Sammy Hagar is considered by many to be one of the most influential rockers of all-time. From his humble beginnings in Fontana, CA to super-stardom in his formidable years with VAN HALEN and beyond, Sammy is a true testament to what hard work and determination can do when faced what seemed like nonstop adversity from the moment he picked up his first guitar. Where most would have bowed out to extreme pressure, Hagar thrived in its midst and became one of the most successful entertainers on the planet today. On top of his heavyweight success as the Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar also became a formidable entrepreneur, writing several books AND developing a boutique tequila called Cabo Wabo. In 2007 he sold 80% of his Cabo Wabo tequila business for a whopping $80M dollars and is currently developing a new brand of tequila, Santo Mezquila, with long-time friend and The Voice star, Adam Levine.
On Friday March 24th, SAMMY HAGAR & THE CIRCLE took the stage at Morongo Casino and Resort in Cabazon, CA for what would end up being one of the most killer sets of the year. Expectations were high for the sold-out crowd, many of which have followed Hagar throughout the years from his early days as front man of MONTROSE through VAN HALEN and beyond. As lights dimmed, energy levels began to skyrocket as frenzied fans, known as Redheads, jumped out of their seat as the show was about to start. Strobes flashed red and blue as guitarist Vic Johnson, bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Jason Bonham all took their place on stage. After a short prelude, Sammy Hagar joined the band center stage, grabs the mic and belts out that out that all-too familiar, “Hello Baby…!” And at that moment, all bets were off in Cabazon as the band launched into 1981 anthem “There’s Only One Way to Rock”. Based on Hagar’s energy and emotion, it was clear that Friday’s show was going to be one for the ages.
Over the next few hours, SAMMY HAGAR & THE CIRCLE mesmerized the Southern California crowd with a brilliant setlist comprised of classics spanning his accomplished 40+ year career as well several Led Zeppelin standards channeled through the magical sticks of drummer Jason Bonham (son of Zep’s late great John Bonham). Standards such as “Rock Candy”, “I Can’t Drive 55”, and “Why Can’t This Be Love” were played with a reckless abandon that transported many back to their first experience with Sammy Hagar concert. Hagar’s vocals were spot-on, and showed no signs of rust as he brilliantly maneuvered the 90-minute 15 song set. In addition, performances by Anthony, Johnson, and Bonham were simply amazing. Vic Johnson electrified the crowd with brilliant guitar work coupled with a kick-ass stage presence that left nothing on the table the entire show. Michael Anthony’s bass lines were sick, and his backing vocals were nothing short of brilliant (they transported me right back to his VAN HALEN days). And finally, Mr. Jason Bonham. This guy’s stick work is truly intoxicating and absolutely killed the entire show – his dad would definitely have been proud! The evening ended with an amazing encore featuring two of my favorite songs, VAN HALEN’S “Dreams” and LED ZEPPELIN’S “Rock and Roll”. You could tell from the look in Sammy’s eyes that he did not want the night to end, and he connected with as many fans as possible up until the last note was played. SAMMY HAGAR & THE CIRCLE gave it their all in what many considered his hometown show and ultimately delivered a powerhouse set that left every fan in attendance wanting more.
If you have an opportunity to see SAMMY HAGAR & THE CIRCLE perform live in 2017, you will not be disappointed. There are not many vocalists who can still bring energy and enthusiasm to the stage like Hagar can, and what’s even more amazing he’s doing it at nearly 70 years old! The guy can flat-out sing and still puts twenty somethings to shame with his unique brand of In Your Face rock n’ roll that is rooted in a hard-work ethic unmatched in this day and age. On top of that, he’s surrounded himself with an amazing band in Vic Johnson, Michael Anthony, and Jason Bonham. Each are legendary musicians and along with Hagar complete The Circle. Until next time...
Stay Frosty and Rock On!
Set List:
“There’s Only One Way to Rock”
“Rock Candy”
“Good Times Bad Times”
“Poundcake”
“I Can’t Drive 55”
“Big Foot”
“Right Now”
“Little White Lies”
“When the Levee Breaks”
“Why Can’t This Be Love”
“Finish What Ya Started”
“Heavy Metal”
“Mas Tequila”
Encore
“Dreams”
“Rock and Roll”
When life gives you lemons, suck it. Hot Tub Johnnie kicked off Hunnypot Live #360 on the 1's, 2's, 3's and 4's. Thomas Golubic returned to be king of Hunnypot guests and updated us on the latest news at SuperMusicVision, musical discoveries while in South Africa and his set started the dance party early. North By North tore the roof off for direction, Atomic Walrus dropped funky music bombs, Downtown Brown gave us schizophrenia in song(s), h2the gave us laser music and the night finished with another famous Hot Tub Johnnie Hunnypot Live! dance party. 2/20/2017
Thomas Golubic is a Los Angeles-based music supervisor, DJ and Grammy-nominated record producer. His music supervision credits include the AMC series Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead, Better Call Saul and Halt and Catch Fire, the Netflix series Grace and Frankie and Love, the Showtime series Ray Donovan, and the HBO series Six Feet Under among many other film & television projects. He is a founding and board member of the Guild of Music Supervisors, and is currently the head of their education committee. The Guild twice awarded Thomas with “Best Music Supervision in a Television Drama” for his work on Breaking Bad.
He was twice nominated for Grammy awards for producing volumes 1 and 2 of the Six Feet Under soundtrack album, and with former partner Gary Calamar was responsible for the use of Sia’s “Breathe Me” in the final scene of the series. It is considered one of the most memorable uses of music in television, and launched Sia’s music career in America. Thomas is also responsible for producing four soundtrack albums for The Walking Dead, the Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul soundtracks, and has assembled various remix projects for EMI-Capitol Records and MGM, including reinterpretations of Peggy Lee, The Beach Boys, Henry Mancini’s Pink Panther theme and EMI’s Christmas Classics remix compilation ‘Merry Mixmas’.
Thomas’ formative years, musically speaking, were spent as a DJ, music programmer and on-air host for tastemaker LA radio station KCRW 89.9 FM. After ending his 10- year residency at KCRW, he turned his attention to music production and live audio/video DJ work. He formed The Arbiters, a music collective creating mash-up music and video productions, free-released two EPs, and created audio and video mash-up productions for clients including Google, YouTube, Microsoft and Levi’s. Thomas has also become known as an innovative club DJ spinning broadly eclectic music sets, often with live synchronized visuals. His SYNCHRONIZE re-score project, featuring live DJ re-scores of classic films has been featured at the Sundance Film Festival, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, Luminato Festival in Toronto, Dubrovnik Film Festival, U.S. Comedy Arts Festival, various residencies in Los Angeles, and has been profiled on Turner Classic Movies.
Website Facebook Twitter Instagram
Atomic Walrus is a Los Angeles-bred band best known for their high-energy live shows featuring a unique blend of rock, hip-hop, and funk. Formed after the band's guitarist and drummer collided in a mosh pit in the backyard of a UCLA co-op, Atomic Walrus cut their teeth playing college house parties before expanding to venues all over LA, from the South Bay to Silverlake. Since then, the band has self-produced and released music, toured CA, and performed for 10,000 people at the Hermosa Beach Summer Concert Series.
Atomic Walrus is currently in the studio writing and recording their next EP, due in 2017.
Website Twitter Soundcloud
Exploding from (the suburbs of) Detroit rock city in 2001, and venturing to the absolute bottom of the rabbit hole by 2015, Downtown Brown (DTB) has carved a unique saga over their 14-year existence. Jamming a mutant style that splices together punk, funk, metal, rock, and hip-hop, DTB is a band impossible to categorize. People tend to either love them, hate them, or are just generally puzzled by their often politically incorrect, outrageous, satiric lyrics coupled with genre-hopping technical skill.
After nearly a decade of independently releasing media (4 full-length albums, a live album, and multiple dvds) and touring (100+ shows a year), Downtown Brown amassed a loyal following due to their infectious, energetic and ridiculously entertaining live show.
They signed with DC-Jam Records in 2010 to release their 5th studio album ‘Grabbleton’s Beach’, a concept piece that had critics scratching their heads due to its musical A.D.D. and lyrics ranging from childish absurdity to tongue-in-cheek satire. All confusion aside, the album helped propel DTB’s popularity to new heights and remains a fan favorite to this day.
In 2011, DTB caught the attention of Fishbone founding member Norwood Fisher, who soon after signed on to manage the band. Since Fisher’s involvement, the band has secured numerous endorsements, played multiple festivals, and toured with bands like The Adicts, Dead Kennedys, Peelander-Z, Fishbone, Psychostick, Andrew W.K., and even Insane Clown Posse (with whom they recorded a hilarious duet with in 2012).
DTB recorded and released their 6th full-length album ‘Masterz of the Universe’ in 2013. Produced by Fisher, ‘Masterz’ is the band’s first attempt at a ‘serious’ rock record. Although some of the material echoes DTB’s previous recorded lunacy, most of the album is comprised of tightly focused compositions written from a sincere state of being. The lyrics chronicle band leader Neil P.'s internal battles; dishing with brutal honesty about depression, love, chemical dependency, the state of the world, and staying true to the band's artistic vision against all odds. In true DTB fashion, the music remains incredibly diverse, provocative, fun, and possesses undeniable pop sensibility.
2015 finds Downtown Brown thriving in a world full of easy-to-define, cookie-cutter music. Combining metal grooves, spastic funk, catchy riff rock, and all-over-the-place vocals, DTB’s broadly enjoyable sound and incomparable live show has captured the attention of a global audience. In the Summer of 2015, the band will release their 2nd live album and will continue to tour relentlessly, spreading their warped gospel to unsuspecting music fans across the land.
Facebook Website Spotify Twitter
From producer, Diwon (Bonhom, Dreams in Static, Tyrone Gosling, etc) comes a musical project known as ‘h2the‘, which merges 80s synths with the walls of sound that make up the drum layering that have become Diwon’s signature. This is Synths + Beats for the Birds. h2the make their live debut on the Hunnypot stage.
Fake news massacres & football championships don't compare to the drama and theater that was Hunnypot Live #359. Hot Tub Johnnie immediately jumped from the roof to deliver a scorching opening set, Rich Goldman funked the whole place up with his origins stories with a musical score of his past life, Miken & Nordstorm gave us Swedish dance pop power, Ghost rapped tighter than two locked helmets, WARGIRL played a musical global thermal nuclear game with Joshua and the crowd and The Mighty Tears of Joy provided power in positivity. 2/16/2017
Rich will be spinning the FUNK HITS recorded at his legacy “5th Floor Recording Studios” featuring: Midnight Star, Ohio Players, Bootsy Collins, Zapp, Sheila E!, Prince and more!
Rich Goldman is President of RipTide Music Group, a leading music synchronization, publishing and administration company in Los Angeles. He is also President of Pacifica Music, a modern genre production music library. He’s is a lifelong musician who has amassed a broad range of industry credits as a producer, composer, sound designer, and recording studio operator.
RipTide Music’s “sync flavored publishing” credits range from the commercials for “iPhone6s”, “Google Chromecast” “, “Chico’s” and “Pepsi”, movie trailers of “Dr. Strange”, ”Jungle Book”, “Star Trek Beyond”, “Kubo and the 2 Strings”; TV shows “”, “Ballers”, “Empire” and “Lethal Weapon”, films, “Concussion” and ”Central Intelligence”.
With his wife Ellie, Rich started a rehearsal studio in Cincinnati and grew it into the legendary Fifth Floor Studios, one of the major centers for recording in the Midwest. At Fifth Floor, Rich engineered albums for clients including Bootsy Collins and the Ohio Players and collected gold records for his studio’s work with Sheila E, Prince, Midnight Star and Zapp.
Rich is a frequent speaker at various music events including ASCAP: I Create Music, PMA, Billboard Film & TV Conference, Game Developers Conference, British Sync Mission, Durango Song Expo and co-organized and moderated the MIDEM “Sync” panels from 2009 through 2015.
On monthly basis, Rich gigs with the Goldman Family Band that includes his wife Ellie, son Scott and daughter Jess.
Swedish duo Alicia (Miken) & Oscar (Nordstörm) met last fall in Los Angeles and started writing music together. Their first release, “Playing With Fire” (Box4Joy Records) was co-written by Icelandic DJ & Producer Ingi Bauer and has since the release in June 2016 reached over 110 000 plays on Spotify.
Following up their summer-hit and with a new collaboration together with Ingi Bauer, the Swedish duo has produced 5 new original songs that they’re showcasing at “Hunnypot Live at The Mint” the 6th of February in Los Angeles.
Their sound is a blend of Nordic Pop and Electronic Dance that has a sense of mystic to it. Coming from two different genres, Oscar with a long list of Techno releases worldwide and Alicia as a Pop & Folk-Music vocalist for several well known bands in Sweden, their sound is truly unique but with familiar analog attributes, classic original elements and a pulsating beat.
Meet Ghost, the Bryan, Texas native was raised in the dangerous community of "Kurrupt City." His vivid lyrics will haunt your thoughts, as he shares his life and experience with his music.
Inspired by Tupac's song, "Ghost" - Roderick W. Harris Jr. took on the moniker but gave it a different meaning. Motivated by Psalm 124, Ghost stands for "God's Human Outlaw Speaking Truth". Ghost received words of encouragement from Shawty Redd and Scott Storch that kept him focused and driven. With that, he began pursuing his dream.
Now living in Miami, FL, he launched Life Art Music Group. The company currently manages various artists including Ghost himself. In 2016, he graced SXSW and recorded enough material for a stash of mixtapes. As Ghost puts it, “the proof is in the pudding”, and he will be serving all of this content in 2017.
His first EP and same titled music video “Nina’s Son” is available on his website www.KurruptCity.com, Soundcloud, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music. Ghost’s album titled “Kurrupt City” will be released in March 2017.
To know Ghost, means to simply understand, the melody of " life.."
Direct from Long Beach CA comes WARGIRL, Garage rock, afrobeat, and dubby smooth jazz played through broken speakers with some pop thrown in. With Marika Dahlin, Enya Preston, Tamara Raye, Matt Wignall, Erick Nieto, Jeff Suri, Anne Dereaux and other friends.
Website Facebook Spotify Twitter
The Mighty Tears of Joy, with their own brand of rich nostalgic soul/rock/pop are quickly becoming the next universally respected band to emerge from Los Angeles's indie scene. As American as apple pie, the powerful vocals and rhythmic mixtures resonate with the times, the feelings, the experiences of us all. These sounds can be felt feverishly brewing throughout their recordings, with an electro-psychedelic twist of throw back soul music. The Mighty Tears of Joy is a band of composers; together at the helm, Khalfani Saint Blanc and Gerardo Morales, venture to reintroduce authentic soul vibes, meaningful lyrics and hand clapping fun back into our lives. A community of world class composers/producers/players came together to make this sound possible. Names like Cyrus Melchor, Killa Karma, Christian Wunderlich, Mateo Amper, King Ahmos, Lala Mckay and those crazy kids over at D2 Mastering, helped bring to life this genuinely California feel.
With their own style of modern Beach Boy reminiscent melodies and Doo Wop Rock, The Mighty Tears of Joy breach topics of love, loss, and economic triumph, while evoking a spirit of movement. They are a romantic reminder that music teeming with anguish, passion and joy, can find its way to the heart and spirit of any listener.
Website Facebook Twitter Spotify Instagram Soundcloud
(INCEPTO RECORDS) Underground wiz producer & DJ Oscar Nordström (Nordstorm) have a long list of dance tracks and international shows in his duffel bag. With support from legends like Armin Van Buuren and Claes Rosén (L-?wiz) to shows in London & Los Angeles, Oscar always delivers something unique and colorful. Starting off his DJ career in Stockholm at numerous underground parties like “We Luv Bass” & “All Out Dubstep” and later taking over in Stockholm´s Dance & Techno -? scene at infamous Stureplan, a residency at “Spy Bar”and playing clubs like “Collage”, “Hells Kitchen” & “Solidaritet” he now focuses on spreading his original material with shows all over Sweden
"The year is 1987, and NASA launches the last of America's deep space probes. In a freak mishap, Ranger 3 and its pilot, Captain William "Buck" Rogers, are blown out of their trajectory into an orbit which freezes his life support systems, and returns Buck Rogers to Earth... 500 years later."
Show #358 would make Buck Rogers proud when he reads about it 470 years from now.
Hot Tub Johnnie started the night with a blast off of past and future hit songs. Jackie Subeck told us about her work with prop 64 and brought some medical marijuana friends along for a sampling session. Caitlin Payne soaked the hot tub with shared music moments that shape her story and feelings. Trent Park X Stella gave us singer/songwriter R&B music, Alyeska fuzzed our senses with her guitar rock, Will Makar gave us teary eyed soul, The Girl & The Glory belted the hard blues and Bronson Wisconsin did a farewell set of those Midwestern moods. 1/23/2017
Fun fact! Caitlin was born into a Gypsy Romanian family and was adopted from an orphanage in Romania at the age of two. She grew up in Washington DC and was surrounded by diverse culture, arts, and music at a very young age. Bruce Springsteen was a household staple and when Caitlin heard Clarence Clemons [from The E-Street band] "rip" on "Born To Run" for the first time, she was entranced and began her pursuit to secure a career in the music industry. Heavily inspired by a plethora of our history's greatest players, [such as Clemons, John Coltrane, and Sonny Rollins], Payne picked up the alto saxophone at the age of eight, and trained classically throughout her younger years. Caitlin played in all different style bands her high school offered and most especially loved going back and forth between her alto and six other woodwind instruments in "pit band" during the winter and spring musicals. Simultaneously, Payne landed first-chair in jazz band and received other prestigious musical awards throughout her high school career.
Before Caitlin attended Full Sail University, where she received a B.S. in Recording Engineering, Caitlin took a gap-year, and lived in Costa Rica teaching music to children (PreK – 6th grade) in Monteverde, the Cloud Forest. To this day, that experience has been a highlight of her musical journey, as she learned one of the most valuable lessons in life and in her career thus far; music is a universal language.
Payne currently works at FremantleMedia North America in Burbank, CA, where she oversees and develops music strategy for the global production, distribution, and entertainment powerhouse. On a day to day basis, Caitlin works diligently with all of FMNA's broadcast and digital productions, providing music creative services, clearance and licensing. Fremantle's content ranges from mega hits such as, American Idol (FOX), Family Feud (CBS), The Price Is Right (CBS), Let’s Make a Deal (CBS), America's Got Talent (NBC), and The Great Christmas Light Fight (ABC), to more recently, the classic gameshow revivals, Match Game (ABC) and To Tell The Truth (ABC). Additionally, FMNA is underway on their exciting and promising new scripted series, American Gods (STARZ). "It has been an inexplicably wonderful opportunity to work across these shows. I recognize that the content we produce and distribute is not just television, it is a legacy. I have the utmost respect for what Fremantle has done over the years and for what Fremantle is currently doing," Payne says.
Prior to FMNA, Caitlin has worked on other hit television series such as, NCIS:LA, Legit, Rizzoli & Isles, and The Blacklist. Caitlin is an Associate Member of The Recording Academy, and continues her advocacy for music education. She loves volunteering her time with the Grammy Foundation, Grammy In The Schools, and MusiCares. With another exciting Grammy season upon us, Caitlin hopes that Adele wins every single nomination because let's just be honest, "she's the freakin' best!"
Alyeska is both the archaic spelling of Alaska and the name LA-based Montana native Alaska Reid chose for her indie rock band.
Akin to the visceral indie rock of Sharon Van Etten and Belle Mare, Los Angeles-based trio ALYESKA take us on a psychological and physiological ride of feeling separated from everyone else. A feeling of loneliness and confusion about the world around us and what the future holds. The jangly guitar arpeggios are mesmerizing while Reid’s vocals have a smokey, gritty infectiousness. Combine them with some terrific songwriting, and a brilliant, dynamic song is born. If the band was in Brooklyn, they likely would be immediate indie stars, which will eventually arrive if they continue to make such riveting music. - The Review
Members are Alaska Reid, Ben Spear and Enzo Scardapane.
Facebook Spotify Twitter Instagram Youtube
Will Makar is now residing in Los Angeles, California. His music is a combination of memorable pop hooks and radio-ready rock with an unforgettable live show that comes from hard work, commitment, and a live band with deep musical talents.
Will Makar, who first came to national prominence at the age of 16 as a finalist on American Idol 5, has already drawn large crowds at venues in New York, Austin, Houston, Nashville, and Los Angeles, as well as opening for John Mayer, Lee Brice, and Hot Chelle Rae. His video channels have garnered 150,000 views over the last year and these numbers continued to grow.
Will's set to record a new song once a month that will have a refreshing blast of energy, musicianship, and memorable hooks equally at home on stage as it is in your headphones.
Facebook Twitter Instagram Spotify Soundcloud
The Los Angeles-based, Pop/Rock quartet The Girl + The Glory makes the music you've been missing.
Simply put, their songs will rock you and make you want to sing along, again and again.
Aaeidi (vocals), Neal Gardner (guitar), Ian Hall (bass), and Lorenzo Scott (drums) formed the band in early 2016, with the intention of writing well-crafted music meant to be performed live on-stage.
The Girl and The Glory's music is very melodic, edgy and groovy. As if The Black Keys fronted Neil Young and Crazy Horse. Mix in a strong female voice, and you have the makings of very memorable music.
Drawing upon their collective influences and musical experiences, The Girl + The Glory spent many months writing and refining their material. The process was truly a labor of love and respect for the group, and the music reflects this.
The Girl + The Glory is currently seeking to build an audience and are excited to play in front of as many crowds as would have them. The band's exciting live set features fantastic hooks, music that will move you, and vocals that really need to be experienced.
Bronson Wisconsin is a tasteful collaboration of Alt-Country, Indie-Rock, and everything in between. Growing up as one of 9 kids in a musically diverse home, brothers Bronson and Preston was exposed to all the music they could handle and more than enough instruments needed to express themselves. Spending the long, cold Wisconsin winters the same way they spent the hot and beautiful summers, practicing their craft.
After achieving success as the globally recognized latin duo, Taalbi Brothers, Bronson went on expressing a different side of himself as a singer and as a songwriter. What started out as a "one day one song" demoing session, quickly turned into "3 days, 6 songs" and before they realized it, the brothers had themselves their first EP as Bronson Wisconsin.
"That Damn Piano" is scheduled to be released on Friday, June 10th in Bronson Wisconsin's hometown of Madison, WI.
"In the vein of Alt-Country / Americana but definitely with some bite and some grit to it. Very earnest with a "salt of the earth" quality to it, it doesn't hold back, and is very successful at steering clear of the overtly clean and faux americana that has taken over the 'dad-rock' radio market." -Kyle Kohler, Stage Banter (Podcast)
Website Facebook Instagram Spotify Twitter
Attention Medical Marijuana patients: Jackpot and Hunnypot are teaming up for a special event on Monday Jan. 23rd to bring you a Marijuana consumption-friendly, Sample gathering.
Selected marijuana distributors and merchandisers will be showing off their current and upcoming products. This month's Sampling Sessions is co-sponsored by Sensi-Chew (edibles), Evoxe Labs (vaporizers), Califari (art) Verde Essentials (delivery) and will be held at the Mid-City Music Lounge located directly behind The Mint. Don't miss the first in what we hope to be many unique music and marijuana related co-branded events. Their will be surprises and give-aways throughout the night.
***You will be required to provide your Prop 215 medical recommendation and ID in order to have access to the Mid-City Music Lounge. You will not be allowed in without it.***
7-10pm
Mid-City Music Lounge (behind The Mint)
6010 W. Pico Blvd.
LA, CA 90035
Hot Tub Johnnie brought the hot tub to The Weekly Comet in 2012! True to Hunnypot style, clad in fez and drink in hand, Johnnie spoke to the hosts of The Weekly Comet about Hunnypot’s origin as an industry mixer, and how it came to be an international party! Check out this teaser video for the episode. The full interview is no longer accessible through emPOWERme.tv's website, but you can still find clips of Das Tapes on their YouTube channel.
Das Tapes interview + "Neon Boots" Live
Hunnypot Live! brings music back to life for a new year. Our first show of 2017 didn't disappoint. Hot Tub Johnnie played old an new acquaintances to never be forgotten. Don Grierson gave another master class from his rich music business history of hits, K-Syran got in to the tub to talk about her music and theater life and then took the stage to serenade (with some help from Hunnypot Live host Jeff Gray & friend Tom Ferjo), Spookey Ruben scared everyone with haunting melodies and riffs, Tabitha pummeled the masses with a hard rock symphony and Khildlike returned with his musical friends to enlighten and entertain us again. 1/09/2017
Originally a Disc Jockey in Australia, Don Grierson, a legendary, internationally acclaimed A&R executive, has worked with many of the most notable artists in modern music history. As a promotion person for Capitol Records he was involved with The Beatles and the launch of Apple Records, receiving the only Golden Apple Award ever given by The Beatles. Don also worked in International, Marketing and Advertising for Capitol. He then became a founding member and VP, A&R, for EMI America Records, signing and working with acts such as Sheena Easton, Kim Carnes, Kate Bush, Sir Cliff Richard, J. Geils Band, and Kenny Rogers.
This was followed by a very successful period as VP, Head of A&R at Capitol where he signed and/or helped guide a number of hit-making artists, including Anne Murray, Tina Turner, Heart, Joe Cocker, Steve Vai, Megadeth, The Motels, Bob Seger, Duran Duran, Thomas Dolby, Billy Squier, and others. Later he became Sr. VP, Head of A&R at Sony/Epic Records in New York, signing and working with such acts as Celine Dion, Cheap Trick, Bad English, Gloria Estefan, Cyndi Lauper, The Jacksons and Living Colour.
Don later became Co-Owner/Co-President of Drive Entertainment, an independent catalog oriented label and now currently operates his own music industrty consultant company, is a Music Supervisor for Independent films as well as an Executive Producer/A&R.
He is on the Advisory Boards of MusicBizPro, India; ArtistIntersect.com; is a voting member of The Grammys; an instructor at Musicians Institute, Hollywood, California and co-author (with Dan Kimpel) of the published book "It All Begins With The Music".
International singer/songwriter and activist K-Syran’s new album Smoke In My Veins, was released August 8, 2016 on Intimacy Records. The recording contains 12 brand-new tracks and features “Intimacy,” a hit song selected as the anthem for the 2016 United Nation’s International Women’s Day. The first single of the new album, “Hello,” hit pop radio stations in the USA on June 28. “Hello,” is already climbing the Billboard charts.
Known for her impressive soprano and a melodic fusion that combines elements of classical, pop, rock, jazz and techno influences, K-Syran made waves in the European dance music world with her 2016 dance-pop single “Testify,” recorded with Sugarbabes’ star Amelle Berrabah, accompanied by a controversial video clip, featuring intimate scenes with two women. The track became one of four songs by the Norwegian-born star that reached UK Top Ten Club Chart and Billboard, making her a prominent feature on the Ibiza circuit. K-Syran’s music has also been compared to such art rock figures as Bjork or Coldplay.
K-Syran’s newest release Smoke In My Veins was recorded at Metropolis Studios and was produced by Tom Nichols (Celine Dion, Kylie Minogue) and Charlie Thomas (One Direction, Nick Mason), credited as The Secret Agents. The record includes singles “Intimacy” and “Hello” – a bouncy pop song recorded in part at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, known as a birthplace of classic rock albums by The Beatles, Oasis, and Pink Floyd.
The album is a collection of seductive dance tunes combined with a thought-provoking message – a fusion distinctive of K-Syran’s style. “The power and joy of song has the ability to comfort and inspire each individual. Music can offer hope when people need it most – that’s what I want to give,” says K-Syran about her new release. “I wrote some of the material on Smoke In My Veins with women in mind, but the ideas and emotions behind my songs strive to be universal. I think it’s a mistake to think that lyrics in dance music cannot deal with anything of substance. Dance was a form of spiritual activity for human beings throughout the history of our kind, a powerful form of emotional and physical expression. That’s why I want my music to give audiences music that would move their bodies while engaging their minds. ” – she further explains.
K-Syran, is a singer-songwriter, actress, director, producer, and human rights activist, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Born in Norway, she embarked on musical career early on, following the footsteps of her father, a professional drummer. She has performed as a singer various ensembles, including a jazz combo and a hard rock band, throughout her youth. K-Syran’s notable musical collaborations include Sugarbabes’ Amelle Berrabah and British dance music producer and DJ Mark Loverush. Also known as Katrina Syran, she is a devoted feminist, who has a parallel career as a playwright and activist for women’s rights. In 2015, she took her play Breaking the Silence: Monologues on Gender, Voice and Violence to New York, where it was presented at the United Nations as part of a Lecture Series on women, peace and security. The play, co-written with Suzan Craig, is based on Human Rights Watch Women’s Division reports and discusses global problems that woman face. Breaking the Silence was nominated Best Play at the London Summit to End Sexual Violence In Conflict, organized by Angelina Jolie and William Hague. K-Syran received formal theater training at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, graduating with honors and a degree in acting. Katrina has worked as an actor and director with the West End theatres and at The Young Vic, appearing in Ibsen’s Women as Nora and Voyage in the Dark as Anna. Her film credits include short film Don’t Miss the Cup, which she also produced, and recently a role in a UK TV series Head. She’s currently filming the feature film Espera, in which she has the leading role.
Website Twitter Facebook YouTube
Iconic avant-pop pioneer Spookey Ruben is an artist’s artist. The Canadian musician of many hats — you may recognize him from 2012’s “The Adventures of Spaghetti Cowboy” video with Feist and/or “Natural Born Grannies” with Ariel Pink — has been cited as an influence by a panoply of indie rock mainstays. Some of them, including Owen Pallett (Arcade Fire) and Chris Walla (Death Cab For Cutie), recently contributed to an Indiegogo campaign to release a 20th anniversary re-issue of his outlandish debut album, Modes of Transportation, Vol. 1, along with a brand-new LP Modes III (feat. collaborations w/ Geneva Jacuzzi, Esthero and Choir!Choir!Choir!) delivering yet another chapter of fresh-faced eye-popping sounds.
Facebook Twitter Website Instagram Soundcloud YouTube Spotify Bandcamp
Tabitha is a new Heavy Rock band formed out of the ashes of two of the members' previous bands (The Binges, BOOST), but now is solidified as a trio. Okai sisters Mayuko and Tsuzumi play the guitar and bass, respectively, and are joined by Stephen Perkins of Jane's Addiction and Porno For Pyros on the the drums. While the sisters are originally from Tokyo, Japan, Tabitha calls Los Angeles home.
In late 2011, a raw invention emerged into the music scene. khildLike (Yes, with a k) is a hip hop duo arising from southern kalifornia's 818, (San Fernando Valley). The duo konsist of a soulful singer (khosen) & an immakulate word smith (Life). Influenced by the hip hop legends; Fugees, OutKast, & Little Brother, the duo are well on their way to sweeping the industry and kulture alike with their raw street honesty and sweet soulful melodies.
“What’s good? Still represent the west side!” These few lines kept looping in my head for a few days since my first listen. This phenomenon is known as an “earworm” or “musical imagery repetition,” which originates from German word Ohrwurn – “a type of song that typically has a high, upbeat melody and repetitive lyrics that verge between catchy and annoying.”
This “West Side” song is definitely on the catchy side. Our Hiphop homie Reverie shot her video in Europe with fellow latina emcee, Gavlyn, while she was touring in Germany, Switzerland, France, and Portugal all along the way. The lyric lines “just hopped off the plane, now I’m on the stage” totally resembles her touring in past few years.
Despite her crazy touring schedule, this underground turned rapper-star has been pushing out one music video after another every week this month! Reverie, which stands for “a state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts; a daydream,” has really made her dream a reality. She raps to the world, she directs her music videos, she brings her visuals to life. What else can she do?
Just yesterday, Rev performed at the Regent Theater with Gangrene, Noa James, Hideandseekzoo, Slum The Resident, F.A.C.E. and more. What’s next? She has her schedule lined up tight, not to mention hitting up our Hunnypot Party #361 on March 6th 2017! Join us.
Hunnypot Live! created a petition to eliminate Paul McCartney's song "Wonderful Christmastime" from the historical record. Right after that we hosted show #356 and our holiday party. Hot Tub Johnnie started the night with a set yule love to listen to on the rebroadcast. Gary Calamar spoke with us about the reason for the season, rock n' roll and gave us a set of his picks of the past year. Eric & Happie provided the folk spirits, Auditorium rocked our precious snowflake ears, Whiskey Dix brought the whole family home for the holiday and Angelo Moore was the tree topping star for the evening. -J. Gray 12-12-16
Gary Calamar, president of Go Music, is a five time Grammy-nominated producer and music supervisor who has overseen the music on some of the most acclaimed and popular shows on television including “True Blood”, “Six Feet Under”, “Dexter”, “Entourage”, "Weeds" and "House.” Gary’s current projects include “The Man In The High Castle” (Amazon) , “Good Girls Revolt” (Amazon), “Wayward Pines” (Fox), and the forthcoming indie film “Carrie Pilby.” Gary is also a songwriter and co-wrote the song “Let’s Boot and Rally” performed by Iggy Pop and Bethany Cosentino for True Blood. His debut EP as a recording artist, “You Are What You Listen To” was released on Atlantic Records to excellent reviews and airplay. His new single ‘The Prince of Pico Blvd.” / “Little Tokyo” will be released in January. Gary is also the author of "Record Store Days" (with Phil Gallo), and DJ at public radio tastemakers KCRW.
Website Twitter Facebook Instagram YouTube SoundCloud
Based out of Austin, Eric & Happie bring warm folk harmonies and indie sensibilities with their debut project, It’s Yours. The album debuted at #11 on the iTunes Singer Songwriter Chart and broke into the iTunes Top 200 albums overnight. From DC and Memphis respectively, Eric & Happie grew up with a love for American Folk and Pop alike. The two blend these styles seamlessly in their freshman effort. With a sound reminiscent of Tennis, The Strumbellas, and a hint of the Civil Wars, Eric & Happie are in the midst of a national tour.
Facebook Website Twitter Instagram Spotify iTunes
Auditorium is Spencer Berger. Berger began performing at the age of nine as a member of The Metropolitan Opera’s Children’s Chorus, singing onstage with such golden-throated legends as Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo. His self-released 2011 debut album (Be Brave) and 2012 EP (Nights Worth Living) dropped jaws thanks to Berger's goosebump-inducing voice and his gift for crafting lush, genre-defying arrangements that framed his instant-earworm melodies. Now, Berger is returning with his second LP, The First Music due out January 2017 — grand in scope (15 songs) yet tightly constructed (33 minutes), it pulls off a magic trick by unearthing beauty and hope in some of life's darkest, most harrowing corners.
Los Angeles group The Whiskey Dix is a four-piece featuring the much loved Film/TV Placement industry professionals Gary Miller of Universal Music Group, Tony Von Pervieux of AppStage and TVPmusic, Derek Syverud, and Emily Weber of Position Music. This talented group plays cover songs, "We rock the classic hits that we know you LOVE like Backstreet
Angelo Moore began his career in the early l980s as lead singer, saxophonist, and creative force behind the legendary band, Fishbone. Fishbone’s ability to blend social commentaryand humor with a blazing fusion of rock, punk, funk, jazz, ska, reggae, gospel and R&B led to their recognition as one of the most notable acts in American music. After over 25 years in the biz, Moore continues his role as frontman of Fishbone. The band has released l0 full-length albums. They have created the music for movies such as “Last Action Hero” (Arnold Schwarzennager), “The Mask” (Jim Carrey) and been featured with roles in movies such as “Idlewild” (Outkast) and “I’m Gonna Get You Sucka” (Keenan Wayan). Angelo has additionally collaborated with the likes of Little Richard, Curtis Mayfield, George Clinton, Rick James and Spike Lee to name but a few.
A versatile artist, Angelo performs under the guise of his wildly energetic alter ego, Dr. Madd Vibe. Linking poetry, performance and music, this visceral artist’s solo performances range from pure spoken word and movement to playing the Theremin and various saxophones as well as reciting poetry accompanied by the Dr. Madd Vibe Aukestra. Stemming from his experiences growing up as a “fly in the buttermilk” in the predominantly white suburbs of Los Angeles, Angelo Moore addresses “Real Racism,” “Social Corrosion,” “SpiritualOvertones,” “Family Affairs,” “Personal Satisfactions and Suffocations” and the human condition in a world gone mad. Dr. Madd Vibe brings a spiritual and cathartic dimension to his performances in the tradition of innovators such as George Clinton, Sun Ra and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Between l997 and 2010, his solo efforts have spawned literary books and comic books that come equipped with soundtracks and the full-length album entitled “Dr. Maddvibe’s Medicine Cabinet” in which he wrote and played all of the music and instruments. Angelo has also created a Dr. Maddvibe orchestra with whom he has directed and performed in venues in the United States and in Europe.
Angelo Moore has taken his spoken word and sound power to the stage throughout
A diehard music and pop-culture freak, Rock & Roll Jeopardy contestant, ex-child actress, and voracious pop-culture vulture, Lyndsey lives in Hollywood, California with her cat Pussycow and a white snake named Whitesnake, piles of records, and a vintage television set that is always, always on.
Husband and wife James and Shanna Stein comprise the enthralling LA based duo that is Stein Sang. After meeting through a mutual friend, the two eventually folded into a relationship, and later blended in their musical partnership. This multifaceted partnership contributes to their music, giving them a unique perspective and sound. Self-identifying as “cloud music,” the pair collaborate wholly on their almost-ethereal folk-pop songs. Currently, the pair has one EP out, House of Sticks, three tracks of which have music videos available to watch on YouTube. They have just finished recording a brand new EP scheduled to be released top of 2017. Their upcoming single "Crush (Let's Go To The Moon) was co-produced by Chad Hugo from the Neptunes and is featured on Hunnypot's newest upcoming single compilation.
Website Facebook Twitter YouTube iTunes SoundCloud Instagram Bandcamp
Tall As Trees are real, pure, unaffected by outside influences. Their music is different, it is theirs alone. They believe in it, live it. Of all contemporary acts in the world today, perhaps only Tall As Trees do what others would like to do, and that is perform only what they believe in, what they feel, not what others think Tall As Trees should feel. Tall As Trees love you. They will not change their music or style to meet the whims of a frustrated world. You should appreciate this because you know they are pure what more can you ask?
Tall As Trees is the indie rock project of Matthew Clark. Joined by Miah Palmer on drums and Kris Camire on bass, TAT delivers a powerful blend of genre bending, instantly memorable,
Website Facebook Twitter YouTube
SUZY PARADISE grew up a Florida girl with an insatiable knack for mischief in the traveling surf world. Always Finding herself miles from home and in yet another sticky situation, Suzy quickly learned to garner her self-resilient wit to keep her head above water. Thus, she created “the Lifeguard” - her stronger & more redeeming self. “Suzy & the Lifeguard” is a story of self-empowerment encouraging listeners to follow their hearts and be shamelessly unique.
Website SoundCloud Facebook Instagram Twitter
Longtime Hunnypot attendees and party professionals Jazlyn and Danielle will be co-hosting this get-down with us. These girls will curate a listening session to please your ears and your dancin' shoes.
"It’s clear that Michael, Scott, Eddie, Parker, and Todd really enjoy playing together, and this translates into an amazing stage chemistry that is unrivaled on the rock scene today. In a time where many bands from their generation are starting to fall short of expectations during their live performances, Queensryche seems to be getting better with age."
The early eighties were a magical time for rock and roll. Bands like Judas Priest, The Scorpions, and Van Halen were all in their prime and new bands like Motley Crue and Poison were beginning to take a stranglehold on the Hollywood music scene. The Sunset Strip was teeming with new talent, and clubs such as The Whisky and Troubadour were showcasing these acts nightly. Then seemingly out of nowhere, a little known band from Seattle named Queensryche burst onto the scene. Their unique brand of melodic rock infused with thought-provoking lyrics quickly won over the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. Over 30 years and 30 million albums later, this band is still rocking harder than ever. On Friday, November 18th, Michael Wilton (Guitar), Todd LaTorre (Vocals), Scott Rockenfield (Drums), Eddie Jackson (Bass), and Parker Lundgren (Guitar) hijacked the House of Blues in San Diego, CA for what was sure to be an epic night of rock and roll.
Kicking off the evening was New York based symphonic rockers, Midnight Eternal. Although the stage lighting was a bit dark for my taste, Raine Hilai and company rocked the house with a short but powerful set of symphonic metal. Next up on the bill was Southern California metal icons, Armored Saint. I have not seen these guys live since 2008 Rocklahoma and they were simply amazing. The vocal power of John Bush combined with the guitar genius of Phil Sandoval and Jeff Duncan left little to be desired during this 45-minute no-frills assault. Gonzo Sandoval's drumming was plain badassery and Joey Vera killed that bass the entire set. My favorite songs from the nights performance included "Reign of Fire", Chemical Euphoria", and "Can You Deliver?" Only one word could describe Armored Saint's set on Friday - Powerful. I can't wait to see these guys again live in 2017. Finally, after an hour and a half of killer metal, Scott Rockenfield appears from the darkness and lights the way for his brothers as Queensryche took center stage at the House of Blues in San Diego's famous Gas-lamp District.
Queensryche opened the show with Guardian off their 2015 release Condition Human. This is one of my favorite tracks off of the album and they absolutely nailed it. Wilton’s guitar work and stage presence was simply epic! Next up was "Operation: Mindcrime". LaTorre had no trouble bringing this track to life with his amazing vocal range and dynamic stage presence. When you add in the accompanying Mindcrime video footage, it was like taking a time machine back to 1988 to revisit what many consider to be best concept album of all time. Definitely a highlight of the show. "Best I Can" rounded out the first three and simply kicked ass. Over the next hour, Queensryche fans were treated to an incredible set list that spanned their entire fifteen album discography. From crowd favorites such as "Empire" and "Jet City Woman" to more obscure classics like "Damaged" and "Killing Words", there was something for every Ryche fan. The 15-song set came to an end with a 3-song encore that set House of Blues on fire. Right out of the gate, the boys launched into "Hell Fire", another catchy track from Condition Human. "Screaming in Digital" off Rage for Order was the 2nd encore track and these guys crushed it. This was my favorite song of the evening and it was absolutely flawless. The show ended on a high-note with another Mindcrime standard, "Eyes of a Stranger". This song reinforced to me and all who attended the show just how talented this band truly is. It was awesome to see everyone out of their seats, fists in the air, and screaming along to this all-time classic.
As a Queensryche fan since 1984, I could not have been more pleased with their performance on Friday night. Each member of the band brought their best to the House of Blues in San Diego, and no one in this iconic venue walked away disappointed. It’s clear that Michael, Scott, Eddie, Parker, and Todd really enjoy playing together, and this translates into an amazing stage chemistry that is unrivaled on the rock scene today. In a time where many bands from their generation are starting to fall short of expectations during their live performances, Queensryche seems to be getting better with age. This band of brothers is still performing at the highest level, and their energy translates effortlessly into fist-pumping, high-octane rock and roll. If you have a chance to catch these guys live on their current tour, drop the coin and make it happen. I've seen Queensryche 3 times this year, and their show gets better each and every time. Pound for pound, this was the best show I have seen at the House of Blues all year long! Until next time...
Stay Frosty, Rock On, and Take Hold!