Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Show Notes
Grammy-nominated composer, producer, and immersive artist James Hood joins Tony Mantor for a fascinating conversation about pushing the boundaries of music and storytelling.
From performing with legendary artists like The Pretenders and collaborating with icons including Jeff Beck, to creating breathtaking immersive experiences like Mesmerica and Astronomica, James shares how his career evolved from drummer to visionary composer.
In this episode, James discusses the power of surround sound, the future of experiential entertainment, the impact of technology on music creation, and why authentic creativity matters more than ever. He also reflects on rebuilding after the devastating Los Angeles fires, finding inspiration through adversity, and creating music that connects with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Whether you're a musician, music lover, or simply fascinated by creativity and innovation, this conversation offers an inspiring look at one artist's relentless pursuit of meaningful experiences through sound.
In This Episode
James Hood's journey from drummer to composer and producer
Performing with The Pretenders and working alongside legendary musicians
The creation and success of Mesmerica and Astronomica
How immersive entertainment is changing the way audiences experience music
The importance of melody, emotion, and dynamic storytelling
Technology's impact on modern music production
Why authenticity is the key to artistic success
Lessons learned from decades in the music industry
Finding creativity after losing his studio in the Los Angeles fires
Advice for young musicians navigating today's industry
Why music should inspire reflection, imagination, and wonder
James Hood offers a unique perspective on where music is headed and reminds us that the greatest art doesn't just entertain—it transforms the way we experience the world.
If you enjoy conversations with visionary artists and innovators, be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville for more exclusive interviews with the people shaping music, entertainment, and culture
INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI.

Show Notes
Rock and blues legend George Thorogood joins Tony Mantor for a candid conversation about a career that has spanned decades and continues to inspire generations of music fans.
From his early days studying the blues legends who shaped his sound to becoming one of rock's most recognizable performers, George shares the stories behind the music, the challenges of staying authentic, and the moments that defined his remarkable journey.
The conversation explores the unexpected success of "Bad to the Bone," his recent induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame, life on the road, the evolution of the music industry, and why performing live still fuels his passion.
George also opens up about family, legacy, overcoming disappointment, and the importance of giving audiences everything he has every single night.
This episode is filled with humor, wisdom, and unforgettable stories from one of rock's true originals.
In This Episode
The blues legends who influenced George's guitar style
The surprising story behind "Bad to the Bone"
His induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame
How classic rock radio transformed his career
Why live performance has always come first
Touring Europe and continuing to perform worldwide
The evolution of music from vinyl to streaming
The story behind his signature Epiphone guitar
Family, legacy, and giving back through charity
Staying motivated after decades in the music business
Why he believes you're only as good as your last performance
Advice for anyone chasing a dream: "Find another wall until one cracks."
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Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering George Thorogood for the first time, this conversation offers an inside look at the passion, perseverance, and authenticity that have made him a rock and blues icon.
Don't forget to follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss another great conversation with the artists and entertainers shaping music and culture today.

We sit down with Jonathan Antoine to talk about the moments after Britain’s Got Talent that reshaped his life, from sudden global attention to a deeper understanding of success. 
We get honest about doubt, adrenaline, family support, and why music still feels like the strongest bridge between people. 

• recording a new album from a home studio and sharing release details 
• the chain of life-changing moments from a standing ovation to international gigs 
• redefining success as persistence and long-term audience connection 
• living with self-doubt while performing and using music as emotional shelter 
• staying grounded after shows through meet-and-greets and quiet comedowns 
• how the music industry changed from traditional paths to online careers 
• resisting pressure to change and evolving at a personal pace 
• blending styles across classical crossover and beyond while staying authentic 
• advice for up-and-coming singers in the attention economy 
• legacy, being remembered, and quick “Between The Beats” favorites 

If you haven't already, take a quick second to tap the follow button. It really helps the show reach more people who love music and entertainment. 

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

We sit down with Victoria Perks to trace how Fuzzbox went from Birmingham school friends “forming for a laugh” to chart success, touring, and a legacy that still surprises her. 
We talk honestly about sexism, branding, major-label pressure, and why she’s still building new projects through music and well-being work. 

• Fuzzbox’s origin story, reunions, and the biography that opens a new chapter 
• Where the name “Fuzzbox” comes from and why it landed differently in the US 
• The reality of being an all-girl band in the 80s, including misogynistic interview culture 
• Pride in being musicians who play instruments and in Birmingham’s creative roots 
• Indie freedom versus major-label resources, costs, and image fights over styling and promo 
• Growing up fast, managing “branding,” and how fame changes the day-to-day 
• Fan stories that show how music can spark real life change 
• What to listen to first, plus “we made it” moments like the charts and Top Of The Pops 
• Touring health, protecting your voice, and the grind behind the glamor 
• What’s next: 40th anniversary plans, festivals, book events, and the BuzzFox solo project 

If you haven't already, take a quick second to tap the follow button. It really helps the show reach more people who love music and entertainment. 

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

We sit down with Richard Hewson, the creative force behind the Ra Band, to trace how an under-credited arranger turns frustration over fees into a self-made recording legacy. We get the real stories behind “Clouds Across The Moon,” Abbey Road sessions, vintage studio gear, and what it feels like to be rediscovered through Spotify and TikTok decades later. 

• arrangers paid a fee without royalties, pushing Richard toward writing his own songs 
• building early Ra Band tracks as a one-person “bedroom band” on multitrack tape 
• jazz influences shaping a pop sound, plus the Paul McCartney connection that opens doors 
• turning an “international operator” memory into the sci-fi story of “Clouds Across The Moon” 
• writing lyrics by creating a story scene, starting with simple phrases and expanding them 
• “Messages from the Stars” going viral on streaming and reigniting the back catalog 
• receiving the Roland SH-5 as a first synthesizer and sticking with vintage gear 
• analog warmth vs digital sameness, plus why hiss and tape feel “timeless” 
• favorite string arrangements and the craft of writing orchestration by hand 
• Abbey Road memories, Phil Spector’s massive orchestra request, and McCartney’s reaction 
• praising session musicians as the real heroes who can nail anything first take 
• seeing the Ra Band performed live by his son and a nine-piece touring lineup 
• where to find the music on major platforms and hopes for a vinyl run 

If you haven't already, take a quick second to tap the follow button. It really helps the show reach more people who love music and entertainment. 

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI