Chris DeMakes A Podcast
Chris DeMakes
Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 11min
Ep. 200: Chris Ballew discusses The Presidents of the United States of America's "Peaches"
To celebrate 200 episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, Chris Ballew makes his triumphant return, this time to discuss the writing and recording of The Presidents of the United States of America’s 1996 hit “Peaches”. He recalls the fascinating journey behind this iconic track, from the spark of inspiration while tripping under a peach tree in the early 90s to a chance encounter with a muttering man in the street years later. As is always the case with the creative force that is Chris Ballew, the memories and anecdotes are just as fun and unique as the songs themselves, making this episode a must-listen for songwriters and music fans alike.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to help support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 25, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ep. 199: Chuck Ragan discusses Hot Water Music's "Drag My Body"
In this week's episode, Chuck Ragan unveils the writing and recording process behind Hot Water Music's 2012 single "Drag My Body." The track showcases Chuck's iconic vocals, a defining element of the band's sound, which play a central role in driving its emotional depth. Additionally, Chuck emphasizes the collective musical prowess of the band, highlighting their skilled execution throughout. Recorded at The Blasting Room with Bill Stevenson, Chuck reflects on the transformative power of being immersed in such a creative environment and how "Drag My Body" emerged from the experience as a powerful anthem of resilience, resonating with audiences through its universal theme of overcoming adversity.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you’d like to support the show and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 18, 2024 • 55min
Ep. 198: Ray Carlisle discusses Teenage Bottlerocket's "Everything to Me"
In this episode, Teenage Bottlerocket's Ray Carlisle provides an insightful look into the creation process of the band's 2019 single, "Everything To Me". With heartfelt candor, Ray shares the personal inspiration behind the song—the deep love for his son Milo. From quirky lyrics detailing creative methods to encourage teeth-brushing to poignant reflections on how his son saved his life, this song encapsulates the essence of parental love within an unexpected punk rock medium.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to join the Supporting Cast (it's just like a Patreon!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 11, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ep. 197: Colin Clive discusses Mustard Plug's "Beer (Song)"
In this episode, Mustard Plug guitarist Colin Clive discusses the creative process behind the band's iconic ska-punk anthem "Beer (Song)." Having been released years prior to its inclusion on the Evildoers Beware! album, the track underwent a transformation that made it hit even harder and become more memorable. Colin dives into the evolution of the song through years of live performances, as well as the recording experience with Bill Stevenson and Stephen Egerton at The Blasting Room.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 4, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ep. 196: Tony Lovato discusses Mest's "Rooftops"
Mest frontman Tony Lovato sits in this week to share the story behind the band’s 2003 single “Rooftops”. From reminiscing about listening to music with friends to contemplating the future, Tony opens up about the song’s heartfelt origins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feb 29, 2024 • 29min
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Leap Year, Leap Day, Leaplings, and Toast" episode
The After Party is a weekly bonus episode for members of the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast (which is basically just like Patreon). Head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up! You'll get a giant back catalog of episodes, and a new episode each week.Sign up for the Supporting Cast: http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feb 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
Ep. 195: Jonathan Higgs discusses Everything Everything's "Cold Reactor"
In this episode, Jonathan Higgs of Everything Everything shares the story behind the writing and recording of "Cold Reactor," the lead single from the band’s 2024 album Mountainhead. The narrative behind the song is intricately woven into the album’s overarching concept, offering a look into Jonathan’s vision of a strange dystopian world. All aspects of both the song and the band’s overall sound are explored, including Jonathan’s signature use of falsetto vocals.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feb 19, 2024 • 58min
Ep. 194: Jonathan Anastas discusses D.Y.S. "Wolfpack"
Sitting in this week is Jonathan Anastas, bassist of the influential Boston straight edge hardcore band D.Y.S. Jonathan recounts the writing and recording process of their seminal track "Wolfpack" from the 1983 album Brotherhood, which was recorded when he was just 15 years old. He shares anecdotes about the youthful energy and passion that fueled the music of D.Y.S. as he offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the band’s most iconic songs, as well as an exploration of the lasting impact of their contribution to the hardcore punk scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feb 12, 2024 • 55min
Ep. 193: Rob "Bucket" Hingley discusses The Toasters "2-Tone Army"
Rob "Bucket" Hingley is not only the founding member of The Toasters but also the visionary behind Moon Ska Records, which played a crucial part in cultivating and promoting ska music in the US and beyond. In this episode, he shares insights into the creative process behind the writing and recording of the classic 1996 fan favorite song from The Toasters, "2-Tone Army." What started as an idea for a cartoon theme song became a beloved ska anthem, and in this episode, Rob opens up about every aspect of this upbeat single with a positive message.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast (which is just like Patreon if you're not familiar). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feb 5, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ep. 192: Geoff Rickly discusses Thursday's "Signals Over the Air"
This week, Thursday frontman Geoff Rickly sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 single “Signals Over the Air”. Taken from the band’s third album War All the Time, the song is a dynamic amalgamation of melody and aggression, and it’s much rawer than the polished productions that most people would expect from a major label release. In this episode, Geoff dives deep into the inspiration and creation of this landmark single.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
