It's a Comcast Christmas

This is the last show of 2016. Sounds ominous, I know. Just getting this episode in the can has been a pain in the ass. Not that I would expect any listener of this show to care so much about that issue.

It's no big deal, really. Especially when you put things into the real perspectives of how difficult things can be for others. We never really know what others are going through. People, for the most part, tend to hide their issues from others. It's a sense of pride, really.

Having said that, I will say this... "The show must go on".

Plus music from Special Shoes.



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NEXT WEEK: 2017, here we are.

Happy Holidays!

Stay tuned...

Your Ad here

Advertising is an interesting thing. It blends some science with some art and you get commercials. I know it is kind of strange to think of it this way. But, there is some validity to this idea.

In this episode, I'll take a look at what works and what doesn't work for what ever reasons.

Plus, music from Ransom.



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NOTE: I am in the midst of battling a cold, so if I sound stuffy to you, it is because I am stuffy.

NEXT WEEK: Releasing a show for Christmas. Plus music from, Special Shoes.

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From The Trenches of the Great Xmas War

How is it that people who call the "war on Christmas" an actual war are always those who feel they are being marginalized? Seriously. Is there an actual movement to suppress those who say "Merry Christmas"? It's laughable. Seriously. Look at what you people are arguing about.

I have been chastised for saying "Happy Holidays". What the fuck, man?

What I seem to be being chastised for is for being open to the idea there are actually people out there who don't celebrate Christmas. You know, like those who celebrate Hanukkah. God forbid I recognize those who don't share the same customs as I or my family have. It's called acceptance.

Therein lies the problem. There are a lot of people out there who just won't accept ANYTHING from anyone unless it agrees with them, 100% of the time. Sad.

Also in this episode, music from The Fast Mothers.



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NEXT WEEK: Is 2016 really worth reviewing? Plus music from Ransom.

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Earl "The Pearl" Banks & Ashley Bishop

It's always a good time when people show up at the radio station. Especially when they start talking to each other and we are recording that moment. This is one of those moments. Earl "The Pearl" Banks is truly one of the blues greats. The stories he has are great fun. Also, Ashley Bishop from Mississippi Bigfoot sat in on this conversation and things got really fun when the two of them began interviewing each other.

Also in this episode, you are going to hear a couple of Earl's songs including Old Age Is Hell and Singin' Bird. Later, you'll hear a cut from a recent Mississippi Bigfoot record. The song is called Tree Knockin'.



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My apologies to The Fast Mothers. They got bumped but you'll hear them next week plus a dispatch from the front lines of the war against xmas.

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The Numbers Game

Over the years of being a professional broadcaster, I have learned a great many things about how the business is run and how it should be run. One such thing regards the much ballyhooed "numbers". You hear about that all the time. But, just what do they mean?

To put it in an interesting parameter, a TV show nowadays can be considered a success when it pulls in around 10 million viewers. Shit, at that number you would have a hit on your hand. Meanwhile, a video could easily pull twice that number and no one in the business bothers to question the success of such a thing.

Plus music from Loveland Duren.



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NEXT WEEK: Some possibly incoherent ramblings along with music from The Fast Mothers.

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Hair Trigger Universe

I went to Lowe's and got more than I bargained for and not in a good way. Those of you who have been fans of this show understand how I feel about society. People are funny for sure, but they are also kind of scary to be around in large groups.

It seems to get worse around the holiday season as these people tend to get worse than normal.

Plus music from Surviving Allison.



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NEXT WEEK: Something hot and fresh from the studio and music from Loveland Duren.

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I See Where You Are Coming From

This show seems to be taking on some sort of strange and organic growth. It is a joy to do and it is fun to keep an open mind about which direction it tends to go. Along with that, we tend to check on the numbers of the show. Those analytics can tell us a bunch about who you are (collectively), where you are going and where you came from to get here. The results are amusing.

Also, we get to see what the truth is about people and how that distorts our perceptions of these folks. Perceptions are a funny thing. Because not everything is as it appears. I'll prove it during this episode.

Plus, music from Deering & Down.



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NEXT WEEK: Public Nuisance and music from Surviving Allison.

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The Music of Bill Lusk

I have learned it is well worth it to take the long way around the barn to get to what is important. This episode is an example of that. During the last week of October, I sat down in studio C at Pirate Radio Studios with Bill Lusk, Rick Malchow, Willie Hall and Steve Davis.

This wasn't just a moment to capture these stories. There was something much deeper than all of that. There had been a sort of sense of urgency in play to get this interview done. You see, the plan at one point was to do thing live on the air at Radio Memphis. 

When you hear this episode, you will understand why that was simply not possible.

This episode was a first in a couple of ways in that after it was recorded and heavily edited, we aired it on the Booze & Blues Show at Radio Memphis. Now, we present it here for your consumption. If you were listening that night, you didn't hear why we did what we did to make this happen.

Now, you will know exactly why.

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NEXT WEEK: A little something-something plus music from Deering & Down.

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Viva La Revolucion

It's happening. Everyday, there is some change in the media landscape. Television programming moving toward streaming technology. Radio stations are going off the air and their content becoming increasingly irrelevant as a flood of streaming radio stations, podcasters and broadcasters are making their presence known.

So, what does one do while this revolution is happening? Sit on the sidelines and watch... cat videos.

Plus, music from The Subteens.



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NEXT WEEK: Bill Lusk & Rick Malchow

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Altered Reality...TV

No doubt, you have been exposed to any level, reality television. It is a fascinating genre for sure. Many people do like it and there are a lot of us who loathe this vapid form of television. My personal disdain for competitive talent shows are the worst, in my opinion. I think they are simply insulting to those who actually do have talent.

Why have these shows become successful? In a word, manipulation.

You, dear viewer, are being manipulated. Heavily.

Also in this episode, music from Cary Hudson.



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NEXT WEEK: The revolution occurring right now. Plus music from The Subteens.

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The So-Called "Media Conspiracy"

When of the things that comes with being in this business for the better part of 30 plus years, is you get to hear all about "the media conspiracy". It is this ridiculous notion that all of us in this industry are working together to manipulate everything from the political races to all the crime statistics.

This could not be further from the truth.

It's as if those of us in this business are actually interested in such matters.

The reason is pretty simple. Those of us in the broadcast business are the absolute worst at communicating. Seems reasonable.

Plus music from Super Witch.



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NEXT WEEK: Your reality is not my reality... TV. Plus music from Cary Hudson.

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Caught Up In The System

It is part of life, "the system". It is the basis behind making a society a civil society. It's pretty simple, really. Do what you are reasonably supposed to do to avoid getting caught up in "the system".

Recently, I got stopped by the police.

Then I got caught up in "the system". Did I go to jail? Nope. But now, on top of a ruined day, I now have a date with a court judge.

Plus, music from Glorious Abhor.



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NEXT WEEK: We, the media, are out to get you. Plus music from Super Witch.

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Talking AT Me

See what I did there? People are doing this a lot. Not to me especially, but to each other. There is subtle difference between talking "to" someone and talking "at" someone. Think about that for a moment. It happens all the time and it is rather sad.

I blame social media.

And the fact that people tend to suck at life anyway.

Plus music from The Clay Markley Crisis.



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NEXT WEEK: Getting caught in "the system". Plus music from Glorious Abhor.

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Keyboard Cowboys

You do realize you are living a complete lie. You are doing things wrong and you are always wrong with your thoughts, actions, beliefs, etc.

At least that is what a certain sect of people think. You are wrong.

These people are the ones who comment on every article on the web that doesn't agree with their points of view. These are the assholes who want to ram their ideas right down your throat whether you like it for not.

Plus music from Dan Cunningham.



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NEXT WEEK: People talking at each other and music from The Clay Markley Crisis.

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I Got Nuthin'

There is a question I get asked every once in a while regarding this podcast.

"How do you do what you do?"

Actually, it's not a very easy question to answer. There is no short cut and certainly no brief way to explain it. So there is this episode.

Sadly, there are so many people out there who think they have the "gift of the gab" when they don't and when they put themselves out there as one who can and fail, they never really know they fail until it dawns on them that no one cares.

Plus, music from The Incredible Hook.



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NEXT WEEK: The false bravery of being an argumentative ass online. Plus music from Dan Cunningham.

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Welcome to The Surveillance State

Everyone bitches about having their lives watched. Too much information about you is out there on the internet. All in the name of security. But how far does it go? How deep is your life being recorded?

A lot.

Now there is thing you can get in your home that will know more about you than you might be willing to share.

Plus music from Blue Matches.



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NEXT WEEK: How do you do it? Plus music from The Incredible Hook.

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Famous Ass

One of the perks of my job is the occasional interaction with celebrities. For the most part, they are pleasant. Then again... we have all heard the stories. But the fact remains, famous people are people, too. That means they have their moments like you and me. Then there are those who are complete monsters. I've dealt with a few those as well.

In this episode, I tell the story of one such incident that occurred on the air.

Plus, music from The Starkillers.



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NEXT WEEK: Look Who's Looking. Plus music from Blue Matches.

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God, Damnit!

I have a feeling the title of this episode will be censored by iTunes. Which is sort of iRonic. Get it? Anyway, the title is certainly not to set out to offend anyone. Although, someone will no doubt get offended. If that is you, buck up buttercup, there are plenty of other things in this world that deserve your offense.

Over the years, I have been removed from several church services. Probably since I was a screaming infant giving my other Sunday morning fits at the church of my childhood home. So, how does one get kicked out of church? Simple. Do what Jesus did.

Start asking questions.

Apparently religious leaders don't like you doing this sort of thing in the middle of a sermon. "Disruptive" they'll say. Sure, it seems legit. But when they actually tell you to not come back, well... then I have to question the beliefs of said church. They would rather you engage in your religious discourse away from the flock so as not to disrupt anyone's thoughts. Read: money.

That is exactly what it is. A business. Show business.

Plus, music from Mark "Muleman" Massey.



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NEXT WEEK: Your heroes could be assholes. Plus music from The Starkillers.

Tick F'ng Tock

Since I got involved in this business of entertainment, I have always felt the presence of a clock of some sort. For the most part, I simply ignored it. Now, things are different. Working for yourself, you find there is a real pressure of the presence of time. It looms over you like the evil specter of death.

Okay, that may be a little dramatic. Then again... there is serious pressure. You want so much to make all your efforts worthwhile. You become intimately aware of a couple of major things. Failure and the fear of time simply running out.

Maybe you are experiencing the same anxiety. If you are, I feel you.

Plus music from River City Tanlines.



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NEXT WEEK: Televangelists, tent preachers and how to get kicked out of a church. Plus music from Mark "Muleman" Massey.

NOTE: From Radioland will not be video taped for the time being. This is due to the simple fact listeners are getting more from the audio only version than from the video version of the show. Mainly due to YouTube's weird rules on the performance of music.

Stay tuned...

Censor This

There is a funny relationship between the media and the public. Neither one trusts the other. Even though they consult with each other constantly. What is amusing about that lies in the idea of the dissemination of information and how that information is conveyed. Of course, you do realize you never get the whole story on any subject you read or hear about. Why is this? Censorship.

I should know, I am in the media business. Censorship is a very real thing and it happens on some rather amusing levels. Well, "amusing" to some and downright terrifying for others. Check it out.

Plus music from Nancy Apple & Dulaa.



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NEXT WEEK: Soul crushing self doubt and music from River City Tanlines.

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It is Not A Damned Hobby, Sir

Through the past past 5 years, I have endured a lot. Of course, running your own business will do that to you. One of the more annoying things that have been endured is the little quip or unsolicited comment from some random hump who will make the following statement, "So, how is that little hobby of yours doing? Still doing radio?"

Inside my head, I scream, "Fuck you!"

Out of my mouth is something much more polite and civil. 

Come to find out, hearing these little things is nothing new or unique. It comes from people who refuse to think you are doing anything right. Especially when it comes to stepping out on your own. Such as it is, this is the topic this week. That and something about a tuna sandwich.

Plus music from Thomas Jackson Orchestra. 

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Here's the video version (no music):



NEXT WEEK: The C Word. Censorship. Plus music from Nancy Apple & Dulaa.

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Paying The Dues

That is something you have probably heard a million times. For some people, they think there are all sorts of shortcuts to success in show business. The fact of the matter is simply this, there aren't. It takes a lot of very hard work and time to make it in this world. That is what paying the dues is all about.

So, what is the actual cost of paying one's dues? I'll tell you and it ain't pretty.

Plus music from Heels.

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Here's the video version (no music):


NEXT WEEK: No one has time for your damned hobby. Plus music from Thomas Jackson Orchestra.

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The Scourge of The Internet Famous

There are some pretty remarkable things out here on the internet. Take YouTube, for example. There is veritable cornucopia of "entertaining" people just on that one site. Notice how I wrote "entertaining" there? It's in quotes. I did that because these people consider themselves to be "entertainers". Sadly, they are not.

Like anything else out there in the world, there is no real shortcut to success. It takes an incredible amount of hard work and effort to become something. Show business is no exception. You have to use your natural abilities along with proper training to do anything well.

But I have a question. Since when did a video of a guy microwaving a piece of bread become so damn popular?

Plus, music from Every Mother's Nightmare.


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Here's the video version (minus the music):

 NEXT WEEK: Pay for play. It's everywhere and music from Heels.

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Everyone, Out Of The Pool

There is no argument the broadcast industry is messed up. Terrestrial radio is on the ropes. It would appear no one is listening. They aren't able to make the money they used to and this has created a void.

This void is being filled by people who think they are broadcasters. The problem is, they aren't. And this is causing all sorts of issues within the industry.

It isn't pretty, but here is the truth.


Plus, music from Anthony Anthamatten & The Talented F'n Maniacs.



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Here's the video version.

NEXT WEEK: The Scourge of The Internet Famous and music from Every Mother's Nightmare.

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A Generation of Morons

It has been said that adults are nothing more than children with mortgages. Apparently, being an adult is hard work. For some of you, it is down right impossible. Of course, people have been saying this very thing about the newest crop of adults every generation. Some things never change.

However, I truly believe we are living among true idiots. Clueless on the ways of the world with very little desire to learn the simple nuances it takes to being an adult. Sure, being an adult is hard. For some it is really difficult and it has become sad to see but incredibly amusing to watch.

Plus, music from Chees Kees.



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Here's the video version. No music.


NEXT WEEK: Everyone, out of the pool. Music from Anthony Anthamatten & The Talented F'n Maniacs.

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Five Years In

Yup, it has been five years. Five years ago Radio Memphis hit the air... or the web... or the fan... however you would want to describe it's debut. It was a rough start. Since then, we learned a lot. We've had our setbacks and our gains. We grew a bunch and have reached into new territory. In short, it's been a hell of a ride so far and it only gets better.

Also, 125 weeks ago, this show debuted. Frankly it was originally designed to simply promote the radio station. It has certainly done that. However it has taken on a life of its own. This is a good thing and it is quite the joy (for me at least) to produce and release to everyone who has subscribed to this show.

In this episode I take a look back over those years and talk a bit about what lies ahead. Plus, music from La Pistola from the album Los Federales de Rock and Roll.



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NEXT WEEK: How to act like an adult. Plus Cheez Kees.

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Socially Unaccpetable

With every social media platform, there are vast differences between the posts. That is kind of by design. The king of this of course, is Facebook. The wide variety of posts people make there are amusing and sometimes dangerous, in a comical way. What is also amusing (to me at least) is how some of the "news" people post. It's old. Although designed to keep everyone up to date with the goings on in the world, it's as if any major news is pretty old about the time it makes it to Facebook.

Plus, music from Nutbush Superstar.



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Here's the YouTube version.



NEXT WEEK: The Years and The Miles Behind

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Smile, You're on Camera

Cameras are everywhere. Your assumption of privacy goes away when you are in public. To fight criminal activity, cameras are everywhere. In some places, they are in neighborhoods. You are being watched everywhere you go and in some exceptional cases, even at home.

In this episode, I get into the whole idea of how we have incorporated cameras into everything. Which begs the question, how much of your privacy are you willing to sacrifice for your safety?

Plus, music from Mike Dees.



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Also, in an interesting twist of fate, this episode marks the first episode we video taped and put on to YouTube. Yes, this show now has a YouTube channel (welcome to the party, pal. I know). But there is a difference between the above show and the video version.

The audio version, as has always been here, is the full show. Nothing different. The video version has been edited to remove the featured song we have been putting in here of late. This is because of YouTube's weirdness when it comes to music. Long story, but the scanning software utilized by YouTube will hijack the channel in an effort to monetize it for an artists distribution company even though we would have permission to feature that artist.

As a result, we decided it would be best to leave the song solely in the realm of the audio only version of the show.

The trade off? The two live read commercials in the audio only version have been taken out of the video version. Make sense?

If you would like to subscribe to the video version, you can do so by going HERE and clicking the Subscribe button.

Wanna watch it? Here you go.



NEXT WEEK: Don't Be So Dramatic. Plus music from Nutbush Superstar.

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Conversational Hand Grenades

I employ this tactic quite a bit. My motive for doing so is rather simple. All I want to do is make whoever hears the statements I make to think for a moment about the subject at hand. For years, I have been accused of saying things other people think but are too afraid to say so.

Guilty as charged.

This episode is no different. To explain my point, I decided to take on the apparent controversial subject of Muhammad Ali. I found the reaction to my simple post to be rather dramatic and polarizing. Of course, the point being I was attempting to provoke exactly that same argument not for the point of establishing my personal point of view but to help you look at something from a different point of view.

Plus, music from Pengea.



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NEXT WEEK: Smile, you are on camera. Plus, music from Mike Dees.

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Everybody's Everything

One of the great things about the internet is the power it has given all of us. It has leveled the playing field and now everybody can say anything they want. This is great. Except when it's not.

Despite the fact most people misuse this power by posting videos of cats and boobies, it has allowed us all to have a voice. If you speak to one person now, you are basically speaking to one thousand. Everyone can now sway the public in one direction or the other on an almost instant basis.

Plus, music from Heather Bond.



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NEXT WEEK: Conversational Hand Grenades and music from Pengea.

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J.J. Abrams Is A Monster

I am about to make a REALLY unpopular remark. Disagree all you want. Personally, I think the J.J. Abrams makes shitty films.

Oh I know, there are those of you who will come to his defense. That's fine. It's strictly my opinion. I'm sure there are some films he's made that are fine. I can't recall which ones, mind you. But, I'm sure he has some redeeming qualities.

So you ask, what does make a good movie? Good story and interesting characters. That's it.

Keep in mind that I am not saying these things to sway you one way or another. My only goal here is to present a different point of view.

Also in this episode, music from Solarflairs.



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Next week: Everybody's Everything. Plus, music from Heather Bond.

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Big Llou Johnson

One of the coolest things about doing what I do is the fact I get to meet some interesting people. We have conversations and sometimes they get recorded. This is one of those cases. You may know Big Llou from his work in film and radio. You can learn more about him HERE.

This conversation was a real blast. We talked about the movies, the radio business and the music industry.

Plus, in this episode, you'll hear some of his music including the debut of his brand new music.

Another first From Radioland.



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NEXT WEEK: J.J. Abrams is a monster. Plus, music from Solarflairs.

Stay tuned...

Frank Roszak: Promoter Of The Stars

There is a little corner of show business few people outside of the industry rarely consider. That would be promotions. Just how does an artist go from making a record to putting that music in front of a lot of people? Promotions.

There is a lot of work that goes into promoting an artist or act. One of the guys who is very good at it is going to tell you how it's done... at least from his perspective.

Frank Roszak was in town for the Blues Music Awards and came by Radio Memphis for a little chat about the radio business, the music business and the world of promotions.

This was recorded from an appearance on Radio Memphis in the Morning. Joining me in this episode is Jeff Janovetz and making her first appearance From Radioland is the morning show co-host, Kate Lucas.

Plus, music from Malted Milk and Toni Green from their studio record Milk & Green.



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NEXT WEEK: The voice and music of Big Llou Johnson.

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Cash McCall & Butch Mudbone Part 2

In our continued discussion with these two bluesmen, Jeff Janovetz & I learn about the long lasting problems that come from getting screwed by your record label. When you are the age of these guys, on a fixed income and you are still playing to eat, the hard truths come up when something as basic as having a roof over your head becomes an issue.

Pay attention to this episode. There is a way you can help when you hear the story. It's spelled out during this episode. If you have any questions, drop a comment here and I'll steer you in the right direction.

Plus in this episode, another tune from these two great guys.



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NEXT WEEK: Frank Roszak & The Art of Artist Promotions

Stay tuned...

Communique From Radioland

This is odd. A post without an audio link. There is a reason to this madness. I just wanted to hip you folks to some coolness happening here over the next several weeks.

See, I have been a bit busy at the Radioland World HQ Desk. Several fantastic things have happened of late and just about all of them were recorded. The next post here will be the second part of the Cash McCall and Butch Mudbone appearance. Plus another great tune from those two. Following that, there is an appearance with Frank Roszak. Frank is THE promoter of the stars. He'll be bringing the words about what it takes to make it in the music business. From his point of view. And the view is remarkable.

But wait, there's more.

Llou Johnson spent some time in Radioland with us and he has some great words to add to your ears. No, that is not a typo. Big Llou spells his name like that. Anyway, Llou is a voice actor, actor, imaging guy with Sirius/XM and musician. Plus, he's an all-around great guy. His appearance is sure to please.

Since this is, in fact a communique from The World Desk, I feel I should take a moment to address an issue we have been in contention with. The simple matter of audio quality. We blew out a mic pre-amp some time ago. It happens. In fact, let me extol upon you people the fine quality of Behringer and their studio equipment. Yes, we use Behringer pre-amps and compressors in Radioland. There's a couple of reasons for that. First, they are priced just right. Second, they sound great. I can tell you this as well, NEVER in their history has their equipment been put through the extensive use put anything through.

This is not some pitch to their gear. It's your money, spend it where you like. But I can tell you even though they never designed their gear to endure what we put it through, we ran their stuff hard. And still do. Five years, powered on and running without missing a beat. For consumer grade stuff, that says a lot.

Two pre-amps ultimately had to be retired from on air service at Radio Memphis. But dig this, one of the boxes was cleaned and serviced and put into another system and runs like a champ in its new limited capacity. Perfect for its new duties.

By the way, the original compressors are still on the air and sound fantastic.

Could we do better? Sure. Are we happy with the way things are now? Absolutely.

Now, back from around the barn here. We went without a pre-amp for a bit while we awaited the delivery of the new box. This is why the first Butch Mudbone & Cash McCall episode sounded a little strange. We did some post production magic and cleaned up the audio some for part 2 and I hope you'll be happy with the improvement.

Full sails and a tail wind have graced us and you fine people are the ones to benefit.

In the meantime, please share the show to all you know on social media. That is what makes it work for us.

Since there is no audio to go with this post, I'll leave it the way I do From Radioland. Take care of yourselves and take care of one another and we'll see you next time. I'm Ric Chetter and this is from Radioland!

Stay tuned...

By the way... all the posts from here get shared virtually everywhere. This one? Nope. Because, you are special.

Cash McCall & Butch Mudbone Part 1

From Left: Butch Mudbone and Cash McCall (Photo courtesy Mark Caldwell)

A couple of weeks ago, we were fortunate enough to have these two bluesmen in the studio. In this episode, you are going to hear a remarkable story about to get screwed by your record label. It's one of those unfortunate things you hear about from time to time. This particular case is a fascinating look at one such situation.

Plus, Butch and Cash along with Milton on a pickle bucket will play some of the music that has made these two guys famous.

By the way, some of the names you are going to hear in this episode and next week's episode are going to blow your mind.



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NEXT WEEK: Part 2

Stay tuned...

WWI Techniques For Spring Cleaning

So, I was out and about. In public. At a big box home improvement joint. We were in need of a few things for the spring cleaning we are in the midst of. You know, as one does. I needed some slug bait (because slugs are fucking nasty) along with some bug repellent. This lead me to the discovery of Gopher Gasser (from an unnamed company) and the realization that I have indeed lived a somewhat sheltered life.

This got me to thinking about some of the other things people will clean up around this time of year, including social media. Yes, we have all seen those who make the large announcement that they are clearing out their friend's lists because, you know... that is what some people do. Funny aside, these same people don't really delete anyone. It's nothing more than a cry for help.

Then again, isn't what most of Facebook is? A cry for help?

Plus, music from Low Society.



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NEXT WEEK: Cash McCall and Butch Mudbone Part I

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Like Hogs At The Trough

Greedy people suck. I know, I know... I have said that people suck, too. Yes, that is correct. People DO suck. BUT, greedy people suck more. I have experienced it first hand and was the victim of it and surprisingly, it seems to be a problem that is getting worse.

What to do? I have no idea. The very least I could is to shine a light on it and poke a little fun at it at the same time.

Plus, music from Eric Sommer.



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Stay tuned...

All Plugged In With Nowhere To Go

If you think about it, there is a fascinating question you can pose with a friend or two, as I have done. Name all the industries that has been affected by the presence of the internet. Here's a hint: All of them. But keep in mind, the overall effect has been positive, for the most part.

Change is often difficult. It happens. It is the nature of the universe. Sometimes, those changes mean people's lives are impacted. Jobs lost, careers lost, etc. You could spend a few minutes pondering all of this, OR you could simply listen to this episode and draw your own conclusions.

PLUS, new music from a Memphis band with a fantastic history. The Modifiers.



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Ask Your Doctor If This Is Right For You

It has been a long running bit among entertainers and comedians and we have all talked in a light-hearted manner. The commercial drug business. The ads we see on TV and hear on radio are amusing and a little scary.

One such drug I have recently seen was to help people who are constipated due to use of opioids. Yes, painkillers slow your system down to the point where you can be pretty severely constipated, just ask Elvis about that. The absurdity of this is pretty amusing. How about giving up the opioids in the first place.

Nevertheless, I found a rather amusing statement on a bottle of Benadryl. That statement is the main gist of this episode. If you are looking for medical advice here, you are looking in the wrong place.

Plus, music from Deering & Down.



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The Easter Bunny Has Risen

Yeah, I know. This episode might rub some of you the wrong way. I have no worries about that. So you know, my motive here is not to offend anyone here. Having said that, I am quite sure there will be some who will be. So be it.

Ever since From Radioland started, one of my goals was to get people to open their minds a little. Nothing more. I have learned through the history of this show, that is a lofty goal. Some people are just too set in their ways to even bother with an open mind on ANY subject.

I just threw religion into this mess. My intention is not to convert you from one point of belief to another or the lack of a belief for that matter. I am not preaching here. Well, except for one thing.

Plus, music from Blackberry Wednesday.



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Faith In Humanity or The Lack Thereof

If I have said it once, I have said it a million times. People are funny. And for the most part, they tend to suck, it seems. Yes, I know there are those who tend to rise above the detritus to attempt ones faith in humanity. Having said that, the mob mentality rules social media and it seems the second someone goes against the grain, you are shouted down.

God help you if you show any individualism or pride in your work. There is always some asshole who will come along and shout you down. Make no mistake, this is not bullying. This is simply people being assholes for the sake of being assholes.

It is far easier to follow the norm than to be different. That is a sad fact. It is a dangerous road to be on and it is far more rewarding.

All of that plus music from Lucero.



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Fear & Loathing in the ER

Last week, my wife Josephine had a reaction to some medicine she was taking and the end result was a trip to the ER here in Memphis. Yes, everything has worked out for the best and all is good with her. In the process of her getting some medical treatment, we had the quintessential ER experience, including the lengthy wait in the waiting room and all the characters one would encounter in the middle of the night at a hospital.

I saw what appeared to be a major flaw in the system. Not this particular hospital's system, mind you. The entire system.

Plus, being ignored by the "local media" and music from The RV's featuring Billy Gibson with song from their current EP Progress Trap.



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The Overton Park(ing Lot)

Overton Park, here in Memphis has had it's share of controversies over the years. Now the battle lines have been drawn between the conservancy and the Memphis Zoo. The Memphis City Council along with the Mayor of Memphis have decided the zoo should take control over a large amount of acreage for use as a parking lot.

This, by no means is the end of the fight. But, it doesn't look good for fans of the park.

I'm not offering any solutions here. Just pointing out the obvious, as I like to do. The point of this episode is to shine a light on how things are done here in this city. It could (and has probably already have) happened in your city.

Think of this as a cautionary tale.

Plus, music from The Thomas Jackson Orchestra.

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Joel Martin Is The Roswell Incident

Joel has been a part of Radio Memphis for a year. He came on board as the station announcer and the announcer of From Radioland. He's a great guy with a great voice.

In this episode, he'll tell you some funny stories from his early days in the radio business where small market broadcasting tends to yield some hilarious incidents. Also, since he's from Roswell, New Mexico, we had to talk about the obvious topic when one hails from the UFO crash site.

Musical guests on this episode are The Southern Heavyweight Champions of Rock and Roll - The Fast Mothers.

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Brother Sun Sister Moon

Donna Dahl, Dave Lambert and Ric Chetter. Photo courtesy Mark Caldwell

It's always a good time in Radioland when there are great people in the studio. A few weeks ago, during an episode of Booze & Blues we were pleased to have in the studio Donna Dahl and Dave Lambert. They are perform as Brother Sun Sister Moon. They are from St. Paul, Minnesota. They were in Memphis for the International Blues Challenge.

We spent a great deal of time talking about the music business and their perspective of it from Minnesota. They also did some playing that night on the air. However, in the interest of time, we edited out the performances. BUT, we did include a cut from their current CD.

Enjoy!



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NEXT WEEK: A conversation with our show announcer Joel Martin, plus music from The Fast Mothers.

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Lessons In Show Business with Dianna Fryer

If you have any notion to get into the business of show business, it would be a good thing for you to pay particular attention to what Dianna Fryer says about this crazy industry. In the midst of all the new technological changes we have been making at Radio Memphis in the name of improvement, Dianna and I got to talking about all the other things happening in the industry.

One thing for sure, Dianna knows a lot about how the industry is changing and in what direction the music industry is going. Add to that how those changes are impacting the world of broadcast media. This is a good chat and I think you'll enjoy what direction this conversation went.

Plus, music from The Heavy Eyes from their brand new album.



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NEXT WEEK: Brother Sun, Sister Moon Dave Lambert and Donna Dahl

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An Evening with the Grammy Nominated Cedric Burnside

I have been a fan of the Burnside family of musicians starting with their patriarch, R.L. Burnside. For many years, his grandson played drums with him on the road and in the studio. Now, Cedric has struck out on his own and put together an album that has managed to get a nod from the Grammy people for best blues album.

Jeff and I had Cedric in the studio as a guest on the Booze & Blues show and it was such a good time, we wanted to add this conversation into the collection of shows From Radioland. Enjoy!



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NEXT WEEK: Studio Time with Dianna Fryer

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Toni Green, Howard Grimes and John Gary Williams Talk About Willie Mitchell

Sometimes we get very lucky. This is one of those times. There was a very special evening that was captured at Radio Memphis when these three sat down with Jeff and I to talk about their work with Willie Mitchell. To hear legendary artists and entertainers talk about the creation of their work with this producer was an incredible experience.

I thought of breaking this down in to a two part piece however, I found the conversation to be rather compelling and it would have killed the vibe to rudely interrupt this chat. So, we left it pretty much intact.

I say "pretty much" because this was edited for time. It is a long listen, so get comfortable and enjoy this fantastic moment about making music, how to do it right and working with a man that put hits on records all over the world.



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NEXT WEEK: Grammy nominated blues artist Cedric Burnside.

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Another Conversation with Willie Hall

It is always a great time when Willie Hall comes around. He's been a guest on Radio Memphis a few times including a rather famous encounter with Jim Dandy from Black Oak Arkansas. This time around, we wanted to spend some extra time talking about his work with Isaac Hayes.

They made some tremendous music together over the years. The stories you will hear in this show came from some fantastic memories of his years at Stax.

Also in this episode, we'll get a track from Isaac Hayes. One of the many songs Willie played drums on. Enjoy!



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NEXT WEEK: Three great guests on one big show. We talk about what it was like to work with the great Willie Mitchell. Toni Green, Howard Grimes and John Gary Williams. Plus, music from The Mad Lads.

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The King of Memphis Wrestling is Jerry Lawler

Jerry Lawler and a really cool shirt.

It is always a good time to sit down with Jerry Lawler. He has been a friend of Radio Memphis since the beginning. His career in the wrestling business is a fascinating thing to behold. He remains as one of the most popular wrestlers and personalities in the WWE. Always part of the cutting edge of bringing entertainment to the fans, the WWE has evolved to deliver their content to the masses online and has found a way to make it a great deal for all of their fans.

Along the way, we talked about his involvement in one of television's top 100 moments to this day. That being the now famous incident with Andy Kaufman. He talks about this great moment in TV history and the recreation of these events for the movie Man On The Moon with Jim Carrey.

Yeah, about that. Apparently, working with Jim Carrey was "difficult" since he was bound and determined to be in character during the entire production. This caused some friction. So much so, it came to a head during the shooting of the film and the story Jerry tells about this incident is fascinating. It's all right here.

Also in this episode, music from Star and Micey.

I hope you enjoy the show.



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The video of the famous incident is here and it is absolutely hilarious.



NEXT WEEK: A return visit from Willie Hall of The Blues Brothers.

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A Chat With The Boss

Dianna Fryer & Ric Chetter with a Killer B Guitar for Radio Memphis

 For the last 100 weeks, I have sat down at a microphone and said some things. I even managed say a few things that I felt needed to be said. That is a good thing. Now, with this episode we have implemented a few changes to the format. We hope the changes are for the best. Progress is not always easy and certainly not always pleasing to everyone. However, in this instance, it seems as though it has been easy and somewhat pleasing to most.

This episode was recorded on my birthday. It wasn't planned. So, for a special episode on what some my consider a special day, the stars lined up just right and this show worked out beautifully. We hope you like it.

In this episode, Dianna Fryer and sat down to talk about a wide range of things. From understanding listener trends in the digital world to how the business of show business has changed and continues to do so.

If that wasn't enough, we even added a new bit. Music. One song from one band. This time out, Rind Stars.



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Our deepest thanks to all the fans of this show. It has been a real blast so far and we are looking forward to bringing you some entertaining and amusing shows in the future. Speaking of which...

NEXT WEEK: Jerry Lawler.

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Looking Back Before Looking Forward

This may not be such a big deal for some, but for us, having this many episodes of the show From Radioland. Sure, there are shows out there who have far more than we have. Then there are some who didn't get as far as us. No matter. For all of us (and me especially), this is kind of a big deal. Please allow me to savor the moment.

If you are new to the show, there are some references to other episodes of which you may not have heard. Make a note of them and go back and give them a listen. In the meantime. This is the last of the solo shows... at least, that is the plan.



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NEXT WEEK: Entering the decade of wisdom. Or something like that.