The Worst Songs Ever?" episode 54:59

5M ago54:59

54:59

In this sneak preview episode of The After Party that was originally released on November 6, 2021, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios dive into some of music’s most notorious tracks — the songs often deemed the "worst" ever. With their unique mix of humor and insight, they dissect what makes these tunes so divisive and give their own verdicts on whet…

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Throwback Thursday: Art Alexakis discusses Everclear's "Santa Monica" 1:22:26

5M ago1:22:26

1:22:26

"I am still living with your GHOST" — fitting words for a Halloween edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast! In this special Throwback Thursday episode from October 31, 2022, Art Alexakis of Everclear dives deep into the hauntingly memorable 1995 single “Santa Monica.” Art shares the inspiration and recording journey behind the song, which captures the …

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Ep. 230: Michael Bishop aka Blöthar the Berserker discusses GWAR's "The Road Behind" 1:08:56

5M ago1:08:56

1:08:56

This week, Michael Bishop aka Blöthar the Berserker sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 1992 single from GWAR, "The Road Behind." Michael and Chris dive into the song's creation, unpacking the lyrics, instrumentation, and unique production choices that set it apart in GWAR's catalog. They explore the band's history, the…

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “Best Opening Tracks of the 90s” episode 38:10

5M ago38:10

38:10

In this week’s special SNEAK PREVIEW episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios are joined by One Hit Thunder producer and co-host Matt Kelly to discuss the best opening tracks of 90s albums. They dive into a diverse selection of songs from iconic bands and artists like Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Wu-Tang Clan, Björk, and Beck, ex…

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Ep. 229: A discussion on Dolores O'Riordan and The Cranberries "Zombie" 59:36

5M ago59:36

59:36

In this week's special episode, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios dive into the hit 1994 single "Zombie" by The Cranberries, written by the late Dolores O'Riordan. They explore the song’s powerful blend of heavy music and poignant lyrics, addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland, and reflect on the immense talent of Dolores, who …

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Ep. 228: Dave Pirner discusses Soul Asylum's "Misery" 54:46

5M ago54:46

54:46

This week, Dave Pirner returns to the show to discuss the writing and recording of Soul Asylum's hit 1995 single "Misery." In this insightful conversation, Dave reveals the inspiration behind the song's biting critique of corporate America and the record industry. He shares how the band experimented with recording equipment during this period, enjo…

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Ep. 227: Anthony Raneri discusses Bayside's "Sick, Sick, Sick" 1:21:45

6M ago1:21:45

1:21:45

This week, Chris is joined by Bayside guitarist and vocalist Anthony Raneri to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 2011 single "Sick, Sick, Sick." Together, they dive into the band's signing with Wind-up Records, working with legendary producer Gil Norton, and the inspiration behind the song's lyrics. Anthony and Chris break down …

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Ep. 226: JJ Wilde discusses her song "Best of Me" 1:05:58

6M ago1:05:58

1:05:58

This week, JJ Wilde sits in to discuss her 2024 single "Best of Me," offering an intimate look into the song's creation and the personal journey that inspired it. JJ dives deep into the duality of embracing chaos and striving for self-growth, sharing how her experiences with recklessness and resilience shaped the song’s lyrics. She also explores th…

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Ep. 225: Joseph Milligan discusses Anberlin’s “Feel Good Drag” 1:07:30

6M ago1:07:30

1:07:30

This week, Anberlin guitarist Joseph Milligan joins Chris DeMakes to discuss the writing and recording of their hit 2008 single "Feel Good Drag." The song, which was initially intended as a fun re-recording of a track from an earlier album, wasn't even meant to be on the New Surrender album. However, it went on to become the band’s widely acclaimed…

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Ep. 224: Mike Edwards discusses Jesus Jones “Right Here, Right Now” 1:15:20

6M ago1:15:20

1:15:20

This week, Mike Edwards sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 1991 hit single from Jesus Jones, “Right Here, Right Now." The conversation explores the creation and impact of the song, including the inspiration behind it and the cultural context of the time. Mike opens up about the poignant lyrics, highlighting references to Tracy Chap…

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Ep. 223: Dr. Frank discusses The Mr. T Experience’s “Ba Ba Ba Ba Ba” 1:08:07

7M ago1:08:07

1:08:07

This week, Frank Portman — better known as Dr. Frank — sits in to dive into the creation of the fan favorite 1996 single "Ba Ba Ba Ba Ba" by The Mr. T Experience. Inspired by The Partridge Family, the song was initially imagined as a folk tune arranged by a rock band. Dr. Frank discusses how the lyrics explore themes of doubt and finding a place fo…

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