Music Junkies Podcast

What if the soundtrack of your life could be summed up in just 10 songs? Join us as comedian Jeff Nelson takes us through his musical journey, sharing heartfelt and humorous anecdotes highlighting how music has shaped his life. From his initial foray into a blues rock band playing tambourine and maracas to his undying love for The Rolling Stones, Jeff’s storytelling brings those vibrant moments on stage to life. He also reflects on nostalgic rituals such as frequenting Blockbuster for new movie releases and how films like "A Few Good Men" and "Chinatown" have influenced his cinematic tastes. Bo...

Ever wondered how a childhood actress transforms into a mesmerizing Marilyn Monroe? Join us on this captivating episode of Music Junkies, where we sit down with the incredibly talented Erin Gavin. From her high school experiences and early crushes to the unforgettable melodies of U2 that accompanied her upbringing, Erin shares her heartfelt journey. With a musician father as an early influence, Erin recounts her transition from child actor to passionate singer, highlighting the pivotal moments that led her to embrace music fully.
Navigating the complex world of dating across different cultures can be challenging, especially amidst the...

What happens when classical music meets rock and roll? Join us on Music Junkies as we chat with the extraordinary Joel Hoekstra, a guitarist whose vibrant journey spans from the classical influence of his accomplished musician parents to the electrifying world of rock music. Joel shares the pivotal moments that defined his career, from being inspired by ACDC's "Back in Black" to stepping onto the stage with legends like Whitesnake and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This episode promises an immersive exploration of Joel's evolution as a musician, highlighted by his transition from teaching to performing, and the serendipitous opportunities that...

Feel the drumbeats of life's great symphony with the rhythm maestro, Chiko Misomali as he joins me on the latest Music Junkies episode. As someone whose musical heartbeat has fueled the likes of Biff Naked and resonated in games and commercials, Chiko brings a playlist that's the soundtrack to his life's milestones. We kick off reminiscing about our musical roots in Vancouver's concert scene, revel in the power chords of '80s rock, and share a love for the electrifying Vancouver Canucks...

Ever wondered how losing your job could be the best thing that ever happened to you? Today on Music Junkies, we have the hilarious Ms. Francois sharing her unique perspective on social media fame and unconventional careers, including her uproarious take on getting fired and the unexpected twist of using Instagram to gain sympathy and followers. We also chat about the vital role of travel, understanding love languages in relationships, and even the risqué topic of considering an OnlyFans accou...

If the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, combined with the raw undertones of sex, love, and addiction intrigue you, then you're in the right place. Today, we're thrilled to have the entertainment industry's dynamo, Brianne Davis, in our musical hot seat. She's on board to peel back the curtains on her journey, from creating a playlist for her bestselling novel, Secret Life of a Hollywood Sex and Love Addict, to her experience on the set of True Blood and her complicated relationship with memora...

When the pulsating beats of DJ Raw Love first filled my ears, I knew we were in for an electrifying journey. Chrisanna a New York Times bestselling author turned pro bodybuilder, now spinning the decks with a flair that's hard to ignore, graces our show with tales of her leap into the music scene. Her hit song, a beacon of her love story, reflects a synergy of music, life, and love that keeps listeners coming back for more. Through our conversation, we uncover her music's profound connection ...

Ever thought of the wild stories that lie behind the making of a music playlist? Hold on to your headphones as we embark on a sonic roller-coaster ride with Freeman, the ultimate Iron Maiden fanatic. We kick off with a hilarious tale of a pub encounter, a man smitten by Freeman's hair, and a band playing at an absurdly early hour. From amusing misunderstandings about Freeman's sexual orientation to his preferences when it comes to the female anatomy, this chat is a delightful blend of h...

Ever find yourself wistfully thinking back to the music that scored your youth, or the songs that became the soundtrack to your most cherished memories? Chuck and I, Annette Smith, take you on a sentimental journey through our shared love for music, storytelling, and the art of the interview. As Chuck Shoot graces the Music Junkies podcast, we unearth the personal connections that music weaves into the fabric of our lives, from the songs that define our relationship milestones to the anthems ...

Ever thought about how a towering height could influence a person's music career? Well, put on your headphones, and let's meet Brent Tyler, who stands tall at seven feet, not just in height but also in his passion for music. Brent generously shares the captivating journey of his life, beautifully interwoven with music, basketball, and knee surgeries.Brent's musical journey is as diverse as it is intriguing.But it's not just all about music. Brent also opens up about his basketball dreams and ...

Get ready for an exhilarating ride through the world of rock and roll with Tim Steinruck lead vocalist and guitarist of The Mighty One. Our conversation dives deep into Tim's musical journey, tracing his evolution from a young music enthusiast to a seasoned songwriter and performer. Listen in as we dissect the complexities of his creative process, the thrill of launching new tracks, and the resurgence of rock and roll with its anthem-like vibe. And, if you're a KISS fan, you'll love our ...

Step up and get ready to be swept off your feet by the whirlwind tales of rock 'n' roll royalty, Lorraine Lewis. The iconic Vixen lead vocalist and casting producer takes center stage as she recounts the electric days of her musical journey, from high school dreams to the legendary Sunset Strip. Her voice carries the wisdom of the ages, yet pulses with a contagious zeal for life that's impossible to resist. Whether chasing sunsets, befriending canines, or rocking out on stage, Lorraine embodi...

This week on Music Junkies, I’m thrilled to have my good old buddy, Derrick Germain, onboard. We'll be swapping stories - from wild high school experiences to his heartwarming love saga with his wife, Tracy, and their journey through four failed date attempts before finally hitting the sweet spot. Our friendly debate on the significance of flexibility for a goalie (both on the field and off) promises to be both entertaining and enlightening. Don't miss Derrick's quirky tales of air-guita...

When comedy and magic collide, the result is a spectacle of humor and surprise that captivates audiences. This podcast episode introduces us to the remarkable Danny Winston, whose journey through comedy, illusion, and music is as multifaceted as it is fascinating. Host Annette Smith engages Danny in a conversation that is both enlightening and entertaining, providing listeners with an intimate look into the life of a performer who has mastered the art of bringing joy to others. Danny's p...

Slip into the shadows with us as Glenn from Two Shadows unravels the tapestry of goth metal melodies and the raw emotion behind their chart-topping hit "Scratchin' Out the Surface." It's not every day that you get to steal glimpses into an artist's soul. Still, Glenn lays it bare, recounting the transformative studio journey, the tug-of-war with record labels, and the unparalleled rush of hearing fans echo his lyrics. Our hometown hero doesn't shy away from sharing the gritty challenges of li...

When Kevin, a fervent music aficionado, shares his life-altering odyssey through the realms of rock and metal, you can't help but feel the electric charge in the air. Our latest episode features his tale of salvation through sound, a narrative that spans from the solace he found in music during his darkest times to the explosive energy of mosh pits and his venture into the podcasting universe. His voice resonates with the passion of someone who's not only lived through the music but has been ...

Picture yourself rummaging through old mixtapes and stumbling upon the soundtrack of your youth. That's where we kick things off with Carmen Lynch, a strikingly hilarious New York City comedian who joins me to reminisce about the power of music and its uncanny ability to teleport us back to the days of high school dances and first crushes. We unpack how tunes from our formative years carve out a permanent nook in our memories and why "Lightning Crashes" can stir up a whirlwind of nostalgia.Wa...

When Chancy strums the strings of his custom Frankenstein-style guitar, it's like unlocking a treasure trove of stories and emotions woven into each note. In this episode of Music Junkies, prepare for a captivating symphony of heartfelt narratives as our guest, a passionate music and movie aficionado, paints a vivid picture of his life's soundtrack. From quirky playlist challenges to the electrifying energy of American Head Charge's live performances, we embark on a journey through the audito...

Get ready to rock as I, Annette Smith, unleash the electrifying energy of London's metal masters, Prodigal, straight into your eardrums. Stan, George, Johnny, and Louis peel back the layers of their wild journey, from jamming in the schoolyard to dominating the stages they command today. Our conversation is a no-holds-barred exploration of the elements that fuse their unique sound, complete with uproarious anecdotes of onstage antics and heartfelt reflections on the tracks that paved their pa...

Ever found yourself lost in the beats of your childhood, each song a thread in the tapestry of your memory? Lori Fetrick 'Ice' from American Gladiators joins me, Annette Smith, for a session that's as much a concert of nostalgia as it is a symposium on the sheer force of music in our lives. We trace Lori's journey from country classics that echoed through her youth to the rock anthems and pop ballads that became the soundtrack to her teenage rebellion. Along the way, we find ourselves reminis...

Ever found yourself gripping the steering wheel, with Eminem blasting through the speakers, as you navigate a snowstorm? That's just a sliver of what we unpack with Jane and Deklan from the brutal, bizarre, and boozy podcast on this episode of Music Junkies. Our conversation traverses the emotional landscapes music creates, from s Deklan's breakup ballads to our host's intense Eminem-fueled driving sessions. These tunes aren't just background noise; they're the soundtrack to our life's most g...

Have you ever been whisked back in time by a single guitar riff? Singer-songwriter Matthew Holtby joins us on Music Junkies to share his symphony of life—an auditory tale that dances through his vibrant solo career and the tracks that define it. Our conversation is a mixtape of moments, from the Anne Murray show that started it all, to the punk rock bowling alleys where the pins of rebellion and resilience stand side by side.Strap on your high-top chucks and skate into the 80s with us, ...

Ever wondered how a stroll down memory lane with 80s music could stir up more than just fond recollections? Join me, Annette Smith, as I sit down with Harvey, the charismatic voice behind "Love is Black" and "Men Are the Prize," for a vivid trek back to the era of synthesizers, leg warmers, and MTV. We tap into the pulse of a decade that revolutionized the music industry, influenced fashion, and left an indelible mark on pop culture, all while spinning tracks that will surely hit you with a w...

Looking to discover how the magic of music can shape our lives, relationships, and personal growth? Join us for an enlightening conversation with our extraordinary guest, Joelle Gilmour who shares her intimate journey with music. We dive into the depths of our shared love for music, discussing its profound influence on our lives and how it connects us to our most cherished memories. From singing and dancing at parties to influencing younger generations, we uncover the myriad ways music can br...

Can you remember your first concert or the thrill of buying your first album? Our guest for this episode, the self-taught musician and radio personality, Ron Coolen, takes us down memory lane to his early experiences with music. He shares his affinity for heavy metal music, sparked off by his first album purchase, Boston's "Don't Look Back." A resident of Amsterdam, Ron is a family man who has chosen his passion for music over the city's famous nightlife.Our journey through the world of heavy...

Get ready to be taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and nostalgia as we explore the mesmerizing world of music and wrestling. I'm your host, Annette Smith, and joining me in this insightful journey is our music-obsessed guest, CJ Plain. He opens up about his home studio, the sentimental significance behind its name, and his intriguing book project that beautifully interweaves his love for horror, metal music, and truck stops.We walk down memory lane as we recall our favorite wrestlers a...

Have you ever wondered about the transformative power of music? Join me as I sit down with Eric Alper, a major figure in the Canadian entertainment industry, for an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the world of music and beyond. We kick off with Eric's personal playlist, each song a life lesson. He gives us a rare glimpse into the music industry's inner workings and talks about his passion for running, including his distinctive approach to completing a half marathon at Disney Wo...

Ever wondered how the cultural blend of TV, music, and films across two languages shapes a person? This episode takes you on a fascinating journey with Ramon, a first-generation Mexican-American, whose childhood was marinated in a mix of English and Spanish entertainment, and how that blend has influenced his life and work. We're rolling back the years, dipping into the vibrant culture, music, and fashion of the '80s and '90s, with Ramon as our guide sharing his vivid tales of break dancing, ...

Get ready to ride a rollercoaster of emotions with our extraordinary guest, Kevin Joly. In this engaging conversation, we travel in time as Kevin paints a vivid picture of his life, significantly shaped by music. His tale takes us from his elementary school days when he was rocking out to Def Leppard, to choosing a wedding song that evokes cherished memories. What better way to understand a man's journey than to explore the musical scores that have underscored his life?Navigating through Kevi...

Ever wondered who's the mastermind behind the global hit 'Rock Me Amadeus'? Join us as we sit down with award-winning songwriter and producer, Rob Bolland, who's left an enduring imprint on the music scene and sold over 67 million records worldwide. Get ready to traverse through Rob's enthralling career journey, from his youth in South Africa to his fascination for movies that shaped his songwriting style, leading to his work being featured in numerous films and television series.Let's take a...

Guest of honor, Jeremy Bryant is joining us for an enlightening chat, imparting his expertise on metal music, horror films, and the intriguing lifestyle of Juggalos. Our conversation takes us on a journey through Jeremy's high school years, shedding light on how his love for the band Sticks shaped his musical taste. Tag along as we dive into Jeremy's college days, where we learn about his initiation into the vibrant Juggalo culture.Prepare to get spooked as we navigate the world of horror and...

Prepare for a wild ride as we go backstage with Baranot Regrets and Sid Stratton to uncover the magic and mayhem of the music world. Our journey starts with a nostalgic trip down memory lane as Sid reveals his life-long love affair with music, triggered by the iconic Batman Forever soundtrack. Hear his fond recollections of partying with Jimmy Buffett, his parents’ favorite musician, and how music can transport us back in time, igniting forgotten memories and emotions. We then step into the p...

Have you ever considered how music shapes your life? How does it bring back special memories or inspire you to create new ones? This week, we welcome our guest Matthew Clark - a music aficionado with a passion that's infectious. As we traverse through his curated playlist, Matthew takes us into the deep corners of his musical world, sharing personal stories that make each song significant to him. Remember the rollercoaster ride that was in high school? Matthew and I drag out our yearbooks and...

If you've ever wondered how life's experiences, family, and even food can shape an artist's musical journey, then you'll love our latest episode with the multi-talented Lukey Antonio. A classical musician who found his unique style, Luke's story is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of always staying true to oneself. From his upbringing in a music-loving family to the Suzuki Method and the impact of his superhero series body paint, this episode invites you into Luke's w...

Prepare to be entertained by our vibrant guest who not only speaks five languages but also composes hilarious songs centered on male anatomy. This episode takes you on a rollercoaster ride as Sadia unveils how music has crafted the story of her life, from her Ohio roots to the eclectic music culture that is Los Angeles. We look back on the profound impact of classics like Dolly Parton’s Jolene and explore the nostalgic summer tunes that shaped her youthful memories.Fasten your seatbelts for a...

Have you ever wondered how music can guide us through life’s ups and downs? Meet our guest, David, whose story is a testament to the therapeutic power of music. Between battling kidney cancer, and spinal stenosis, and confronting his tumultuous past marked by wild adventures and a challenging relationship with psychedelic substances, David discovered solace and expression in music. His playlist mirrors his life's rollercoaster ride and reveals how he found a meditative escape in the hospital'...

Come along for an unforgettable conversation with the immensely talented Australian artist, Aaron Lee, also known as Airports. Marvel as he guides us through his incredible journey from being a fourth-grade bass player, to becoming an internationally recognized singer, three-time platinum producer, and engineer. Aaron doesn’t hold back as he reveals the fascinating story behind his love for Blink 182, his electrifying encounter at a two-day rave festival in Canada, and the creative process be...

Get ready for a wild ride as we journey through the eclectic musical mind of stand-up comedian, Dave Burke. Picture this: you're on a second date, the mood is right, and you decide to play Body Heat by Krissie - only to have your date abruptly end things. That's just one of the many hilarious and all-too-real stories Dave shares from his life, each one interwoven with a unique soundtrack. From his adventures in online dating to his stint working at a pizza place, every story is as much of an ...

Ever wondered what the life of a music junkie, a sports fan, a comedian, a writer, and a dating app wizard rolled into one would be like? Then, meet Deadair Dennis the man who dons all these hats with a style that's uniquely his. From his love for Fishbone and Elvis Costello to his adventures in the Punk Rock Bowling festival and his high school powder puff football exploits, Dennis takes us on an entertaining ride through his life, colored by his passion for music, comedy, and writing.As we ...

Get ready to laugh and rock out with Lisa Baker, a stand-up comedian hailing from Newfoundland, who now livens up stages in Alberta. Lisa and I, your host, kick things off with a nostalgic journey exploring her diverse playlist. We embark on a trip down memory lane, relishing the good old days of Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, and Metallica while discussing the profound influence these artists had on Lisa's playlists. We also unearth the comforting nostalgia 'Sunny's Dream' by Ron Heinz brings t...