In this conversation, Mike Jones and Matt Donnelly explore the profound impact of music on their lives, sharing personal anecdotes about their musical influences, concert experiences, and the creative inspiration they draw from various artists. They delve into their childhood memories of music, the evolution of their tastes through adolescence, and the significance of live performances. The discussion also touches on the complexities of music appreciation and how it intertwines with their creative processes.

In this conversation, Mike Jones and Matt discuss the intersection of music and performance, particularly in the context of magic shows. They explore the decline in quality of advertising jingles, the changing landscape of television, and the evolution of music production. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by modern musicians in navigating industry trends and the loss of traditional gatekeepers. Throughout, they reflect on their personal experiences in the music industry and the impact of music on daily life.

Matt and Mike explore the intricacies of musical collaboration, the challenges of performance anxiety, and the evolution of their musical tastes. They discuss the creative process behind their work, the trust established in their artistic relationships, and the joy found in various genres, including funk and reggae. The dialogue also touches on personal experiences in musical theater and the guilty pleasures that come with their musical journeys.

Check out Matt's magic and mentalism: The Mind Noodler

Check out Matt's podcast: Matt and Mattingly's Ice Cream Social

This week's episode is a little different. Back when we were first discussing the idea of a podcast, Russ agreed to talk with Mike as a test run. He was so much fun that we wanted to release it!

Mike and Russ have known each other since their days at Berklee College of music together. Mike was a pianist and Russ was a drummer and percussionist. Russ discusses the ups and downs of the life of a working musician.

Russ's website: Russ Gold Drums

In this conversation, John Kiehl shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by music to his experiences in education and the pivotal moments that shaped his musical identity. He reflects on the influence of his mother, his early musical education, and the transition from mathematics to music, highlighting key experiences that ignited his passion for jazz and performance. In this conversation, John Kiehl shares his journey from facing health challenges during college to navigating the complexities of the music industry.

He discusses his transition from a dual major in electrical engineering and humanities to becoming a professional musician, including his unexpected shift to playing bass. Kiehl reflects on the importance of perseverance, the role of mentorship in his development, and the serendipitous opportunities that led him to a successful career in music production. In this engaging conversation, John Kiehl and Mike Jones explore the journey of building a successful music studio, the role of luck in their careers, and the deep connections formed through music. They share personal stories, reflect on their influences, and discuss the importance of being present in the moment. The dialogue highlights the significance of relationships in the music industry and the joy of creating and sharing music with others.

John Kiehl's recording studio: Soundtrack New York