Podcast by Andy Sydow
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Philip Bowen is not just a great musician and songwriter, he's also a skilled business person. With a social media following in the millions and session credits including Noah Kahn, Bowen recently gave up his full time job to support his family with full time music. From Google Overview: "Philip Bowen is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from West Virginia whose music is inspired by…
In this episode, singer-songwriter Abigayle Oakley shares her journey through evolving her artist name, navigating the music industry as an independent artist, and balancing content creation with artistry. We discuss the impact of technology like AI, strategies for remote collaboration, and her recent successes, including winning the Kerrville Folk Festival. As of the airing of this episode,…
In this episode, Andy Sydow interviews Nikki Gauthier, the artistic and creative director at the Acorn Center for the Performing Arts. They discuss the importance of community building through music, the unique role of the Acorn Theater in fostering local talent, and Nikki's journey from education to the arts. The conversation also delves into the challenges and strategies of booking in the music…
Jackson Emmer returns to Middle Class Rock Star (previously featured on episode 112) to discuss his latest album, 'Battle Hymn of the Early Riser' - exploring themes of parenting, songwriting, and the balance between family life and touring. He shares insights into his creative process, the importance of co-writing, and the emotional impact of music. The discussion also touches on promotion…
This episode was done in front of an audience as a part of a panel at SWRFA (Southwest Regional Folk Alliance) conference in Austin, TX. This week, I sit down with legendary Texas singer-songwriter Bob Livingston — founding member of The Lost Gonzo Band and a central figure in the Austin “Cosmic Cowboy” movement. Bob shares vivid stories from his decades on the road with Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael…
This episode stemmed from Andy’s viral video about the difference between a gig and a show, which sparked a wider conversation about how musicians define success and stand out in today’s music industry. In this engaging 48-minute conversation, Andy Sydow and Johnny Fiaconni dig into the realities of the modern music industry. They explore the balance between cover gigs and original shows, the role…
This week, I chat with Nashville’s own Zach Allen - a multi‑Grammy-winning recording engineer, producer, and mix engineer whose credits span Americana, blues, rock, country, and beyond. With nearly 20 years in the music industry, Zach brings a rare blend of technical mastery, creative sensitivity, and a studio presence that helps artists realize their vision. Some highlights of our conversation…
This week, I’m joined by bluegrass virtuoso Martin Gilmore - a powerhouse songwriter and performer who’s had a banner year, taking home top honors at the Kerrville, Telluride Troubadour, and Folks Fest songwriting contests. In this episode, we dig into: • The impacts of entering and winning songwriting contests • The impact of Billy Strings on the bluegrass and Americana world • How Spotify has…
Music has a way of attaching itself to moments in our lives. A song can instantly transport us back to a place, a person, or a feeling — becoming part of our own personal soundtrack. In this special episode, I reflect on how Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” became permanently linked in my memory not just to Ozzy, but to Colorado Rockies legend Larry Walker. When Walker stepped to the plate at Coors…
On this weeks episode of Middle Class Rock Star, I sit down with Colorado-based bassist, songwriter, and producer Ace Engfer, who just released his new solo album, Time Drifts Away (June 6). Ace has spent years holding down the low end in the Colorado music scene as a longtime member of Grant Farm, and touring with acts like Madeline Hawthorne (Montana) and Kind-Hearted Strangers (Nashville). But…
