

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

Jan 29, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ep. 191: Jonah Matranga discusses Far's "Mother Mary"
Far's 1998 album Water & Solutions is considered an influential record by a number of beloved bands. Filled to the brim with haunting melodies, powerful guitar hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, this album is a significant piece of music history. In this episode, vocalist Jonah Matranga discusses the writing and recording of the band's most well-known single, "Mother Mary" – a moody rocker that packs a huge punch for a relatively short song.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party (plus an ENORMOUS back catalog of past episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. It's just like a Patreon. You'll be supporting the podcast you love, and also getting TONS of bonus episodes. It's a win-win. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 2024 • 1h 11min
Ep. 190: Keith Buckley discusses Many Eyes "Revelation"
Keith Buckley returns to the show, this time to discuss the writing and recording of Many Eyes' 2023 single, "Revelation." Deeply personal lyrics delivered with a mix of ferocity and melody over heavy grooves make this song a memorable debut. In this episode, Keith breaks down every aspect of its inception.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

Jan 15, 2024 • 1h
Ep. 189: Andy Jackson discusses Hot Rod Circuit's "The Pharmacist"
Hot Rod Circuit guitarist and vocalist Andy Jackson sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2002 single “The Pharmacist”. While it may seem that the song is detailing a story of love gone wrong, the actual story behind the lyrics is as unexpected as it is heartbreaking. Andy also opens up about the organic recording experience that led to a sound that remains powerful and timeless.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes (plus a GIANT back catalog of bonus episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast (it's basically a Patreon, just a different name!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 8, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep. 188: Mitchy Collins discusses lovelytheband's "broken"
Mitchy Collins from lovelytheband discusses the origins and success of their hit single 'broken', revealing personal lows turning into meteoric highs in the music industry. The episode explores song quality, composition, and the journey of a chart-topping hit, showcasing the band's independence in navigating the music industry on their own terms.

Jan 1, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep. 187: Mark Tremonti discusses Creed's "Higher"
In this week's episode, guitarist and vocalist Mark Tremonti discusses the writing and recording of Creed’s iconic 1999 single, "Higher." This rock anthem soared to the top of the charts, solidifying the band as one of the era’s defining acts. Having already achieved success with their debut album, the astronomical rise of "Higher" from their sophomore effort, Human Clay, made Creed a household name. In this episode, Mark tells the story behind the creation of this timeless modern rock classic.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to both 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

Dec 25, 2023 • 1h 7min
End of 2023 Recap
Chris and Chris take a look back at the amazing guests that sat in for episodes of the show in 2023.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes, have access to a giant back catalog of bonus episodes, AND help the show continue, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 18, 2023 • 1h 21min
Ep. 186: Jaret Reddick discusses Bowling For Soup's "Girl All The Bad Guys Want"
In this episode, Jaret Reddick takes a look back at the creation of Bowling For Soup's Grammy-nominated 2002 hit, "Girl All The Bad Guys Want.” The song was his first ever co-write, a collaborative effort with the talented Butch Walker, who was also at the production helm for their acclaimed album Drunk Enough To Dance. The episode dives into the magic that unfolded during the writing and recording process, showcasing how the success of "Girl All The Bad Guys Want" became a pivotal moment propelling both the band and Butch Walker's careers to new heights. As a timeless fan favorite, Jaret reflects on its significance, acknowledging the profound impact it continues to have on Bowling For Soup's journey and the gratitude he holds for its enduring importance in the hearts of fans today.If you want to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast 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

Dec 11, 2023 • 1h 10min
Ep. 185: Eric Bazilian discusses Joan Osborne's "One Of Us"
Eric Bazilian makes his triumphant return to the show, this time to dive into the fascinating backstory of his iconic song “One Of Us,” made famous by Joan Osborne in 1995. Eric recounts the spontaneous genesis of the track, revealing that he composed it in a single night after his then-girlfriend expressed interest in his recording process. Despite some controversy about the song from a few dimwits of the era, it has endured and continues to resonate today. To add a special touch, Eric even breaks out the very acoustic guitar used in the song’s recording, offering an extra layer of authenticity to this can’t-miss episode.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

Dec 7, 2023 • 50min
Throwback Thursday: Joe Escalante discusses The Vandals "Oi to the World!"
This week's Throwback Thursday episode is from all the way back on December 14th of 2020, when Joe Escalante sat in for Episode 29 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast to discuss the writing and recording of the holiday classic from The Vandals, "Oi to the World!"If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and want 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

Dec 4, 2023 • 1h 11min
Ep. 184: Ryan Cabrera discusses his song "On The Way Down"
In this week's episode, singer-songwriter Ryan Cabrera takes a trip down memory lane, diving into the fascinating story behind his 2004 hit single “On The Way Down”. Ryan reveals the ins and outs of the song's writing, recording, and release, shedding light on his collaboration with producer Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls fame. He reflects on the whirlwind of his youth, recounting the surreal experience of moving to LA and playing his songs acoustically for record label executives while wearing flip-flops — a vivid snapshot of a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of a timeless hit and the stories that accompanied its rise to fame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


