Welcome to The Hogpod! This week, hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike, and Chris Rhodes are joined by the incredibly talented keyboardist and singer, Erika Johnston Miner, a key member of the acclaimed Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses.Erika shares her unique journey, starting with classical piano training as a child and struggling to master the guitar as a teenager. After a long hiatus dedicated to raising her three children, she details how the COVID-19 pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity to bring music back into her life. Hear about her first terrifying (but pre-recorded!) performance of an original song, the power of networking in the vast Chicagoland music community, and how a message from bass player Mick led her to take on the monumental task of recreating Axl Rose's iconic piano parts for Sins and Roses.It’s a great conversation about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of band chemistry, and making a comeback after finding your passion again!Key Moments:11:04 - Guest Introduction: Welcome Erika Johnston Miner13:19 - Piano Beginnings and the Challenge of Learning Guitar19:22 - Returning to Music: The Impact of COVID and Motherhood22:14 - Overcoming Doubt: Performing an Original Song in a Live Stream Fundraiser24:40 - The Power of Open Mics and Networking in the Chicagoland Scene28:11 - The Call: Joining the Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses30:45 - Breaking down the intimidation factor and finding great band chemistryhttps://songwhip.com/erika-minerYouTube → @erikaminermusic326Facebook → / erika.j.miner Sins N Roses (Guns N’ Roses tribute) → https://sinsnroses.com/home | Shows → https://sinsnroses.com/showsBooked by Beth Miller – beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#TheHogpod #ErikaJohnstonMiner #SinsAndRoses #GunsNRosesTribute #GNRTribute #ChicagolandMusic #ChicagoMusicScene #Keyboardist #Piano #Podcast #MusicInterview #LiveMusic #PeteJansons #BongoMike #ChrisRhodes
Ivy Ford "The Blues Kitten": Buddy Guy, Fire Alarms & Last True Chicago Blues Clubs | Hogpod Chicago Local Music PodcastIvy Ford, Blues Kitten, Chicago Blues, Buddy Guy, Buddy Guy’s Legends, Rosa's Lounge, Blue Chicago, Kingston Mines, Mad Cats, HogPod, Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Rhodesy, live music ChicagoThe Blues Kitten just walked in and blew the doors off 🤯🎸🔥Ivy Ford sits down with Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, and Rhodesy (drummer for hire) and drops straight fire: the cold call that put a 21-year-old kid on stage opening for Buddy Guy at Legends, the night her shower steam set off a hotel fire alarm in France (yeah, she evacuated in a towel), and the real-deal list of the last authentic Chicago blues joints still standing in 2025.From 11-year-old blues brunches in Wisconsin (mom was a bartender, laws were… different) to accidentally taking over her own band at 20 to 8–9 gigs a week while homeschooling an 8-year-old — this woman lives the life.Plus cracked axles in Iowa, trading guitar licks for car repairs, and the JB Richie tribute jam at Mad Cats that had everyone ugly-crying on stage.If you love real Chicago blues, real road stories, and real humans who bleed this music — smash play.Book Ivy right now: ivyformusic.com 🎟️00:00 Sweet Home Chicago cold open 🎸09:27 Ivy Ford walks in18:10 12 years full-time pro24:36 The Buddy Guy phone call26:26 Birth of “The Blues Kitten”30:35 3–9 shows a week grind47:01 Last true Chicago blues clubs named52:49 Emotional JB Richie tribute at Mad Cats1:03:33 France shower fire-alarm chaos 🤯🔥1:09:04 Guitar for car repairs1:11:34 First big concert: Weird Al1:15:14 Upcoming shows + booking#IvyFord #BluesKitten #ChicagoBlues #BuddyGuy #BuddyGuysLegends #RosasLounge #BlueChicago #KingstonMines #MadCats #LiveMusic #BluesGuitar #FranceTour #FullTimeMusician #HogPod #RoadStories
HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast went 100% LIVE and UNSCRIPTED with Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and Beth Miller behind the glass for a Q&A TAKEOVER! We opened the lines and let YOU drive the chaos — no prep, no filter, just real-time Chicago music talk. The crew laughed through first concert memories (Chris: Billy Joel at age 6?!), debated grandkids vs gigs, swapped war stories from the scene, and shouted out listeners from Portugal to the burbs. Beth kept the train on the tracks while the guys riffed on everything from studio glitches to parade waves. Pure HogPod energy — raw, local, and all yours.Key Moments:0:09 – Live Start & Parade Wave0:20 – "100% Live Right Now, Baby!"0:27 – Beth Joins (Wrong Side of the Glass)0:47 – Champ vs Chump Debate1:04 – Upcoming Shows & Shameless Plugs1:39 – Mike D: No 2025 Shows Yet2:19 – Friction Fest Returns October 17, 20263:00 – Bongo Mike Joins from California3:22 – No Pants, No Jumping Jacks3:52 – Last-Minute Guest Cancel → Live Pivot4:49 – Influences: Tom Jones, Elvis, Kermit5:22 – Sweet "Fox on the Run" & Columbia Records5:58 – Mosquito Final Show with Jack Tripper7:25 – Hairbangers Ball & Sins and Roses8:09 – Aussie Fundraiser at LiveWire Lounge10:58 – Rock & Roll Christmas + Concert for George (Nov 28-29)11:34 – Mosquito Next Show Jan 24, 202614:16 – Luminere Christmas (No Chicago Show)16:11 – Jacko & Midnight Calls + Anthony Gnomes16:54 – Dean Z Elvis Christmas (Dec 18, Rockford)17:39 – Infinity TSO Tribute18:08 – Gravity Productions Holiday Event (Dec 4)21:37 – Arctic Bar Winter Pop-Up (Nov 21-Jan)22:37 – Turkey Ball Festival (2 Weekends, 14 Bands)25:26 – Black Wednesday at Broken Oar (Nov 26)26:32 – "Pete's Always That Guy"27:33 – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Debate29:43 – School of Rock vs Garage Bands30:19 – Dermont School of Rock30:42 – Illinois Rock & Roll Museum34:42 – Joliet Museum Inductees41:36 – How Did You Get Your Start? (Mike D, Bongo, Chris)49:25 – Favorite Part of Podcast?53:19 – Donna Joins Live56:36 – Wrap-Up & ThanksBooked by Beth Miller – bands/clubs/owners: beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook: / hogpodmusic Instagram: / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast LinkedIn: / hogpodpodmusic X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: pete@hogpod.org#HogPod #LiveQA #ChicagoMusic #Unscripted
🔥 EDM Producer Matt Ventrelli (Betrel) drops 140 BPM dubstep heat on HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast – hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and booked by Beth Miller.From Gem & Jam 2023 breakthrough to Icon Collective shutdown, Matt breaks down UK dubstep, reggae dub swing, AI in EDM, and why Chicago crushes LA.Key Moments:0:00 Friction Reunion Heat19:05 Matt Joins28:05 EDM 10131:25 AI Deep Dive36:25 Old School DJs41:25 Magic Prompts43:12 EDM Scene Hours48:55 LA/Chicago Clash55:08 Silent Disco1:09:05 Booking MattStream Betrel: SoundCloud/Spotify @betrel.Booked by Beth Miller – contact for gigs.Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook: / hogpodmusic Instagram: / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast LinkedIn: / hogpodpodmusic X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: pete@hogpod.org#HogPod #EDM #Dubstep #140BPM #ChicagoEDM #PeteJansons #BongoMike #BethMiller #MikeDermont #ChrisRhodes #LocalMusicPodcast #Ableton #EDMPodcast
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Jet — bassist, vocalist, and multi-band performer with LP Vinyl, LPV Escape, Super Unknown, and No More Faith. Jet shares stories from Chicago’s tribute scene, his Journey and Faith No More projects, and the recent Ozzy Osbourne charity event that brought the community together.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, along with booker Beth Miller, as they dive into:🎸 The Ozzy Osbourne All-Star Celebration for Lurie Children’s Hospital🎤 Building LP Vinyl & LPV Escape — Chicago’s leading Journey tributes🔥 The artistry behind tribute performance & why audiences love itPlus: favorite-band roundtable, stage-sound war stories, and why “chicks love Journey.”Key Moments0:00 Opening Jam5:33 Ozzy Charity Recap7:19 Elise McLearen Show Clip • Elise McLearen | My Metal Heart & Sabatha ... 20:20 Jet joins the show24:25 Jet Intro by cbob51:45 Why Chicks Love Journey52:30 April Love Superfan Segment1:04:48 Everyone’s Favorite Bands1:07:50 Bongo Mike SegmentConnect with Jet🌐 https://lpvinyl.net🌐 https://lpvescape.com🌐 https://theloungepuppets.com🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodBooking inquiries: Beth Miller — 📧 Beth@hogpod.org | ☎ 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #Jet #LPVinyl #LPVEscape #SuperUnknown #NoMoreFaith #JourneyTribute #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #OzzyCharity #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Annie Stokesberry — lead singer, drummer, and flutist for Corners of a Circle. Broadcasting from her barn studio in Woodstock, Annie shares how she blends her psychology practice, music career, and life on a 30-acre tree farm.Join hosts Pete Jansons and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes — with booking by Beth Miller — as they talk with Annie about:🎸 Building a barn studio and running a working tree farm🎤 Balancing her therapy practice with the Chicago jam-band scene🔥 Music, ADHD, PTSD, and mental-health healing through rhythm🥁 Learning drums and helping kids start in music🔗 Connect with Annie and Corners of a Circle:https://coacband.com/🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Opening video Corners of a Circle Sizzle Reel3:28 Annie Barn Tour WOW!5:28 Annie has a psychology practice and a tree farm!6:00 Annie Stokesberry’s band Corners of a Circle11:05 Mental Health and Music17:55 HRV Heart Rate Variability and Stress Relief20:42 How did Annie get started in drumming21:59 Why did Chris Rhodes get into drums25:23 Advice to parents on getting their kids started in music and drum kit starting kit32:55 AI and writing music36:44 Nick Sanzeri Shout Show Clip https://youtu.be/V6Rh5jc1Vic?si=raQzNyTBnyjPqvRd38:15 Chris Rhodes question time39:13 Chicago Fest and cup stacking41:55 Dr Annie Therapy https://doctorannietherapy.com/Hashtags#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #AnnieStokesberry #CornersOfACircle #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #WomenInRock #MentalHealth
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we crank it up with SIIN — Chicago’s powerhouse original hard-rock band!Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos and Pete Jansons with superfan April Love as they hang with PJ Alvarez (drums/vocals) and Sam Bello (guitar/vocals) from SIIN to talk about:🎸 The band’s 1990 origins and rebirth after lineup shake-ups🎤 Keeping original rock alive in a tribute-band city🔥 April Love on why SIIN’s live shows “hit you in the face”⚡ Opening for Blue Öyster Cult and Ace Frehley🎶 What’s next — studio sessions, fall shows, and Midwest festivals!Connect with SIIN:🌐 https://linktr.ee/siinrocks📧 apjpjpj@gmail.com🎟️ Upcoming shows: https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments⏱️ 0:00 Opening video “Boom” by SIIN → • SIIN. BOOM 10/8/22 🎥 4:13 Super Fans show clip → • Beth, April, Leslie & Brian: Chicago's Sup... 🤘 9:47 Superfan April Love joins the show🎤 10:59 April Love introduces SIIN (PJ Alvarez & Sam Bello)🎶 18:55 Shifts in Chicago’s rock scene💬 19:35 April Love on SIIN vs. Journey tribute bands🏙️ 22:25 City vs Suburb music culture🎧 25:30 Medusas memories — the old-school training ground💻 30:02 Backing tracks & laptop bands debate🔥 33:16 Opening for Blue Öyster Cult📅 36:00 Upcoming SIIN shows → https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎸 41:32 Bongo Mike question round (yes, Pop-Tarts included)#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #SIIN #AprilLove #PJAlvarez #SamBello #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #BethMiller #ChicagoRock #HardRock #BlueOysterCult #AceFrehley
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Scotty "Big Cat" Pelvis & Craig Pelvis of The Pelvis Brothers — a versatile Chicago band blending rockabilly, Elvis-inspired classics, and modern flair.Hosts Mike "Bongo" Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes talk with the Pelvis Brothers about:🎸 The origins and rise of The Pelvis Brothers🎤 Rockabilly, Stray Cats, and Elvis influences🔥 Wedding receptions vs. live club shows🥁 Finding a new drummer and building the band's futureConnect with The Pelvis Brothers:Website: https://pelvisbrothers.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PelvisBrothersContact: Info@PelvisBrothers.com | 847-440-4529Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Pelvis Brothers "Burning Love" Video • Burning Love 1:35 Post Coterie Hangover Recap13:56 Scott Swearingsen Pelvis Brothers14:58 Bonnie Miske Broken Oar Show Clip • HOG POD - Behind the Scenes at Broken Oar ... 15:03 Craig Pelvis joins the show15:30 Pelvis Brothers Intro21:09 Wolfgang Paul Show Clip • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago... 28:25 Brass from the past shout out28:35 Jeff Anthony show clip • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ... 29:08 Rick Saucedo https://www.facebook.com/ricksaucedo shout out31:15 Elvis Movie36:50 Million Dollar Quartet40:14 Brian Setzer and Stray Cats47:52 1957 band shoutout https://www.facebook.com/the1957s50:31 Wedding Reception vs Live bands in Clubs52:10 Pelvis Brothers Booking Info55:47 Pelvis Brothers Looking for a drummer57:54 Bongo Mikes Questions#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ScottyBigCatPelvis #CraigPelvis #PelvisBrothers #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #Rockabilly #StrayCats #Elvis
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome James Costanza — percussionist, bandleader, and nephew of legendary Mr. Bongo Jack Costanzo.Hosted by Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons & Chris “Rhodesy” RhodesBooking by Beth Miller (Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692)✨ Highlights of the conversation:🥁 Bongo roots & the legacy of Jack Costanzo🎶 Influences, drum circles & Chicago percussion stories🎤 Playing with Supernatural Soul, Brass from the Past & more0:00 Vehicle - The Ides Of March cover James Costanza Bongos6:54 Hearing The Call https://hearingthecall.org/give/9:30 Bongo James Costanza12:28 Jack_Costanzo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Co...15:49 Bongo Influences21:26 Soldier Field Bucket Brigade22:45 Drum Circles33:02 James Costanza FB Page / james.costanza.3 36:25 Supernatural Soul Band https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...41:57 Mosquitos playing Highwood Pumpkinfest / 16zbwv2ask 44:40 Bongo Mike Special Questions segment46:33 Grandson stop bySupport the Hogpod on Patreon → / hogpod Book a guest via Beth Miller → Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #JamesCostanza #MrBongo #Percussion #SupernaturalSoul
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Stupid Girl — Chicago’s tribute to Garbage featuring vocalist Julie, guitarist Brooke Hernandez, and bassist/programmer Michael Laskowski.
Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes as they talk with Stupid Girl about:
🎸 Why Garbage’s music inspired their tribute
🎤 South Side vs. North Side Chicago music scenes
🔥 The value of open mics, rehearsal rituals & live set strategies
Plus: clips of Stupid Girl performing Garbage classics, stories of Chicago’s 90s scene, and upcoming shows!
🔗 Connect with Stupid Girl:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brookealexis7
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@stupidgirl.chicago
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/stupidgirl.chicago
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@stupidgirlchicago
🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!
https://www.patreon.com/hogpod
Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:
Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692
0:00 Opening Stupid Girl Sizzle Reel Tribute to Garbage
1:29 Pre show foolishness
5:05 Mike Laskowski intros his band Stupid Girl
7:54 Why Garbage?
12:04 90's Chicago Music Scene
20:28 Sad Machines Show Clip
22:13 South Side Music Scene vs North Side?
28:44 Value of doing Open Mic's and tips to go about doing one
29:52 Yacht Rock Event https://www.facebook.com/events/1504225320742869 9/29/25 Vixen McHenry
32:02 Julie Preshow ritual/mantra
35:00 Lead Singer Preperation tips
37:37 Elemental Ters for Fears Julie Warm up
41:25 Stupid Girl Cover Clip by Garbage Tribute Band Stupid Girl
42:25 Empty
49:02 Doing one long set versus splitting into 2 pros and cons
58:26 Stupid girls upcoming shows: Upcoming Shows
https://www.facebook.com/events/4117418848531421
59:00 Mikes other bands Suckerpunch, Tuesday Night Music Club Perfect Circle
1:00:40 Mosquitos upcoming shows pumpkin fest highwood https://www.facebook.com/events/597967846426526
1:05:16 Bongo Mike's Segment
#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #StupidGirl #GarbageTribute #90sAlternative #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
Key MomentsHashtags
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome David Edward Bellah — powerhouse vocalist of Fast Times Chicago and My 80’s Band, known for his soaring high notes and energy-packed performances.Host Pete Jansons talks with David about:🎸 His musical journey from stage to radio🎤 Singing the classics with Fast Times & My 80’s Band🔥 Stories of famous people he’s met through his radio show🔗 Connect with David Edward Bellah:🌐 Website: https://davebellahmusic.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.e.bellahFacebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100036214183944#Fast Times Band: https://www.facebook.com/FastTimesTheBandMy 80’s Band: https://www.facebook.com/my80sband🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 She Sells Sanctuary https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FV5y4b8TW/3:30 Talking Fantasy Football4:25 Chris Rhodes drum sets8:26 What’s been happening in the music scene?8:41 Miracle in Mundelein https://www.themiracleconcert.com/11:45 Let’s talk Bears12:00 Dave joins the show13:05 My 80’s Band13:46 Safety Dance clip https://www.facebook.com/my80sband/videos/82165744645076818:45 Fast Times Band clip20:45 Dave’s musical journey44:22 Famous people Dave has met on his radio show48:21 Bongo Mike Question Segment#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DavidEdwardBellah #FastTimes #My80sBand #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #CoverBands #80sMusic #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Dave & Remy Zeiger — a father–daughter bassist duo spanning jazz chops, funk grooves, and Chicago cover/tribute stages.Host Pete Jansons is joined by booker Beth Miller to talk with Dave & Remy about:🎸 Growing through Libertyville School of Rock and jumping to real stages🎤 Bass influences (Jaco, Victor Wooten, Geddy Lee) and learning theory vs tabs🔥 New music and gigs: Mudfish EP, Crossing Decades, The Big Chair, Alice in Payne🔗 Connect with Dave & Remy:Remy Zeiger FB: / remy.zeiger Crossing Decades: / crossing.decades.chicago Mudfish: / mudfishchicago The Big Chair (Tears for Fears tribute): / bigchairchicago Alice in Payne (Alice in Chains tribute): / mudfishchicago 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-36920:00 Crossing Decades Band Clip with Special Guests Dave and Remy Zeiger • The Early Decades 1:45 Dave and Pete reminisce about their days in Libertyville School of Rock with Pete Dankelson and Jay MartiniPete Dankelson Show clip • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ... Jay Martini Show Clip • HOG POD: Chicago Music Scene with Keyboard... 2:20 Five Acre Flight / 5afmusic Lake County Sky Band with Cindy Noonan5:31 Crossing Decades clip • 90 and beyond....... 7:57 How Remy got into music15:37 Mitch the Lip show clip • Mitch The Lip on Ska, Trumpets & Chicago’s... 20:58 Remy jamming NIB • Monster Jam - NIB 28:00 Music Theory vs Tabs37:00 What bass players influenced Remy39:50 Dave on putting a band together and keeping one together43:00 Where are Dave and Remy playing next / 665073896297218 52:59 Mudfish "Lost" / 370170292525000 Remy Zeiger FB / remy.zeiger Crossing Decades YouTube / @crossingdecades-vk3qd / mudfishchicago #Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DaveZeiger #RemyZeiger #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #SchoolOfRock #BassGuitar #CoverBands #TributeBand #Rush
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Francois Smit — guitarist for Empress and a rising force in Chicago’s rock scene.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes talk with Francois about:🎶 His journey from South Africa to Chicago’s music scene🎸 Life in Empress with Tamara Woodruff, Alex James, Bill, and Sean🎤 Carnival life stories, first U.S. impressions, and food discoveries🏟️ Chicago live music vs. South Africa’s scene🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-36920:001:10 Shout out to Prior guest Rob Stepen • HOGPOD Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ... 2:50 Mike Dermonth Drum Circle5:58 Bongo Mike Explanation of Drum Circle10:21 Francois Smit joins the show11;28 Coterie Yacht Rock Sept 28 The Vixen13:13 Friction Reunion Oct 25 Broken Oar14:25 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25 / 2367935456955088 16:00 Francois Introduction17:45 Tamara Woodruff Empress Show Clip • Tamara Woodruff (Blue Bayou) – Linda Ronst... 18:05 Empress Band20:25 Francois first visit to America23:36 Francois was a carnie?27:34 Is it safe for Francois to go back to South Africa28:13 Whats the music scen liek in South Africa?29:55 How Does a South African get into Rock Music33:48 Food Experiences39:05 Chicago Scene Vs South African Party Scene43:02 Pete Dankelson jamming with the Struts47:51 Pete Dankelson show clip • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ... 51:00 Doug Shoenbeck show clip52:10 Empress shows / 1843421552951368 Sep 6 DOcks Wauconda54:01 Coterie Event Sep 28 Vixen Yacht Rock54:56 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25 / 2367935456955088 55:42 Chris Rhodes playing Ozzy Celebration Charity event Oct 19 Vixen57:32 Bongo Mikes rapid fire question1:02:48 Do chicks dig the accent?#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #FrancoisSmit #EmpressBand #SouthAfrica #RockMusic #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Rob Stepen — Chicago rocker, storyteller, and frontman of The Generations. Rob’s story is incredible: in 1985 he recorded songs that sat forgotten for nearly four decades in his attic. Thanks to legendary producer Steve Albini, those long-lost tapes were restored and re-released as the album Alternate View.
Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes are joined by booker Beth Miller to dive into Rob’s journey — rediscovering his analog reels, working with Albini, honoring Flock violinist Jerry Goodman, playing iconic venues like the Des Plaines Theatre, and giving back through Joey’s Song, a nonprofit raising funds for epilepsy research in memory of Joseph Gomoll.
Rob shares what it’s like to hear your teenage self on tape 38 years later, how much it really cost to restore the reels, and why passion and service fuel everything he does with The Generations.
🔗 Connect with Rob Stepen & The Generations:
Website: https://robstepenmusic.com/
🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!
https://www.patreon.com/hogpod
Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:
Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692
0:00 Opening Clip WGN 2024 Interview with Rob and the band The Generations https://youtu.be/oY84UxwspXc
7:04 Happy Anniversary Mike And Debbie
7:39 Chris Rhodes playing with Focal Point in Buffalo Grove
12:08 Shoutout to Anthem
17:44 Special Guest Rob Stepen
18:28 Rob Stepen Intro
20:15 Joey’s Song Charity https://www.joeyssong.org/our-story Joey’s Song fights epilepsy with music in memory of Joseph Gomoll, who died in 2010 just shy of his fifth birthday after suffering a debilitating form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome.
20:48 Rob tells the story of refurbishing his long-lost album with Steve Albini!
23:11 Butch Vig
25:42 The Flock Band https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flock_(band)
26:51 Jerry Goodman violinist
27:42 Des Plaines Theatre and Ron Onesti Hospitality
28:54 Rob Interview WGN https://youtu.be/y04t-cyqPwA and Rob’s mastery of marketing plans
38:35 Shout out to company Rob works for Insperity https://www.insperity.com/
40:53 Coterie Yacht Rock event Sep 28 2pm The Vixen McHenry https://www.facebook.com/share/1K2so91vET/
42:01 Sandy Gennaro https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandy_Gennaro
43:31 Rob, Beth Green Room Story
44:53 Mike Gomoll Founder at Joey’s Song Story https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gomoll/
49:42 Shout out to Green Room Manager Jackie Des Plaines Theatre
51:53 The Generations Band Story
57:18 What was it like to go back and listen to yourself in high school on those tapes
58:16 Steve Albini story on refurbishing the tapes the first visit
59:35 How much was it to get refurbished?
1:01:46 What would Steve Albini say about music and AI if he were alive today
1:03:09 Joey DeMarco United Talent Corporation Booking shout out
1:08:42 TUTS and other old school bars
1:12:50 Differences today vs old school bands
1:17:08 Bongo Mike Question Time
1:21:48 How to book The Generations? https://robstepenmusic.com/
#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #RobStepen #TheGenerations #SteveAlbini #JoeysSong #DesPlainesTheatre #SandyGennaro #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Kevin Zeiger of Sad Machines — Chicago’s fast-rising Smashing Pumpkins tribute band. With shows booked at Broken Oar (Oct 11) and the Cubby Bear (Nov 23) celebrating the 30th anniversary of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Sad Machines are quickly becoming a must-see for alternative rock fans.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes are joined by Beth Miller (who also books the show) to talk with Kevin about:🎸 Why they chose to honor the Pumpkins instead of other bands🏟️ Memories of Smashing Pumpkins’ early days at Cubby Bear🎤 Tribute vs cover band debates, and what fans want most🎶 Kevin’s influences (Genesis, Slipknot, Rammstein, System of a Down)🤘 The fun, chaos, and passion behind keeping Pumpkins music aliveAlong the way, we dive into Preston Poling’s viral “miniature casting couch” story, band booking advice, and why Chicago tribute bands are keeping live rock thriving.🔗 Connect with The Sad Machines: / thesadmachinessp 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Sanzeri — a powerhouse bassist, solo artist, and frontman known for his slick tone, wireless rig, and signature bass cam videos that turn heads and book gigs.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, with guest host Wally Swiatly, and Beth Miller (who also books the show), as they chop it up with Nick about the hustle of going solo, crafting the perfect promo video, and playing killer sets without a full band.Highlights include:🎸 Why Nick prefers going solo — and how he keeps things tight without a band🎤 What it takes to sing lead while playing bass (and make it look easy)📹 Behind the scenes of his bass cam + iPhone setup that gets killer promo content🔈 Thoughts on soundcheck stress, wireless gear, and the middle-band squeeze🤘 Shoutouts to Bruno Mars, Mark King, and bassists who front the band💡 Pro tips on what kind of videos actually help promote your actPlus: Bongo Mike joins Anchors Away, chaos in the pool, fridge and grill chat, a Wally Swiatly show clip, and upcoming gigs from both Nick and Mike. Tech issues didn’t stop the vibes — this one’s packed.Key Moments:0:003:22 Bongo Mike Orfanos joins Anchors Away Band4:34 Animal in Mike’s pool????4:50 Chris Rhodes Chasing Amy Band Drummer / chasingamyband 5:37 Pool Pet update6:14 Mike Refrigerator6:15 Mike’s grilling8:00 Beth Miller9:24 Wally Swiatly Show Clip • Wally Swiatly Talks Singing with Train & S... 12:40 Should HOGpod do a live Q&A show?14:49 Wally’s Upcoming Shows https://www.wallyswiatly.com/shows16:18 Bob Mansfield Keyboard player Palm Court16:56 Nick Sanzeri Introduction28:25 Why Nick stays solo34:43 What does Nick prefer to play?34:48 Famous bass players that were lead singers36:50 Nick has cool bass cam37:29 Nick covering Bruno Mars45:34 Is it hard to sing and play bass?49:41 Nothing beats an iPhone for getting band videos52:20 Thoughts on which videos to use to promote band56:15 Sound that the crowd hears isn’t necessarily same sound the band hears1:01:50 Middle bands of 3-line check and no sound check1:03:20 Using wireless equipment1:06:20 Bongo Mike’s question segment1:11:40 Nick’s upcoming shows1:15:58 Bongo Mike at Lyric Theater 8/15🔗 Connect with Nick Sanzeri:https://nicksanzeri.com/#homehttps://nicksanzeri.com/#original / nsanzeri 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #NickSanzeri #BassCam #SingingBassist #BrunoMars #MusicGear #BongoMike #WallySwiatly #BethMiller #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #PeteJansons #MikeDermont #SoloArtist #MusicPodcast
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome the powerhouse vocalist Regina Karma — a Mississippi-born singer who has lit up Chicago’s stages with soul, R&B, jazz, and gospel.Joining hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, along with special guest hosts Chris “CBob” Bobrowski (Rok Brigade) and Wally Swiatly (Simply Wally Band), Regina takes us on a journey from her Southern gospel roots and BB King inspirations to Kansas City’s jazz district and her big leap into Chicago’s vibrant music scene.She shares unforgettable stories — from opening for Gladys Knight, Gloria Gaynor, and Air Supply, to singing the national anthem for the WNBA, to her exciting new role as a backup singer for Gino Vannelli.We dive into:🎶 Growing up in Mississippi & Kansas City jazz roots🎤 Regina’s Chicago music rise at Gibson’s and Green Dolphin🌆 Comparing Kansas City, Nashville, and Chicago music scenes🎹 Regina & Wally’s instant vocal chemistry🔥 Breaking news: Regina joins Gino Vannelli this fall!Key Moments:0:00 Opening clip1:19 Memories of Old Chicago2:32 Shout out to Daniel Nunamaker!3:52 Regina Karma6:20 Who has best hotdogs in Chicago?7:03 Chris “CBob” Bobrowski joins the show + clip from last appearance: • Chris “CBob” Bobrowski of Rok Brigade Supe... 9:10 Mosquitos gig at Sundance Saloon (Aug 8): / 551493037930876 10:10 Supfan Dan Show Clip: • Creative Minds Drummer Mike Hansen & Super... 10:53 Wally Swiatly joins the show: • Wally Swiatly Talks Singing with Train & S... 12:57 Mike Dermont & Beth Miller at Moon 45th reunion show clip: • Moon Band Reunion 🎸 Brian Priest & Dannie ... 15:00 Wally Swiatly introduces Regina Karma19:35 Regina and family singing “I’ll Fly Away”22:10 Regina opening for Gladys Knight & Air Supply24:10 Shout out to Ron Onesti’s meatballs25:41 How Regina Karma and Wally Swiatly connected27:22 Singing the National Anthem (Wally & Regina)31:55 Regina growing up in Mississippi42:16 Green Mill shout out Dave Jemelo47:40 Putting harmonies together and backing vocals52:03 Music scenes: KC, Nashville, Austin vs. Chicago1:04:00 Gibson’s Rosemont memories1:06:38 Shout out to Greg Horan, owner Gregory’s: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...1:07:05 Shout out Beth Miller — want to get on the show? Get ahold of her!1:07:55 Regina’s funniest moment with Ron Onesti & Gladys Knight1:10:45 Strangest moment on stage1:15:40 Bongo Mike Question Segment1:18:40 Regina’s upcoming shows — Aug 14 Taylor Street Fest: / 1840046766552186 1:19:30 Regina’s big news — backup gig with Gino Vannelli! https://ginov.com/1:20:35 Want to book Regina? / regina.karma.820112 1:20:50 Wally Swiatly upcoming shows1:21:25 Chris Bobrowski (Rok Brigade) upcoming shows — Aug 14, Lake Geneva Venetian Festival: / 693212713337461 1:22:19 Chris Rhodes — Drummer for hire1:22:40 Bongo Mike Orfanos upcoming show — Aug 8 Sundance Saloon w/ The Mosquitos1:23:00 Mike Dermont Coterie Yacht Rock Sept 28Connect with Regina Karma:Facebook: / regina.karma.820112 Instagram: / reginakarma 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ReginaKarma #GinoVannelli #GladysKnight #AirSupply #GloriaGaynor #CBob #WallySwiatly #RokBrigade #SimplyWallyBand #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome the incredibly talented Justin Wallace — a rising star out of Johnsburg, IL, who’s already shared the stage with American Idol winner David Cook and AGT standout Mitch Rossell. At just 23, Justin is quickly becoming one of the most versatile and talked-about performers in the Chicagoland music scene, with shows at The Vixen, Broken Oar, and Raymond’s Bowl.Join hosts Mike Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes as they dive deep into Justin’s journey and share some amazing clips along the way.Key Moments:0:00 Opening Clip / 545180364579930 2:30 Justin Wallace Intro3:47 Pino Farina Clip • Pino Farina on Band Reunions, Original Mus... 5:15 Beth Miller for booking the Hogpod Podcast – beth@hogpod.org7:18 Jeff Kleinscmidt Show Clip Shout Out • 🎶 Jeff Kleinschmidt, Talent Buyer at The V... 10:16 Justin Wallace Musical Influences11:00 Coldplay tangent13:30 Why the shade on Coldplay?14:10 Hate on Nickelback?16:55 Is country music called country anymore or is it pop?19:30 AI and Music22:07 Justin Wallace performs Simple Man • LIVE AT MATTS BARN - "Simple Man" - Justin... 27:23 Why the hate on Freebird?28:21 New generation of music – acoustic guitar music versus laptop DJ music29:00 How does Justin Wallace read a crowd30:10 Younger generation tastes and length of songs33:28 Paying a solo performer versus band payment37:50 Problems when new bands are starting out38:38 Justin Wallace upcoming shows39:35 Bongo Mike Random Question segment42:40 Mosquitos and Black Diamond Sessions upcoming showsJustin Wallace Links:Facebook: / justinwallacemusic Website: https://justinwallacemusic.com🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!Patreon: / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Email: Beth@hogpod.orgPhone: 708-287-3692Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #JustinWallace #SimpleMan #DavidCook #MitchRossell #TheVixen #BrokenOar #RaymondsBowl #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
🎙️ On this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast, we sit down with Chris “CBob” Babrowski—frontman of Rok Brigade, plus vocalist for Super‑Unknown and Ten—to break down what makes Chicago’s tribute scene so electric.Hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive deep into CBob’s journey: how he commands the stage, the tech behind his vocals, setlist curation across bands, and why DIY tribute culture still thrives—even as AI and modern trends reshape music.We unpack the making of a rock frontman, festival stories, band dynamics, and the endurance required to pull off classic Def‑Leppard and Soundgarden songs night after night. No fluff—just raw insight from a guy who lives it.🎧 You can support the podcast here: / hogpod Want on the show? Booking through Beth Miller:Beth@hogpod.org | 708‑287‑3692Key Moments:0:00 – Intro1:41 – Jim O’Connell / Anchors Away clip • Jim O’Connell (Anchors Away, Snapshot) | H... 5:46 – Nick Cox clip • Nick Cox (7th Heaven), Zach Avery & Todd L... 6:09 – Coterie Yacht Rock Night @ Vixen (Sept 28)7:47 – Canceling shows: where’s the line?9:21 – CBob joins Hogpod17:25 – Lineup breakdown: Rok Brigade22:17 – Ozzy’s final show reaction32:05 – Jak Tripper clip • HOGPOD Chicagoland Music Scene Podcast: Ja... 33:50 – Mike Orfanos as Spoonman?35:25 – Vocal challenges & backing tracks37:03 – Pearl Jam drummer news39:30 – Grunge scene reflections41:50 – MTV’s grunge impact44:30 – Disruptors in music history45:50 – AI & the music future https://rollingstonephilippines.com/m...56:40 – Songs CBob loves vs. can’t stand to sing1:04:11 – Upcoming Rok Brigade shows / events 1:05:30 – “I Want Out” (Helloween cover): • I Want Out (GerbitzBunkZatezaloVanActionBo... 1:10:50 – Mosquitos jam band + Black Diamond Sessions previews1:11:42 – Rhodesy (drummer-for-hire) upcoming shows#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ChrisBobrowski #CBob #RokBrigade #SuperUnknown #TenChicago #DefLeppardTribute #SoundgardenTribute #PearlJamTribute #LiveMusic #CoverBands #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LocalMusicScene #AITalk
On this episode of the Hogpod Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast, we go deep with the powerhouse cover band Big Brothers Vinyl! Joining us are John Petitt (lead vocals, guitar), Rick “Professor Rick” Fobes (keyboards), Ryan Aiello (drums, vocals), and band historian Joe McMahon—with full shoutouts to fellow bandmates George Lemperis (guitar, vocals), Joe McMichael (bass, vocals), and the whole BBV family.Hosts Mike Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes (with booking by Beth Miller) dive into the band’s formation, their evolution in Chicago’s suburban music scene, and how they craft unforgettable setlists packed with everything from Zeppelin and Toto to Pink Floyd and Yacht Rock staples.You'll hear stories from shows like Jak Tripper’s set, Mount Prospect Day Fest, and Morton Grove Fest, plus insider talk about their upcoming gigs including Deadfest at Brothers’ Field in Long Grove (July 19) and The Coterie Yacht Rock Night at Vixen McHenry (Sept 28).The episode also tackles timeless musician debates like musical theory vs. tabs, the mystery of why Stairway to Heaven is banned in Guitar Center, and how to get more kids into the live music scene.This is a killer hang with one of the tightest, most seasoned bands in the region — don’t miss it!🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 – Intro4:42 – Jak Tripper Show Clip + Mount Prospect Day Fest▶️ • HOGPOD Chicagoland Music Scene Podcast: Ja... 8:35 – Dan Peters Clip + Jeff Anthony Clip▶️ • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ... 9:07 – Morton Grove Fest recap16:48 – John Petitt arrives22:46 – Big Brothers Vinyl: The band’s history30:54 – Coterie Yacht Rock Night @ Vixen McHenry (Sept 28)31:24 – Favorite songs to perform live41:56 – How musical tastes have changed over time46:03 – How the band adds new songs to the setlist55:45 – Why is “Stairway to Heaven” taboo at Guitar Center?56:45 – How to get more kids into playing live music58:33 – Music theory vs. tabs1:06:33 – Upcoming Big Brothers Vinyl shows1:15:05 – Deadfest preview: Brothers’ Field, Long Grove (July 19)▶️ / 674598988397279 Hashtags:#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BigBrothersVinyl #JohnPetitt #GeorgeLemperis #JoeMcMichael #RickFobes #RyanAiello #JoeMcMahon #DadRock #CoverBand #LiveMusic #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller