Ep. 202: Page Hamilton discusses Helmet's "Unsung"

In the first episode of Legends Amplified, Chris DeMakes is joined by co-host and producer Chris Fafalios for an in-depth exploration of Ric Ocasek, the legendary frontman of The Cars. The duo explores Ocasek's early life, the formation of The Cars, and the band's meteoric rise to fame, fueled by their innovative sound and the massive impact of MTV. From their groundbreaking debut album to the chart-topping success of Heartbeat City, they discuss the evolution of The Cars’ music, Ocasek’s unique songwriting, and his influential production work with other iconic artists. They also reflect on the band’s dynamic, the eventual breakup, and Ocasek’s lasting legacy in rock music. Through personal insights and a wealth of musical knowledge, this episode celebrates Ric Ocasek's enduring influence on both the music industry and future generations of musicians. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17 Mars 57min

This week’s Throwback Thursday revisits Episode 146, originally aired on March 13th, 2023, with special guest Dave King of Flogging Molly. Renowned for their unique blend of punk rock energy and traditional Irish folk music, Flogging Molly captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their 2002 anthem “Drunken Lullabies.” In this episode, Dave shares the inspiration behind the song, its breakneck tempo, and its unforgettable anthemic chorus, while reflecting on the recording process and the enduring legacy of this punk rock classic. Packed with passion and insight, this conversation is a must-listen for fans of the band and the genre. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13 Mars 1h 11min

This week, Brendan B. Brown of Wheatus sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band's 2003 single "Lemonade," a fan-favorite song that blends raw emotion with undeniable hooks. He and Chris explore the song’s evolution, from its themes of jealousy and heartbreak to the production choices that gave it its signature sound—including why Brendan spent an outrageous amount of time and effort perfecting the bell sounds. He also shares the story of how he sat on Eve 6’s tour bus, working on the song while Max and the boys played Sega Dreamcast tennis. With stories of resilience, collaboration, and the ever-changing music industry, this episode is a must-listen for any fan of great songwriting. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 Mars 1h 15min

This week, Danbert Nobacon of Chumbawamba sits in to break down the writing and recording of the band's massive 1997 hit, "Tubthumping." He and Chris explore the song’s punk-influenced origins, its anthemic structure, and how its themes of resilience and working-class pub culture resonated worldwide. Danbert shares insights into the band's approach to songwriting, the unexpected mainstream success of the track, and how Chumbawamba balanced their political ethos with commercial visibility. The conversation also touches on the lasting impact of "Tubthumping" and Nobacon's latest musical projects, offering a fascinating look at a song that continues to take on new life decades after its release. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3 Mars 1h 1min

This Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast revisits Episode 143, originally released on February 20, 2023, featuring John Parr discussing the creation of his iconic 1985 hit, “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion).” While widely recognized from the St. Elmo’s Fire film soundtrack, the song was actually inspired by the remarkable journey of Paralympian Rick Hansen and his Man in Motion tour for spinal cord research. Parr breaks down the writing process, the star-studded recording sessions, and how this powerful anthem became a lasting symbol of perseverance and triumph. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

27 Feb 1h 12min

Tahlena Chikami of Bite Me Bambi sits in this week to break down the writing and recording of their 2024 single "Bad Boyfriend," a song inspired by friends' relationship woes and brought to life with the help of producer Cameron Webb. She and Chris discuss the evolution of ska, the challenge of keeping songs fresh in an era of short attention spans, and the importance of specificity in lyrics to create a relatable story. Tahlena also shares insights on maintaining a live feel in recordings, the role of gang vocals in audience engagement, and the collaborative process behind their album Eat This. From the joys and struggles of touring to the creative freedom that fuels authentic songwriting, this conversation is packed with insights for ska fans and songwriters alike. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

24 Feb 1h 6min

In this episode, Angelo Moore of Fishbone stops by to talk all about the writing, recording, release, and legacy of their iconic ska punk anthem “Party At Ground Zero.” Angelo shares how the song came together in a bedroom, blending the band’s wide range of influences—blues, rockabilly, ska, and jazz—to create something totally unique. He and Chris dig into the song’s dynamic structure, from its urgent riffs and catchy horn hooks to the powerful shifts that keep it exciting. Angelo also opens up about the apocalyptic lyrics and social commentary that make the track as meaningful as it is fun. With stories about the band’s collaborative process, a shoutout to David Kahne’s inventive production, and even some cartoon-inspired creativity, this episode gives an inside look at a song that still resonates with fans and musicians alike. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17 Feb 1h 15min

For this week’s Throwback Thursday, and this week we’re revisiting Episode 91 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on February 21st, 2022, featuring Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem. Representing New Jersey with their signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and rock 'n' roll grit, the band reached new heights with their 2012 album Handwritten, debuting at #3 on the Billboard charts. In this episode, Brian shares the story behind the album’s standout single, “45,” a song filled with vivid imagery, themes of loss and renewal, and a hopeful refrain that resonated with fans worldwide. Packed with insights and Brian’s unmistakable wit, this is an episode worth spinning again. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes  For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com  Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13 Feb 1h 6min