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

Show Notes

Josie Music Awards founders Josie Passantino-Boone and Tina Marie Passantino join Tony Mantor for an inspiring conversation about creating one of the world's premier platforms for independent musicians.
What began as a vision to give unsigned artists the recognition they deserve has grown into an internationally respected awards program, bringing together thousands of artists from around the globe while celebrating talent based on artistry—not popularity, streaming numbers, or social media followers.
In this episode, Josie and Tina Marie discuss the origins of the Josie Music Awards, the extensive judging process, the importance of networking, and how independent artists are reshaping today's music industry. They also share stories of past winners whose careers have flourished after receiving recognition and explain why authenticity and perseverance remain the keys to long-term success.
In This Episode
The story behind the creation of the Josie Music Awards
Why independent artists deserve a global platform
How the judging process focuses on talent over popularity
The importance of networking in today's music industry
Behind-the-scenes stories from building a major awards show
Expanding from a small event to the Grand Ole Opry House
The growth of independent music around the world
Helping artists gain visibility and career opportunities
The value of perseverance and authentic artistry
The future vision for the Josie Music Awards and independent music
Josie and Tina Marie offer valuable encouragement for musicians pursuing their dreams independently, reminding listeners that success isn't measured solely by record deals or streaming numbers—but by passion, dedication, and the willingness to keep creating.
Whether you're an independent artist, songwriter, music industry professional, or passionate fan of emerging talent, this episode provides insight into one of the music industry's most inspiring success stories.
Be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the artists, industry leaders, and visionaries shaping the future of music and entertainment

https://www.josiemusicawards.com

Alan Warner of The Foundations: The Story Behind "Build Me Up Buttercup"
Few songs have stood the test of time quite like "Build Me Up Buttercup." For more than five decades, it has brought generations together, becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved songs in popular music.
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with Alan Warner, original member of The Foundations, to explore the remarkable story behind one of music's most enduring bands.
Alan takes listeners back to the beginning, sharing how The Foundations formed, the band's groundbreaking role as one of the first internationally successful multiracial groups, and the unexpected journey from London's club scene to worldwide chart success.
He reflects on recording classics like "Baby Now That I Found You" and "Build Me Up Buttercup," the extensive touring that followed, and why the music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Along the way, Alan shares incredible stories of crossing paths with legends including Jimi Hendrix, Roy Orbison, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Chet Atkins, Steve Cropper, and many others while offering honest insights into life inside a successful touring band.
The conversation also explores the pressures of fame, the lessons learned over a lifetime in music, and why staying humble and enjoying the journey remains his greatest advice for aspiring musicians.
More than a conversation about hit records, this is a celebration of music's power to connect generations and create memories that last a lifetime.
In This Episode
The origins of The Foundations
Becoming one of the first internationally successful multiracial bands
Recording "Baby Now That I Found You"
The lasting legacy of "Build Me Up Buttercup"
Stories from touring around the world
Meeting music legends including Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles
Life behind the scenes during the height of success
Lessons learned from decades in the music business
Why timeless songs continue to find new audiences
Alan Warner's ongoing musical career and performances
 About Almost Live Nashville
Almost Live Nashville, hosted by Tony Mantor, features conversations with legendary musicians, entertainers, songwriters, and industry professionals, sharing the stories behind the music and the moments that shaped their careers.
Then finish with:
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Almost Live Nashville, leave a review, and share it with a fellow music lover.
📧 media@plateaumusic.com

Show Notes
Jamie French has built an extraordinary career by embracing change, taking creative risks, and never being afraid to reinvent herself.
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with comedian, YouTuber, singer-songwriter, and content creator Jamie French to discuss her remarkable journey from hairstylist and makeup artist to one of YouTube's most recognizable comedy voices and an emerging Nashville recording artist.
Jamie opens up about building an audience of millions, overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating anxiety and depression, the healing power of creativity, and why authentic connection matters more than chasing fame. She also shares what it's like selling out comedy clubs, pursuing music in Nashville, balancing multiple creative careers, and why taking risks has become the key to her success.
Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, creator, or someone searching for the courage to start over, Jamie's story is filled with humor, honesty, and inspiration.
In this episode you'll discover:
Jamie's journey from beauty influencer to comedian
Why comedy became her true calling
Building a YouTube audience of millions
Performing sold-out comedy shows
Life after moving to Nashville
Transitioning into singer-songwriter life
Battling anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome
The healing power of creativity
Connecting authentically with an audience
Taking creative risks without fear
Growing through reinvention
Advice for aspiring content creators and entertainers
If you enjoy conversations about creativity, comedy, music, mental health, and personal growth, be sure to Follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss an episode.

Show Notes
For more than two decades, Peter Howarth has carried the legacy of one of Britain's most iconic bands as the lead singer of The Hollies. But his remarkable career stretches far beyond one legendary group.
In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Peter joins host Tony Mantor to share the stories behind a lifetime in music—from discovering his passion as a two-year-old fascinated by a record player to performing on some of the world's greatest stages, including Madison Square Garden, Royal Albert Hall, and Wembley Stadium.
Peter reflects on working alongside Cliff Richard, collaborating with Rick Fenn of 10cc, writing award-winning musicals, and the challenge of stepping into the shoes of Hollies founding vocalist Allan Clarke. He also shares unforgettable memories, the importance of staying humble, and why connecting with an audience remains the greatest reward of all.
Whether you're a lifelong Hollies fan, a musician, or simply love hearing inspiring stories from legendary performers, this conversation is filled with wisdom, humor, and heart.
In this episode you'll hear:
How one childhood moment sparked a lifelong love of music
Joining The Hollies and honoring an iconic legacy
Performing with Cliff Richard and at Madison Square Garden
Writing hit musicals with Rick Fenn of 10cc
Lessons learned from decades on stage
The pressure and excitement of performing at Royal Albert Hall
Why humility matters in the music business
The creative process behind songwriting
The emotional meaning behind "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"
Advice for musicians pursuing a lifelong career
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville, leave a review, and share it with the music lovers in your life. New conversations with incredible artists and entertainers arrive every week.

Show Notes
Alternative rock artist Mel Denisse joins Tony Mantor for an honest conversation about songwriting, vulnerability, and discovering an artistic voice that refuses to fit inside traditional boundaries.
Drawing inspiration from alternative rock, darkwave, trip-hop, and cinematic soundscapes, Mel creates music that explores emotion with remarkable depth while blending haunting melodies with powerful storytelling.
In this episode, she reflects on growing up in a non-musical family, teaching herself to write and perform, navigating the challenges of being an independent artist, and embracing the evolution of her own sound. She also shares why some of the most meaningful songs are often the hardest to release.
From recording in a home studio to balancing creativity with the realities of marketing and business, Mel offers a candid look at the modern independent music journey and the importance of staying authentic in an increasingly fast-paced world.
In This Episode
How music became a lifelong passion
Influences from alternative rock and 90s music
Blending darkwave, trip-hop, and cinematic textures
The songwriting process from emotion to melody
Why vulnerability creates stronger music
Finding confidence through artistic evolution
Balancing creativity with the business of independent music
Avoiding burnout while wearing every hat as an artist
The importance of patience in developing a unique sound
Creating music that helps listeners feel less alone
Future plans for live performances and visual storytelling
Mel's thoughtful perspective highlights the power of music to connect people through shared emotions, reminding listeners that some of the most personal stories become the ones that resonate the deepest.
Whether you're an aspiring songwriter, an independent artist, or simply a fan of emotionally driven alternative music, this episode offers inspiration and insight into the creative process behind an emerging artist with a distinctive voice.
Be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the musicians, songwriters, and creators shaping today's music landscape.